Question about maybe selling?

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Latest post Mon, Nov 9 2009 6:13 AM by Kokopelli Design. 7 replies.
  • Sat, Nov 7 2009 6:33 PM

    Question about maybe selling?

     So, how many projects (or how much experience) do you need under your belt to start selling pieces?  I've sold custom pieces and word by mouth --- in other words, not too much.  WinkBut, about how many pieces of "practice" does it take before you should start trying to sell?

  • Sun, Nov 8 2009 12:58 AM In reply to

    • JSmaz
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    • Brugnera, Italy
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    Re: Question about maybe selling?

    That's a bit of a tough question because it will vary from one person to the next.  Ultimately you'd want to look critically at what you're making and your technique.  If you are confident that your jewelry is sturdy, well crimped/stitched/finished etc then I don't see why you shouldn't sell it. 

    If you're not sure or you're not entirely confident, you might try taking some of your pieces to a local bead store and have someone look them over for things that could be improved (and possibly show you correct technique), or perhaps post some pics here for constructive criticism.  You might also look at what other people are doing either online or in stores, and look at the details that make/break a certain piece.

    I would also reccommend looking at some books or online about how to price and where to sell.  Doing your research will help you be more successful, but it's a learning process no matter what.  Try the websites http://www.jewelry-marketing.com/ or http://www.home-jewelry-business-success-tips.com/index.html.  Vicki Lareau's book "Marketing & Selling Your Handmade Jewelry" is also good.

    Hope this helps a little!

  • Sun, Nov 8 2009 12:53 PM In reply to

    Re: Question about maybe selling?

     Thanks!  I'll check that all out!  But, what do you do when you are a perfectionist?  When you work on something (anything), then say, "Hm.  Maybe I can do better?" when there really isn't anything (technically) wrong with it?

  • Sun, Nov 8 2009 1:39 PM In reply to

    • LoisB
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    • Joined on Fri, May 16 2008
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    Re: Question about maybe selling?

     *LOL* THAT attitude is what will make you an EXCELLENT craftsman(woman), you'll always be driven to learn more, do it better.....

    Lois

     

  • Sun, Nov 8 2009 1:46 PM In reply to

    • Inca
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    Re: Question about maybe selling?

    I would say your ready to sell when someone offers to pay ... (thats my plan at least)

  • Sun, Nov 8 2009 1:55 PM In reply to

    • AndreaM
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    • Santa Fe, NM
    • Posts 129

    Re: Question about maybe selling?

     I would suggest starting with Viki Lareau's book "Marketing and Selling your Handmade Jewelry"  I would also recommend checking out Etsy.com.   Another place to check out is Beaducation.com - there are so many things to take into consideration when you're thinking about selling that it would be very difficult to list them all here.  Check out Viki Lareau's book, it's a great place to start.

    Good Luck!

    P.S. I agree with Jeni that you should post some of your work here in Readers Showcase for constructive criticism - if you do post something be sure to let us know that you are considering selling your jewelry and would like suggestions with that in mind.

     Andrea

  • Sun, Nov 8 2009 6:44 PM In reply to

    Re: Question about maybe selling?

     Thank you all!  I sure will be posting some pics soon!

  • Mon, Nov 9 2009 6:13 AM In reply to

    Re: Question about maybe selling?

    Good tips were already given by the others. What I do is "test driving" my jewelry, which means I wear it. If it can withstand me, it can withstand all others. And if someone wants to buy one of your pieces, sell it!

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