In 2001, the Craft Organization Directors Association (CODA), unveiled a study that showed just how strongly the fine crafts market affects our national economy. As a $13.8 billion industry, it is creating nearly twice the sales of cosmetics, and almost half that of the toy industry.
A whopping 53% of those sales are done through wholesaling to companies/businesses that retail the end product to consumers. Those companies in turn are supplying the American market with quality crafted goods made by talented artisans. Not only are they purchased as personal items, home décor, but gifts as well, all of which is contributing to a steady growth in business opportunities.
If you are interested in this type of business for yourself, it's a good idea to check out the sales statistics for your area, and the type of crafts that you are interested in. Visit retail/craft shows and take note of how many vendors there are of each type of craft, and who appears to be selling the most. Make up an informal survey for friends, co-workers, or groups you belong to, and ask what crafts appeal to them, and which they buy for gifts.
Once you're satisfied that a craft business is a viable opportunity for you, the first option may be a business that you own and operate as a sole proprietorship, which means a significant initial financial investment, and establishing sales channels with craftspeople who will guarantee you a steady supply of goods. Or, you can become part of the sales network for an established company that has already tapped into the craftsmen's network on a scope that you could not reach. In this case, you would become a consultant offering their stock products to potential customers at home parties, via a website, or at informal luncheon presentations.
There is a lot of scope to the crafts business, and you may want to investigate it fully before deciding where and how to start.
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