Korker bows are so easy to make....and Fun!!
They have become very popular since Gymboree ® began marketing them in a variety of colors and patterns to match their children's clothing lines.
This week, I created an adorable 4th of July korker bow for Andrea to match her patriotic outfit.
It was so simple - especially following this instructions in this video created by Hair Hardware.com!
After several stops and starts, I'm am almost done with the closing of my ribbon business: Weebons.
Not only have I managed to get the rest of the ribbon cut and most of it rolled, but I've also began listing it in lots on eBay!
Soon my house will be ribbon free...yeah! Can you imagine the space this will free up??!!
Lastly, here's my shameless plug. If you're looking for a great deal on ribbon - starting prices below wholesale - check out my eBay auctions!
Recently I was approached by a longtime, loyal customer (although our emails are more like those exchanged between friends!), looking to branch out in her korker bow business and also had someone interested in purchasing her products at wholesale for their children's clothing and accessories website.
As a relatively new business, this question left her a little overwhelmed and she asked my opinion about setting her wholesale price. After digging out some of my old information, I provided her with my formula for determining wholesale pricing. And that's when it dawned me , there's probably plenty more young businesses that could benefit from this information.
However, don't fret because you are not stuck with my formula alone. I took the time today to seek out expert advice on this topic. Although, I am happy to report that their formulas and mine were very similar; basically, they can explain it better.
Bear in mind, this article is directed at those who are looking to market product crafted by them. This formula may not work well for other types of products.
The very first thing you need to do to determine your product pricing is to determine what the product is costing you. Formula: materials (cost of) + time (cost of labor) = base price (minimum).
Let's use the following as an example:
Becky is selling boutique hairbows. She purchases her ribbon wholesale at $10/100 yards (10¢ per yard). The french barrettes are purchased at $5.00/100 (5¢ per barrette). Each bow requires 3 yards of ribbon and one barrette. In addition, she requires the use of electricity to operate her hot glue gun.
The first step in her formula is going to be: $.10 x 3 + 1 x $0.05 = $0.35. Since it is difficult to determine the exact cost of electricity and glue used, I recommend using a base figure. In this case, I would use $0.10 for these two costs of production. Adding the 10¢ to the already calculated 35¢, we now have a base total of $0.45.
If Becky adds a product label (bow holder card) to her bows, she must add the cost of that into her base total. I would recommend having such items done by a professional printer if possible (you save in the long run versus purchasing your own ink, cardstock and taking into consideration wear and tear on your printer), which makes the cost easier to determine also; however, if Becky chooses to print her own labels, she must also take the cost of ink, cardstock, etc. into account.
Accounting for everything from ribbon to label, Becky's product costs her $0.78 to produce. Now, it's time for Becky to determine what she wants to make (cost of labor) per hour for her craft. She decides that she is happy earning minimum wage: $5.75/hour. The product requires 12 minutes from start to finish; so she calculates that based on a round-up to 15 minutes (or one-quarter of an hour.) So she uses the formula: $5.75 / 4 (for 1/4 hour) = $1.4375 (or $1.44). Adding $1.44 (cost of labor) to $0.78 (cost of materials), equals $2.22. This figure becomes the absolute minimum amount Becky will charge for her boutique bows.
But... who wants to work for the minimum, right? Becky sure doesn't! So, how does she come up with her retail price? She multiplies $2.22 x 2.5 (or 3, if you prefer) to equal $5.55. This becomes the price for which she sells her bows. If she wishes, she may even round that up to $5.95 for psychological marketing purposes and to cover any unexpected costs that may arise or been left unaccounted.
Becky also wants to offer her bows at wholesale too. The best way to wholesale her products is to require a minimum order; whether it is a minimum piece requirement or dollar amount.
For the sake of this article, we'll use the minimum piece requirement. Becky offers retailers, most likely those where her product offers a complimentary touch to their existing product ,wholesale pricing when they order a minimum of 50 boutique bows. For this price, Becky simply divides the $5.95 by 2 for a price of $2.975 ($2.98 per piece). A retailer purchasing the minimum will be billed $149.00 (plus any shipping cost, if necessary). Offering half off retail price is the maximum one should offer. Depending on the size of the order (larger orders being given more discount), I would recommend starting with only 15-25% off retail price.
Just a side note: for Becky's small business, I would recommend that she collects her fees in advance or, at minimum, requires a deposit totaling one-half (1/2) of the purchase price.
