Starting an Arts and Crafts Business

By William T Lasley, About.com Guide to Arts / Crafts Business

Having a plan is important. Decide exactly what you want to do and how you are going to do it before starting. Here are some basic things crafters should know when planning a strategy.

1. Pricing Your Crafts
2. Finding Supplies
3. Preliminary Ideas

Pricing Your Crafts

Deciding how much to charge for your crafts is an important decision.

• Pricing Arts and Crafts How to Calculate Prices for your Craft
• Beating the Wal-Mart Mentality When Pricing Your Crafts
• Discounts and Sales at Shows

Finding Supplies

Craft supplies are the heart of any arts and crafts business. Without supplies and good suppliers, your business will be in jeopardy. Find the right supplies at the right price and your business will have a much better chance of success.

• Five Ways to Save Money on Craft Supplies
• Craft Suppliers by State
• Craft Suppliers by Category
• Post-Holiday Sales on Craft Supplies
• How-To Find Inexpensive Craft Suppliers

Preliminary Ideas

Things that should be thought through and planned before you go from hobbyist to professional.

• First Steps
• Is There A Market For Your Craft?
• Accept Credit Card Payments in 5 Steps
• Naming Your Business

• How-To Attend Craft Shows
• Five Things to Know When Starting a Craft Business
• Do You Need a Canopy?