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Crafting requires creativity, patience, and a lot of supplies. Sewing notions, small beads, material – there’s an endless list of crafting supplies that can easily get lost or disorganized. This is where craft cabinets come in. Varying in style from utilitarian carts to decorative furniture, craft cabinets can help keep your supplies together, organized, and all in one place. Some craft cabinets combine a table and storage, giving you an extra bit of space for working. This article will discuss how to sort through all of the craft cabinets for sale online.
Choosing the Perfect Craft Table for Your Business or Workspace
When selecting a craft table for professional use or for your business, it’s crucial to invest in one that will not only meet your immediate needs but also support your workflow as it grows and changes. A well-chosen craft table can make a significant difference in productivity, organization, and the overall quality of your work. Here’s what to consider:
Space and Size: Think about the available workspace. It should be spacious enough to spread out materials, but still fit comfortably within your designated area.
Sturdiness: For those handling heavy-duty crafts or tools, it’s vital to have a robust and stable table. An unstable table can lead to uneven work or even accidents.
Storage Options: Having additional storage, like drawers or shelves, can be a game-changer. It helps in organizing supplies and ensures tools are within arm’s reach.
Essential Features for Business-Oriented Craft Tables:
Adjustable Height: This allows for a comfortable working position, whether you’re sitting or standing, thus reducing fatigue.
Easy-to-clean Surface: Craftwork can be messy! A surface that’s easy to clean ensures longevity and maintains a professional appearance.
Mobility: Wheels or casters can be beneficial if you need to shift the table around for client meetings or to reorganize workspace.
Integrated Power Outlets: For those using electronic tools, integrated outlets can reduce clutter and improve workflow efficiency.
Craft Cabinet Options: Our Top Picks From Amazon
You can find a lot of craft cabinets for sale online. We did some digging for you and came up with the 10 best options we found on Amazon. These range in size and style, so whether you need a table/cabinet combination or a smaller cabinet for keeping small items, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for if you check out our picks below.
When evaluating craft cabinets for small business owners and entrepreneurs, especially those in creative industries like crafting, sewing, or design, it’s crucial to consider a range of factors that contribute to both functionality and efficiency. Our methodology for selecting the best craft cabinets is grounded in these key criteria, each rated for its importance, to ensure our recommendations meet the diverse needs of our readers.
Storage Capacity and Organization (9/10): A high priority is given to cabinets with ample space and smart organization features like adjustable shelves, drawers, and compartments. This helps in keeping various craft supplies neatly organized and easily accessible.
Durability and Material Quality (8/10): The construction material of the cabinet should be sturdy and durable to withstand regular use and the weight of craft supplies. Quality materials like solid wood or heavy-duty metal are preferred.
Size and Footprint (7/10): The size of the craft cabinet should be appropriate for the space available. Compact and space-saving designs are important for smaller workspaces.
Design and Aesthetics (6/10): The cabinet’s design should complement the overall look of the workspace. Cabinets with a visually pleasing design can enhance the creative environment.
Versatility and Adaptability (7/10): Cabinets that can serve multiple purposes or can be easily adapted for different types of crafts are highly valued. Features like removable dividers or adjustable shelves add to the cabinet’s versatility.
Ease of Assembly and Installation (6/10): Craft cabinets that are easy to assemble and install save time and effort, an important consideration for busy entrepreneurs.
Mobility and Portability (5/10): Cabinets with wheels or those that can be easily moved are beneficial for rearranging the workspace or for tasks that require mobility.
Price and Cost Efficiency (7/10): Affordability is key, but it must be balanced with quality and functionality. We look for cabinets that offer the best value for money.
Brand Reputation and Customer Support (5/10): A reputable brand often ensures quality and reliability. Good customer support is also crucial for addressing any issues or queries.
User Reviews and Feedback (4/10): Real-world experiences and reviews can provide valuable insights into the cabinet’s performance, durability, and practicality in a craft setting.
We’ve applied these criteria rigorously to handpick craft cabinets that not only enhance the organization and functionality of a crafting space but also inspire creativity and efficiency.
Sauder Wooden Craft Cabinet
American company Sauder makes beautiful and functional storage cabinets like this wooden craft cart on wheels. Besides a large tabletop space, this cabinet also has a drop-leaf that folds up for even more workspace. Behind the roll-open door are two storage bins and a hidden shelf for a sewing machine. There are also 2 additional shelves on the back of it for extra storage. This cabinet measures 21.13″D x 44.13″W x 8.69″H and is made from oak wood with a Washington cherry finish.
SewingRite Sewing and Craft Cabinet with Fold-Out Table
This multipurpose unit by SewingRite provides multiple shelves of varying sizes to accommodate all types of crafting supplies, plus a fold-out table that can hold a small sewing machine, a laptop, or simply be used for project work.
The cabinet is made from engineered wood and alloy steel and has a birch-colored finish. Its dimensions are 11.75″D x 24.5″W x 58.5″H.
Best Choice Products Folding Sewing Table and Craft Cabinet
This cabinet is perfect for the sewer or crafter who’s short on space. This cabinet/table combination has a designated spot for yarn, pins, scissors, and materials in 2 rows of pegs, as well as 2 bins, 1 large interior shelf, and a large tabletop space. And it folds up into a side table when not in use – a convenient way of giving it a second use!
This item measures 16″D x 23″ W x 29.5″H when open and is made from MDF wood. It has metal hinges, a magnetic lock door, and wheel casters for easy moving.
This rolling craft storage cabinet allows you to take your project anywhere. It has 12 drawers in 2 different sizes to hold different types of materials and supplies, as well as a sturdy tabletop for working. It’s got a chrome frame with wheels and semitransparent drawers. Total dimensions are 25.3″ L x 15.2″ W x 32.1″ H.
This Sew Ready armoire style vertical cabinet has a fold-out table and lots of shelves. The swing-out leg has a caster on it, which supports the fold-out table. This cabinet measures 12″D x 24.5″W x 58.5″H and is made from PVC, metal, and plastic.
The highlight of this cabinet is its 3-position hydraulic sewing lift for free arm and flat bed sewing. It also has a dual shelving unit, 10 thread spool holders on each door, and several other compartments.
When closed, you can store this craft cabinet out of site, or use it as a piece of furniture, as its design allows it to blend right in with décor. It is made from engineered wood in a teak finish and measures 17.38″D x 30.38″W x 30.88″H.
For another foldable option, check out this craft storage cabinet by VIVOHOME. When it is extended, the dimensions are 46″x16″x31″, and it can be folded to 23″x16″x31.” Its features include lockable swivel wheels, 3 hidden bins, and 1 shelf in the folding cabinet for storage. This cabinet is made from particle board, alloy metal, and plastic.
This smaller option is meant for keeping your tiny crafting supplies organized and all in one place. It has 24 drawers of varying sizes to accommodate measuring tape, beads, scissors, needles – and much more. Hyggehaus promises excellent and durable craftsmanship and backs its products with a 5-year warranty. This wooden organizer is 4″D x 12.5″W x 14.5″H and is attractive enough to keep on display.
IRIS USA 44 Drawer Stackable Craft Storage Cabinet
This plastic craft cabinet is more utilitarian than decorative, but it certainly serves its purpose. It has 44 drawers – 12 large and 32 small – to keep your smaller items together, and is built to be stackable with other IRIS USA craft cabinets if needed. It is made from 100% recycled plastic material and measures 7″D x 19.5″W x 15.5″H.
Arrow Dingo Kangaroo Sewing and Craft Organizer Cabinet
Last but definitely not least on our list is another Arrow cabinet. When opened all the way, this large cabinet measures 46″W x 40.5″D x 34.5″H, and it can be folded down to 46″W x 21″D x 35″H. It has 7 small drawers, 1 medium drawer, and 1 large drawer, plus a folding leaf for even more workspace.
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Crafting an effective sales strategy is key to boosting your business’s success. In this article, we delve into the world of sales with 88 potent tips to elevate your approach. Covering a spectrum of techniques, from prospecting to closing, this compilation provides a practical guide to sharpening your sales prowess. Whether you’re a seasoned salesperson or just starting out, these sales tips will help you navigate the intricacies of selling and enhance your strategy for better results.
Understanding the Sales Process
Diving into the mechanics of successful selling, we uncover the crucial aspects of understanding the sales process. Let’s look at the significance of a structured approach and explore the typical stages that make up an effective sales journey.
The Importance of a Structured Sales Process
A structured sales process is the backbone of any thriving sales strategy. Research indicates that companies with a well-defined sales process can experience up to a 28% increase in revenue growth. By establishing clear guidelines, sales teams can streamline their efforts, ensure consistency, and provide a more seamless experience for both salespeople and customers.
The Typical Stages of a Sales Process
Navigating a sales process involves several distinct stages, each contributing to the journey from lead to customer. These stages commonly include:
prospecting, where potential clients are identified;
qualifying, where leads are assessed for their potential as customers;
presenting, where products or services are showcased;
handling objections,
addressing concerns or doubts;
closing, sealing the deal;
and finally, post-sale activities like follow-ups and upselling.
