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Sunday, June 20, 2010

How to Sell Handmade Jewelry

Your hobby of jewelry-making can be turned into a profitable business. In fact, handmade products such as handmade anklet and handmade bracelet are all the rage these days. There are many entrepreneurs before you who have already succeeded with this kind of business. You can be like them if you make and market your items well. So, why don't you start planning your business today? Your way to success will begin with a single step.

Well, if you already have handmade jewelry in stock, arrange them and classify them according to their kind. Place them in boxes and add labels. This way, you will not be confused as to where the handmade bracelet or the handmade anklet is. Make sure that each of your jewelry is eye-catching. Create several identical pieces but do not forget to make unique ones too. Their colors and sizes must also vary. People have different tastes, and you must cater to what they prefer. Some customers like to have several items of the same design but with different colors. Others want their jewelry customized. There are also plenty of customers who prefer to buy by set.

Then, you need to have a business spot. This can either be a commercial unit or just your home. If you are going to rent a space, you must be prepared for additional costs such as rental fees, electric bills, furnishings, and decorations. Of course, your shop has to look fabulous if you want customers to come in and try a handmade bracelet. Once your location is settled, you can start marketing. Ask friends if they can model and advertise for you. Hand each of them a handmade bracelet and a handmade anklet. Then, they can go around and show people your items. Whenever they make a referral, you can give them commissions.

Also, you can utilize the Internet to market your handmade jewelry. You can have your own website and accept orders right there, or you can use sites such as eBay, Etsy, and ArtFire to reach thousands of customers. Just don't forget to include photographs and detailed descriptions of your items. Nonetheless, you can also go to craft shows, fairs, festivals, powwows, trading posts, and parties. You can even make customize pieces to fit certain occasions and locations. For instance, you can sell a handmade bracelet with hearts at a Valentine's Day fair; or a handmade anklet in your old high school's colors.

Moreover, you can give one your handmade jewelry to a local celebrity. She can wear your handmade anklet on a show and tell the media about your shop. This is actually a pretty good endorsement. Keep in mind that the more popular you become, the more customers you will attract.