Craft Show Maddness

Who doesn’t like to go to craft shows? There are so many kinds taking place everywhere, coming in different sizes and themes. Some can be school based, community based, or can even be a much bigger scale like those that take place in convention centers, gymnasiums. Name it, they got it – scrapbooking, stamping, fiber arts, pottery, stained glass, quilting, mixed media, wood working, jewelry, clay art, metal work, paintings... there are so many to mention.

So why do I love craft shows? Just seeing everybody’s creations leaves me in amazement of what other people can do. It is also the best time for crafters and artisans to showcase their work. At the same time, it makes me mad at myself for not being able to think of a particular idea which seemed so simple. It is also very inspiring, and makes you want to create more when you go home. It’s also the best place to buy gifts for special occasions, especially Christmas, because what you can get in craft shows are pretty unique.

It is true that the prices can be a little up there, most hobbies are not cheap, and that is a fact. But, you know that what you buy is one of a kind. Or if not, you are almost guaranteed that only a few people will have what you buy.

We tend to buy what we like, and then we end up spending a lot – then having some regrets when we get home. And that is not a good thing.

I ran across this list of tips on how to enjoy craft shows, save money and not leave empty handed.

1. Plan ahead. Set a budget and stick to it. Make room for an exception, but it has to be really worth it.

2. If you are buying presents for others, do have a list of people you are giving to.

3. Make sure you have enough cash with you. Although some vendors accept credit cards, not all craft show locations have ATM machines available. So it is also smart to have your check book with you just in case you decide to make a big purchase.

4. Wearing a body bag is advisable so both your hands are free when you look at items. Bring a large bag, shopping cart or luggage with wheels if you can, especially if you’re going to a show that you really like. I do this in big events (like scrapbooking/stamping shows) because it can really be a pain to carry the things you have bought around.

5. When you enter the show, go and see each and every vendor first. Don’t buy anything yet until you’ve seen all of them. Sometimes, there are vendors that sell the same items, and sometimes one sells theirs cheaper. And sometimes, the other one has better quality too. I have learned this the hard way, and I ended up paying almost double for an item because I got too excited. If it is possible to do two rounds before you make a decision on which ones to buy, do it. Sometimes, things don’t look as enticing the second time around. You also have to keep in mind that “all sales are final” is a common vendor policy.

6. When you visit each vendor, be on a lookout for bargains or special deals.

7. It doesn’t hurt to haggle, but do it reasonably and nicely. Craft shows are not flea markets. The vendors/artisans spent a lot of their time (and money) to create their products, and it could be an insult to ask for too cheap of a price for a piece of lovely artwork. Don’t take this the wrong way, but I always think that if a vendor is selling their items too cheap, say for example jewelry, most probably they didn’t make those items. There is a possibility that they bought their items in bulk somewhere for a very low price too.

8. When you want to buy an item, ask yourself: “Do I need this?” If yes, then buy it. If no, ask yourself again: “Why do I want this?” If you think it is a really good reason, buy it. But still think twice before you do. If you are still not sure, go look around some more then go back to that item. That usually helps you decide if you really have to buy that particular item or not. This is also another good question: “Is there a place for this in my home?” If there isn’t, don’t buy it.

9. Make sure to inspect the quality of the item you are intending to buy, especially if the show location is far from your home. Look for cracks, scratches or dents. Is the packaging good? You might not have a chance to return or exchange an item if it’s damaged.

10. Do let the artisan/crafter know if you like their work or product. It also doesn’t hurt to ask questions. It actually makes the artisan think that his work is interesting, and that is flattering.

11. If you like to take photos of items, it would be really polite to ask first. It would also be much better if you take a photo of the artisan together with his/her creations or products.

12. Most craft shows/expos hold raffles of items donated by the vendors. Make sure to fill up that form and don’t miss the chance of winning something.

13. Participate in make and takes if you can. That gives you a chance to use tools and learn new techniques. Sometimes you have to pay a few bucks, but some vendors do it for free.

14. Watch demonstrations. That also helps you decide if it’s worth it to buy a particular product or not.

15. On the last day of the show, vendors usually give discounts. Some artisans and crafters do travel far and wide to sell their creations. It can be troublesome for them to pack their items and haul them back to wherever they came from.

16. Finally, keep in mind that what we see in craft shows are not necessities. But we have to admit that it is super fun. You just have to be really smart when you go to craft events, especially in times like this when the economy is not doing so well. It will be a challenge to go to a craft show without buying anything, but for sure it can be very entertaining and inspiring.