Let me know if you have ever done a market, and what type do you do? :)

I’m a glass artist, and I used to make and sell handmade soap before it became super popular. (I’m talking well over 20 years ago, and I’d be the only person selling soaps. Now it’s quite common) I used to do local craft markets. Honestly, I love the idea of markets, but the reality is so stressful and anxiety inducing it’s just not worth it. I’m way too antisocial or introverted or whatever to deal with people in such large numbers! My daughters used to help on the stalls, but now they have their own children and careers they don’t have the time. If people want to buy from me, they contact me and we discuss what they want. I’ll then create something just for them. A 60cm birdbath was the last order. And 2 kgs of lavender shea soap. I know I could do more, but it’s too people-y! If I wasn’t such a hermit I’d love markets 😂

Great info Michelle! Here in the states the closest thing I can think of to your design markets would be annual art shows (sometimes referred to as arts and crafts shows) that are sponsored by local cities. Just about every city i have lived in has an annual event like this that includes fine art as will as crafts and many of them include a juried competition as well. I have noticed that some of them also have an application/approval process. Conversely, many cities in the states have what are called "Saturday markets" which are much more low key and craft and food oriented. They are far less formal and much easier to get into. On a completely different topic, I would love to have you demonstrate and/or talk about your tapestry weaving process, maybe using the Bunyip piece as a focal point. I think I have noticed that you work on the subject for a while and then catch up with the background. I would love to hear how you keep the sheds straight! Cheers!

You are so well spoken and full of valuable information, thank you! You could seriously host a tv show 😁 I find it hard to talk to camera and get out the info that I want. Anyway, thank you again, this is exactly what I needed. I am from Melb and have done around 22 craft markets, 1 pen show and one comic con in 14 months. I'm now looking to applying for the big design markets including Bowerbird, so your experience and knowledge is invaluable 🙏

Have you got any interesting ideas for showing your tapestry (woven art) or you just go to the market with scarfs and other textiles? I would love to see a bit closer your latest market setup :)

I usually get into this local juried market in August.30,000 people in a garden setting, 120 artistsThey turn away many artists. I used to do it with my mom,who was a weaver,dyer,spinner and knitter..but I can't produce as much on my own, so now I am in with our guild this year, we sell and do weaving demos. 3 days in August. It's alit of work for sure.they sell local gin there too, vodka or whiskey too I think. I do well there with my weavings and felted bracelets.i have done craft markets, but sell my handknit wool hats( unisex) we call them toques in Canada, and weavings under 100. At xmas,But yr right, craft sales, most r looking for lower priced items. Thx for yr advice today, Michelle. Glad u had a good fair!

I have a market coming up in August - we don't have many around here & it seems to still be tables & long white table covers, lol. I'll be taking my Saori loom so I can show the process but also let others have a go if they want. I'm trying to come up with creative ways to show my freeform weaving (mostly table runners & scarves). As it's more a "craft" market I'm looking at smaller items, like woven bookmarks too. Part 2 (&3) of market tips & set up would be much appreciated :) (pricing is it's own nightmare)

Lots of great information here! Love your work! I am just beginning tapestry weaving. I am an avid fiber artist, spin, weave, knit, bobbin lace and then the tapestry bug bit me. ❤