Steps of Sales Process
Description
Key Activities
Objective
Prospecting
The process of identifying potential clients or customers who might be interested in your product or service.
Assessing the identified leads to determine if they have the potential to become customers based on their needs, budget, authority, and timing.
1. Asking probing questions. 2. Identifying budget and decision-makers. 3. Assessing needs and fit.
To narrow down leads to those who are most likely to buy.
Presenting
Showcasing the products or services to the potential customer, highlighting the features, advantages, and benefits.
1. Product demos. 2. Sharing case studies. 3. Explaining features and benefits.
To inform and persuade the potential customer about the value of the product/service.
Handling Objections
Addressing concerns, doubts, or hesitations the potential customer might have about the product or service.
1. Active listening. 2. Empathizing. 3. Providing solutions or alternatives.
To overcome barriers and move the potential customer closer to a purchase decision.
Closing
The act of finalizing the sale, getting the commitment from the customer, and ensuring all terms and conditions are clear.
1. Summarizing the value proposition. 2. Asking for the sale. 3. Finalizing terms and paperwork.
To secure the deal and make the sale.
Post-sale Activities
Activities that occur after the sale is made, ensuring the customer is satisfied and exploring opportunities for further sales or referrals.
1. Follow-ups on product/service satisfaction. 2. Upselling or cross-selling. 3. Asking for referrals or testimonials.
To nurture the relationship, ensure customer satisfaction, and explore further business avenues.
Understanding these stages enables sales professionals to strategically guide prospects toward a successful conversion.
Lead Generation Tips for the Sales Professional
Let’s dive right in and take a look at lead-generation ideas and tips for sales professionals…
1. Master the art of storytelling in sales.
Craft compelling narratives that resonate with prospects, making your brand and products memorable. Use stories to highlight customer successes and product benefits.
2. Leverage content marketing to attract leads.
Create valuable content that addresses pain points, positioning yourself as a trusted industry resource. Regularly update your content to keep it fresh and relevant.
3. Implement a systematic lead scoring system.
Rank leads based on their likelihood to convert, focusing your efforts on high-potential prospects. Continuously refine your scoring criteria based on lead behavior and feedback.
4. Set aside time for daily prospecting.
Dedicate a consistent portion of your day to actively seek and engage potential leads. Track your prospecting activities to measure effectiveness and make adjustments.
5. Harness the power of social selling.
Engage prospects on social platforms, building relationships and showcasing your expertise organically. Stay active and responsive to build a loyal online community.
6. Utilize multi-channel sales strategies.
Reach leads through various channels – email, social media, phone calls – for broader engagement. Align your messaging across channels for a cohesive brand experience.
7. Optimize your website for lead capture.
Design landing pages and forms that encourage visitors to share their contact information. Regularly test and tweak your website’s design for optimal performance.
8. Offer valuable webinars or workshops.
Provide educational sessions that address common pain points, positioning your brand as a solution. Follow up with attendees for feedback and further engagement.
9. Personalize your outreach for better connections.
Tailor your messages to each lead, demonstrating genuine interest and understanding of their needs. Use insights from past interactions to make your outreach more relevant.
10. Collaborate with influencers for wider reach.
Partner with industry influencers to tap into their audience and expand your reach. Ensure that influencer partnerships align with your brand values and goals.
11. Use AI tools for data-driven insights.
Leverage AI to analyze customer data, enabling more informed and personalized lead interactions. Utilize these insights to refine your sales strategies and targeting.
12. Segment and target your email campaigns effectively.
Divide your email list into segments based on behaviors or preferences, delivering more relevant content. Regularly review and adjust your segments for improved engagement.
Start the Sales Conversation: Initial Contact & Qualification Tips
Next up, we’ll explore initial contact and qualification tips…
13. Develop a deep understanding of buyer psychology.
Study how customers make decisions to tailor your approach for better resonance.
14. Build strong relationships with customers.
Foster trust and rapport through genuine interactions and personalized attention.
15. Understand your unique selling proposition (USP).
Clearly define what sets your product or service apart to highlight its value.
16. Utilize personalized emails in your sales process.
Address individual needs, increasing the chances of meaningful engagement and conversions.
17. Keep up-to-date with industry trends and news.
Stay informed to discuss relevant topics and position yourself as an industry expert.
18. Practice active listening during interactions.
Pay close attention, empathize, and respond effectively to customer concerns and preferences.
19. Offer tailored solutions to specific pain points.
Provide customized remedies that directly address customers’ challenges and objectives. This approach demonstrates a deep understanding and commitment to solving their unique problems.
20. Use social media to research and engage prospects.
Gather insights, connect, and establish initial touchpoints with potential leads on social platforms. Use these insights to personalize your communication and make it more relevant.
21. Craft compelling subject lines for emails.
Capture attention with concise and intriguing subject lines that encourage email opens. Experiment with various styles to see which ones strike a chord with your audience.
22. Utilize video messages for a more personal touch.
Humanize interactions and communicate effectively using personalized video messages.
The Best Sales Tips for Needs Assessment & The Sales Pitch
If you’re looking to improve your sales pitch, then check out the tips below…
23. Understand your product or service inside and out.
Comprehensive knowledge enhances your ability to articulate value and answer queries.
24. Master active listening to truly understand customer needs.
Attentively listen to customers, extracting valuable insights for tailored solutions.
25. Continually refine your sales pitch.
Regularly analyze feedback and adapt your pitch for maximum impact and resonance.
26. Focus on solution selling over feature selling.
Emphasize how your product addresses customer challenges rather than just its features.
27. Become proficient in consultative selling.
Guide customers through thoughtful conversations, identifying their unique needs and preferences.
Optimize CRM tools to organize data, track interactions, and enhance customer relationships.
66. Regularly update your sales skills with training and professional development.
Invest in ongoing learning to stay current and continuously enhance your selling techniques.
67. Know your competitors and their selling points.
Understand competitors to differentiate your offerings and effectively communicate your value.
68. Ensure your sales and marketing teams are aligned.
Foster collaboration between departments to amplify messaging and drive cohesive efforts.
69. Use data analytics to drive sales strategy.
Leverage insights to make informed decisions, refine tactics, and improve performance.
70. Make use of the latest sales technologies.
Incorporate cutting-edge tools to streamline processes and optimize sales efficiency.
71. Establish yourself as an authority in your industry.
Share expertise through thought leadership, building credibility and trust with prospects.
72. Integrate AI tools to automate repetitive sales tasks.
Efficiently handle routine tasks, freeing up time for more personalized interactions.
73. Understand the power of social proof in selling.
Leverage positive customer experiences to influence prospects and bolster your credibility.
74. Make use of customer segmentation for targeted selling.
Categorize clients based on shared characteristics, enabling tailored approaches and messaging.
75. Leverage video selling techniques.
Utilize video content for engaging demonstrations, presentations, and personalized communication.
76. Integrate your sales strategy with your content marketing strategy.
Align messaging and initiatives to ensure consistent and impactful customer interactions.
77. Implement a lead nurturing workflow for long-term prospects.
Cultivate relationships over time, providing value and guidance until prospects are ready.
78. Conduct regular SWOT analyses to refine your strategy.
Evaluate strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to adapt and stay competitive.
79. Explore partnerships and collaborations to expand reach.
Forge alliances for broader exposure and access to new customer segments.
80. Offer value through informative webinars or workshops.
Provide educational sessions that establish expertise and showcase your solutions’ benefits.
81. Use A/B testing for continuous sales optimization.
Experiment with different approaches to identify the most effective strategies for improvement.
82. Incorporate feedback loops for constant improvement.
Gather insights from customers and team members to refine processes and approaches.
83. Leverage referral programs to incentivize word-of-mouth marketing.
Encourage satisfied customers to refer others, amplifying your reach and credibility.
84. Expand your sales efforts to new geographic markets.
Explore untapped regions to access fresh opportunities and broaden your customer base.
85. Diversify your product offerings to cater to varied needs.
Expand your portfolio to address diverse customer preferences and requirements.
86. Prioritize customer retention as much as new acquisitions.
Nurture existing relationships to drive repeat business and establish long-term loyalty.
87. Regularly review and adjust your sales forecasting methods.
Assess and adapt forecasting techniques based on market trends and performance data.
88. Implement gamification to motivate and reward your sales team.
Introduce game-like elements to boost motivation and recognition, driving higher performance.
How Sales Reps Can Increase Sales
Sales reps can enhance sales by adeptly maneuvering through every sales phase. From engaging prospects with compelling stories to skillfully addressing objections, they guide conversations toward successful closures. For instance, personalized follow-ups and data-backed proposals reinforce customer confidence, resulting in increased conversions.
