Sunday, November 13, 2011

6 Ways to Influence Customers and Grow Sales from The Crafts Report

Here is some very valuable information on figuring out some "shopper psychology" . Look a little deeper into your work, booth displays, and more.
A super quick summation of what she believes is as follows. Read her blog for the full story. These tips written by Carolyn Edlund.

1.) Make them feel uniquely special.
2.) Offer lots of information.
3.) Customers need to be involved in the decision.
4.) Tell the story.  
5.) Provide a high level of service.  

I found this very interesting post here.


Tuesday, November 1, 2011

{found} vintage furniture rentals and tips

I had a lovely time looking at all of the wonderful items and ideas from {found} vintage furniture rentals.
They have a seemingly unlimited number of furniture pieces you can rent for special occasions. Why couldn't a larger art/craft fair or a trade show be that occasion?


I asked Allison Howell of Found Vintage Rentals if she could share some tips on using vintage furniture pieces in booth design, and here is what she said:

"
Our clients are always interested in innovative design solutions whether they are creating an environment for their wedding or decorating a craft fair booth. We suggest using pieces in unusual ways; turn a soda crate on its side to create a shadowbox with cubbies for your wares, open a secretary desk to use as a display with multiple levels, stack suitcases on your table to make "shelves" and a focal point. 

We often encourage our clients to add multiple pieces of furniture to a display instead of a single table. A dresser with a stack of trunks and a side table next to it is a lot more interesting than a plain old 6-foot table. You'll also get more surface area and multiple levels instead of just one flat surface. Vintage furniture and decor can add an eclectic look that celebrates your style and represents your brand with a little flair.
"
I absolutely love her ideas and I believe that if you have a bit of creativity and take the extra time to plan these ideas, you will have a booth unlike any other. Stay tuned for more ideas with this theme.

Here is just a very small sampling of a few ideas from events that used {found} furniture. These events are traditionally weddings, photo shoots, large parties, and corporate events. Where else do you think that this service would be appropriate? Let us know in the comments below...
(found on Facebook)
(found Blog)




I have seen a number of fabric designers use large-scale sofas, chairs, shelving, and tables at Quilt Markets, and they usually upholster pieces with their newest fabrics.
These booths are far beyond anything I can usually imagine doing, and they are definitely an aesthetic to aspire to.

(AMH at a 2009 Quilt Market - source


Happy Crafting and Decorating!! 



Sunday, October 23, 2011

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair

Show Dates for Cristin Rae: Knitwear & Paper Goods (near St. Louis)

See Cristin's lovely work at these shows and online. Her talent is incredible and she knits SO fast :)

November 6, Sunday
Trunk Show at Schon on the Boulevard
4 p.m. - 7 p.m.
#30 The Boulevard St Louis - Richmond Heights, MO
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Schon/120395561359595?sk=info

September 13, Sunday
STL Boutique Moms Fall Show
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
The Columns Banquet Center - St. Charles, MO
http://www.stlboutiquemoms.com/events.html

November 19
DIY Trunk Show
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Broadway Armory Park - Chicago, IL
http://diytrunkshow.com/

November 25-26
Rock N Roll Craft Show 8
Friday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Third Degree Glass Factory - Delmar Loop, St. Louis, MO
http://www.rocknrollcraftshow.com/

December 3-4
Renegade Craft Fair Holiday
Saturday & Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m
Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, Wicker Park - Chicago, IL
http://www.renegadecraft.com/holiday-chicago

Sunday, September 4, 2011

Indie Fixx - 14 Craft Show Do's




This article is fully written by and credited to: Indie Fixx by Jen Wallace
"With indie craft show season upon us, I thought I might resurrect my suggestions for craft show displays. As a veteran of craft shows, both as a participant and as a shopper, I’m a semi-pro when it comes to craft show displays. That said, I’ve put together a list of craft show displays do’s to help you attract more attention to your booth or table.

One important thing to remember is that your store should be exciting as any mainstream store at the mall, that’s what lots of shoppers are used to looking at. In fact, you could even take a field trip to shops like Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters to see how they display stuff as a stepping stone for your own ideas & solutions. Also, don’t forget to be creative!"

1. Do utilize your space well.

2. Don’t forget to price your goods & make sure those prices are visible.

3. Do hang stuff up, if necessary and possible!

4. Do provide a mirror if your goods are wearable.

5. Do think ‘outside the table’ in terms of your display.

6. Do make clever displays.

7. Do come up with solutions, so your items don’t blow away.

8. Do design custom & eye-catching displays.

9. Do use recycled materials to create your displays.

10. Do make it easy for customers to interact with your goods.

11. Do incorporate your branding into your display.

12. Do make your stuff look as tantalizing as sweets in the sweet shop!

13. Do be creative with your props!

14. Do show off items at varying heights.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

The Queen Bee Market (blog posts and Re-Cap)

So, I have been reading a lot about the Queen Bee Market the past couple of days and just found a post on the QBM website sharing their participants' recaps! If that wasn't a mouth-full :) See the links HERE...

