Showing the Handmade

It's time for my monthly roundup of the new items the CCCOE team has listed for sale. As this is only a brief taste, make sure to check out the newbie thread for other great finds.

First up, it's not too late to get something for Halloween. Especially if it's a digital download like this good witch card...

Good Witch Kitty by Crystal Mist Cottages

Of course, Halloween doesn't need to be the end of the interestingly-themed items. Like, for example, this rosette...

Haunted Mansion Rosette by Rottengirl

And let's face it, I'm a sucker for anything orange. Which is why this bracelet caught my eye...

Bracelet by Originalsbydenise

Perhaps you're looking for an upcoming birthday. We are currently in the sign of Scorpio and we will be until about November 21st. If you've ever met a Scorpio, this mug is pretty apropos.

Scorpio Zodiac Mug by Mean Muggin 39 Cups

The other thing I'm a sucker for is the interesting bag. And this tie bag has that in spades...

Recycled Silk Tie Purse by Lulu's Creations

Need a planter for your succulents? I've seen various ideas for planters, but I'll admit I kind of like the graphic look of this triangle. It'll definitely stand out in an outdoor space...

Vertical Garden Planter by Succulent Wonderland

And finally, it'll probably get cold around here. Eventually. And when it does, how about a handwoven blanket?  

Handwoven Blanket by michaelawhitney

Make sure to check out the Show Your Handmade thread for all the new items for this October. There are so many great jewelry pieces as well as great ideas for that big holiday that's coming up in a couple months.

Craft Fair Show Advice

I asked the team to give us their best advice for doing a craft fair...

ohmay says:

scope out the venue before applying........ 

If the show is inundated with cheap manufactured items, then your handmade items will likely suffer in sales/pricing as it will not/cannot compete. 

If the show draws a certain type of buyers (ie seniors, teens, parents, hipsters, joggers/outdoor type, etc), try to fit your products to the potential buyers.

Hand Braided and Beaded Women Eye Glass Lanyard

anniekdesigns says:

Always bring more merchandise than you can sell. Nothing is more off putting than an empty table. 

Don't be afraid to change your set up or repackage your items. It took me being part of a co-op store to figure packaging out. 

Bring your look book. This is a book that has pictures of the items you have made. Past and present. 

Relax and have a good time, regardless of how much you sell. 

Modern Wristlet

And after a particularly slow show in the heat last weekend, I (Zizi Rho Designs) say:

Avoid holiday craft fairs in October. Unless the "holiday" is Halloween. Shoppers aren't ready to do their Christmas shopping yet, and turnout tends to be low.

Lip Balm Holder with Clip

How about you? Any good advice for someone doing a craft fair?

Think Pink

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Pink is its color. So, in honor of October, here are some pink things to remind us that the fight to eradicate this disease is far from over.

Women Angel Heart Knit Jewelry Brooch Pin - Breast Cancer Awareness by ohmay

reVetro is donating a portion of the proceeds from items in their Pink Shop to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Check out their Facebook and Instagram for more details...

Bourbon Whiskey Pink Ribbon Wrap Bracelet by reVetro

And for some more pink around the team...

Fragrant Pink Tuberose Pillar Candle by Badan Body

Filthy Cute 2 oz Mini Creme Fraiche Whipped Soap by savor

Handmade Custom Twist Ballpoint Pen by ASH Woodshops

30 teeny tiny miniature square pink envelope note card sets by teeny tiny envelopes

Pale Pink Peace Crane Bird by localcolorist

Pink and Black Girl Skull Dog Harness by Kaleidoscope Of Colors

Silk Scarf Bandana by Ocean Avenue Silks

Aromatherapy Eye Pillow by anniekdesigns