04.14.2008 | Posted by Cathy Jakicic

The mystery of the craft show

I saw some amazing jewelry at the Smithsonian Craft Show. Works by jewelry artists like Kathleen Dustin, Andrea Janosik, and Donald Friedlich were absolutely unbelievable. If anyone ever needed a little extra push to find the time and energy to pursue their own creative genius, a show like this is the perfect spark.

I went to another craft show over the weekend. More jewelry — not of Smithsonian caliber — but still beautiful, was on sale for more accessible prices. I was fascinated by what sold and what didn't. Distinctly ordinary pieces were being sold while higher quality items were passed over.

Are people's shopping habits different at the benefit craft show than a jewelry trunk show, even if the school is extremely high-end? Would the same necklace that would be snapped up if it was in a boutique look less appealing on an outdoor display, even a very well put together one?

For those of you who are out there selling your work, what's your most successful venue? Do you sell much online from etsy or your own page? 

Comments

  • mirandasum said:

    I think people's shopping habits do change depending on where they are. Its wierd, because I've seen so many people who buy plain jewelry at expensive prices. Whenever I see someone who has bought something typical and mass-produced for so much money, I just laugh and think, "I could have made that, and  it would have been better! Or I could have found a handmade, creative piece for the same amount of money."

    April 15, 2008 4:13 PM
  • Cathy Jakicic said:

    I agree. But I think it's got to be so discouraging for people who take the time (and have the talent) to make something really beautiful and unique and are actually selling in accessible locations with reasonable prices.

    April 16, 2008 3:43 PM
  • CC Creations said:

    I hope I don't post this twice but I was figiting with my mouse while in thought and my first response left.  Anyway, I agree.  I think the venue determines what people will actually pay.  Most of my outdoor shows, people pass over the best stuff for the less expensive things.  Except if I'm at an Art Show.  When at a high venue show such as an Art Show (whether outside or inside) or Holiday Market, people look at my jewelry with more interest, like it has more value at a certain venue when the same things seem to have less value at an outdoor show.  Or is it the clientele?? Who attends outside shows vs. inside shows?  Personally, I've only sold one thing from my website and I don't do auctions (no time).  I do all shows, inside and outside, and a couple home shows.  The outside is definitely the hardest, especially in Houston!

    April 18, 2008 11:01 AM
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