Katrine

Just a smile - a couple of years ago I made about 25 little egg cosies (Christmas fabric scraps, bits of fused applique decoration, satin bias). Put them on my stall at a Christmas market and one lady bought all of them - and would have had more if I had had them. So we know what all her friends got for Christmas, or they had alot of guests!
I've never made any more - I just know it won't happen again!

nor'easter

How much to take depends somewhat on the show. How well attended is it from prior years? Is it sponsored by a craft guild or is it a church bazar type affair? How far away do people come to look at things? Is it the size of the Rhinebeck show or is it the local PTA?

That late in the year will surely get Christmas shoppers and small things will go fast, as everyone has said. Bookmarks are not much different than ornaments, just a differnt shape really, and they sell quite well in many different media. Things for babies and small children also sell quickly at Christmas time and quilted items are naturally "warm and cozy" gifts for grandparents to give.

Do NOT sell the last of any item (this is a judgement call, totally, based on the timing and the item), especially those that you can take orders for and deliver by Christmas, if you are prepared to do so. However, do not fall into the trap of promising things you cannot deliver. You will do long term damage to your reputation as a craftsman if you do. If you are willing to make custom items, have a nice sign that says so, and maybe a portfolio of other quilts you have done.

I would definitely add more crib quilt size, maybe some 'drag along' size for toddlers, and the ornaments. Folks are not buying 'extraneous' gifts this year, so watch out for that. Many of the items suggested above, while all good, are just not apt to sell right now. If you aren't sure about it, it probably won't sell. Not this year anyway. Ornaments and bookmarks make good package decorations, stocking gifts, office grab bag gifts, that kind of thing. If they are quick and cheap to make, you are golden.

In my experience, when starting out you sell a ton of the stuff under $10 and it's the big, showy stuff that they remember. That's what brings them back looking for you next time and gets them talking about you to their friends. i don't know what your goals are, but positive word of mouth never hurts! Most of all, enjoy the process and have a great time!

Cathe

I used felted wool (old sweaters) for potholders. One layer of cotton batting isn't going to protect your hands or your table.

barnbum

Thank you for all the ideas!! I searched for potholders and found what has to go in them so they're safe... and nor'easter--there's no way I'd ever do an order--I just don't have time. I'd refer them to my website to see what shows up on the for sale page.....

I always get answers here. :D

nor'easter

Karla, something you may want to consider down the road is saddle pads. My daughter makes dressage pads for her friends and students (for schooling only) and they are a big hit. It's the ONLY thing she quilts. :roll:

Chele

I agree that some smaller items would be very popular. Money is real tight in some areas. Ornaments, checkbook covers, potholders, pincushions, bookmarks, doll quilts, etc. might be big sellers.

MelissaK

I have found that the items that go at my craft fairs are the items that gradparents can buy for their grandkids. I make pillows w/ the favorite characters such as Diego, Dora, Thomas the Train, and Bob the builder. I also make baby bibs and ribbon blankies. They make great gifts and always seem to go quick at my fairs. I find that the mom's don't buy anything for their kids... it's the grandparents. My parents and in-laws certianly spoil my kids! I also find that the table runners that are holiday oriented (halloween, thanksgiving and christmas) sell. I have some fairs coming up in the next couple of months and I decided to do mostly small things this year - mainly $25 and under. No one is going to spend money on a quilt! Hope this helps.

barnbum

Okay--I ordered 2.5 yards of the Insul-bright to make potholders.... and I'll get those ornaments going soon. I'm a reader and a teacher so I'd love to make bookmarks--that should be something I can handle... directions anyone? I'll post that :?: separately.

Oh--and my daughter is going to sell crocheted scarves!!

I'll have items from $5-$300. (Well--I'll toss in one I have for $700) Mostly $100 and less... so we'll see what happens....

I'm going to be so busy....

tlrnhi

Karla....I think you have yourself all set for the craft show.
Sure wish I could drop by and see everything. I miss those things. Just funny how you go to different places and then realize things you miss.

grammo013

This city girl would like to know what "saddle pads" are?

thank you