7 Products to Steer Clear of at Craft Shows?


This article highlights products that generally don’t perform well at craft shows or may negatively impact the sales of more popular items.

Drawing from my own craft show experiences, I’ve compiled a list of products that often go unsold. I’ve also analyzed various sales reports to identify common themes in poorly performing items. Additionally, I share tips and insights I’ve gained to help avoid these pitfalls and maximize your success.

These are products you might want to reconsider selling at craft shows due to their potential for low returns on investment or excessive effort.

1 – Low-Skill, High-Importance Products
Products that have a significant impact on a consumer’s daily life—like jewelry or skincare—require a higher skill level due to their importance. For instance, consumers expect more from a high-impact product like face cream compared to a lower-impact item like hand soap. If you’re not highly skilled in a craft, focus on lower-importance items to avoid disappointing customers and wasting resources.

2 – High-Risk Products
Items like baby products or health-related goods often come with stricter regulations and liability concerns. Selling these requires more legal preparation, including compliance with safety standards and obtaining appropriate insurance. If you’re not prepared to handle these requirements, it’s best to avoid high-risk products.

3 – Low-Margin Products
Craft show fees and other expenses can quickly erode profits if your products have low markups. Ensure your pricing covers production costs, business expenses, and provides a reasonable profit. Regularly evaluate your expenses and pricing strategy to avoid financial losses.

4 – Hard-to-Transport Products
Large or heavy items can be difficult for shoppers to manage and may lead to lost sales. Consider offering services like delivery or storage of purchased items while customers continue to shop. Smaller, easier-to-carry items can also help boost sales.

5 – Stand-Alone Products
To encourage multiple purchases and repeat business, create a cohesive product line. Selling stand-alone items might not foster customer loyalty or maximize sales potential. Develop a range of products that complement each other to increase overall sales.

6 – Lackluster Products
Craft shows are ideal for unique and standout items. Avoid selling generic products that can be easily found elsewhere. Infuse your products with distinctive features or stories to attract attention and differentiate your offerings.

7 – Intellectual Property Infringements
Respect intellectual property laws and avoid using copyrighted or trademarked materials without permission. Selling items that infringe on intellectual property rights not only risks legal issues but can also damage your reputation. Stick to original designs and ideas to build a reputable business.

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