Meet Abby Glassenberg and Kristin Link. These accomplished makers may have started their creative journeys individually, but their passion for sewing brought their paths together, resulting in the dynamic duo behind the Craft Industry Alliance. Introduce us to you. A: I’m Abby Glassenberg. I’m a sewing pattern designer, journalist and teacher. I live in Wellesley, Massachusetts with my … [Read more...] about Meet the Makers: Abby & Kristin of Craft Industry Alliance
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Meet the Maker: Nicole Stevenson
Meet Nicole Stevenson. With almost twenty years of experience under her belt, this northern-Californian has been creating ever since she was a little girl – we’re talking make your own business cards at the age of nine. Pairing her love of creating with an entrepreneurial mindset, she’s created a community where makers can find resources and attend events that help them follow their passion while … [Read more...] about Meet the Maker: Nicole Stevenson
Creative Ways to Grow Your Customer Base
As a home-based business owner and maker, it can sometimes feel daunting to reach customers outside your circle of influence. With craft shows you are limited to whoever shows up that day. With online shops, you rely on returning customers, referrals, and social media channels. If you are looking for fresh ideas for attracting clients, we can help. Here are several creative ways to grow your … [Read more...] about Creative Ways to Grow Your Customer Base
Follow Up with Your Craft Show Customers
Anyone who has worked a craft show knows that the job does not begin and end with the event. Prior to the show there is an enormous amount of prep work and planning to do. In addition to getting your product and booth ready, you also want to make plans for how to follow up with customers after the show. The prep work you do ahead of time will help you stay connected with customers after the … [Read more...] about Follow Up with Your Craft Show Customers
Measuring the Success of Your Maker Business
"How is your business doing?" You are sure to either hear this a lot or ask your self this question often after you start your own Etsy or maker business. Measuring success in business is an important thing to evaluate often as you nurture and grow your craft business. As I mentioned in my top five tips for running a home based business, you need to develop a business plan. Your business plan … [Read more...] about Measuring the Success of Your Maker Business
How to Brand Your Business
You rarely get a second chance to make a first impression, so figuring out how to brand your business is something you want to "get right" the first time. Your brand, from your name to your logo to your mission statement, lets consumers know who you are and what you represent. Here are some things for you to consider. Tips for How to Brand Your Business Name: Who Are You? Choosing a … [Read more...] about How to Brand Your Business