Here is what you will find over there (although they have the actual links there):
the Pleated Poppy’s virtual tour

Elise Joy’s queen bee market/craft fair recap

No 17 Cherry Tree Lane’s weekend reflection

Angry Julie Monday’s recap

Creme de la Gem’s Thank You
(Tracy won best booth from the other vendors!)

lollipop’s recap
Cupcake’s booth
Funky Vintage Lovely’s To the Market post
Bliss Blvd’s When All is Said & Done

Just Lovely Thing’s recap

Art by Erin Leigh’s QBM post
Domestic Nest’s Debrief

Little Wellie’s Recap

Little Penelope Lane’s weekend

Parkside Harmony’s Wrap Up

Mommy Loves Coffee’s Did Some Damage Post :)

Blue Corduroy’s What I Learned post

Eisley Rae’s wonderful weekend

RockNRegalia’s QBM post
Lovey Dovey’s Post QBM
(thank you for traveling all the way from Wyoming Lacey!)

Friday, June 17, 2011

Carbondale, IL Sunset concerts Underway! 2011

April 27, 2011
By Christi Mathis 04/27/2011 14:47:43
Found HERE.


"CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Summer fun and good music go hand in hand and never more so than at the Sunset Concert Series.

The 33rd season of the ever-popular summertime performances kicks off June 16 on the steps of Shryock Auditorium at Southern Illinois University Carbondale with the funk/soul/rhythm and blues band Space Capone. The free concerts continue each Thursday evening through the end of July, alternating between the Shryock venue and Turley Park on the west side of Carbondale.

“It is a great tradition -- full of fun and a diversity of music and people,” said Don Castle, assistant director of the Student Center.

The concerts are family friendly events and everyone is welcome to attend. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy a pleasant outdoor musical experience. From week to week, concertgoers will hear everything from tropical rock to folk and country, from hip-hop to Creole, from alternative rock to funk.

Sunset Concert Series sponsors are the SIUC Student Center and Student Programming Council, the city of Carbondale and the Carbondale Park District.

Here’s the schedule for the 2011 Sunset Concert Series, with all performances running from 7 to 9 p.m.:

• June 16 -- Space Capone, Shryock, funk, soul, rhythm/blues, http://spacecapone.com/.

• June 23 -- Dennis Stroughmatt and Creole Stomp, Turley Park, Creole Zydeco/Cajun/blues and New Orleans swamp pop, http://www.creolestomp.com/.

• June 30 -- Animate Objects, Shryock, hip-hop/ jazz/soul, http://www.myspace.com/animateobjects.

• July 7 -- Conch Republic, Turley Park, trop rock/beach, www.conchrepublicband.com.

• July 14 -- The Kinsey Report, Shryock, Chicago blues/funk/reggae, www.myspace.com/kenkinsey.

• July 21 -- The Black Lillies, Turley Park, Americana folk/country, www.theblacklillies.com.

• July 28 -- Fools for Rowan, Shryock, alternative rock/pop, www.foolsforrowan.com.

There are a few restrictions to assure everyone has a good, safe time. Rules prohibit glass bottles, kegs, pets and solicitation and there will be strict enforcement of underage drinking laws.

For more information about the 2011 Sunset Concert Series, contact the Student Programming Council at 618/536-3391 or visit the website at http://spc4fun.com/."

LOTS of UPCOMING SHOWS around the USA - Zapplications Shows for 2011-2012

Art in the Park Myrtle Beach - Chapin Park - June 18, 19 - 2011 - Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
DEADLINE: 6/16/2011
Jury Fee: $20.00
Event Dates: 6/18/2011 - 6/19/2011
Art in the Park has been going on since 1973. As a judged show It has always been in a beautiful treed park two blocks from the ocean and in the center of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Special Note, all of our jewelry categories are full for this show.

Arizona Fine Art EXPO - 8th Annual - North Scottsdale, Arizona
DEADLINE: 6/16/2011
Jury Fee: $35.00
Event Dates: 1/19/2012 - 4/1/2012
Thunderbird Artists proudly presents the 8th Annual Arizona Fine Art EXPO. This 10 week event nestled in the most affluent, upscale area of North Scottsdale is only 5 miles south of Carefree and 5 miles north of Loop 101. Patrons love watching artists work in studios, can purchase artwork, enjoy the café, artists’ marketplace, 2-acre sculpture garden, attending garden parties and other special events.

The Arizona Fine Art EXPO has two-thirds artists returning, therefore, the jury is an on-going process until the remaining studios fill. American Style Magazine readers recently voted Scottsdale as 5th place (mid-size city category) for “Best Art Destination” in the country.

