Income $75,000 $150,000
The range of income for the first year will be dependent upon how many shows you participate in and how many retail locations you serve. You could also design a website and sell your products directly to people from all over the world.
Description
One should have a knack for making crafts in order to make this a viable business. You could make both men’s and women’s belts. They could be woven and made of cloth, leather, wire chain, stones and all sorts of materials.
I was much more successful at selling to high-end women’s apparel store than at craft shows. I was also successful at creating business relationships with women who sell various kinds of women’s apparel independently.
Clients
Your clients will consist of upscale men’s and women’s clothing stores and beauty You could also sell to beauty salons and if you choose to sell at craft fairs, it will also include walk by traffic.
Marketing Plan
If you decide to sell your merchandise at craft shows, it is important you find shows, which are rated highest for traffic and by the amounts spent by that traffic. When I started selling at craft shows, there weren’t nearly as many resources available as there are today. Choose wisely as the entry fees are rather expensive and you’ll need to make sure your traffic will yield a sufficient return.
Power Partners
Your Power Partners will consist of anyone who sells apparel. This could include clothing, shoe, hat, and scarf accessories stores. You could also sell to beauty salons and spas.
The conversations with these Power Partners should indicate your willingness to include them as you become aware of clients who might need their services. It is important you meet with these Power Partners in person the first time, and then keep in touch with them weekly by email or by phone.
Requirements
You will need to acquire a large supply of leather, braiding, beads, tools and other materials with which to create a large enough inventory, so that you are able to support yourself. You will also need display cases and a means with which to transport your products while keeping them safe.
Resources:
I discovered several websites, which were very detailed in how to begin. Here are a few of the ones, which were the most helpful.
Acquiring a website name for $8.95/yr:
http://www.godaddy.com/gdshop/default.asp
Web hosting: www.hostgator.com
http://www.artscraftsshowbusiness.com/
http://www.firemountaingems.com/
http://www.genbead.com/home2.htm
http://wire-sculpture.com/findings.php
Personality Type: Expressive, Amiable
Total Start Up Costs: Less than $2,500
(includes business cards, tools, display units, a phone and advertising)