Crafters Helping Crafters
Sunday July 16, 2006
Of course we all tend to dwell on negative experiences with other crafters at shows. However, there have been too many times to count that I have had help from other crafters. Sometimes it was a big helping hand, like the time when our van broke down in the middle of the night in Chicago and a crafter actually went out and purchased a new water pump and then installed it for us! Or sometimes just little things like when someone offered to "booth sit" while I went to grab a bite to eat. What's the best thing another crafter did for you in your travels?
Comments
Since I do all my shows alone, my fellow crafters are a blessing when they offer to watch my booth while I grab lunch or visit the “necessary”–which happens every show. In fact several crafters have requested we all get spaces together for the next show so we can help each other out–great experience. Also I’ve helped fellow crafters find items (I’m use) to improve their crafts and they have done the same with me. We exchange emails of suppliers, product resources, etc. I’ve loaned tables and tablecloths to fellow crafters, they’ve loaned me lace table covers to make my space look good. Having a friendly crafter neighbor can make a bad show experience a little better and a good show memorable.
J
I met a great group of crafters that had formed a gregarious and fun group. One couple had even printed off a yearly show listing & connect # sheet.
They give everthing of themselves to each other as well as their customers & new vendors like myself. I cannot think of one particular thing that stands out with these people other than their normal happy selves.
Anyone who has ever set up and broken down alone, show after show, knows the value of the neighboring crafter who offers to help. EZUp those tents may be, but another set of arms makes opening and closing much better. I always look for other solo vendors to assist and hope someone’s doing the same for me.
When I did my first show, the crafter across the aisle from me gave me some great tips on how to make my booth more “eye apealing” to peoplewalking by. And he was
Crafters are a great group of people. I have been doing craft shows for over 20 years and have made some great friends. There use to be a group of us who were always at the same shows and we all helped each other out in any way we could, from watching our booth to loaning out something that was forgot.
Crafters have always been a great group. I am looking forward to returning to the craft show circuit as I have missed my “show buddies”. We are always there to point out and help out as needed.