Where to find local craft shows?

[vanessa]

I am making fleece headbands that cover the ears, same headbands converted into hats and scarfs.... I was going to sell these at my husbands' church fair this year, but it appears they are not doing it the same way this time around.

Other than going up on ebay, where would you suggest one would look to become a vendor at a craft show? I have not the foggiest idea on where to start!

[eeyore]

Do you have any small craft stores around, or antique places? Check and see if they carry a craft newspaper or newsletter that might list craft fairs in your area. You could also do searches on citysearch.com or digitalcity.com. Try calling the local newspaper, too.

Most craft fairs charge a small fee, but they pretty much will let any crafter in. Good luck!!

[Maggie]

We actually have a store here in KC where you can 'rent' a place to sell your items. It's like a big crafters coop. It's a place you can find anything you might possibly want. I would suggest looking for something like that in your town.

Another option is to find a local store where they do and support hand-crafting (like spinning, weaving, or knitting). They often have a group of 'regulars' that hang around and could clue you in to where such things are in your town.

Maggie
Wench 1514
Madam of 'There'

[Mairi the Herbwench]

If you're in a smaller place, contact your Chamber of Commerce - they usually have contact information for the craft fairs.

Good luck!

[Bean]

Also check your local malls. They do craft shows where you can rent a table for the weekend (usually for a good price). You have to man the table during mall hours, but I have seen people sell out the first day, depending on the product. Also check around for any flea markets in your area. Sometimes you can get a temporary stall. Hope this helps!!

Betsy

[AllieSutherland]

Spread the word that you're a crafter to your pals who have school age children, or are members of the PTA, in schools all over your area. I know that most schools in this area have at least one bazaar per year where local vendors (mostly small scale crafts) pay a small amount of money to rent a table, or perhaps give "x" amount of the proceeds to the school PTA. They are usually attended VERY well, especially at Christmas time.

I think that this is something that may not be as true all over the country as it is in the Midwestern states. I'm originally from Ohio, and we had these at local schools practically 2-3 per season at the different schools. The craft bazaars were sometimes paired with "fun night" for the school. It was a lot of fun for me personally, having been on all sides -- student, teacher, and crafter. :)

XOXOXOXOX
Allie

[vanessa]

Thank you all for your advice ladies! Tomorrow (monday) is my day off and I think I'll head over to some of the smaller craft stores in town and maybe even contact my chamber of commerce!

Thanks! :)