5 of 5

Write now Article Tools

Some people are naturally artistic and find joy in creating things with their hands. For some, an afternoon spent at the sewing machine or an early sunrise with an easel are examples of the perfect day.

If you're an artsy-type, and you enjoy creating things which others appreciate, an in-home crafts business may be just the answer for turning your creative passion into cold, hard cash.

If you're considering starting an in-home crafts business, you most probably have a specific medium with which you enjoy working. Select the art form you enjoy the most for your business, as you'll be spending many hours at that task.

Before investing large amounts of time or money into your crafts business, see if there is actually a market for your work. Just like home decor and fashion, crafts and arts go in and out of style. Wood country crafts may have worked ten years ago, but are probably out of vogue in many areas at this time. Chunky, silver jewelry may be in style now in some areas of the country, but not so much in other areas. Handmade purses may be selling, but only in certain designer fabrics and styles. Visit local craft bazaars and look at what customers are buying. Search the internet for trends. Visit online discussion forums and ask questions.

While you're evaluating the crafts market to see if there is potential for your products, also consider whether you can sell your items at the prices you need in order to make a profit. Many artists make the mistake of selling their items too low, realizing too late they are making too little to pay for all of their expenses and their time involved in the production of their items. Figure the cost of your materials, including things you may not think about, such as sewing thread or extra paint brushes. Even consider the cost of your packaging. Next, consider the time it takes you to make your items. If you're making a profit of $5 on each item, but it takes you five hours to make an item, you have to consider whether working for $1 an hour is really worth it. Consider your craft items and determine what price you would need to sell in order to make a profit. Look again at the arts and crafts market. Will your items sell at those prices?

Determine where you will sell your artwork if you start an in-home crafts business. Will you go to local craft bazaars and flea markets? Will you sell exclusively online? Websites such as Etsy, Ebay, and Artfire are making it easier for artists to showcase their wares.

Once you decide to start an in-home crafts business, treat your hobby as a business and not just a hobby. Set aside a specific place in your home to work. Schedule time each day to devote to your work. Keep your work area organized in a way that helps you work most productively. Set goals for what you would like to achieve.

Be realistic in your sales when you first open your crafts business. There is a huge following of people who exclusively buy hand-crafted items, but it takes time and patience to create a following of your work. Take each day one day at a time, and treat each customer like royalty. When you truly love what you do, the money will follow.

Learn more about this author, Starla Ross.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Starting an in home crafts business?
We want to hear your view. Write now!