So you want to be a "Crafter?"

After years of making things and giving them away I'd so often hear "I'd buy that, you should open up a shop". I decided ok; what the heck I'll try selling on the small scale. I joined the Craft Club of Sebastian, a group whose members make and sell only their own handmade items in Riverview Park the first Saturday of each month, October through May.

After surviving my second show I wanted to let all you readers out there understand and appreciate what a special group of people these venders are. We all make what we sell; we don't pick up a catalog and order things, we actually work days, nights and weekends perfecting our passions. Some are retired and others, like myself, have a day job. From knitted scarves to painted rocks each item is really made by us, here in America. No one expects to get rich. We just hope you like our stuff enough to support us and continue to patronize us. In fact many are lucky to make up the material costs and booth rent so we can come back the next month and do it again. Not only do we give up a Saturday, Sunday or both this month; we put up our $200 tents, our $100 (or more) in display tables, plus the cost of table cloths and other miscellaneous supplies involved to merchandise our crafts and protect it from the wind, sun, and sometimes even a sprinkle or two. In fact my feet are still thawing out as a type from today's event. And why you ask?

As I went around from vendor to vendor today and asked how they did the response, "I did ok" or "I made rent" was answered with a resounding smile. And if you ask the club President, she will whole heartedly tell you how much she enjoys her hobby and how wonderful this group of crafters is; 85 members in all. Woodworking, gluing, beading, glazing and more for you and us too. So please mark your calendar for next month. Booths open at 9 am.