1. poetry related crafts (such as poetry collages. Annette suggested haiku on second-hand crockery and even made me a sample featuring one of my own haiku - isn't it lovely?
I'm not sure if this is something I will do myself though, as I have nowhere to store loads of crockery).2. art and craft supplies (I've heard that Etsy is more of a sellers market these days and therefore more difficult to break into than it used to be. I figured selling supplies might be a popular move?
3. Items such as lavender bags, purses and cushion covers made from reclaimed fabric.
My own concerns are that a) the crafts I make aren't (mostly) good enough to sell and even if they are they will sell for low prices which would mean it might not be worth setting up the shop.
What do you think? Would anyone here buy any of these things (and please be honest!). Do you think setting up an Etsy Shop would be a good idea? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below!
I like the crockery idea, but aside from storage, there's shipping and possible breakage and all the insurance hassles and complaints that go with it. Something Scottish, though. Lots of us in the U.S. are in love with all things Scottish. If you could figure out how to drill a little hole through a small Scottish stone, on which is (inscribe) a snippet of poetry or a word or two (even better to do it in Gaelic) and then thread it onto a nice cord and attach a key chain thingy, well, I'd love that. And put it into a rough little bag with a sprig of heather. I'd buy that. But as much as I like the plate, I'd worry that it would arrive smashed. And I don't imagine that my idea is original, either.
ReplyDeleteJust brainstorming here: your photographs are lovely--perhaps something to do with those?
I am sure you have the talent and ability to do very well on with your Etsy. Thanks for you visit.
ReplyDeleteGlenna - yes that's a very good point (about breakages) and I've thought a bit about that too. I like your idea of poetry jewellery and i have been thinking of making jewellery.
ReplyDeleteLV - thanks!
I have the feeling that most of these types of 'enterprises' take a lot of effort for little return - I know a couple of artists who tell me they haven't made a dime trying to sell art on stuff (tshirts, cups, plates etc.,). I personally would not get involved in something like that. If you were just doing it for a bit of fun, that would be a different story.
ReplyDeleteNothing ventured, nothing gained. Personally, shipping is the only thing that is difficult. Like the other gal said, shipping crockery can be tricky.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I personally adore the handmade book you made me with all your poetry. Even with all the computerized readers, there is still nothing quite as wonderful as holding a book. Try it girlfriend! Wishing you all the best!
xx, shell
I think shell and Glenna have given you good advice. And you have plenty of us here who would be willing to help you spread the word about your shop.
ReplyDeleteHi Juliet, Thank you for your lovely comment on my blog :0)
ReplyDeletere. Etsy.... on the plus side it is relatively cheap and easy, on the downside it is MASSIVE and I've found it pretty hard to make regular sales. You need to spend alot of time, listing daily etc.
My friend Helen Tidelinedesigns.Etsy.com almost makes a living out of it ( working 9-5 non stop and her biggest seller is supplies ( iguring that alot of people that use Etsy are also making stuff/browsing for inspiration and so on)
I think it all depends on a lucky break, getting noticed by the right person. Good Luck xxx