Developing an Effective Sales Strategy as a Sales Rep
Success in sales doesn’t occur by chance. It’s the result of meticulous planning, informed decision-making, and relentless execution. As a sales rep, developing a robust sales strategy can be the game-changer, paving the path for sustainable success and fostering long-lasting customer relationships. Here’s how you can craft an impactful sales strategy:
Understand Your Target Market:
Conduct market research to understand customer needs, pain points, and preferences.
Segment your market based on demographics, psychographics, or behavioral patterns.
This ensures your efforts are directed towards prospects that are most likely to convert.
Define Clear Objectives:
Establish measurable goals, whether it’s acquiring a certain number of new clients or hitting a specific sales target.
Periodically review and adjust these objectives based on changing market dynamics or internal goals.
Leverage the Right Tools:
Invest in CRM strategy and systems, sales analytics tools, and prospecting software.
These tools enhance efficiency, ensure accurate data management, and provide actionable insights.
Develop a Prospecting Plan:
Identify potential leads through multiple channels like social media, industry events, or referrals.
Prioritize these leads based on their potential value or likelihood to convert.
Engage and Nurture Leads:
Employ a mix of touchpoints, such as emails, calls, and in-person meetings, to build relationships.
Offer value through insights, webinars, or informational content to position yourself as a trusted advisor.
Optimize Your Sales Pitch:
Tailor your pitch based on the specific needs and pain points of each prospect.
Incorporate storytelling and address potential objections to make your pitch compelling.
Continuous Learning and Adaptation:
Stay updated with industry trends, new products, or emerging market needs.
Attend training sessions, workshops, or webinars to refine your sales techniques.
Evaluate and Iterate:
Regularly analyze your sales performance metrics to understand what’s working and what isn’t.
Adjust your strategy based on feedback and results to ensure continuous improvement.
Align with Company Vision:
Ensure that your sales strategy complements the broader company goals and vision.
Work closely with other departments like marketing and product development for a holistic approach.
By carefully sculpting your sales strategy around these pivotal elements, you ensure a systematic, focused, and effective approach to selling. This not only elevates your sales numbers but also enhances your reputation as a trusted and knowledgeable sales rep in the eyes of your customers. Remember, consistency is key, and regular strategy refinement will keep you at the top of your game.
FAQs: Sales Tips
How can I improve my sales strategy?
Elevate your sales strategy by incorporating diverse techniques, optimizing customer engagement, and harnessing data-driven insights to refine your approach.
Why is a structured sales process important?
A structured sales process enhances efficiency, promotes consistency, and amplifies revenue growth potential, backed by as much as a 28% increase in companies with defined processes.
How can I create a repeatable sales process to improve sales performance?
Craft a repeatable sales process by identifying key stages, implementing clear guidelines, and regularly analyzing outcomes to fine-tune strategies for optimal performance. Additionally, study tips for analyzing trends to constantly improve your processes based on data. And utilize sales apps and software to streamline your processes.
What are the key traits of a great salesperson, and how can I develop them?
Foster essential traits like active listening, empathy, and resilience to build rapport and adapt to clients’ needs, nurturing the skills necessary for sales excellence.
How can the marketing department work collaboratively with sales to maximize the impact of each sales tip?
Forge a symbiotic relationship by aligning messaging, sharing customer insights, and coordinating efforts to seamlessly integrate marketing initiatives with sales strategies. For example, marketers may launch an advertising campaign that targets current customers while sales professionals use their contacts to spur other ways to get repeat business.
When the phrase “annual shareholder meeting” is mentioned, what picture does it conjure in your mind? Is it a grand gathering of influential figures at the forefront of industry giants like Amazon, Exxon or Apple?
Or perhaps your mind veers towards a more local scenario, picturing someone like Jim, who operates a small landscaping business from his residential premises?
Several owners of small businesses choose to become incorporated, often by establishing either a C Corporation or S Corporation).
They do this primarily to safeguard their personal assets from potential business-related liabilities. Additionally, the currently reduced corporate tax rate makes the C Corporation an appealing choice for businesses of various sizes.
Whenever a C or S corporation is formed, it’s crucial to comply with the corporate administrative requirements of your state, even if your corporation consists of just one person. These stipulations necessitate the hosting and documentation of both board and shareholder meetings.
Single Owner Corporations
This piece will provide insights into single owner corporations. A phenomenon that’s becoming increasingly commonplace, single owner corporations bring with them a unique set of challenges and advantages.
In particular, we’ll respond to some of the most typical questions asked about a single owner corporation and the administrative requirements that come with running one.
1. Can I Have a Single Shareholder Corporation?
Indeed, it is possible to have a single shareholder corporation. In fact, every state across the U.S. permits a single individual to both form and govern a corporation.
They also allow for the corporation to have just one director, opening up the possibility for you to take up the roles of the sole shareholder, director, and officer of your company.
This means you can effectively oversee and steer your corporation single-handedly.
2. What are the Administrative Meeting Requirements for a Single Shareholder Corporation?
All corporations, regardless of size or number of shareholders, are legally required to hold at least an annual shareholder meeting and a board of directors meeting.
While it’s feasible and at times necessary to hold additional meetings, the minimum is firmly set at one per year.
This requirement holds true even for single shareholder corporations. It’s an essential part of maintaining good corporate governance and fulfilling statutory obligations.
3. What should I Discuss in the Annual Shareholder Meeting?
The annual shareholder meeting is primarily dedicated to electing the corporation’s board of directors for the upcoming year.
In larger corporations, this process can become a competitive and heated affair, with various candidates vying for a spot on the board. For single shareholder corporations, however, the process is considerably simpler.
In essence, you can unilaterally decide to appoint yourself as the director. Following this, you must create meeting minutes that demonstrate that you, the sole shareholder, have elected yourself as the lone director of the board.
4. What Should I Discuss in a Board Meeting?
A corporation’s board of directors is typically tasked with making impactful financial decisions, ones that substantially affect both the corporation and its shareholders.
This responsibility spans a range of decisions such as issuing stock, approving loans or acquisitions, appointing officers, setting officers’ remuneration, approving raises, and announcing dividends.
In the context of single owner corporations, the most recurrent topic you’ll likely “discuss” and record pertains to notable changes in your compensation and any distributions of dividends.
5. How do I Document a Meeting?
For both the board of directors meeting and the annual shareholder meeting, it’s essential to create what are known as meeting minutes.
While these minutes don’t have to detail every single discussion or event that occurred, they must accurately document the main points and any decisions that were reached. Typically, these meeting minutes consist of:
The date, time and location of the meeting
Who attended. Note: for a board of directors meeting where you’re the only one attending, you’ll need to document that you hold all three officer positions (CEO, CFO/treasurer and secretary) and are in attendance.
Agenda items with a brief description of each item
Voting actions – in the case of a single shareholder corporation and single director, you’ll just be documenting how you voted
Time when the meeting was adjourned
You aren’t obliged to create meeting minutes from scratch. Several free templates are readily available online to act as a framework.
Utilizing a template not only makes the task less daunting but can also ensure you meet your administrative responsibilities promptly.
Importantly, there is no requirement to file your minutes with the state or any other body. They should, however, be stored safely with your other significant corporate records, such as articles of incorporation, bylaws, and resolutions.
6. Do I Really Need to Bother with This?
When operating as a single shareholder and director, it can be tempting to sidestep corporate formalities. This might seem inconsequential in the short term, but neglecting these requirements could potentially jeopardize your liability protection.
Maintaining your corporation’s status as a separate legal entity requires adherence to certain corporate formalities, like holding an annual shareholder meeting or filing your annual report.
If you face a lawsuit, the opposing party may argue that your corporation hasn’t fulfilled its corporate obligations and is merely an extension of your personal affairs.
If they manage to make a persuasive case, they might be able to get a judgment against your personal assets in addition to your company’s resources.
The takeaway message is clear: you must hold an annual shareholder meeting and an annual board of directors meeting, irrespective of the size of your corporation.
As a sole shareholder/owner, your meetings and decisions are likely to be straightforward.
It’s crucial to take a little time to conduct your meeting and record it properly. By doing so, you’ll be safeguarding your corporation’s good standing and preserving your limited liability status.
Let’s take a moment to visually compare the key characteristics of Single Owner Corporations and Multiple Shareholder Corporations. The following table provides a concise overview of these two forms of corporations:
Aspect
Single Owner Corporation
Multiple Shareholder Corporation
Number of Shareholders
1
More than 1
Board of Directors
Can be the same person as the shareholder
Must be elected by shareholders
Administrative Requirements
Must hold an annual shareholder meeting and board meeting
Must hold an annual shareholder meeting and board meeting
Meeting Complexity
Typically less complex due to single decision maker
Typically more complex due to multiple decision makers
Legal Liability
Personal assets could be at risk if corporate obligations aren’t met
Personal assets are typically protected if corporate obligations are met
Financial Decisions
Made by the single shareholder
Made by the board or voted on by shareholders
In addition to the specific points already discussed, it’s important to understand the broader distinctions and implications of operating as a Single Owner Corporation versus a Multiple Shareholder Corporation. These differences can significantly impact managing, structuring, and growing your business. Here’s a closer look at some key aspects:
Understanding these differences is essential for any entrepreneur or business owner as they plan their corporation’s structure and strategy. Whether operating as a single owner or with multiple shareholders, each has its unique advantages and challenges that must be carefully navigated for long-term success.
