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Old 10-06-2008, 10:04 AM
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Maride
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Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: New York, NY
Posts: 2,735
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I have done several. The main suggestion I have for you is to make an atractive display. If your table looks pretty people will come to see. Also, make your prices reasonable until you make a name for yourself. Now, don't take me wrong and make them too low. You have to be able to make a profit, but like any business, the beggining can be slow. If people like what they get from you, next year they will come back or send a friend and once you have clients your prices can go up.

I have also started looking at my projects with another set of eyes. I used to make only things I like. I would sell some, but I had to love what I was making. This year my husband lost his job and I work full time plus sew to sell. I started looking at projects and thinking...I would never put this in my house, but there are people that like that. I live in the northern Adirondacks (NY) and this year has been my best year ever when it comes to selling quilts. People here like things with leaves in fall, loons, deer, etc... those, I can barely keep in stock. They sell quick. I suggest you speak to your friends and ask around what would they like to see.

I also have my quilts in a cafe in town, and anything country does not sell there. It is mainly a college area, I am selling a lot of art quilts. Abstract figures, funky colors, intricate quilting, and my best seller, is a simple wall hanging made out of a fabric I found at walmart that has african ladies and children dancing. I put a leopard print border, quilt with stipples and it is sold.

One more thing, make sure that you have on your table very inexpensive items. I make small wallets from a pattern I developed and sell them for $3.00. Those attracted by the quilts but unable to buy them, will get a small item instead.

There is more... have bussiness cards made. They may not be able to buy a quilt now, but they may want it later. If you intend to continue selling, a card is a most. Vista Print will send you 250 cards for the cost of shipping. It also comes handy when someone likes the quilt but wants it in a different color, or a little smaller or larger.

Last but not least, I always keep free candy on my table. Anything that attracts them to the table. You can work with them to convert them into customers.

Please let us know how the fair goes.

Maria
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