Grand Haven Art Festival (Grand Haven, MI.) 50th Anniversary June 2011 - Grand Haven, Michigan
DEADLINE: 6/17/2011
Jury Fee: $25.00
Event Dates: 6/25/2011 - 6/26/2011
The show is hosted on the most renowned downtown street in Grand Haven, Washington Avenue. Grand Haven is located 165 miles from Chicago, 20 miles from Holland-Saugatack and 35 miles from Grand Rapids.

This quaint downtown comes alive during this time of year. Washington Avenue runs directly into Lake Michigan and attracts a strong Chicago crowd. Come out and celebrate our 50th Anniversary!!

Boulder Festival of the Arts on 29th Street (Boulder, CO.) 4th Annual June 2011 - Boulder, Colorado
DEADLINE: 6/17/2011
Jury Fee: $35.00
Event Dates: 6/25/2011 - 6/26/2011
We have moved this show a month earlier to avoid the summer heat!

We are very excited to return to this great street art festival at the 29th Street in Boulder, CO. Boulder is an artsy, eclectic haven located in the foothills of Denver, just 30 miles North West of Denver. Boulder nurtures the mind, the body, and spirit. 29th Street is located in the middle of this pristine setting.

This special property 29th Street serves a trade area of 440,000 affluent residents. Boulder is both affluent and highly educated. 29th Street is an upscale shopping district. It is trendy, chic, and draws the most affluent shopper in Boulder. 29th Street is at Highway 36 between Arapahoe and Pearl Street close to Downtown Boulder.

Cottonwood Art Festival Fall 2011 - Richardson, Texas
DEADLINE: 6/17/2011
Jury Fee: $30.00
Event Dates: 10/1/2011 - 10/2/2011
Cottonwood Art Festival is located in Richardson, Texas where artists exhibit their work among towering oaks with lakeside beauty. This award winning event has been ranked one of the best fine art festivals in the nation and continues to uphold its extraordinary reputation as a first rate show. 2010 marks the 41th anniversary for this extraordinary event. Sponsored by The City of Richardson, Cottonwood Art Festival is a showcase for a large variety of fine art and fine craft and provides our patrons with the opportunity to meet and talk with the artist who created the work. Live entertainment, a Friday night gala for the artists and guests, a children’s art area and much more round out this perfect weekend in the park!

North Shore Fine Arts Festival - Roslyn, NY , New York
DEADLINE: 6/20/2011
Jury Fee: $30.00
Event Dates: 6/18/2011 - 6/19/2011
The North Shore Fine Arts Festival will be held in Christopher Morley County Park in Roslyn, New York. Located on the North Shore of Long Island, Christopher Morley Park is readily accessible to all portions of Long Island, located less than 0.25 mi from the Long Island Expressway (I-495) and about a mile south of the Miracle Mile on Northern Boulevard. The "Miracle Mile" in Manhasset is well-known for its high-end shopping center called the Americana Manhasset (Miracle Mile). The show site is on the very visible and heavily-traveled Searingtown Road.

The North Shore of Long Island in Nassau and western Suffolk counties that border Long Island Sound are referred to as the "Gold Coast". Historically, the area is one of the most affluent area in the country. Neighborhoods such as Manhasset, Roslyn, Great Neck, Sands Point, and Kings Point contain significant wealth dating back to the late 19th century. Christopher Morley County Park in Roslyn is a wonderful location for a fine arts festival offering unprecedented demographics.

Cape Cod Fine Arts Festival 2011 - Hyannis , Massachusetts
DEADLINE: 6/20/2011
Jury Fee: $30.00
Event Dates: 7/16/2011 - 7/17/2011
The Hyannis Main Street Business Improvement District is sponsoring their third Cape Cod Fine Arts Festival on the Village Green on Main Street in downtown Hyannis, the commercial "Capital of the Cape". Hyannis contains the town offices and two important shopping districts plus the historic downtown Main Street and the Rt. 132 commercial district.

For 2011 the event will be moved from its August date to the middle of July. This will offer heavier tourist traffic, being more mid-season. For those that have attended this event previously, the Village Green is a delightful location: close, intimate, and easily accessible to the patrons.

Hyannis is an important tourist and resort destination for the Northeast attracting wealthy families, celebrities, and prosperous tourists. It’s the primary ferryboat and general aviation link for passengers to Nantucket Island. The seven villages of Barnstable include Hyannis, Centerville, Osterville, Cotuit, Marstons Mills, West Barnstable and Barnstable Village. Together they offer historic homes, beautiful beaches, fabulous golf courses, exquisite dining and numerous attractions including the JFK Presidential Library located adjacent to the festival. These are the demographics most sought after by artists.

