Are you one of those lucky people who is good with your hands and want to earn extra income? Why not take your hobby and start earning money from the trades.
Craft Fairs were immensely popular throughout the UK and other parts of the world as people are looking for different kinds of gifts for loved ones, and of the standard store bought goods. Artisans have been making money every weekend, some enough to leave their jobs, or make a decent second income, and you can earn money too.
To test the market and see if people are interested in your craft ideas, why not show your items with friends, family or coworkers? You May even get some sales this way! You might consider joining an online forum specializing in business, where you can post pictures of your items and get feedback from experienced crafters.
If you have received positive feedback from people who love their craft ideas, why not check your local newspaper or shop Notices for the next craft fair in you area? Ring and book a table and sell their wares. At the very least you'll have a nice day where you can meet like-minded crafts people. However, if items are interesting and well they may sell one or sell-out! The items I saw at the recent Craft fairs are hand-knitted scarves, homemade candles, shell boxes, handmade cards and scrapbooks, soaps, shelves made from old railway sleepers, and even items made from old tin cans! I bought a lizard from the old wires List of arts and crafts is truly endless.
If you are not sure what you're interested, but want to start a hobby business, a simple internet search for the video will be back a lot of ideas on everything from how to make a cushion on how to knit a bag, or how to make new jewelry from ancient beads and of fragments. You can also buy basic kits from hobby and craft stores or online, if you want to start from scratch.
to promote your business, you do not have to spend a lot of money. You can set up a simple one page website or blog with a description of your products and e-mail contact, and some pictures of your items. Free business cards are available in a few mouse clicks (usually to pay for postage) to give the people you meet, or you could put a simple postcard / flyer in your local shop window.
In an interview with the stallholders at craft fairs, some very nice cash profit is being made. Obviously it depends on the quality of your case and your marketing efforts, but if you like arts and crafts to consider earning money from your passion!
Good luck!
