Why not check out the book, “Craft, INC. Turn Your Creative Hobby into a Business”, written by Meg Mateo Ilasco?
“Craft, INC.” is an easy read. It took me just a couple of evenings to get through it. It covers everything from setting up your work space, business plan basics, naming your business, record keeping, legal structures, market research, production and pricing, purchasing equipment and materials, marketing and publicity strategies,to shipping and getting paid. It may sound a little overwhelming, but each topic is presented in a way that it easy to understand and there is a checklist included in the book to help you get your business started. The last chapter is devoted to handling the ups and downs of starting your own business, living a balanced life and there are two pages of internet resources.
Starting your own business shouldn’t be about copying other people’s work. One reoccurring theme in this book is that you need to believe in yourself and your own unique personal style. You can start slowly, while continuing to work outside the home. “Craft, INC”. is filled with start up stories from real people who have started craft businesses and by the end of the book; you’ll start seeing the possibilities and the realities of starting your own business. Keep a notebook handy as you read through the book and write down ideas as they come to you. You may be surprised what you come up with!
Here are some ideas I came up with while reading through this book:
Team up with other crafters and sell from a collective consigned shop
Sell your products at Craft Fairs, Trade Shows, County and State Fairs, Flea Markets, Etsy, eBay, your own website or find a retailer that will stock your products
Write instructional books or ebooks
Write articles for magazines and websites
Create and sell instructional DVD’s and VHS tapes
Teach classes for Community Education and Craft and Fabric Stores
Work with Interior Designers to custom make rugs
Create Kits and Patterns with your original designs
Make and sell rugmaking equipment, such as looms, frames, braiding stands or a unique tool that you’ve come up with
Open a Rugmaking Retreat Bed and Breakfast
This book is full of ideas to start, manage and build your business in today’s world. “Craft, INC.” will not answer all of your questions about starting your own business, but it will get you thinking and headed in the right direction. Every successful business starts out with an idea. What will yours be?
I found “Craft, INC.” at my local library. This book can also be found online and in many of your favorite bookstores.
Buy Craft, Inc.: Turn Your Creative Hobby into a Business from Amazon.com.