CorpNet offers business formations, filings, state tax registrations, and corporate compliance services in all 50 states. Express and 24 hour rush filing services available upon request. Click here to learn more.
Farmers markets offer great opportunities for farmers and other small businesses to connect with customers and make sales. But it’s not as easy as just reserving a booth and setting some products out on a table. Here are 25 tips to help you succeed when selling at farmers’ markets.
Selling at Farmers Markets
Visit Markets Beforehand
One of the biggest factors in your farmers’ market success is the actual market. You need to find one that fits with what you want to accomplish. And the best way to make that determination is to go and see for yourself.
Furthermore, visiting the markets gives you a chance to observe how other vendors operate, what the general atmosphere is like, and the kind of items that tend to sell well. Note the layout of the market, peak hours, and customer demographics. This information can help you strategically plan where to position your booth and what products to offer.
Leigh Adcock, executive director of the Women, Food and Agriculture Network, said in an interview with Hobby Farms, “Every market has its own culture and vibe. Some markets cater to busy shoppers who want to quickly buy their week’s vegetables, while others create a more social setting with music and kids’ activities. Talk to other growers and folks buying at the market to get a sense of what the market is like.”
Conduct Market Research
Some markets cater to busy shoppers who want to quickly buy their week’s vegetables, while others create a more social setting with music and kids’ activities.
Therefore, conduct market research by talking to other growers and folks buying at the market to get a sense of what the market is like.
Doing so will give you a clearer understanding of the kind of products that might be popular, the general pricing structure, and other vendors’ marketing strategies.
Additionally, observe customer behavior and preferences, seasonal trends, and local competition dynamics.
Learn the Rules
Every market has its own set of rules. So you also need to check with organizers to see what types of items, tables, and selling methods are allowed before you get started.
Additionally, understanding the rules can prevent any misunderstanding that could affect your business operations. Rules might cover aspects like waste management, booth decor, parking facilities, use of equipment, and health and safety regulations.
Furthermore, compliance with these rules ensures smooth market operations and fosters positive relationships with market organizers and fellow vendors.
Start Small
Starting with a small market without a huge vendor fee or one that requires you to invest in a lot of equipment is a good idea for your first market. This allows you to learn the process and make some mistakes before they really have a negative impact on your business.
This way, you can test your business model, receive customer feedback, and refine your strategies. As your confidence and customer base grows, you can consider moving into larger markets.
Gradually expanding allows for manageable growth, avoids overwhelming costs, and builds a strong foundation for success.
Find a Unique Niche
Differentiating yourself from other vendors selling similar products, like tomatoes and lettuce, is crucial. You can niche your products by offering a unique variety or a certain type of produce. Or you could even package your products into kits or bundles to make your booth different.
For example, if you sell herbs, consider creating themed bundles, such as a “pasta seasoning kit” or an “herbal tea mix.” This not only distinguishes you from other sellers but can also add more value to your customers. Additionally, it can increase perceived value and customer interest, leading to higher sales.
Differentiate Your Products
Your actual products should also be unique in some way. Maybe they’re the freshest tomatoes or the largest watermelons. But make sure that differentiation is clear to those walking by your booth.
Displaying product labels that highlight the unique qualities of your produce can help. If you’re selling organic produce, emphasize that aspect. If you offer a rare heirloom variety, make sure customers know about it.
Effective visual merchandising can also attract attention and educate customers about your unique offerings, enhancing your market presence.
Do a Dry Run
Before you head out to the actual market, set up your booth at home to make sure everything fits and see if there are any areas where you might be able to improve.
This will give you a chance to fine-tune your presentation, decide the best layout for your goods, and ensure that you have all the necessary materials and equipment. It also gives you a chance to rehearse how you’ll interact with customers and manage transactions.
Additionally, it’s an opportunity to identify any logistical challenges and practice efficient setup and breakdown procedures.
Keep Detailed Checklists
Maintain a checklist that includes everything you need to bring, from the actual products to the things you need to set up your booth and display your items. This not only keeps you organized but also reduces the chance of forgetting any vital items or tasks.
You might include items like cash change, a card reader, packaging bags, promotional materials, cleaning supplies, and a first aid kit on your list.
Moreover, regularly update your checklist based on your experiences at each market to continually refine your preparation process.
Remember the Essentials
Being prepared with all the essential items is critical for a smooth and successful day at the farmers market. This extends beyond your product and display items – personal comfort and wellness items are equally important. You and your team are going to be working hard all day, so you don’t want to be hungry, thirsty, or uncomfortable. Here’s a list of essentials you should consider:
Water: Stay hydrated throughout the day. It’s especially important if the market is outdoors during hot weather. A reusable water bottle for each team member is a good idea.
Healthy Snacks: Keep your energy levels up with some nutritious snacks. Fruits, nuts, and granola bars can be good options.
Sunscreen: If the market is outdoors, protect your skin from potential sunburn. Remember to reapply as needed.
Comfortable Shoes: Standing for long hours can take a toll on your feet. Wear comfortable footwear to help you stay energetic.
Weather-appropriate Clothing: Check the weather forecast in advance. Dress in layers if it’s chilly, or wear a hat for sun protection if it’s hot.
First Aid Kit: A basic kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relief medication can be helpful for minor injuries or headaches.
Cash and Card Reader: Ensure you have enough change for cash transactions and a functioning card reader for digital payments.
Portable Charger: You don’t want your phone or card reader to run out of battery mid-way through the market. A portable charger can be a lifesaver.
Hand Sanitizer: Regularly sanitizing your hands is a good hygiene practice, and your customers will appreciate it too.
Remember, happy and comfortable sellers make for a more enjoyable and successful market experience!
Display the Best Looking Foods
The aesthetic appeal of your booth can significantly impact sales. Don’t set out a bunch of brown apples or wilted spinach. Choose your best products and display those front and center. This approach showcases the high quality of your offerings and entices people who walk by your displays to find out more.
Clean, vibrant, and healthy-looking products not only attract customers but also communicate the quality of your produce.
Stack Your Items High
The way you arrange your items can also make a big difference in how people perceive them.
Urban Farmer Curtis Stone shares the philosophy, “Pile it high, watch it fly.” Creating the illusion of abundance can make your products seem more appealing to passersby. This strategy, drawing from principles of retail psychology, suggests that people are attracted to plentiful displays.
Not only does it catch attention, but a well-stocked booth also sends a message that many others are buying from you, instilling a sense of trust and popularity.
Decorate Your Table
Adding visual elements to your table can elevate its appearance and draw in potential customers. Beyond just showcasing your products, a well-decorated booth can give an insight into your brand’s identity and give you an edge over the competition. Here are a few tips:
Use Branded Tablecloths: Branded tablecloths can instantly make your booth look more professional and visually appealing. They also offer a consistent and clean background against which your products can stand out.
Display Quality Trays or Baskets: Use attractive trays, baskets, or crates to display your products. They should be clean and in good condition to enhance the presentation of your produce. Choose materials and colors that complement your products and brand image.
Add Natural Elements: Incorporating natural elements like flowers, plants, or rustic wood can create an appealing, fresh, and organic look to your stand, which can be particularly attractive at a farmers’ market.
Use Signage: Clear and attractive signage can communicate important information about your products, like prices, origin, and unique selling points. This can help customers make informed purchasing decisions.
Incorporate Lighting: If you’re participating in an evening market, consider adding some lights to your stand. Not only will this make your booth stand out, but it will also make it easier for customers to see your products.
Display Photos of Your Farm: Images from your farm can create a personal connection with your customers, giving them a glimpse into where their food comes from.
Showcase Customer Testimonials or Press Features: If your farm or products have received positive reviews or been featured in media, display these proudly at your booth. This builds credibility and trust among new customers.
Incorporate Brand Colors: If your brand has specific colors, incorporate them into your table’s decoration. Consistency in branding helps create a memorable impression on customers.
The key is to balance functionality with aesthetics. Remember, your booth should reflect your brand’s values and the quality of your products, while also being an inviting space for potential customers.
Present Yourself Well
You’re also a big part of how shoppers perceive your booth. So don’t show up with messy hair and dirty jeans. Be comfortable but clean and professional so people feel good buying food items from you.
Your personal presentation can reflect the care and dedication you put into your products, thereby enhancing the overall credibility of your business.
Wearing attire that aligns with your brand image, whether it’s a simple branded T-shirt or an apron, can further reinforce your business identity. This consistent appearance can help customers easily recognize and remember you and your booth.
Stand Up
Standing up rather than sitting at your booth can make a big difference. Being at eye level with your customers allows for more natural interaction.
Standing demonstrates your enthusiasm and readiness to serve, enhancing your ability to engage effectively with potential buyers. Being on your feet also makes it easier to greet customers or offer samples, improving their shopping experience.
