Sep
16
2008
To use this simple method of keeping tabs on your paper products, all you need is a notebook and a pen. Or, since you’re reading this online, your good ole computer will work, too.
Write a list of code words. These can be random or follow a theme, like flowers or superheroes. Then, write one of these words on each of your coupons or gift certificates. After you decide how much each item is worth, write that value down on your list.
This makes it easy for customers to redeem their deals online. They email you with the codeword before paying, then you send a custom invoice. As each coupon is used, note the date it was voided on your list. It’s also kind of fun to know that your system is working!
Sep
15
2008
Selling too many gift certificates could backfire on a small business in a big way. Since I recently blogged in praise of adding gift certificates to your craft store stock, it is only fair to warn against overdoing things!
The main problem people have when they start selling gift certificates is sort of like the trouble with a first credit card when the piece of plastic doesn‘t seem like cash. The dollar amount written on the front of that piece of paper actually equals that amount in goods or services.
It may feel like getting paid for nothing, but it’s really getting paid in advance for work you haven’t yet done.
Sep
13
2008
You don’t have to be a huge mega-corporation to offer your customers the option of buying gift certificates. This is a low cost item to add to your stock that can boost your sales. It can also give your small craft business a professional edge over your direct competition.
Gift certificates can be made on any home printer. The only real investment should be in getting good quality paper. The same type of paper used for resumes and important announcements will do for these. Then, just find a MS Works template or similar program and fill in your information.
Check with your local Small Business Administration to see if there are any special rules or restrictions on gift certificates in your state. Some places have different rules about expiration dates, so get this info before you print up a stack of faulty gift certificates!
Sep
12
2008
If you sell handcrafted items for a living, you know how difficult it can be to spread the word about your work. Why not showcase your crafts by blogging about them?
There are lots of things to blog about regarding your favorite crafts. You can share tips for crafting, give advice about vending and marketing, share projects and patterns, and of course show off the finished product. My blog is a good example of this.
Did you know that I actually get paid to type about what I love to do? I’m currently paid $1 per approved 100 word or more post, plus bonuses for page views. To do the same, sign up using the link below, or one of those on the side of the page.
Blog At Today.com!
Sep
11
2008
There are lots of things that are sold as springtime items that work equally well in the autumn. Spring and fall have similar temperatures, so the same types of fabrics are often used in clothing and accessories. Why not try to market some of your leftover spring stuff?
Sure, when you think of autumn, the colors that come to mind are mostly oranges, rust, brown, and deep green. It’s nice to add some pop with a bright, less expected color, like bright pink or yellow. The cream and off white colors that were so big this year will look just as fresh in fall.
Don’t forget, the seasons are reversed below the equator. By offering shipping specials to our neighbors down under, you may attract some extra attention for your spring goods. It’s more likely to make a profit than letting items sit around in a box, waiting for months to be sold.
It may be harder to pass off a piece that’s decorated with bunnies and pastel eggs as autumnal, but good luck to you if you try!
Sep
10
2008
It feels weird to blog about your own work sometimes. Why not exchange blog post reviews with a fellow craft business owner?
Being reviewed on someone else’s blog is a good way to introduce your work to a new circle of possible customers. Since the person you’re exchanging reviews with is a crafter, too, their audience is already into crafty things. Your creations may be just what they’re looking for.
Another benefit of blog reviews is related to your reading audience. As much as they love what you do, it’s nice to have something new introduced by a friend. By turning your blog into an information source, more people will take the time to read it!
Sep
09
2008
This is a super easy way to generate local interest in whatever you’re working Many crafts are portable, at least at some stage of completion. By working on a craft in public, you’re bound to attract attention. Have your business cards ready, and give them out to anyone who shows interest!
Why not take them along to the park or the bus stop to work on them? Even working on your front porch may give you a chance to work outside and spark the curiosity of passersby. If you’re shy, this is a good way to have others approaching you about your crafts.
What’s the downside to this approach? Be prepared to spend more time chatting than working. This isn’t the time to do any stitch counting or difficult fancy work or you’ll just end up frustrated.
Your work may inspire more questions about learning how to do the craft than where to buy the finished thing. If you have the time to teach, charging for lessons can be a welcome bonus to your income, so this isn’t always a bad thing!
