[mama2riley]

I am a SAHM and I would love to be able to start a sort of home business selling some of the crafts or artwork that I do. I enjoy painting, but I also am getting into jewelry making and scrapbooking. I would love to be able to sell some of the things I make or for example have people give me their photos and create a scrapbook for them. But I have no clue how to start something like that or advertise. Does anyone have any suggestions for me as to where to begin??

[Alejandros Mommy]

You would probably need a portfolio of your work....and you could advertise on the net...I've seen other sites that help people with their scrapbook stuff and its a real neat way to make money.

[twinzplus3]

Have you seen www.wahm.com. They always have great ideas and I think there's a forum for crafty wahms. I would agree though--start with a portfolio of things you do. Can you draw portraits?

[mama2riley]

Oh thanks for that website Valorie! I have been looking at it a lot today and got some helpful information and ideas from it!

Okay I've decided to give it a go and try something! I think the easiest place for me to start is with the scrapbooking idea because I have TONS of examples and lots of supplies already so I feel its a good place to start. I just started sitting down and writing out details of the service I would provide for these custom made albums. It will be hard getting it up and going, but I am really excited to give it a try and have a good idea of how to start!!! I'll keep everyone updated on how it goes (and we'll see if I am this motivated still after the baby comes - I hope so!)

[simplesahm]

You may also want to start small and consign some of your items at a local craft store. You can also get a booth at a craft fair. I wouldn't start out with an expensive one. Just a basic booth to see what the public reaction is to your items.

Ironically, I did this about four years ago. The item I thought would sell like crazy didn't sell much, but I sold out of something that I didn't think would sell at all. It is a great way to ensure you are making the right things and not wasting your time!

[MJ7]

I like the consignment shop idea. Also the craft fairs; that was going to be my suggestion. I made a bunch of sterling bracelets for a fundraiser and sold them at my tupperware party. For regular, stable business though, how about ebay selling? I know there's fees involved, but I see many selling crafts that way between shows and markets.