Sunday, September 25, 2016

Total bust

I spent yesterday getting ready for the craft fair, so I didn't accomplish enough in the realm of tatting worthy of taking a picture.

As for the craft fair... well, it was really a vendor fair with only Doris and me displaying hand-crafted items. The turnout was very poor. Only five people stopped by our table. One woman tried on two of my cowls, but chose to buy jewelry and candles instead. Another woman was interested in purchasing Doris's Singer Featherweight, which was not for sale. The other three smiled and said hello. Needless to say, it was not an uplifting experience.


Two positives did come out of the afternoon. Doris was able to do some research for setting up her Etsy shop, and I was able to start another Spinning Wheel. No, I haven't finished the blue one yet. I just happened to stick the wrong project bag in my basket.

Don't tell me you're one of those people who only has one work in progress! ;-)

14 comments:

  1. You've seen my list - and even that is incomplete ;-)))
    Sorry about the fair. Better luck next time. Your work never fails to uplift us !

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  2. What a disappointment! Not even many hellos. I love that pink though.

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  3. I wonder about this fair thing, one, have you been to this before and there was more of a turn out? and the Weather was it bad. I tried a few years ago and never did well and then spoke to a lady that works at them all the time she said many good tips but I never went to sell my stuff again, I guess that is very depressing, must change subject :) I do so love viewing your blog :)

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    1. No, we had never been to this event before. We were led to believe that there would be a lot of traffic, and there was not. There was a rain shower around 3:30, but this was an indoor event, so I don't think the weather had any impact. We're trying one more event in two weeks. If that one doesn't work out, I'm just going to keep making what I like for my own pleasure! :-)

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  4. Wow, sounds like someone should have given you more information.
    I love the pretty color for that glass mat!!! :)

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  5. I guess the only good news is that it was indoors and you were comfortable. It also gave you 'practice' setting up your displays and signs.

    I could write a book about our group's experiences for the past 25 years! One place we have guaranteed visitors is at the annual Maple Syrup Festival in April where thousands come to eat their pancakes, sausage and syrup (in a big lodge) and then stroll around the woodsy grounds to see many crafts, hear music, and visit historic Revolutionary and Civil War campsites. It's an established event, and very well run, with shuttle buses to the parking areas. However, weather can range from 80 degrees to snow! (We are somewhat protected in our large, cement-floor picnic shelter with temporary plastic walls, and share the area with the quilters and bobbin lacers and a few others. Sales vary from year to year!

    Sure hope you have better luck next time!

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  6. The only place I now try and sell my craft work is at church fetes, people are generally nice to me as they know me! However, others are very much like you describe, the worst visitors to the stall are the no eye contact and no smiles ones. Sorry to hear about your experience, a huge waste of time, but at least you had good company.

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  7. Oh, sorry to hear that there wasn't a good turnout. Maybe a different craft fair will be better.
    I'm loving the shuttle in the photo!

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  8. Selling at "craft fairs" can be very iffy at best. I am not a fan due to all the heartbreak my Grandma and then I endured. I am not here to discourage you though. I love your pink shuttle and Spinning Wheel. Falling into Autumn Bliss...

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    1. I've tried selling at craft fairs a handful of times over the past 35 years, and I've been disappointed every time. I mainly go to keep another person company. I would never consider signing up for one on my own. I much prefer having gifts on hand for those who appreciate my work!

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  9. I too hate the thought of selling my lace. I'd rather give it to someone who appreciates it than someone who has no idea of the value and suspects it's inexpensive because it is small and light.

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Just like you, I love getting feedback!