Make money from your hobby: how to sell what you make

These days, it's easier and more popular than ever to sell your own homemade goodies, whether it's all-natural soaps, knitted cakes, or your prize-winning bramble jelly. While of course there is the potential to start a successful artisan business, for most people, making things is simply a relaxing hobby, and selling them a fun occasional sideline to their day job. But what are the best and most enjoyable ways to sell what you make, how can you get started, and how do you promote your goods to the public?

Farmers' markets

Most towns have their own farmers' market, and these are an ideal place to unleash your handmade delights on large numbers of potential buyers. 'A professional display and something to draw passersby is key, so consider a raffle, or some chocolates on your stand which bring people over, then allow them to browse without pouncing on them,' advises Lizzi Vandorpe, who produces and sells everything from mosaics to necklaces to cards and gifts at markets, shows, and online.
Pro:'As the fees for a market table are normally reasonable, you have a low-risk way of testing the waters and building a reputation,' notes Tanya De Leersnyder, who started out selling her handmade aromatherapy products at Stroud farmers' market.
Con: You have to stick at it. 'It takes time to become known,' says Tanya. 'Shoppers need to see your products regularly; they rely on the fact that when they need your product you will be on hand.'

Lizzi adds that making products to sell at craft fairs isn't as simple as putting a frilly gingham lid on a jamjar. 'People want top quality crafts these days and won't buy goods when there are readily available kits for producing the same sort of things available at craft shops. Therefore it is vital your product has a competitive edge and a unique appeal.'

Local fairs

School sales, NCT sales, church sales, networking groups, car boot sales, festivals and local seasonal craft fairs are all great outlets to get a feel for selling your products without too much pressure. Lisa Tanner, who makes and sells her own natural goatsmilk soaps using her own goat's milk,  says: 'My stall always has pocket-money treats (bath bombs) right up to a £30 gift basket, so there's always something affordable. I also make sure there is a colouring book and pens to distract little ones so parents can spend longer choosing and buying!'
Pro: Perfect for dipping a toe in the market.
Con:  Higher-ticket specialist items tend not to be spontaneous buys at small fairs.

Friends, family and neighbours

If it works for Tupperware and Ann Summers, a home party may well work for your homemade goods! Do it all yourself or team up with one or more friends who also make things and throw a party to show off your goods to other friends, creating a bazaar in your living room, and perhaps even offering to show people how to make things.

Another option is to simply ask friends and family to spread the word - Helen Kaut, who makes and sells her own jewellery designs, says that as well as hosting jewellery parties, friend have helped her sell. 'A friend of mine has taken my jewellery to work and so far already sold £80 worth of jewellery. I also gave her lots of my business cards.' Lisa Tanner agrees: 'My biggest market will probably always be the locals who know about my products and pop by or ask me to bring bits to the school run. It becomes word of mouth.'
Pro: At the very least, you will have fun with friends.
Con: Beware of the hard sell or making anyone feel obliged to buy - these undertones hidden behind a ‘fun’ evening put people off.

Shows

If your products are wedding related, why not get a stand at a wedding show? If you make your own wool, you'll need to get into the knitting and craft show world. Or if you're making Christmas-themed gifts, a show like the Country Living Christmas fair would be perfect to show off your things. See our guide to craft fairs for inspiration.
Pro: You'll be selling to a large captive audience who have paid to browse products just like yours.
Con: Getting a stand at a big show can be costly and competitive.

Shops

'Your local shop, farm shop or village garage may take some of your crafts to sell on a sale or return basis or for a limited period of time,' advises Lizzi. 'This is also a good way to promote your 'local business'. Tanya says: 'I have had outstanding success through the personal touch, face-to-face cold calling. On the day, I pack my box of samples, marketing materials and literature and visit each potential retailer in turn. This way the enthusiasm and passion I have for what I do comes across strongly and plays a very big part in selling my products.'
Pro: Tanya adds: 'Breaking into retail outlets can be tough, but also a great learning experience. You need to ensure your mark up is high enough to allow you to negotiate a profitable return for both parties. The smaller businesses will accept a low profit, the larger ones will drive down your prices as far as you will let them.'
Con: 'Once you are at the point of a very low margin you then may find supplying larger businesses will badly affect your cash flow through delayed payment terms,' warns Tanya. 'Having to wait up to 90 days on low-margin business can kill your business before it even gets off the ground!'