GIVEAWAY: The Handmade Marketplace
THis giveaway has ended, we will announce a winner next week! So Amazing! We have a copy of The Handmade Marketplace: How to Sell Your Crafts Locally, Globally and Online By Kari Chapin and we are going to give it to YOU! That's right YOU, YOU lucky, randomly-selected winner YOU.
If you want to hear a bit more about this book, check out our review from earlier this week or stop by author Kari Chapin's site.
And here is the best part! Kari Chapin herself has offered to answer a few questions for us (a little interview) and we are passing the opportunity on to you! So here's how to enter to win the book:
Leave a comment here with a question for Kari. It can be a anything you want to know... about starting your business, selling your crafts... writing a book... being awesome in general. We will pick our favorite questions and pass them along to Kari and then post the "Interview" here on Prudent Baby. So ask away, and feel free to come back and enter every day. The book giveaway is open US residents 18+, but anyone can ask questions! A winner will be randomly selected when the giveaway ends Thursday, April 22 at Midnight CT.
And if you're feeling shy, you can just go ahead and buy a copy!
Labels: Giveaways
posted by Jacinda @ 1:00 AM
73 Comments:
How do I create a logo? I have no real computer resources other than the internet, but don't want to pay someone for something that I could possibly produce myself.
I bought a copy after reading your great review - so I am definitely not shy and I definitely don't need a copy but I love the content on your blog so keep it coming!!
what resources have you found helpful in keeping you focused when you work from home?
i would love to win this - i have looked at it at the bookstore and it is on my wishlist:)
i am finding it pretty easy to spread the word about my crafts but harder for my fine art - any suggestions? their are such great networks for crafting and not as much for fine art...
I have not had a chance to read the book yet, but look forward to doing so. I suppose my question would fall under that category of branding. I do a variety of creative things ranging from sewing to graphic arts that don't especially go together. Do you think it is better to create separate online shops or webpages for different types of creations or instead to find a way to keep them all together? If I want to keep them together, for example in an Etsy shop, should they have a common theme?
Thanks!
Do you find it hard to keep up with demand for your product if everything is handcrafted?
How do you keep from not loving your hobby anymore because it has become your job?
What are some of the big-picture type of ways to get into the handmade market? (like something less tedious than filling up and selling from an Etsy shop.)
(sorry, I guess that's 2 questions, but I really want to know!)
Thanks for the opportunity to win this book!
Q: If you were stranded on a deserted island, what one item would you want to have by your side?
How do I balance getting inspiration for all the FABULOUS craft blogs that I read...and coming up with original content for my shop? If the idea is inspired by someone else (say, a bag) what guidelines do you have for avoiding bad feelings, and the appearance of a copycat? Nobody likes a copycat...
Any suggestions for running a successful ETSY site? ALSO... what kind of marketing materials are necessary? (business cards, logos, tags, flyers, etc?
Lindsay
I would love to win the book, I've been eyeing it on Amazon for a while now. My question would have to be about pricing. I struggle with how much to charge for a handmade item when someone asks as a "favor" especially if it is a friend. Any good ways to sell things to friends and still make a profit?
Hi! In the ever-expanding world of Etsy and craft markets, how do you make your handmade products stand out from the rest? Thanks!
Kelly Fox that was a good question, I have the same one. Here is one, How do you make a profit when selling to the local owned downtown boutiques, what procedure would you recomend for keeping everything accounted for and everyone honest?
Hi! I would be so very interested in winning a copy of this book! I am an Etsy Seller and soon-to-be mommy to three...and I am currently on bedrest until the end of my pregnancy. :( I need something good to read and this book looks like it is right up my alley!
My question would be about branding. I am a graphic designer and I have a degree in pr/adv, but am open to helpful tips and advice that would make my products stand out.
Please, please, please pick me!!!
My mom found an article on this book recently and shared it with me! I haven't bought my own copy yet, but I'm so in love with the cover!
My question is this: for handmade and recycled (fabrics, filling) goods, where do I find guidelines regarding what is acceptable to use and not dangerous for babies? By dangerous I mean I wonder what is accepted as sewn on sufficiently. Do I use my own judgment and go by what I would let my child play with?
Here's my question: Is it possible to be successful on Etsy without a lot of off-site promotion? Or are all of the big Etsy sellers directing most of the traffic to their stores themselves, from elsewhere? I hope that makes sense.
I'm going to have to check out this book, it looks great!
I would love to know the best way to differentiate your business on etsy. There are so many businesses on that website now.
I would love to win this book, i just added it to my Amazon wishlist!
How do you stay motivated and keep the creative juices flowing when you aren't seeing success in your sales?
