Craft Trends Part Two - Your Personal Marketplace

Pay Attention to Your Customers

Your personal marketplace is comprised, of course, of your past customers; but you also need to think about your next customers and even the region you will be selling in.

Pay close attention to your customers' purchases and reactions to your products. Keep written records of who bought what, who recommended new customers, who came back and bought more as gifts or - vice versa - decided they deserved one for themselves. This can give you a sense for if, or how soon, your immediate market will be saturated with your current product line.

Listen carefully to customer comments. Frequently they will say things like, I really like it but it's too big/small for my house/wall. or I like it but the colors aren't right/to my taste/don't go with my décor.

Often they will tip you to a new craft trend, product or material they have seen elsewhere or even an idea they've had for ages and are sure would be popular, but not being handy themselves.

This is where my double eyeglass case idea came from. Also my wearable travel document security pouch. I could go on but you get the idea. Tune in to your customers comments and needs.

If you're thinking of expanding geographically to reach more customers, be sure you understand any regional differences. Heavy cable knit sweaters sell well in New Hampshire, but wouldn't be big sellers in Florida. On the other hand, pink flamingos would find a limited market in the cold North.

Many crafters put a lot of effort into developing their selling skills. That's good; but always remember that sales come at the end! If you design and make products that have perceived benefits which your customers desire, you don't have to do a hard sell. Your products will practically sell themselves.

Craft Trends - Part One: Introduction
Trends come and go. Stay on top of the current trends to keep your craft business sales flourishing.

Barometer One: Your Personal Marketplace
Listen to your customers. They might be leading you to the latest trend.

Barometer Two: The General Marketplace
The general marketplace is where major trends are set. Follow the lead using new styles, colors and techniques in your craft business.

Barometer Three: The Trend Watchers
Watch the watchers. Learn from what they say and do.

Trends to Watch
New trends that might help you create crafts that are in more demand.

Differentiate Your Work
Even if you follow the trends, you work has to stand out to be saleable.