Craft Show Rules

Following craft show rules is very important, especially if you find one of those elusive "great craft shows" we are always looking for. You do not want to risk being banned from an event by unknowingly (or knowingly) breaking a show rule.

Be sure to thoroughly read the application so you will know what is expected of you at a particular event. Different events have different guidelines and they can vary widely! Below are examples of just a few rules and regulations for craft events that may be required.

"Sales" and Discounts - Many craft shows expressly prohibit the practice of placing items on sale in the hopes of maintaining a high quality event. However, some events actually encourage discounting in order to draw larger crowds.

Displays - Certain events require more elaborate displays than others. Floor covering and side walls might be required at one show, while a simple table cloth may suffice at another.

Fire Protection - Most events that allow back-drops and side coverings will also require that the materials you use be flame retardant.

Artist/Crafter Attendance - High-quality events will likely require that the artist/creator personally be at the show. Customers always like to meet the person behind the work. This is especially true of higher-end shows.

Space Restrictions - While staying in your allotted space is not always a written rule, it is definitely an "unwritten" rule at craft shows. Remember that your "neighbors" paid for their space just as you did. Stay out of it!

Set-up/Breakdown - Watch for time schedules and procedures for setting up and taking down your exhibit. Things such as closing early is not allowed at many events, as it is disruptive to both customers and vendors alike. Also, be sure to get there in plenty of time to set-up as you want to be ready as soon as the show attendees/customers start to show up.

Smoking - These days you will most likely find that smoking is prohibited at most shows. Even if it is not, it's probably a bad idea since you might offend customers by smoking in your booth.

Eating - Though less likely to offend than smoking, eating is sometimes not allowed in your display area. Like smoking though, unless you are alone and cannot leave the exhibit area to eat, you should avoided eating in front of customers. Things like eating and reading in your booth will cause you to be (or to seem) less attentive to your customer's needs which may translate into lost sales.

Information Courtesy of:
William T. Lasley  of About Arts and Crafts Business
artsandcrafts.about.com

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