Retail and wholesale pricing for crafts is as sample as that! Of course, as there is always an exception to every rule, each crafter will have to work with this formula to perfect it for his/her product. And, for each product that is not identical in cost, the formula will have to be followed again to determine that specific product's price.
In closing, I'd like to remind readers that just because your cost of materials go down, don't feel that you have to lower the cost of your product. Once customers are adapted to paying a price for a product, leave it be. Price changes should reflect increase. UNLESS (sort of like the final "but") the market becomes extremely saturated with identical products, in which case greater supply produces lower demand and thus drives the price downward. One way to avoid this mishap is to ensure that your product stands out from the rest in quality, style, etc. thereby encouraging buyers to pay the additional cost for YOUR brand name.
I received a digest in the mail the other day from a crafters club of which I'm a member and couldn't help but to notice all of the upcoming craft fairs listed.
Realizing that this is the time when crafters began preparing for future shows, I felt it would be a good time to reintroduce a past article I had written that so many had said was very helpful.
Before I became a full time on-line retailer, I participated in a number of craft shows. Even then I operated my business from my home and the majority of "real time" interaction was with my children and husband. As a result, I found that I enjoyed the camaraderie that exists among craft peddlers and the interesting conversations with customers. It's a great way to get out and make money doing something you enjoy!
Of course, the first rule of thumb is that you have a craft. A craft doesn't have to be just candles, woodworking signs, or floral arrangements; a craft can be something you do regularly as just a hobby and never thought about turning into a cash-producing business.
For example, there are many of you out there that are talented in creating beautiful scrapbooking pages. People like myself, who aren't so gifted in that art and/or simply don't have the time to create those gorgeous keepsakes, are willing to pay a pretty penny for a pre-made page that requires only the insertion of photos and a couple of handwritten notations.
Everyone has the ability to create a craft project. And most of them are going to be pieces of work that many are willing to pay for. Looking for a craft idea or maybe something new to compliment an existing project? Read my post 50 Easy Craft Fair Projects You Can Start This Weekend or visit YouCanMakeThis.com for some really neat, simple ideas!
Now that you have your craft, it's time to market it!
One must first realize that there are two types of shows: juried and non-juried. If you are a new crafter, I would recommend that you begin with non-juried as the juried shows require submissions of the product (via photo or other methods) to be judged whether your item should be accepted for a space. However, if you have been crafting your product for some time and feel confident that you could easily pass inspection, feel free to choose either type show to enter.
Once you've made the decision for juried or non-juried, you must next locate craft fairs in your area. Arts & Crafts Business at About.com offers great suggestions and links to finding upcoming shows in your area.
Since most craft shows offer 8′ x 10′ or 10′ x 10′ spaces, it's a good idea to practice setting up in roped or tape area the size of your space in your garage, basement, or any area large enough to accommodate. If your show is being hosted outdoors, make sure that your canopy will also fit into this space. (The most popular craft show canopy is E-Z UP from Van Raalte & Co., Inc.)
In arranging your display, one very helpful hint to remember is the use of levels is very eye-catching to potential customers. Simply laying your items out on a flat table surface is just plain boring. Use milk crates, small ladders, hanging hooks, etc.
Choose a theme for your space. Many craft fairs designate a theme such as Fall or Christmas. Whatever the theme, use an assortment of fabrics to drape across your tables. For example, for a Christmas theme you may choose to use a solid green fabric as your table cover then use white lace dollies to drape atop the green. Continuing with this theme, strategically place red tulle to create a swag to the front of your table. And don't hesitate to use decorations amid your products for sale. (Decorations should be clearly defined so as not to create confusion among buyers.) Just bear in mind that your coverings should be attractive, not overbearing; nor should they overpower your product. Simple, solid colors are best.
Next, you should organize. An easy example of this idea is candles. Arrange your candles by size. Pillar candles should not be mixed in with container candles. Floral scents should not be surrounded by bakery scents. In addition, if possible, use your product to decorate. Again, candles is an excellent example, in that you can take three varying height pillars (same scent is suggested), arrange them in a triangle atop a clear platter, and light (if permitted by show hosts) for a beautiful, eye-catching display.
Bottom line: think of your items as being placed in a grocery aisle. If there is no organization, your shoppers will wonder aimlessly and could possibly just walk away. In addition, include a nice assortment of products from the lowest price range to the highest for the best selling potential. With this methods, you catch most every budget! Complimentary products are also a great addition too (ie, candle lighters).
