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RE: The agony of defeat, best laid plans, and the road to economic Hell. It's all part of the deal.

in #art6 years ago

Vending at events is SO hard. You have to strike the right balance between cheap and quality.

A few notes- a steampunk coat or renaissance dress is an investment in a 'character' that will be shown off regularly at multiple events. My brother once spent $600 on renaissance faire boots. Made especially for his feet and their issues. He is still wearing them to events 20 years later. They are part of his 'character'.

Another note- I make more money at events selling $5 items that are spur of the moment splurges than $40 speciality items.

Vending at craft fairs, scifi/fantasy/steampunk conventions, or renaissance faires probably is not going to net you many sales. Nobody goes to those planning on buying something quite as cool as your lamps. Easy to grab, go, pack is the thing. Durability, portability, and pocket-ability.

I see vendors bringing certain pieces of art year after year and it never sells. Multiple times I have seen them broken or given away for a song out of desperation to have a sale.

I am unfortunately at a loss as to where they would sell reliably... community art shows, in an artists co-op gallery... at regional artists shows that are curated... places people go to find unique home decor. Upscale tea stores? Upscale furniture stores or lighting stores on consignment?

The fact you got phone calls from your magazine ad is cool, too bad none of them were computer literate.

I like the shape of the next lamp, looking forward to seeing its evolution!

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I think you wrote very helpful things... Especially the difference between an expensive item which can be shown and used while playing/re-enacting and something to admire at home. Nevertheless it is still sad, that handmade items and especially art is so hard to sell.....

It can be very disheartening @crystlize... and I agree with both you @jamethiel and @neumannsalva ... It is hard and it takes time to get established. Shows are a good idea because it's the best way prospective customers can actually see the work live and meet the artist behind the creation, alas, the prices for the stalls are rather steep though...

So true, indeed. But it really is fun to talk with people in person!

Thanks for the perspective @jamiethiel. Yes, I really do need to find the right venue for selling my lamps, and the fairs & festivals just aren't the right place. I'll find it, eventually!