Rising Sun Festival of Fine Arts and Crafts 2011 - Rising Sun, Indiana
DEADLINE: 6/20/2011
Jury Fee: $15.00
Event Dates: 9/17/2011 - 9/18/2011
The Rising Sun Festival of Fine Arts & Crafts takes place in Rising Sun Indiana's historic Main Street garden district and along the city's landscaped river-walk on the Ohio River. Over 100 artists will be juried into the fair by a panel of prominent art experts. The Festival is organized and operated by many Rising Sun volunteers who are dedicated to making this a rewarding and pleasurable experience for both the artists and attendees. Many artists' amenities, as well as a large promotional budget, are in place to ensure the success of our artists. We are purposely keeping our jury and booth fees affordable to encourage artist participation in 3rd Annual Festival.

Cooper River Fine Arts Festival 2011 - Cherry Hill, New Jersey
DEADLINE: 6/21/2011
Jury Fee: $30.00
Event Dates: 7/30/2011 - 7/31/2011
The second Cooper River Fine Arts Festival is sponsored by the Philadelphia Inquirer and will take place along the scenic Cooper River. Cooper River Park (347 acres) runs through Pennsauken, Cherry Hill, Collingswood and Haddon Township, among the country’s most affluent suburbs. The park is bounded by North and South Park Drives, Route 130 and Grove Street. Being a "bedroom community" within one hour's commute to Philadelphia, Camden, Trenton, and Princeton, the show draws heavily from all these cities. Camden County has a large college-educated population of doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers, nurses, pharmacists, and scientists. In 2006, Cherry Hill was named among the 'Best Places to Live' in the United States by Money Magazine and was ranked eighth safest place to live in the same survey.

The Highlands Craft Show 2011 - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
DEADLINE: 6/21/2011
Jury Fee: $35.00
Event Dates: 9/30/2011 - 10/2/2011
The 30th Annual Highlands Juried Craft Show will be held September 30, October 1 & 2 2011 on the grounds of the elegant Highlands Mansion and Gardens in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania featuring over 60 high-caliber artists from throughout the United States. This well known and established Philadelphia area craft show welcomes 2,000+ knowledgable visitors a year.

Talented craft artists will display the highest quality of handmade jewelry, furniture, clothing, home décor, and more, available for purchase throughout the mansion and adjacent heated tent. The 2011 show highlights horticulture with an expanded category: Garden and Lawn crafters, creating outdoor and lawn specific works.

Sugarloaf Craft Festivals - Fall Shows 2011 - Various Nationwide Locations, Maryland
DEADLINE: 6/21/2011
Jury Fee: $45.00
Event Dates: 9/30/2011 - 12/11/2011
For more than 30 years Sugarloaf has provided a low overhead market for artists and crafts people to sell their work. Sugarloaf's Fall 2011 season includes seven great shows in some of the nation's best markets: Chantilly, VA, Gaithersburg, MD, Oaks/Philadelphia, PA, Timonium, MD, Hartford, CT and Somerset, NJ.

Riverfront Art Festival 2011 - Columbus, Ohio
DEADLINE: 6/22/2011
Jury Fee: $25.00
Event Dates: 9/30/2011 - 10/2/2011
The Riverfront Art Festival celebrates its sixth anniversary this year. The festival features a picturesque setting, winding along the west bank of the Scioto River in, a city ranked by American Style Magazine as one of the top ten cities for art, Columbus, Ohio. While the heartbeat of the festival is its selection of visual artists, the location is also home to a waterfront amphitheater, which will play host to several performances, including two nights of WaterFire! The show features abundant parking, free electricity, a stunning view of the city and free bottled water for the artists. We hope you will let us host your artistry among the 150 artists presented at this year's Riverfront Art Festival.

Art Beat 2011 - South Bend, Indiana
DEADLINE: 6/24/2011
Jury Fee: $10.00
Event Dates: 8/27/2011 - 8/27/2011
Art Beat is a free, downtown South Bend stroll along the streets and sidewalks featuring the work of local visual, performing, and culinary artists. The event showcases South Bend and the surrounding community’s artists and creates awareness of the role that downtown organizations and businesses play in the artisans’ promotion and success. Local Michiana artists only - check full description for participation and eligibility details.

Frisco Art Fair on July 4th Weekend 3rd Annual (Downtown Frisco, CO) July 2011 - Frisco, Colorado
DEADLINE: 6/24/2011
Jury Fee: $35.00
Event Dates: 7/2/2011 - 7/3/2011
This event will occur on busy July 4th Weekend in conjunction with the Town of Frisco's July 4th Weekend celebration.

Summit County will be the recipient of a very special juried art fair on this Holiday Weekend. Downtown Frisco is nestled between Breckenridge and Copper Mountain, close to Denver. Last years event was a huge success. Summit County, Colorado is located in the heart of the Rockies, just one hour from Denver to the east on I-70 and is home to Frisco, Breckenridge, Keystone Resort, Arapahoe Basin and Copper Mountain.

