A Successful Craft Open House

 

One of the things that I read, while looking up "How To Start a Crafting Business," was to offer a free class and an open house so that potential customers would get a chance to meet me, ask questions, and get a feel for what future classes might be like.  I thought that this was a great idea! 

I scheduled the event, and began advertising.  I admit. I was very nervous that even though I had four families signed up to attend, that the day of the event, no one would actually.  My children were even encouraging me with things like, "Even if no one shows up, it will still be ok! You can try again."  

But, to my delight, all four families Did attend.  It was a fun evening and I was thrilled with how it all turned out. 

I chose four crafts.

1. A handout that could be used to design their own 'ugly sweater.'

2. Supplies to make a pom pom. Including a cardboard template that they could take with them.

3. A coloring sheet with bookmarks they could cut out.  All the children tucked them into their bags to take home. 

4. A gnome made from cardboard, construction paper, and yarn. 

My thought process, was that I should have something for all levels.  They could choose what they wanted to do, and in what order.  By having a big container of yarn in the middle of the table, they were able to choose just the yarn colors they wanted to use.  The yarn crafts turned out to be a hit.

Having the "Design A Sweater" handout was awesome.  It was something the children could do independently while I was helping others.  They turned out even better than I expected.  They were so unique, and really showed off each of their personalities.

I hosted the class in my dining room/homeschool room.  I set up each seat with a white paper placemat with "Welcome!" written on it.  I added the two handouts, all of the paper and cardboard pieces for the gnomes, and a cardboard template to make the pom poms.  I added a brown sandwich bag with my sticker logo on it.  This was great for them to collect their crafts as they went along... and to take home with them.

In the future, I would like to have a handout to send home with parents that would include:

Upcoming classes

An easy craft

Possibly a coupon for future classes

So there you have it! A very successful open house in my book, and I am excited that I have two more scheduled this month.  They are at capacity! Woohoo!

Sending good vibes!

Channon

Kids Love Crafting Supplies

 

Crafting supplies have been flying around furiously these days.  I have noticed that my kids have crafted a lot more just by having all of the supples more easily accessible. 

Sending good vibes!

Channon

A Crafting Journal 12/09/24

 

If anyone has ever started a business, you know that it doesn't take off right away.  If you are like me, you have more questions than answers.  More ideas than time.  You are hopeful, and easily discouraged. 

I keep repeating to myself that 

Things Take Time

But, I don't want to be patient.  I want to be up and running today.  I want to be teaching classes, paying my bills, and leading the crafty life that I dream about.  It's only been a month though, lol, so I don't think I should be too discouraged.

Wins ::

1. I set up my facebook page, and added events.  I have been adding posts almost daily, including motivational quotes, daily advent crafts, and photos from any projects or free classes I have had.

2. I set up an instagram account.  I am not on here as much. I honestly struggle with the fact that my photos and reels just aren't as eye catching as others.  I can never think of what music to use in the background.  I feel like I have imposters syndrome.  But, I will keep at it!

3. I started a blog.  Well, if you are reading this, then you know how it is going.  I like having this space as a landing spot.  I like being able to journal here.  Sharing my thoughts and hopefully helping those of you out there, wanting to do what I am doing.

4. I reactivated my Etsy account in high hopes that I will be able to sell there again.

5. I hosted a successful Free Holiday Craft Class, and I have two more scheduled with people registering already.

6. I set up Eventbrite for all of my class registrations.  I think this is going to be a big help.

Wow. I have to admit.  Seeing all of this brought together makes me feel a little better.  I have gotten a lot accomplished in a little under a month! I'm smiling again.

Questions or Things To Work Toward ::

1. How do I get my classes in front of potential parents, and how do I get them to move from free to paying?

2. Where do I find locations to hold craft classes that aren't expensive, or potentially free?

3. How do I make sure I am getting all of my daily tasks done, and done well.  Including homeschooling, being mom taxi, etc?

4. What is a great way to organize my supplies?

5. How do I create a schedule that works? Is there a planner for new craft business owners?  I have come across a few, but none of them seem helpful. 

I would be thrilled if you have any insights or tips and tricks that have worked for you. Please, leave them in the comments, or follow me on social media.

Sending good vibes!

Channon

Art Takes Kids On An Adventure

 

I remember how much I enjoyed crafting as a kid. Art was my favorite subject in school. This quote reminded me of just how important arts and crafts can be!

Sending good vibes!

Channon