Cheap Thrills

Summer is full of outdoor craft shows and while I adore checking out the latest handmade goods by local artists, I hope to sell my own crafty goodies too!

I asked Carolina Estrada of Rocca Designs to share her best tips for selling at craft shows. Here's her advice:

1. Dress it up: Nobody wants to buy pieces from an artist who doesn't feel confident about their product. If you sell accessories: hats, clothing, jewelry or other types of wearable art make sure you are wearing your own creations. You'll feel like a fake if your potential customers ask you where you got that pretty necklace, purse or dress and it's not your own.

2. Do what you can to accept credit cards: People tend to buy more and spend more per transaction when you give the option to pay with a credit card. If you have a pay pal account, you can bring your laptop ... believe me it will increase your sales due to impulse purchases.

3. Survey: It is a good idea to do your research before you pay a costly booth fee. Make sure your items fit in with the overall environment of the craft show. Also make sure there aren't a lot of sellers selling in your category. For example: If you're selling earrings, check to see how many other people are there selling earrings.

4. Rehearse: If you live in or close to any big city, you can find local artist markets or gallery nights; these usually have low-cost set-up fees and may even be free for sellers. Take the opportunity to rehearse, come up with your selling strategy, and practice your booth set-up and other details without hurting your wallet.

Pictured: Carolina's jewelery line Rocca Designs.

To learn more about Carolina Estrada and her handmade jewelry, visit her Web site: www.roccadesigns.etsy.com

Got a great tip for creative do-it-yourselfers? Let us know! You might see your helpful advice on the Cheap Thrills blog.