Combine the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains, the quaintness of Frisco, the art of 100 fine art exhibitors, the publicity this event receives, and busy July 4th Weekend and you get a fabulous art fair!

Winter Park Autumn Art Festival 2011 - Winter Park, Florida
DEADLINE: 6/24/2011
Jury Fee: $30.00
Event Dates: 10/8/2011 - 10/9/2011
The Winter Park Autumn Art Festival is a community-oriented sidewalk show that features work by 150 outstanding Florida artists. In addition to presenting quality visual art, the festival provides free entertainment and participatory events for the enjoyment of visitors and artists. The festival is held at beautiful Central Park located along Park Avenue in downtown Winter Park and attracts 200,000 visitors. The festival is hosted by the Winter Park Autumn Art Festival Committee, Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, and the Crealde School of Art.

Cleveland By Hand Fine Art & Craft Show 2011 - Cleveland, Ohio
DEADLINE *extended to: 6/28/2011
Jury Fee: $25.00
Event Dates: 11/11/2011 - 11/13/2011
Celebrating its 7th year, By Hand continues its successful co-location with the Fabulous Food Show. FREE ADMISSION for the general public will continue as well complimentary electric, drive-in access and labor assistance. Don't miss the show that Sunshine Artist called, "a real class act," and Cool Cleveland describes as "comparable to Boston Mills or Cain Park, just indoors and warmer for this holiday time of year." We hope to have the opportunity to host you among the 210 artists presented at this year's Cleveland By Hand.


New Events


Southwest Arts Festival® 2012 - Indio, California
OPEN DATE: 6/10/2011
DEADLINE: 9/30/2011
Jury Fee: $55.00
Event Dates: 1/27/2012 - 1/29/2012
You are invited to apply for the Southwest Arts Festival® presented by the Indio Chamber of Commerce in Indio California! Featuring over 255 acclaimed artists showing traditional, contemporary and abstract fine works of art and quality crafts, the festival is a major, internationally recognized cultural event and was attended by nearly 10,000 people in 2011.

As an invited artist you will enjoy one of the most exciting and hospitable festivals anywhere. Because we make a special effort to connect patrons with our artists, we require that all artists, regardless of weather, be present every day of the festival. Festival hours are 10 am to 5 pm each day.

We provide easy check-in and check-out procedures with safe and secure access to festival grounds for set-up and breakdown. We allow advance set-up for artists with special requirements (very large art requiring the use of cranes, forklifts, etc., or artists with special needs.). Artist parking is free. Disabled artist parking is available.

Pinnacle Hills Fine Art Festival 2011 - Rogers, Arkansas
OPEN DATE: 6/10/2011
DEADLINE: 7/15/2011
Jury Fee: $30.00
Event Dates: 9/9/2011 - 9/11/2011
Lynette Wallace Productions presents the Pinnacle Hills Fine Art Festival in Rogers, Arkansas. This three day juried art festival features fine art and contemporary craft in 13 media categories. The Bentonville/Rogers area is the world headquarters of Walmart, as well as home to representatives from many of the major product vendors who do business with them. The average household income is $80,000 and many residents are transplants from Chicago and the east and west coasts. Rogers and Bentonville are experiencing an economic boom with many new constructions of both business and large homes in the Pinnacle Hills area. The new Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art opens this fall. This 3 day art festival at the beautiful Pinnacle Hills Promenade is held the weekend of the WALMART NW Arkansas Championship LPG tournament at the adjacent Pinnacle Hills Championship golf course. Shuttles between the 2 events makes it easy for the 25,000+ extra visitors to Rogers an opportunity! to shop and enjoy the art festival. The area is a jewel in the region and Pinnacle Hills Promenade is the upscale shopping, dining and entertainment venue for a 300 mile radius. Retailers include Dillard's, Coach, Joseph A. Bank and White House/Black Market. Among the many dining and entertainment possibilities are Fish City Grill, PF Chang's and the Malco 12-screen theater. This first year, any artist that has shown in a juried art festival Lynette has directed including Bayou City Art Festivals, The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival, Georgetown Art In Square and The Shops At La Cantera Art Festival will be automatically invited during the jury process as a thank you. We hope you give this show a try; it has all the ingredients of becoming a successful show, booming economy, population that enjoys art and has an expendable income. Welcome to The Pinnacle Hills Fine Art Festival.

Boca Raton Museum of Art 26th Outdoor Juried Art Festival 2012 - Boca Raton, Florida
OPEN DATE: 6/15/2011
DEADLINE: 10/16/2011
Jury Fee: $40.00
Event Dates: 1/28/2012 - 1/29/2012
The Boca Raton Museum of Art located in Boca Raton's Mizner Park is celebrating its 26th Annual Outdoor Juried Art Festival. The Art Festival has consistently been named one of the “Top 100 Art Festivals in the Country,” thanks to our guests and artists. Each year, 250 nationally and internationally-acclaimed artists have gathered in Mizner Park to showcase their fine artworks. The goal of this juried show is to select and present the highest caliber of art represented by many different mediums to our knowledgeable and discriminating audience.

