Craft Show Preparations

Sewing is my stress relief. When I first got sick with Myasthenia Gravis symptoms, we didn’t think I’d be able to crochet or sew again. My old Singer machine that I’d bought myself as a college graduation present oh so many years ago did not automatically thread, or cut. It took quite a bit of effort. But my husband bought me a beautiful machine – a computerized Brother with embroidery capability. Oh the stitches! Oh, the automatic threading! And, because MG is a muscle weakness disease, he set up a permanent sewing area – no more setting up and breaking it down.

I saw a post about a craft show on Facebook under Chattanooga Arts & Crafts. Asked David about possibility of signing up and he said sure, if I wanted to. I browsed patterns, tried new patterns, gathered my courage to re-try previously failed patterns, and basically had a blast! I made tea light covers, sucker covers, sleep masks, tissue covers, quilted and crocheted towels, treat bags, crayon roll-ups and more. I got to pet fabric, choose different colored threads and struggled to match designs. Fun!

Down side — we thought we were prepared. . . . but we weren’t.

Embroidered Book Marks

Crayon Rolls

Another Vender

How Did Our First Real Craft Show Go?

We thought we had a great idea regarding a double-sided shelf – shelving on one side and pegboard on the other. It wasn’t so great.

We painted. We created displays. (I got blue paint in my newly permed hair! Guess that officially makes me the blue haired lady!)

We filled the truck with shelving and the van with product and children. Decided this would be a perfect economics lesson the homeschooled kids! Yeah, not so much. Being such a long day, we gave in and let them bring Nintendo games.

For a first craft show though – it was a success! We made sales. I felt very validated — received so many compliments. My creations were good enough to buy! Ironically, the items we thought would be good sellers – nope! And items that had never sold at Crazy Daisy’s nearly sold out!

We made contacts, some that are turning into nice friendships. We learned about displays from other vendors. We learned about other shows, which are “good” and which are not so great. We gave out cards. We even purchased some Christmas presents from the other vendors. And each child bought something for themselves with their own money.

Lesson Learned! (NOT)

Santa Surprising Nick

At the end of the day, we were all exhausted. Setting up at 8:30 in the morning, show starting at 10, Santa arriving at 2, and packing up at 6pm. Lots more than what I’m used to! We left everything in the van that night and I simply collapsed. My legs were weak and rubbery. My hands had zero strength. But I was happy.

David told the show organizer that we were never doing this again! Minutes later, I asked her to put me on the short list for any upcoming events! I may have to work at it, but I think I can wear him down!

What are your craft show experiences? Do you enjoy them? What kind are your favorite?