More importantly, a proactive stance makes your booth appear more inviting and accessible to shoppers.
Make Eye-Catching Signage
Signage can draw shoppers’ attention and let them know exactly what they can expect from your products. Effective signs are not only eye-catching but also informative.
They should provide information such as the name of your farm or business, what you sell, and any special features of your products.
Also, incorporating vibrant colors and easy-to-read fonts in your signage can significantly enhance visibility and attract more customers to your booth.
Hire a Designer
Your signs should look professional and represent your business. So unless you’re really confident in your artistic skills, hiring someone or asking a creative friend to help you put together some good-looking signage is a wise choice.
Investing in professional signage can significantly enhance your booth’s appearance and brand credibility.
A designer can ensure that your signage aligns with your brand identity and effectively communicates your message to customers. This alignment leads to better brand recognition and a more cohesive visual presentation of your products.
Clearly Label Prices
Customers don’t want to have to ask you for the price of every item at your booth. So put out signs with prices that are clearly marked and easy to read.
Clear pricing helps to facilitate quick decision-making for customers and allows for smoother transactions, resulting in a better shopping experience.
Likewise, a clear price reduces hesitation and encourages more spontaneous purchases. Accurate and visible pricing also builds trust and transparency with your customers.
Be Friendly and Talkative
When people approach your booth, greet them in a friendly way and make sure they know you’re available to answer any questions. Don’t be pushy, but do engage them in conversation when the opportunity presents itself.
Building rapport with customers can lead to repeat business and also provide an opportunity to get direct feedback about your products.
Create a Consistent System
Establish a set system for things like taking money and packaging sold items. Make sure bags are easily accessible and everyone working at your booth knows the process for accepting payments.
This consistency can streamline the purchasing process for customers and enhance their overall shopping experience.
A well-organized system also reduces the likelihood of errors and delays, ensuring a smooth and efficient transaction. Training your staff or volunteers thoroughly in these procedures can further ensure a high level of customer service.
Create an Operations Manual
John Suscovich of Farm Marketing Solutions suggests creating an operations manual that covers every step of the process, from packing your items for transportation to how you package them when customers buy. This allows you to keep all of your employees or helpers on the same page, making it easier for you and creating a more consistent experience for customers. An operations manual also aids in training new team members and ensures that quality and service standards are consistently met.
In this manual, it might be useful to include the following:
Product Catalogue: List all the products you intend to sell at the market, with detailed descriptions, prices, and if applicable, their unique selling points.
Packing Process: Outline step-by-step instructions on how to pack your products for transportation, ensuring they reach the market in the best possible condition.
Setting Up The Booth: Include details on how to set up the booth from start to finish. This could cover the layout, product arrangement, signage placement, and decor setup.
Sales Procedure: Document the process for accepting payments, including handling cash, using credit card processors, and dealing with discounts or refunds.
Customer Service Standards: Define expectations for interacting with customers. This could include how to greet customers, answer questions, handle complaints, and maintain a friendly, professional demeanor.
Health and Safety Guidelines: Outline the health and safety regulations that need to be adhered to while selling at the market. This might cover food handling procedures, cleanliness standards, and emergency protocols.
End of Day Procedures: Describe the steps for wrapping up, including how to pack up unsold goods, clean the booth area, tally the day’s sales, and safely secure the cash.
Inventory Management: Offer a method for tracking inventory before, during, and after the market, to ensure efficient stock management and minimize waste.
By detailing all these aspects in an operations manual, you can ensure your team operates cohesively, maintains a high standard of service, and contributes to a consistent and satisfying customer experience.
Keep the Line Moving
If people walking by your booth see a huge line, they might just pass by without stopping. So try your best to move through the line quickly without pushing customers away.
A fast-moving line reduces wait times and enhances customer satisfaction. To do this, consider implementing methods such as a clear queue system, an efficient payment process, and having enough staff during peak hours.
Streamlining your checkout process, such as by using quick payment options like contactless payments, can also help keep the line moving smoothly.
Create a Flow for Your Booth
Creating a flow for your booth can help in managing the crowd and keeping your display tidy. Signage indicating where people should stand while waiting to complete purchases or a clearly marked path through your booth can help keep things organized.
A well-organized booth can enhance the shopping experience for customers, making them more likely to return.
Implementing directional signs or floor markings can guide customers efficiently through your space. Such organization also helps in preventing bottlenecks, ensuring that customers can browse and shop comfortably.
Answer Questions While Selling
Being able to multitask effectively is important. Practice accepting payments while answering questions from other customers to keep the line moving even while others shop.
This not only enhances efficiency but also provides a chance for you to interact with multiple customers, promoting a friendly and service-oriented environment.
In turn, this approach demonstrates your expertise and commitment to customer service, leaving a positive impression on shoppers.
Create a FAQ Sign
If you find that many customers ask the same questions, consider creating a FAQ sign. This can speed up transactions, save your time, and empower customers to self-service, leading to a more efficient operation overall.
Common questions could revolve around product origin, cultivation methods, or shelf life.
Furthermore, a FAQ sign can serve as a conversation starter, leading to more in-depth discussions about your products and farming practices.
Display Photos from Your Farm
Sharing pictures from your farm can help customers feel connected to your business and understand the process behind the produce they are purchasing.
Photos depicting the cultivation process, the team behind the operation, or the farm’s surroundings can add an element of transparency and trust, enhancing your relationship with your customers.
These visual stories can also spark curiosity and engagement, leading customers to appreciate the quality and origin of your products more deeply.
Share Recipes
Creating unique displays or packaging that include recipes and cool ideas for using your products can add value for your customers and differentiate you from other vendors.
Offering these recipes and usage ideas can stimulate demand for your produce as customers get inspired about new ways to incorporate your items into their meals.
Featuring seasonal or specialty recipes directly connects your produce to practical, delicious uses. This strategy not only inspires culinary creativity but also positions your booth as a valuable resource for cooking inspiration, working toward building a loyal customer following.
Checklist Item
Why It’s Important
Visit Markets Beforehand
Understanding the atmosphere and demographics helps in planning your selling strategy.
Conduct Market Research
This informs you about the potential demand, popular products, and pricing structure at the market.
Learn the Market Rules
Following market rules prevents misunderstandings and ensures smooth operation.
Start Small
It allows you to learn the process, gain experience, and make mistakes without significant consequences.
Find a Unique Niche
Differentiating your products can make your booth stand out and attract more customers.
Differentiate Your Products
Unique or superior features can draw customers and justify premium pricing.
Do a Dry Run
It helps to fine-tune your presentation, layout, and operation before the actual market day.
Keep Detailed Checklists
Checklists ensure you don’t forget any crucial items or tasks for your market day.
Remember the Essentials
Keeping personal comfort items ensures you’re energized and comfortable throughout the day.
Display the Best Looking Foods
Attractive displays communicate the quality of your produce and draw customers.
Stack Your Items High
Abundant displays attract attention and can instill a sense of trust and popularity.
Decorate Your Table
It adds visual appeal to your booth, enhancing the shopping experience.
Present Yourself Well
A professional appearance can reflect the care you put into your products, enhancing credibility.
Stand Up
Standing up puts you at eye level with customers and facilitates better interaction.
Make Eye-Catching Signage
Attractive and informative signs can draw shoppers and provide important product information.
Hire a Designer
Professional-looking signage enhances your booth’s appearance and brand credibility.
Clearly Label Prices
Clear pricing facilitates quick decision-making for customers and smoother transactions.
Be Friendly and Talkative
Positive interaction can build rapport with customers, leading to repeat business.
Create a Consistent System
A consistent transaction system streamlines the purchasing process, enhancing customer experience.
Create an Operations Manual
It ensures consistent quality and service standards, making it easier to train new team members.
Keep the Line Moving
A fast-moving line reduces wait times, enhancing customer satisfaction.
Create a Flow for Your Booth
A well-organized booth enhances the shopping experience and keeps the display tidy.
Answer Questions While Selling
Multitasking enhances efficiency and allows for more customer interaction.
Create a FAQ Sign
A FAQ sign speeds up transactions, saves your time, and empowers customers to self-service.
Display Photos from Your Farm
Photos add transparency, build trust, and help customers feel connected to your business.
Share Recipes
Sharing recipes adds value for customers and may stimulate demand for your products.
If you buy something through our links, we may earn money from our affiliate partners. Learn more.
If you have a talent for crafting handmade goods, you can earn a living by selling your creations. Craftspeople frequently start small businesses selling handmade products locally at craft fairs, farmers’ markets, craft malls, and specialty shops. Many more, however, have found success selling handmade crafts online through a variety of websites, platforms and online marketplaces.
The Handmade Crafts Market in 2024
The market for handmade products might have begun as a niche industry, but by 2021 the global handicrafts market had grown to a value of $680 billion. Online sales have helped crafters reach larger audiences as they sell their handmade products on websites, online craft marketplaces and social media channels. In fact, the market is forecast to exceed $1.2 billion by 2027.