The Harding Art Show 2012 - Nashville, Tennesee
OPEN DATE: 6/15/2011
DEADLINE: 10/15/2011
Jury Fee: $25.00
Event Dates: 5/3/2012 - 5/5/2012
The 2012 Harding Art Show will be held Thursday, May 3 through Saturday, May 5. The 2012 show will mark the thirty-seventh year of one of Middle Tennessee’s premier art events. The show highlights fine art available for purchase from over 70 artists from throughout the United States.

2011 ZAPP Conference Artwork Exhibition - Atlanta, Georgia
DEADLINE: 7/1/2011
Jury Fee: $0.00
Event Dates: 5/3/2012 - 5/5/2012
Share your artwork with the field and help educate yourself and your peers in the jury process! This application is for a mock-jury session at the third annual ZAPP® Conference. The 2011 conference is Monday, September 19, and Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at the W Atlanta Midtown in Atlanta, Georgia

Antique Booths

Wow! I cannot believe I am just now finding photo inspirations for craft booths this way. I know that there are countless antique malls throughout the U.S. and they are filled with great ways to display your crafty goodness!! I am just focusing on one seller today, My So-Called Junky Life. She seems to keep loads of photos of her improvements, and has a designers touch! She uses mostly shabby-chic decor, and since most of her items are white or very light, she can actually put a lot more in the booth than a lot of different-colored items. The whites take up a lot less visual space than a lot of other colors. See for yourself...





from My So-Called Junky Life

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Mathilda's Market in Australia!!




"SAVE THE DATE! This Winter we'll be bringing you a fresh selection of new and treasured retailers, quality handmade and boutique goods at our next Mathilda's Market event:
*Mathilda's Melbourne Market

*Sunday, 21 August 2011 (9am - 1pm)

*Hawthorn Town Hall, Hawthorn

*Mark it in your diary! We do hope you'll stop by for a stroll through the Hawthorn Town Hall this August - but first, sneak a peek at who will be trading here!

*We hope to see you at the Winter Melbourne event! "

SEE THEIR WEBSITE HERE...

Monday, June 6, 2011

Art In Turley Park - INDIE CRAFT SHOW - Apps Available





So, I have such a great time collecting artists for the Carbondale Downtown Art and Wine Fair that I just decided to host my own show!!!

Art in Turley Park will be held on Sunday, October 23, 2011 from 10-5.
TURLEY PARK is located at 300 West Main Street Carbondale, IL 62901
I can't wait to see how many great vendors we get in the show. I am open to taking vendors from any location at all....

The spaces are only $25, and there are still spaces open. A vendor map will be available shortly. We have already had lots if interest from some of my absolute favorite Etsy artists so far!!! Only hand-made items are accepted! This will ensure the absolute best shopping experience ever.
The application is available HERE

Art in Turley Park will be held under a beautiful pavilion on a fall Sunday. There is a huge playground facility nearby, so bring the kids and let them play in a very safe environment while you shop! What can be better than that?

Also, we will host a Cutest Dog Contest at 2pm. Dogs of all shapes and sizes are welcome, and there will be 3 prizes awarded to the pups who are voted The Cutest!!

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at: ArtInTurleyPark (at) yahoo dot com. Applications still available!! Please inquire if needed. Thank you :)

Providence Open Market - Starts June 11!!!! - Rhode Island!




This event is in its fifth year and looks just incredible!!! If you live anywhere within a couple of hours, I highly recommend applying for this show! It is reasonably priced, and I bet the spots go quickly!!

"The Providence Open Market, now in its 5th season, is the city’s only Open-Air Market where you can shop for handmade artisan goods and fine art. Now located in picturesque Lippitt Park, on the east side of Providence, at the juncture of Hope Street and Blackstone Blvd, where Providence borders Pawtucket.

The Market features a different group of artists every week ensuring that each visit will be unique - and with free customer parking, making a trip to the market has never been easier! This year the Providence Open Market is committed to partnering with community-based art organizations. Together we are working towards one goal – to give Providence a unique casual meeting place where you can shop for art, healthy edibles, handbags, jewelry, accessories and much more.

Not only does our Market give local artists an affordable venue to sell their wares, but we also provide customers with the opportunity to meet the people who design and create the wide range of products that are for sale.

When - Every Saturday, June 11 through September 24. 10AM-2PM
Where - Lippitt Park at Blackstone Blvd. East Side of Providence, RI
"

Visit their Website HERE...
They are located at:

How to get the world talking about your items!!


These words were taken in their complete form from Vanessa on the PaperNStitch blog.