Now you need to create a sign displaying your business name. If there is information about your product (ie, soy wax vs. paraffin wax), this should be made onto a separate sign. If using more than one sign, be sure that the one with your business name is the largest. Pick up inexpensive, plastic sign holders at office supply stores such as Staples or OfficeMax. If you have a website or eBay store where you also sell your products, be sure to place business cards in holders in a couple of visible places for easy retrieval by customers.
Count on sticky kiddie fingers! Every show that I ever participated in was overrun with children. Since most craft show shoppers are mothers, this is to be expected. A great way to get mom's attention and keep grubby little paws off your delicate merchandise is to offer a cheap goodies basket. A great idea for a Christmas themed show is to purchase approximately 50 of the miniature stockings found at dollar stores. Along with the stockings, purchase several bags of candy. Fill each stocking with four to five pieces of candy and sell them for a dollar each. It's absolutely amazing how many sales can be created from such a simple idea. Even at the smallest shows, you'll be sold out of these "idle hand detractors."
Another good idea is to invest in a shirt bearing your logo and business name. Vista Print offers low cost screening printing for such an occasion. Many embroiderers can stitch your name onto a nice polo for a relatively low price. If you will be enlisting help for your show, be sure to fit them with a "company" shirt too for a professional, uniformed appearance.
The last idea is one that is purely optional. In an effort to gain contact with customers after the show, offer a raffle for one of your products. Provide slips of paper with preprinted information such as: name, address, telephone number, email address, and the question of whether they would like to be contacted (via standard mail or email) about promotions, upcoming shows, and new products. Everyone loves a chance to win something and you will be surprised at how many people will feel obligated to mark "yes" in regards to contact; several will even become great customers! Just be sure to follow through with the raffle. If you have a website, be sure to post the winner's name to instill trust in your customers.
Now that you have all the technicalities out of the way....you're ready for show day!
Arrive at least one hour before scheduled opening time. This gives you the time needed to add finishing touches. You'll also catch those early birds who will undoubtedly arrive and anxiously began browsing booths.
If business comes in sprints, use the time in between to rearrange and/or restock. You can also take this opportunity to discreetly eat a quick lunch or snack.
Most importantly, have fun. Smile. Be friendly. Your craft show is sure to be a success!
Love digital scrapbooking? The following is resources for free digital scrapbooking supplies that I have used and personally recommend:
Having a little girl to dress up in ribbons and lace can be lots of fun....unless you're not so crafty (like me!)
WINNER: SHOPANNIES (#17)
Extra Entries (be sure to leave a comment for each additional entry - ie, 5 extra entries = 5 comments):
The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Friday, May 15, 2009. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only. Winner will be notified via email on Saturday, May 16, 2009 and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.
Read more...
Looking for neat ideas to help your squad bond and add a little pizzaz to your uniform accessories? These neat, easy to make cheerleading flip flops - called Spirit Flips - are the perfect project!
MATERIALS NEEDED:
Step 1: Gather all the materials as listed above.
Step 2: Using the yard stick, cut the ribbon into six inch increments.
Step 3: Using one strand at a time, tie the ribbon sections in double nots onto the "thong" part of the flip flops. Alternate colors and sides as you go.
Step 4: Once the thong is completely covered in ribbon, trim extra long pieces as needed to blend with the remainder of the ribbon.
Step 5: Use the Fray Check as directed to seal the ribbon ends to prevent fraying. A heat sealing method may also be used.
And that's it! So easy, so fun! Cheerleaders of all ages can easily complete this craft project!
Jay and Deb, hosts of Tuesday Tribute, is offering a new spin on this weekly meme: a prompt. Each week participants will be given the choice of doing a tribute of their own chosen subject or one suggested.
This week's Tuesday Tribute prompt is to recommend a website.
As a crafter, I've chosen Girly Things; a website offering free hair bow making instructions along with other neat craft projects!
I especially like this site because the information found there is very detailed, helpful, and FREE. As the site says, "Why pay for what should be free?"
At Girly Things, visitors will find over 50 bow or other craft projects along with information on how to start a bow business and creating a website for that business.
If you love making hair bows or other girly crafts, you'll love Girly Things!
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Don't Forget to Check Out Discount Ribbon for AWESOME Prices on Grosgrain Ribbon and see my Made to Match Gymboree (M2MG) Color Guide too!
Creating hairbows, purses, and other accessories to match the Gymboree clothing lines is one of today's hottest crafting fads!
Looking for color recommendations for Gymboree lines to make your own unique M2MG fashions? Use a variety of sizes, styles, and patterns (such as dots and stripes) to create one-of-a-kind accessories!
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