Some of the hottest trending handmade crafts in 2024 include laser-printed items, wood-burned crafts, custom jewelry, home fragrances, paper flowers, tufted rugs, and sewn items like face masks.
Why Should You Sell Crafts Online?
Are you considering selling handmade goods online? Listing your crafts for sale on an online platform has its benefits. If you think you might want to sell handmade products in an online marketplace like an Etsy store, but you can’t quite decide, you should contemplate the following perks of an online craft business:
Home-based business opportunity – When you make and sell crafts online, you can operate your entire business from the comfort of your home.
Unlimited market – Instead of selling crafts to potential buyers within your local market, you can expand your target audience to the entire world by selling products in an online marketplace.
Low costs – Craft supplies are generally inexpensive compared to the price of completed handmade goods, so you not only can start your online business with less capital, but you can earn a healthy profit from your sales. Most online marketplace fees are also low compared to the costs of selling in a physical store.
Other Reasons:
Flexibility – When you start a business selling crafts online, you are not only your own boss, but you can choose to craft your products at your own convenience. Plus, online sales can happen even as you sleep!
Personal satisfaction – If you love crafting, then it only makes sense to start a business doing what you love! You’ll get plenty of personal satisfaction as you make money and acquire repeat customers.
Reach a wider audience: When you sell your crafts online, you can reach a wider audience than if you were just selling locally. This means that you have the potential to make more sales and earn more money.
Be your own boss: When you sell your crafts online, you’re your own boss. This means that you can set your own hours, work from home, and be as creative as you want.
Build a brand: When you sell your crafts online, you can build a brand for yourself. This means that you can develop a loyal following of customers who will come back to buy your products again and again.
Have fun: Selling your crafts online can be a lot of fun. You get to share your creativity with the world and make money doing something you love.
Where to Sell Crafts Online in 2023
Site
Description
Facebook Marketplace
Allows users to sell everything from furniture to clothing and more. Features an easy-to-use interface for selling locally or worldwide. The selling fee is 5% per shipment or a flat fee of 40 cents for shipments of $8 or less.
Etsy
Well-known platform for artisans and craftspeople. Accounts are free, but sellers pay 20 cents per listing and 6.5% in Etsy fees on the sale price when an item sells.
Handmade Artists Shop
Initially a community forum, it grew into a marketplace for handmade items. Available only to subscribers, subscriptions cost $5 a month or $50 a year, with no commissions or listing fees.
Craft Is Art
An online artisan marketplace that provides sellers with tools to open an online store. The free plan includes 100 listings with additional listings available for 15 cents each, plus a 5.5% sales commission.
Google Shopping
Allows online shoppers to compare items from thousands of local and online stores. There are no fees to list products.
Amazon Handmade
An Amazon section dedicated to handcrafted goods. Creating a shop is free, but Amazon deducts a 15% referral fee from sales.
Cratejoy
Ideal for artisans who want to market subscription boxes filled with handmade creations. Selling plans start at $0 per month, plus a referral fee based on the product’s listed primary category.
eCrater
An online marketplace that features technology and collectibles, as well as handcrafted goods. Sellers only pay a 2.9% fee when items are sold.
Folksy
A platform hosting artisans based in the United Kingdom and is dedicated to handcrafted goods. There is a 6% commission on items sold.
Aftcra
An online marketplace for handmade goods produced in the United States. No charges for setting up a store, but a 7% commission is taken when items are sold.
Indiecart
Features a wide variety of handmade goods. Costs $7.50 per month to set up a store, with no other fees or commissions.
GoImagine
A popular marketplace where profits are paid directly to its makers and artists, and the rest are donated to charity. Plans start at $2.50 each month with a 5% transaction fee on sold items.
Storenvy
Offers custom online storefronts for artisans, and charges 10% of sales made through its marketplace.
SpoonFlower
A niche platform that lets designers create and sell their own patterns for fabric, wallpaper, and more. Artists earn a 10% commission anytime a product with their design is purchased.
Bonanza
Allows sellers to upload their listings from eBay, Amazon, Shopify and Etsy, and charges a 25-cent transaction fee and a 3.5% commission on sales.
eBay
A popular platform for various products including crafts and handmade items. eBay charges a commission on sold items equal to 12.9% of the sale price plus 30 cents per order.
Society6
Allows artists to upload their work where it automatically becomes available in various formats. The site takes a portion of each sale depending on the product type.
CustomMade
Known for its handmade jewelry, it also features a variety of custom, handcrafted goods. Charges a 10% commission on sales, plus a 2.7% plus 30-cent transaction fee.
Renegade Craft
Features an online store for crafters to sell their wares. Charges a 40% commission on sales.
iCraft
Dedicated to handmade items, pricing starts at $10 per month, and charges no additional commissions or fees.
The Nooks
An online marketplace that features crafts and handmade items from Canada. Sellers pay a $29 monthly subscription fee, but no fees or commissions on sales.
NOVICA
A global, fair-trade marketplace for artisans from specific regions.
Mercari
A platform for reselling goods, but also a great place to sell handmade items. Charges a 10% commission, as well as a transaction fee of 2.9% plus 30 cents, on completed sales.
Your Own Website
Many artisans now sell their products on their own websites using platforms like Square Online or Shopify to create their own e-commerce website for crafts.
Where can you sell crafts online in 2023? Whether you launch your own website to sell handmade products online, list them for sale on social media sites, or some other online marketplace, you can find success with handmade businesses.
1. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook users sell everything from furniture to clothing to houses on Facebook Marketplace, making it one of the easiest places to sell online, especially if you want to sell locally. Business pages also now can list products for sale on Facebook Marketplace, and users can choose whether to sell to local customers or ship their items around the world. The selling fee is 5% per shipment or a flat fee of 40 cents for shipments of $8 or less. This platform’s wide reach and user-friendly interface make it a top choice for diverse sellers.
2. Etsy
One of the best-known online marketplaces for artisans and craftspeople, Etsy features handmade goods and vintage items, as well as craft supplies. Accounts are free, although Etsy sellers pay 20 cents for each listing and 6.5% in Etsy fees on the sale price when an item sells. Etsy’s popularity places it in the top 150 websites globally and the top 50 in the United States. The platform’s focus on unique, creative products attracts a dedicated customer base seeking one-of-a-kind items. Furthermore, Etsy’s supportive community environment and resources for sellers help small businesses thrive even in competitive markets.
3. Handmade Artists Shop
The Handmade Artists Shop started as a community forum for crafters and artists to share their products and seek advice, but it grew into an online marketplace where users can browse and purchase handmade items directly on the site. Selling on the Handmade Artists Shop is only available to subscribers, but subscriptions cost just $5 a month or $50 a year, with no commissions or listing fees. This affordable subscription model makes it an accessible platform for emerging artists and crafters to showcase and sell their work.
4. Craft Is Art
Another online artisan marketplace, Craft Is Art provides sellers with all the tools they need to open an online store filled with handmade items, vintage items, fine art, and much more. The platform caters specifically to small-scale artisans and independent creators, offering a niche market for their unique products. With a focus on personalization and community, Craft Is Art allows sellers to connect directly with their customers. The free plan for sellers includes 100 listings with additional listings available for 15 cents each, plus a 5.5% sales commission. The premium membership, which costs $7.99 a month or $79.99 a year, includes unlimited listings and no commission fees.
5. Google Shopping
Online shoppers can compare items from thousands of local and online stores with Google Shopping. This platform’s integration with Google’s powerful search engine significantly boosts visibility for artisans’ products, making them easily discoverable by a vast audience. Craftspeople can expand their reach by listing products that are for sale locally as well as on other platforms and websites. That way, the handcrafted items are displayed in Google searches for an audience of millions. Just as there is no cost to appear in Google’s primary search index, there are no fees to list products with Google Shopping. All these features and more make it an advantageous option for sellers seeking broad exposure without additional costs.
6. Amazon Handmade
Amazon also dedicates an entire section of its online marketplace to handcrafted goods. Launched in 2015, Amazon Handmade quickly grew to one of the most popular places to sell your handmade items. Creating a shop to sell on Amazon Handmade is free, although Amazon deducts a 15% referral fee from sales. There are no additional listing fees or payment processing fees. Amazon also waives the professional selling fee of $39.99 per month for all Handmade-approved applicants. This platform’s vast customer base and trusted brand name provide artisans with a significant opportunity to reach a wide audience. Additionally, the streamlined process and supportive infrastructure of Amazon Handmade help crafters focus on their art while accessing a global market.
7. Cratejoy
If you’re a prolific artisan, you should consider marketing subscription boxes filled with handmade creations. Cratejoy makes it simple to start and launch a subscription box business based around a handcrafted brand or product. The company provides all the tools needed to start, including a website builder, free listings in the Cratejoy marketplace and more. Businesses can sell on the Cratejoy marketplace for plans starting at $0 per month, plus a referral fee based on the product’s listed primary category. This model is especially appealing for artisans who regularly produce a variety of items, as it allows for a steady, predictable revenue stream. Moreover, subscription boxes can help build a loyal customer base, as subscribers eagerly anticipate the arrival of new, unique items each month.