"Selling your Art online without inspiring a conversation is exactly the same as setting up a physical art stand in the middle of a barren desert! No one will come, and your sales will languish! You have to move where the people are, and then you have to engage them in order to increase sales. This guide will teach you exactly how you can get the web talking about your art.

1. Actively Participate in Social Networks


You probably already have a blog and social networks like Facebook, Twitter, Etsy and Flickr, but do you really use them?

Take Action: Statically posting your updates isn’t enough to get people talking about your art. You have to join Facebook groups and leave comments, join Etsy circles and curate collections, and upload your photos to popular Flickr groups. Chat with people, make friends and interact, and people will return the favor and talk about your work, too.

2. Tell Your Story

Your art is all about your story. People want to know your process and your inspirations. They want to know your humble beginnings and successes. People buy handmade over mass produced items for the human element, so show how human you are and tell your story.

Take Action: Update your blog and social networks frequently with your process and the adventure that is creating your art line. It will resonate with people, and they will spread the word. (Especially if you get your readers involved in the process! Think of creative ways to make your fans a part of the story.)

3. Make Friends in the Community

Genuine networking in your niche is invaluable, not only for rapport and inspiration, but also for starting the conversation about your artwork.

Take Action: If you see artwork that speaks to you somewhere online, stop and follow that person on their social networks and send them an e-mail. Let them know that you appreciate what they create. Leave comments on your favorite blogs. Starting this conversation is how you create friends in the community. You’ll talk about their art, and they’ll talk about yours.

4. Ask People to Write About Your Art

This is the common-sense answer, and it’s one that few people try. Find a resource that you feel would be a good fit for your artwork, and kindly ask if they would publish a story about your work. Many publications ask for people to submit and appreciate the free content. Be creative, write helpful guest posts for blogs or tell your story in a magazine. Don’t by shy, just ask!

It’s up to you: With consistency and a little dedication, you can get people talking about your art and spread the word of your line and vision. Get out there and get them talking, it’s your job to spark the conversation about your art."



This article and words were found HERE...

Monday, May 23, 2011

Craft Display of The Day!


This cute craft table is great! This display by Gifts Created is nice, bright, and has a touch of earthy-ness to it.
The banner is great and doesn't overwhelm the table.
The astroturf is a nice, cute touch too!
I like the way she has built up her back level, by using bricks and MDF board, then sewing a slip cover for it. The wicker baskets with the red cloths inside are also great for displaying and cohesively organizing her plush creations!
See her FLICKR stream {here}...

Sunday, May 15, 2011

Makeshift Shopping Villages in NYC!!


This is a very fun concept! I love markets that just pop up around the holidays. It doesn't have to take up much room, and lots more people are out shopping - makes sense to me :)
This article has been copied and cited properly, in 100% from the New York Mag website"
"Market Values
Just in time for the holiday gift rush, makeshift shopping villages are popping up all over the city. - By Joe DeLessio & Alex Rees
Published Nov 17, 2010 -
ALL SHOW DATES REFLECT 2010, NOT 2011.

(Photo: Courtesy of Fêtes de Noël)

The Holiday Shops at Bryant Park
Bryant Park, Sixth Ave., at 42nd St.; 212-768-4242
More than 100 booths make this European-style holiday market one of the biggest in town, while free ice skating on the park's rink makes it one of the most festive.
• Dates: Nov. 5–Jan. 2; Mon.–Fri. 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–6 p.m.


(Photo: Courtesy of Grand Central Terminal)

Grand Central Holiday Fair
Lexington Ave., at 42nd St.; 212-340-2583
First, check out the kaleidoscopic light show in the main concourse. Then, sneak over to Vanderbilt Hall for the station's 12,000-square-foot impromptu mall.
• Dates: Nov. 15–Dec. 24; Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–7 p.m. (Closed Thanksgiving)


(Photo: Courtesy of Mardi Gras Festival Productions)

The Holiday Gift Shops at St. Bartholomew's
325 Park Ave., at 50th St.; 212-378-0200
Not only does the scene look like a Currier and Ives print, but you can also pick up enough cold-weather gear to look like you've just walked out of the artwork.
• Dates: Nov. 15–Dec. 24; 8 a.m.–8 p.m.



(Photo: Courtesy of Urban Space Management)

Holiday Market at Union Square
14th St., at Broadway; 212-529-9262
The red-and-white tents are resurrected with winter accessories, Christmas-y trinkets, and some less predictable, more interesting merchandise.
• Dates: Nov. 15–Dec. 24; 11 a.m.–8 p.m. (Closed Thanksgiving)

Holiday Market at Columbus Circle
Central Park S., at Central Park W.; 212-529-9262
Some of the best booths are devoted to foodies: gift baskets stocked with snacks and sweets, and decks of coupon cards with discounts to Suba and the Tasting Room.
• Dates: Dec. 1–Dec. 24; 10 a.m.–8 p.m.


