If you're a new artist/crafter or just new to the craft show junket, this is the time of year to start planning for craft shows you may be interested in attending during next year's holiday season. Your planning should include keeping track of current shows to see if you might be interested in applying to them next year.

Here are two of the latest I've received info about:

All Things Handmade - Including Edibles in Sacramento, CA.

Beau Arts Bizarre in Columbia, MO

I also update the Arts/Crafts Forum throughout the year with info on shows, grants and contests.

And, check out the comprehensive list of Arts/Crafts shows in the USA and Canada from Sunshine Artists

I received a new catalog in the mail this week that has some really interesting crafts books on the topics of fiber, textiles, wearables, jewelry making and metals. There are also books on the topics of beads, basketry and clay. The range of coverage is fantastic. Check out the online catalog and you'll see what I mean.

If you're into oil, pen and ink and watercolor, you'll be interested in the offerings at North Light Shop. I've ordered from them many times for my mother and she's been delighted with the quality of the books. Plus they have fast and free shipping (orders over $25).

Lastly, if you're an artists, designer, jeweler or metalsmith consider joining the Society of North American Goldsmiths. Members have special advertising rates in Metalsmith magazine and there is a new online resource list promoting artists who give workshops.

I stumbled upon an article about pricing products for craft shows that reinforces the basics such as checking online for arts/crafts similar to your own and researching to find your niche.

None of it is probably new info if you've been in operation for a while. But I know that sometimes a refresher in the fundamentals of selling brings to mind simple facts you may have forgotten.

Here's some other recommended reading:

• Beth Peterson's (About.com Guide to Pottery) blog Have You Considered Selling in Craft Shows?
• Eight Tips to Holding a Cooperative Craft Show
• How Artists Figure Cost of Goods Sold

If you're looking for inspiration on how to organize a craft show check out this article about a craft show Grace Dobush of Crafty Supermarket organized in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Juried from over 70 applicants and narrowed down to 20, it's being held on November 21 in a local tavern with live music, food, swag bags for the first 50 shoppers and a Make It! table where shoppers can get crafty with the BYOProjectors - a local craft cooperative. The article gives some really interesting tips that may inspire you to hold your own craft show next year.

For more info on holding cooperative craft shows check out my article on the topic:

Eight Basic Steps for Organizing Your Own Cooperative Craft Show