8. eCrater
An online selling marketplace similar to eBay, eCrater primarily features technology and collectibles, although it also showcases a good amount of handcrafted goods. The platform’s user-friendly interface and minimal fees make it an attractive option for small businesses and individual sellers. It’s completely free to set up an online store with eCrater, and sellers only pay a 2.9% fee when items are sold. While the site doesn’t get as much traffic as Etsy or eBay, it still boasts about 2 million views each month, offering a significant audience for new and established sellers alike.
9. Folksy
Folksy only hosts artisans based in the United Kingdom, and it limits its marketplace to handcrafted goods. The online store is visited by about 250,000 users each month, and some of its sellers have been featured in major publications like the Guardian and Elle Decoration. Craftspeople can try out selling on the e-commerce store with three listings for just £.15, and the monthly fee for the Plus plan is £7.50. There is a 6% commission on items sold, but this does not apply to shipping costs. This focused approach to local, handcrafted items creates a unique niche for UK artisans, providing them with a dedicated platform to reach a targeted audience. Additionally, the platform’s community-oriented ethos and support for small-scale creators make it an appealing choice for those looking to grow their brand within a supportive and like-minded environment.
10. Aftcra
Aftcra is an online marketplace dedicated exclusively to handmade goods produced in the United States. In fact, businesses cannot sell items that are mass-produced, vintage or resold without modification. It does, however, feature handmade items including clothing, furnishings, arts, jewelry and more. It’s free to set up a store and list items on Aftcra, and the company only takes a 7% commission when items are sold. This focus on exclusively handmade items ensures that each product on Aftcra is unique and crafted with personal attention, offering shoppers a distinctive selection not commonly found in mainstream marketplaces.
11. Indiecart
Originally known as Hyena Cart, Indiecart launched in 2004 as an online marketplace for handmade cloth diapers, quickly gaining a reputation for quality and eco-friendly products. While these in-demand baby products are still sold on the site, they also feature a wide variety of other handmade goods. It only costs $7.50 per month to set up a store with Indiecart, and the platform doesn’t charge any other fees or commissions. This affordability and simplicity make Indiecart an attractive option for small-scale artisans and crafters looking to expand their online presence.
12. GoImagine
Another popular marketplace where artisans can sell handmade goods is GoImagine, where profits are paid directly to its makers and artists, and the rest are donated to charity. This innovative approach combines business with philanthropy, ensuring that each purchase supports both artists and charitable causes. Sellers must be U.S.-based, and their products must be handmade. Plans for GoImagine sellers start at just $2.50 each month with a 5% transaction fee on sold items.
13. Storenvy
When artisans sell their crafts on Storenvy, they gain access to their own custom online storefronts, as well as a listing in the social marketplace for independent retailers. Storenvy charges 10% of sales made through its marketplace, but it does not charge a commission on sales made from a seller’s online shop. Setting up an online store through Storenvy is free, although there are additional fees for certain options and upgrades. This platform’s flexibility allows sellers to tailor their online presence to their unique brand, and the community-centric marketplace fosters a supportive environment for independent creators.
More Top Places for Selling Online Crafts
Looking for more places to sell handmade online? There are now multiple platforms that cater to craft businesses. Don’t hesitate to check out these other top marketplace options.
15. SpoonFlower
Specializing in unique, customizable design options, SpoonFlower is an ideal platform for creative individuals looking to explore textile arts and pattern design. SpoonFlower caters to an even more specific niche market than other marketplace platforms dedicated to crafts. The website lets designers create their own patterns for fabric, wallpaper, gift wrap, and more. Designers then can sell the fabrics they’ve designed or use them to create other handmade items. Artists earn a 10% commission anytime a SpoonFlower customer purchases a product with their design.
16. Bonanza
Bonanza stands out for its ease of integration with other major online marketplaces, allowing craftspeople to effortlessly expand their reach. Crafters can manage their products efficiently across multiple platforms, making Bonanza a versatile choice for online selling. When a craftsperson sells their handmade items on the Bonanza platform, they also can upload their listings from eBay, Amazon, Shopify, and Etsy while also automatically publishing listing to major buying channels like Google Shopping. Creating listings with Bonanza is free, and the company charges a 25-cent transaction fee and a 3.5% commission on sales.
17. eBay
This well-known auction website features products of practically any variety, including a plethora of crafts and handmade items. Items can be listed for potential customers to bid on or for direct sale, and it’s free to establish an eBay account and list the first 250 items per month. The platform’s vast audience and flexible selling options make it a popular choice for artisans seeking to reach a wide range of customers. Prolific artisans who choose to list more than that are charged 35 cents per additional listing. Then, eBay charges a commission on sold items equal to 12.9% of the sale price plus 30 cents per order.
18. Society6
A platform aimed at artists and designers, Society6 allows artists to upload their work to the site, where it automatically becomes available in a variety of formats, including art prints, phone cases, mugs, clocks and even leggings. The site then takes a portion of each sale depending on the product type, although sellers can designate how much profit they want to make from their items on top of that base price. This flexibility in setting profit margins empowers artists to have control over their earnings, while the diverse product range offers creative ways to reach new audiences.
19. CustomMade
As a pioneer in the online custom goods space, CustomMade has grown significantly since its debut. The online store might be best known for its handmade jewelry, but its website also features an online marketplace where sellers can market a variety of custom, handcrafted goods. Sellers not only can offer ready-made products to CustomMade customers, but they also can accept bids for custom designs. There is an application process to become a CustomMade seller, where the company gives examples of prior work samples. However, it’s free to sign up, and CustomMade charges a 10% commission on sales plus a 2.7% plus 30-cent transaction fee.
20. Renegade Craft
Known for its series of in-person craft shows that take place in various cities throughout the year, Renegade Craft also features an online store where crafters can sell their wares all year long. Additionally, Renegade Craft provides extensive exposure to its vendors through its well-established social media presence and email marketing. Artisans have to apply to become a Renegade Craft vendor, and the company can be choosy about which sellers it approves. The platform then charges a 40% commission on sales, although it does handle all marketing and customer service.
21. iCraft
An online marketplace dedicated exclusively to handmade items, iCraft does not list any mass-produced or resold goods. Initiating a global network, iCraft connects independent artists and crafters from around the world. Its dedication to exclusively handmade items draws a specialized buyer community. While experienced craft business owners say they get fewer sales from iCraft than from Etsy, they also claim their iCraft sales are more profitable. iCraft pricing starts at $10 per month, and the platform charges no additional commissions or fees.
22. The Nooks
Located out of Canada, the Nooks is an online marketplace that features a curated collection of crafts and handmade items. It also operates several successful storefronts located throughout Canada. Canadian artisans can apply to sell via the Nooks and gain access to the tools, resources and support they need to handle every aspect of their businesses. Sellers with the Nook pay a $29 monthly subscription fee, but the platform charges no fees or commissions on sales. Additionally, the Nooks’ emphasis on Canadian crafts helps promote local talent on a national stage.
23. NOVICA
A global, fair-trade marketplace for artisans, NOVICA offers craftspeople from around the world a place to sell their creations for living wages. So far, the platform has sent its artists more than $125 million. Right now, NOVICA only accepts sellers from Mexico, Central and South America, West Africa, India and Southeast Asia. Prospective sellers can apply by emailing details and pictures of their products to newproducts@novica.com. This selective approach ensures the authenticity and quality of crafts, aligning with NOVICA’s mission to empower artisans globally.
24. Mercari
Mercari is a Japanese online company that was founded in 2013. It’s well-known as an excellent platform for reselling goods, but it’s also a great place to sell handmade items. Because Mercari customers often are seeking a bargain, it’s recommended to price items with room to haggle. It’s free to list items for sale on Mercari, and the platform charges a 10% commission, as well as a transaction fee of 2.9% plus 30 cents, on completed sales. Mercari is a great option for small businesses due to its free and easy listings.
25. Your Own Website
Who says you have to sell your handmade creations on someone else’s platform and let commissions and other fees reduce your profits? Many artisans now sell their products on their own websites. You can hire a web designer, or use a platform like Square Online or Shopify to create your own e-commerce website for crafts. Creating a personal website not only eliminates third-party fees but also gives artisans full control over their brand and customer experience. Additionally, direct online sales allow for more intimate interaction with customers, fostering a loyal customer base.
How to Assess the Craft Market Before Diving In
Embarking on a journey into the craft market can be both exciting and daunting. The allure of turning a passion into profit is tempting, but it’s important to assess the market landscape before taking the plunge. Here are some key steps to guide you through the evaluation process.