(Photo: Courtesy of Winter's Eve)

Winter's Eve at Lincoln Square
Broadway from Columbus Circle to 68th St.; 212-581-3774
For one night at least, Upper West Side merchants turn a pocket of Manhattan into Small Town, USA, with music and (for a nominal fee) food tastings.
• Dates: Nov. 29, 5:30 p.m.–9 p.m.

Brooklyn Holiday Bazaar
N. 7th St., at Wythe Ave.; 917-301-5765
Artists & Fleas debuts an additional holiday market space, showcasing a festive twist on the wares of their regulars and more.
• Dates: Dec. 4–5, 11–12, 18–19; noon–8 p.m.

Made in Harlem Art & Gift Festival
Casa Frela Gallery, 47 W. 119th St.
Hand-crafted gifts at the Casa Frela’s one-off weekend market will include jewelry, quilts, decorative items, and holiday ornaments.
• Dates: Dec. 4–5; 10 a.m.–7 p.m.

Gifted: A Holiday Market presented by the Brooklyn Flea and Design*Sponge
Skylight One Hanson, One Hanson Pl.
More than 100 of the Brooklyn Flea’s vendors will fill three floors with delightfully kitsch holiday gifts and miscellany.
• Dates: Dec. 15–23; 11 a.m. –7 p.m.

Brooklyn Craft Central Holiday Market
Littlefield Performance Space, 622 Degraw St. and Textile Arts Center, 505 Carroll St.
Browse the stalls at two separate venues filled with seasonal crafts and hip wares, sample artisanal food and drinks, and pick up DIY tips from instructional demos.
• Dates: Dec. 18–19; Sat. 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.–6 p.m.

Farmer's Market went great!

Although it was rainy and a bit chilly, the Market went great yesterday! I think the SIUC Graduation brought more people into town, and a lot of them stopped by! I met some great people and saw some of my C'dale faves too!
I am doing the C'dale Downtown Art and Wine Fair (DAWF) next weekend, so I will be making as much as I can this week! whew :)




Sunday, April 24, 2011

Handmade Im Gempack - a cute show!



See their Flickr Pool HERE...



Sorry, I can't find a website for this event. If you have any info, please comment below. Thanks!

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

First show of the year! Carbondale - Murdale Farmer's Market


Saturday, April 2 from 8 am - 12 noon!
Murdale Shopping Center, near The Neighborhood Co-Op!
Hope to see you there :)

Friday, March 25, 2011

Hip to Piece Squares - a total inspiration!!

Please visit her BLOG
and her ETSY SHOP to see all of her gorgeous goodies!
She also has a Flickr PAGE.
She is an incredible seamstress and has endless ideas and talent!



Wednesday, March 16, 2011

The Old North House Tour and Home Grown Street Festival - May 14 (from 10-4)

What: The Old North House Tour and Home Grown Street Festival
When: May 14, 10am-4pm






This info was found on Facebook from Holly Schroeder. She knows a LOT about the STL craft scene!

The Details: The Old North St. Louis House and Community Tour is expanding this year. Crown Square, formerly the 14th Street Mall (right across the street from Crown Candy), is a two-block area of refurbished historic buildings which reopened to street traffic last year. To celebrate, we are throwing a street festival, and are looking for arts and crafts people, as well as truly local businesses and those who would like to give some sort of demonstrations...cooking, gardening, artist demos, music, dance etc. Kids' activities would also be very much welcomed. Booths are free for neighborhood residents and $65 for those outside the neighborhood.

If you would be interested in participating, or know someone who would, please contact Kathleen Parvis at parvimail@sbcglobal.net.

See their BLOG too!

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

volume 25 - her first craft show was great!

these images are all from the volume 25 blog. she is an incredible inspiration to us all!!






See her awesome blog HERE. It is filled with TONS of great ideas for planning a craft show. Looks like this was for her first show, and she really did it right!



This is a credit card imprinter or "credit card kit" on Ebay for under $20. I guess you take the impression of the customer's card, then when you get home, you go and pay via Paypal. I think I would want to make sure Paypal is easy to use in this situation before I got the imprinter. But I bet this is a great way to accept cards at shows.

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Craft-O-Matic Show - Registration Opens Today!! Event is June 4 from 11am-11pm in the Loop

APPLY HERE.

"Craft-O-Matic (Craft Show). A St. Louis Craft Mafia Production. Guaranteed to reduce stress, increase happiness, and fulfill all your handmade desires!

A St. Louis Craft Mafia Production. A department-store-style indie craft event on June 4 from 11 am to 11 pm at the Regional Arts Commission on the Loop.

This is a juried show - all local crafters are welcome to apply when the application goes live. The application will be up from March 1 to April 1 and it will be free to apply.

This show is sponsored by Tenth Life, a local nonprofit cat rescue organization, and MADE, a crafty community collective."