A brief history:
Four years ago our church became involved in attending two different craft shows in Warren County, New Jersey. We sold BBQ sauce (shelf stable) which was created in the church kitchen and approved by Cornell University for ingredients, process, and "shelf-stable" for up to 18 months.
We stopped doing that after 2 years. We did very well, but the jars were outrageously heavy, and needed to be handled with care because they were glass. (We still make sauce for our own church family, but there is no transportation, packing, unpacking, etc.
Move forward a couple of years.
While I was on Renewal Leave, a friend in Vermont showed me the Coiled Clothesline Baskets that her daughter crafted. I tried my hand at them and found the process to be relaxing . . . and fun. This year I tried selling them at 2 small events at my church - a "first time" Craft Show and an Annual Bazaar. Encouraged by the reception of those who attended, I then participated in the "Crafts in the Warren Tech" this past Saturday. I started with 78 baskets, and had less than 20 left at the end of the one-day event.
I have always enjoyed crafting as a hobby. It offers tangible results, which is gratifying. Some days my professional life is tough. I am a United Methodist pastor (now 33 years active). The baskets that I create are each individually made, and each has its own personality. (Just like the members of my church and the community I serve.) I learned during the last 3 craft shows that the best price point is $20 and under for my baskets. I sold a few at a higher price, but the smaller baskets sell quickly.
