by Kristie Leong

Created on: September 30, 2007

Do you operate a craft business? If so, you know how expensive advertising can be. You'll be happy to learn there are a variety of low cost and even free ways for you to market your handmade creations.

1. Carry business cards with you wherever you go. Post them on bulletin boards, leave them on tables in restaurants, and hand them out freely to anyone who expresses an interest in what you do.

2. If you make wearable items, always wear one of your own handmade creations.
3. Construct an eye catching flyer on your computer advertising your craft business and place it on bulletin boards in as many public places as possible.
4. Seek publicity for your craft business. Send out press releases to as m any local publications as possible.
5. Donate one of your handmade craft pieces to a local charity auction. This not only promotes goodwill, but can help to promote your business.
6. Let family and friends become your craft rep. Offer them an incentive such as free crafts or a portion of your profits for each item they sell.
7. Sell your crafts at local offices. Arrange with local businesses to set up a table during lunch hour displaying your crafts. This works very well around the holiday season. Employers would rather keep their employees in house to shop rather than have them leave the building during lunch.
8. Market yourself as an expert in the type of craft you do. Develop a portfolio showing awards you have won and any publicity you've received. This can be displayed at craft shows to give you added credibility.
9. Teaching your craft to others. Market your services to bead stores, churches, retirement centers, and crafts stores. This can be a very effective way to promote your craft business.

Use these low cost advertising tips and watch your craft business profits soar! Who says advertising has to be expensive?

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