Research Your Target Audience
Understanding your target audience is crucial in any business, including the craft market. Consider questions like: What age group are you aiming to attract? What interests do they have? Which types of crafts appeal to them the most? To gain insights into your audience’s preferences, you can conduct surveys, monitor social media trends, and participate in craft fairs. This research will help you tailor your products to meet the specific needs and desires of your potential customers.
Analyze the Competition
An assessment of the competitive landscape can provide invaluable insights. Visit local craft fairs, browse online marketplaces, and keep an eye on social media platforms where craft items are sold. Evaluate the following aspects:
Product Variety: What types of crafts are currently available?
Price Points: What are the average prices for similar items?
Quality: How do your crafts compare in terms of quality and uniqueness?
Understand Market Trends
Staying ahead of market trends can give you a competitive edge. Are certain crafts gaining in popularity? Are there seasonal fluctuations in demand? Keep up with craft blogs, magazines, and industry reports to stay informed.
Key Market Trends to Watch:
Sustainability: Eco-friendly crafts are increasingly popular.
Personalization: Custom-made items often fetch higher prices.
Tech Integration: Crafts that incorporate technology, like LED-lit artwork, can be a unique selling point.
Niche Crafts: Specialized items for specific hobbies or interests can attract a dedicated customer base.
Evaluate Costs and Profit Margins
Before you start, you’ll need a clear idea of your costs, including materials, labor, and overheads like utilities and rent if you’re working from a studio. Compare these costs to the price points you’ve observed in the market to calculate potential profit margins. Aim for crafts that are not just popular but also profitable.
Test the Waters
Before going full-scale, consider doing a “soft launch” to test market receptivity. You could:
Host a Pop-Up Stall: Gauge customer reactions and gather feedback.
Utilize Social Media: Run targeted ads to see how much interest they generate.
Start Small: List a few items on online marketplaces and track their performance.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Ensure you’re aware of any legal constraints or requirements, such as business licenses or taxes specific to selling crafts. Compliance is crucial for long-term success.
Build a Business Plan
Based on your research and testing, develop a comprehensive business plan. This should outline your target market, competitive landscape, marketing strategies, and financial projections.
Diving into the craft market without a well-thought-out plan can be risky. Research your target audience, analyze your competition, understand market trends, and evaluate profitability before you begin. Consider legal factors and have a solid business plan in place. By methodically assessing the craft market using these guidelines, you’re better positioned for a successful and fulfilling venture.
FAQs
What are some popular online marketplaces to sell crafts in 2023?
Some popular online marketplaces for selling crafts in 2023 include Etsy, Amazon Handmade, Facebook Marketplace, and Google Shopping.
Are there any fees or commissions associated with selling on these platforms?
Yes, most platforms charge fees or commissions for selling crafts. For example, Etsy charges a listing fee and a sales commission, while Amazon Handmade deducts a referral fee from sales.
Can I sell my handmade crafts internationally on these platforms?
Yes, many of these platforms allow you to sell your crafts both locally and internationally, giving you access to a wider customer base.
Are there any specific requirements or restrictions for selling on these platforms?
Each platform may have its own requirements and guidelines for sellers. Some platforms may focus exclusively on handmade goods, while others may allow a wider range of products.
How can I set up my online store on these platforms?
Setting up an online store on these platforms typically involves creating an account, listing your products, and following the platform’s guidelines for product descriptions, pricing, and shipping.
Do these platforms offer any support or resources to help sellers succeed?
Yes, many platforms offer seller support, resources, and tools to help you optimize your store, reach more customers, and improve your sales.
Are there any restrictions on the types of crafts I can sell on these platforms?
While most platforms are open to a wide range of crafts, it’s essential to review their policies to ensure your products comply with their guidelines.
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When it comes to dressing for work, it can be challenging to find the right balance between comfort and professionalism. Wearing a suit every day may feel too formal, but showing up in sweatpants is definitely not an option.
This is where a casual blazer comes in. A blazer can add a touch of sophistication to any outfit while still feeling relaxed and comfortable. It is also versatile – looking great with dress pants or a skirt for work, or jeans and a nice t-shirt for any time. You can even wear a blazer in place of a jacket if the weather’s nice. If you don’t already own a casual blazer, you should.
A casual blazer is an essential piece for any modern work wardrobe. Here are a few reasons why:
Versatility: A blazer can be dressed up or down and is appropriate for a variety of work or social settings.
Comfort: Unlike a suit jacket, a blazer is often made from more comfortable fabrics and has a more relaxed fit.
Professionalism: Wearing a blazer shows that you’ve made an effort to dress professionally, even if you’re not wearing a full suit.
Women’s Casual Blazers: Choices for Upgrading Your Wardrobe
Finding the right blazer is crucial. A blazer should fit you well, go with most of your other clothes, and be comfortable. Find one made from fabric that is easiest for you to maintain and keep clean. When shopping online, remember to always check the brand-specific size guides for the most accurate measurements. And remember, women’s clothing differs greatly from one brand to another.
You can pair a blazer with a blouse or sweater, or even a crewneck shirt. And they go with everything. There are blazers that are dressier that you can wear for work, or more casual blazers to wear with jeans. Of course, most blazers can be worn as casually or professionally as you want – that’s one of the best things about them!
When selecting women’s casual blazers, it’s important to consider a range of criteria that ensure the blazers meet the needs of small business owners and entrepreneurs. Here’s a comprehensive list of criteria to consider, each rated on a scale of 1-5 for their importance, with 5 being the most crucial:
Fabric Quality (Rating: 5)
Importance: The fabric impacts durability, comfort, and overall look.
Criteria: Opt for high-quality materials that are durable yet comfortable, such as wool blends, cotton, or synthetic fibers that offer breathability and ease of movement.
Fit and Style (Rating: 4)
Importance: A well-fitted blazer enhances professionalism and confidence.
Criteria: Look for blazers that offer a flattering fit for various body types, considering aspects like shoulder fit, sleeve length, and overall silhouette.
Versatility (Rating: 4)
Importance: Versatile design ensures the blazer can be worn in multiple settings.
Criteria: Choose styles that are easy to pair with different outfits, suitable for both formal and casual occasions.
Ease of Maintenance (Rating: 3)
Importance: Easy-care fabrics save time and money.
Criteria: Prefer blazers that are machine washable or require minimal special care, with resistance to wrinkling and easy stain removal.
Affordability (Rating: 3)
Importance: Balancing cost and quality is vital for budgeting.
Criteria: Look for blazers that offer good value for money, considering both initial cost and longevity.
Brand Reputation (Rating: 2)
Importance: Reputable brands often ensure consistent quality.
Criteria: Research brands with positive customer reviews and a history of quality products.
Environmental and Ethical Considerations (Rating: 2)
Importance: Aligning purchases with ethical and environmental values is increasingly important.
Criteria: Consider brands that emphasize sustainable practices and ethical manufacturing processes.
These criteria were used in curating our selection of women’s casual blazers, ensuring that they meet a balance of style, functionality, and value. Browse our picks below:
The Drop Women’s Blake Long Blazer
The Drop’s casual blazer is slightly longer than normal, hitting below the hip. Made from polyester and elastane, this blazer has some stretch to it for comfort all day. It has a one-button closure and comes in a multitude of sizes and colors.
We’re huge fans of functional pockets and this blazer has them. Its comfortable knit/viscose fabric washes well, doesn’t wrinkle, and goes with everything. It’s machine washable and comes in several great colors.
A stylish windowpane print covers this open-front blazer, and it has dual pockets and roll-up sleeves. This blazer would look amazing with a pair of jeans! And best of all, it has an affordable price tag! It’s made from 100% polyester and is hand wash only.
This blazer features an open front, 3/4 scrunch sleeves, and removable shoulder pads. It’s machine washable and comes in lots of colors and patterns. There are also removable shoulder pads.
BZB Women’s 1-button blazer has 3 decorative buttons on the sleeves and a classic lapel collar. A cropped cut gives it a youthful edge while still looking professional. Lots of colors are available, and it has 2 working pockets.
This CK two-button blazer features notched lapels and two flap front pockets. A back center vent gives a little extra room to move. It’s dry clean only and made from a rayon/poly/spandex blend.
With the multitude of colors available in this blazer, you should get more than one! With its two functional flap pockets, lightweight material, and notched lapels collar, this blazer can easily go from day to night. It is hand wash only.
This classic back-slit notched lapel blazer has a one-button closure and padded shoulders. Available in several colors, it also features a vented back and is made of 100% polyester with polyester lining.
This women’s blazer is this soft, stretchy open-front blazer by Cicy Bell. It’s made from a polyester/spandex blend, and has a one-button design and two functional flap pockets. This blazer is available in a wide range of sizes and lots of color choices.
Amazon Essentials consistently produces reliable clothing, and their brand-new blazer looks to be another winner. It is made from double-knit ponte fabric and has a relaxed, comfortable fit.
The ZDLONG women’s casual lightweight blazer jacket suit is ideal for daily and work wear. It is imported and made from 98%polyester+2%spandx, which makes it suitable to wear year-round. It is dry clean only.
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