1. Arts and Crafts Product Size
Depending on the dimensions of your arts or crafts items you might need multiple size/dimension descriptions. For example, those selling beaded necklaces need to list the length of the necklace and the shape and size of the beads. If jewelry includes a pendant or charm, make sure you also list its size as well.
Another example using hand crafted chairs - make sure you list the overall dimensions of the seat, how high the back is and the length of the legs. Ditto if the chair has arms – give some length info on those too.
2. Giving Measurements - Metric Versus English Units
While we’re on the topic, consider if you need to convert your measurements to the metric system or vice-versa. For example, in the jewelry trade, most beads and other components are in millimeters. I find it’s a good idea to give an approximate inch conversion too for any customers more familiar with dealing the English Units.
3. Arts and Craft Product Weight
Weight probably isn’t too important for clothes, accessories, or most arts and crafts weighing less than 10 pounds, unless the items are being shipped and your arts and crafts business charges for shipping by the pound. However, taking the shipping cost aspect out of it for other crafts, your customer needs to know the weight of heavier items to know if where they plan to place the items will support it.
Additionally, I like to know how heavy items are to gauge if I’ll be able to easily carry them or move them around my house or if I’m going to have to hire someone to place it for me after it arrives. If your target market includes the elderly or handicapped, this is a crucial part of your product description.
4. Materials Used in Your Arts and Crafts Products
Give accurate descriptions for the raw materials used in your arts or crafts products. For example, if you’re a painter, qualify if the artwork is in charcoal, watercolor, oil or pastels. What may seem obvious to you isn’t always obvious to your customer – especially those who don’t often buy in your particular creative field.
Remember that you may also be bound by Federal Trade Commission rules for the descriptions of materials used in your products. For example, you can’t say a product is silver, unless it is sterling silver.
5. Listing the Price for Your Arts and Crafts Product
I really hate it when people are dodgy about their prices. If you sell hand knitted sweaters and the pin decorating the sweater isn’t include in the price, make sure that’s abundantly clear. If the sale is taking place online rather than face-to-fact, make sure your shipping and handling charges are clear and easy to understand.
As an aside, if the items are in a display case, make sure the price tag is facing up so your customers can see the price without having to ask you to take the item out of the case. I know some artists and crafters feel once the item is out of the case, it's easier to finalize the sale. If you've 100 percent sure, that's true, then consider ignoring this piece of advise.