I have an easy one, does your book tell you how to find local craft events where you can go and sell your wares? I'm having trouble getting into my local craft community. Can't wait to win.
I love to make stuff, but I haven't figured out what to make to sell. How do you narrow down your interests so you have a cohesive product? I'm afraid my wares may end up looking like a crafter's garage sale!
How do you get involved/sign up for craft fairs and do you recommend having your own table or working jointly with someone else?
What is the one thing you've learned through experience that you wish you had known when you first started out? (I know, that's totally a cheater question-- but why not learn from someone else's mistakes, right?)
Not to sound negative or anything, but how do you know when to call it quits?
Is there any way to run a successful craft business without having to quit your dayjob? Etsy always has posts on "Quit your dayjob!" and while I don't hate my dayjob enough to do that, I really do want to be successful selling my handiwork.
My questions: 1. What are some good ways to go about finding your "niche" in the marketplace (i.e., the product only you can make better than anyone else)? 2. What are the pros and cons of selling online (e.g., Etsy or Ebay) vs. trying to find a way to sell locally (e.g., craft fair or boutique)?
Looks like a great book!
My question is about networking. I am incredibly shy, do you have to be a good at networking and be more extroverted to be successful? What would your advice be for someone who finds stopping and talking with people at shows and things to be extremely hard?
Jamie and Jacinda - thanks for this opportunity!
Kari - thanks in advance for the interview! Can't wait to read it :)
My question: I sew and sell from home. Maintaining a balance between the home, my family, and my career is even harder (not easier, as I had imagined!) now that I'm no longer working out of the home, and am instead working from home.
What suggestions do you have for mothers who are balancing their crafts/shops/careers and their families, as they work from their homes?
how do you package goods to ship? wrapped in cute ribbon & paper? recycled boxes & envelopes? one rate packaging?
oooh! goodie!
Q: How do you make your etsy shop stand out and not get lost in the sea?
I would love to know how to handle the demand of a hand made product! What a great giveaway!
kriskay4(at)gmail(dot)com
Are there some things that just scream 'amateur' when you are trying to professionally promote a product? What kind of label is a good label for quilts and crafts? Colors? Does it matter? Would love to read this book!
My question is this: What would you say are the moral or ethical implications of selling your own work that is based on someone else's pattern at a local level, such as at a craft fair, or to one's friends and family?
Oh Wow. I just saw this book the other day and I fell in love with it!!
I wanna know... what is the best way to promote your on-line business when you don't have a lot of "following"?
xoxo,
christen
thekrumms@gmail.com
I'd love to win this book. How do I know if my product is unique enough to have a market?
maddenmama@gmail.com
What's the easiest way to get started with your own business? Is it on a site like Etsy? Or should I start on a more local level? Thanks!
Now this is a book that I would actually sit down and read instead of doing the housework!
My question:
At what point should I declare myself as a business? I have a website but don't have copy/trademarks. When should I apply for a business license?
Thanks so much for your help!
Amy
How do you find time to dedicate to what you like to do as a hobby
Oh my goodness! I want to know the answer to "ALL" the questions above!!
So my question is ever so simple, can I find the answers to all or most of them in your book? ;)
i would love to win the book.
Q: what is the first step to start a book (after having an idea)?
what a terrific giveaway.
our question is- what your number one bit of advice for etsy sellers?
Sounds like an awesome book! Most of my projects(sewing mainly)are made with material,such as clothing, that I pick up thrifting(yard sales, Goodwill etc.) therefore most of the items are one of a kind creations. Say I make an apron for my BFF, her neighbor sees it and says "oh how cute, Make me one too." Well, no two items are identical. How would you promote something of this nature??
How do I go about selling my stuff on Etsy and do I have to charge customers sales tax?
What are the beginning key elements in getting a book published? (i.e. How can I go about finding a publisher to fit my writing niche?) Is it just a pipe dream or can a "nobody" end up with a successful career?
Thank you!!
my question for kari: how often should i post on my craft blog so that readers stay interested and engaged, and are some days better to post than others?
this book is on my to-buy list, so i'll definitely be picking up a copy if i don't win. thanks for the giveaway!
I'm looking into starting an online shop. What are the pros and cons between Big Cartel and Etsy?
What do you find to be the best times to create? When do you find/make time to write? When are you the most creative?
I've used Etsy, and I've heard of Artfire, but what other online art-selling websites are out there? What are the differences between each, and how can I tell if it's a reputable website?
have had your book on my wish list for a while now!
I wanted to ask how do you overcome the feeling of "is my stuff good enough to sell" I have tried so many times, been told by everyone (even when they are not being biased!) that they would buy, visited crafty markets and come away thinking that my stuff is just not good enough to sell, deep down I know it is, but to fill a stall at a market sends me into meltdown, I am so fearful of the rejection I suppose, any tips???? hugs mandyxx
I'm a crafty person and love making all sorts of things and I'm interested in selling the things I make, but just can't figure out how or where to start. Any suggestions?
I love crafts and everyone always compliments what I do... I'd love even more to make money off of this passion... where do I start?
How much inventory do you need before you can start selling? Also, how do you price your items for sale?
this book is on my wishlist. great giveaway! i would love the answers to many of the questions above. i am just about to begin selling, so i wonder 1)how much inventory would be good to start 2)should i have business cards right away? 3)what online venues - other than etsy - can i look into?
I am a new mommy and have just started to take my "hobby" to the next level by starting to sell online and in a local baby boutique. I am very excited about coming across this book -- and website!
I have so many questions -- it's so hard to pick just one!
My question is:
Can you please discuss if there is any "etiquette" in the crafting industry as far as selling your product online and at shows? For example, is it in poor taste to combine a booth to share on booth costs, or to buy a handmade item and dissect it with the intention of recreating it yourself to sell? What about promoting your art via business cards at a show when you did not buy a booth or were not otherwise invited to be a vendor?
Thank you!
Jen
I have also seen the book and would LOVE to have a copy! I'm interested in the importance of blogging in regards to a crafting business. I feel like I have my hands in many pots and am interested in lots of types of crafts and feel too time-crunched to maintain several blogs and Twitter and a Facebook page (personal, professional, etc.). What is the most influential social media outlet for a crafty business? Thanks so much...can't wait to read the interview!!
I want to start an etsy store but I am worried and anxious about how to begin- I have been sewing lots of things- do I need labels and tags?
Oh, I would love to read this book! (I love The Black Apple!) I have an Etsy shop & blog right now, and am currently wondering, when is it appropriate to actually spend the money for a more "professional"-looking site, logos, etc. What is the best "order of events" for such expenses?
Thanks!
Do you have a list of resources or methods for printing labels for sewed and/or knitted goods?
How do you come up with a name for your business?
This book is what I need!!!
How do you make your product stand put from the rest, especially when you aren't the only one selling that particular item?
I would love this book Very much!
I need more ideas on how to organize my business.
I would love to know how you got the book deal!
I would absolutely LOVE to have this book! I own my own small business and struggle with selling outside the US. Here's my question: How do you keep shipping costs down for international shipping, even for small items? That seems to be my biggest battle. Thanks! Hope I win!
One thing that is keeping me from starting up my business again is the taxes (i.e. income/self-employment tax). I know it varies from state to state, but I was wondering if you had any resources to help me get a fuller understanding of this annoying part having your own business! Thanks!
This looks like a great book, my neighbor and I have recently started discussing doing some craft fairs, but I don't really know where to start with labeling, pricing, how much product etc, so I should just read the whole book!
After reading everyone else's question, I think all of my questions have been covered. But the answer I'd really like to know is what qualifies as inspiration, and what is copying?
Oh my gosh!!!!! Pick me!! :D
Q: How do you motivate yourself to list products?
<3
Kjirsten
http://sewgraciouslyblessed.blogspot.com
I so want to get this book! I too think all the questions have been asked. I guess I do wonder if you would recommend working with friends on a business endeavor?
I would LOVE to have this book!
My question is: How do you set yourself apart when selling in a market that is flooded with other handmade things? I know my creations are original and I have been trying to sell them...but what is that extra oomph? (Yes..."oomph is a word! Ha!)
Melissa G in AZ
Hi, I am in the process of setting up shop in etsy, and would love to read this book. I can't wait for the interview. My question is: how should I go about selling locally if there aren't many craft fairs available? There is also such a shortfall of businesses that would carry my type of product, I am super shy, how do approach locals? Thanks a million for writing this book!
Hi,I don't have time to read all the other comments, so this may have already been asked - do you have any advice on cheaper shipping? I have a hard time adding a huge shipping cost to my etsy products, but it all adds up fast - postage, packaging, etc. And because I'm afraid a higher shipping cost will turn away prospective buyers, I end up not charging enough. Any ideas?
I would love advice on how to do the research and find out info on taxes and laws regarding small craft businesses. I make and sell a few things here and there and as I grow I want to be sure and by legal. =)
Thanks!
How do you determine how much to charge for a homemade Item?
I would love to start a home business, but am wondering how to balance infant twin daughters, a husband, a very part time "career" job, church, friends, and family. I would love insight on how to organize my time and resources!
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