My daughter started tagging along with me to craft fairs this past year, and I think she’s hooked. Ms. Tornado is excited about earning and saving up money. In anticipation of attending more craft fairs this year, we have been researching different products for her to make and sell. Craft fairs provide an exciting platform for kids to not only showcase their creativity, but also to delve into the entrepreneurial world and learn about managing money. If you’re exploring ideas for crafts that kids can sell at craft fairs, here is a list of ideas that combine fun and marketability.
Customized Greeting Cards
Crafting personalized greeting cards is a canvas where young artists can display their creativity. From whimsical birthday cards to heartfelt thank-you notes, the possibilities are endless. Encourage your child to infuse their cards with a touch of uniqueness, perhaps through hand-drawn illustrations or playful pop-up elements. Each creation becomes a miniature masterpiece, appealing to a broad spectrum of customers.
Wooden Creations
Under thoughtful supervision, woodworking projects become a gateway to crafting sellable items. Wooden picture frames, keychains, small figurines, and even bookmarks allow kids to explore various artistic techniques, adding a touch of craftsmanship to their creations.
Beaded Jewelry
Jewelry making is a fun and enchanting venture for young crafters. Beaded bracelets, necklaces, and earrings take on a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns, each piece telling a unique story. Encourage experimentation with different bead shapes and materials, transforming these accessories into wearable works of art for a diverse audience.
DIY Planters
Crafting decorative planters introduces kids to the beauty of nature. Utilizing materials like painted tin cans, clay pots, or recycled containers, each planter becomes a unique creation. By offering a variety of sizes and styles, kids cater to the diverse tastes of customers seeking a touch of greenery in their homes.
Upcycled Clothing Items
Transforming old clothing into trendy accessories or fashion pieces is not just a craft; it’s a statement. Headbands, scarves, and tote bags crafted from repurposed fabrics highlight the eco-friendly ethos, attracting environmentally conscious buyers seeking both style and sustainability.
Hand-Painted Rocks
Joining the rock-painting trend, kids unleash their creativity on stones, turning them into vibrant works of art. Themed sets, from animals to inspirational quotes, make these hand-painted rocks versatile decorative pieces or unique gifts for any occasion.
Hand-Sewn Projects
Introducing kids to the art of sewing through simple hand-sewn projects is not just about stitches; it’s about weaving tales through textiles. Fabric bookmarks, small pouches, and stuffed animals showcase their sewing skills, capturing the charm of handmade treasures.
Recycled Material Jewelry
Encourage eco-conscious crafting by incorporating recycled materials into jewelry designs. From bottle caps and newspaper beads to old buttons, each piece becomes a unique creation with a sustainability story to tell. Emphasize the eco-friendly aspect to attract environmentally conscious buyers.
Personalized Magnets
Transforming mundane magnets into personalized pieces of art adds a functional touch to creative endeavors. Whether crafted from clay, fabric, or small wooden pieces, these magnets stand out with customization, adding a pop of color to any refrigerator.
Fabric Scrap Keychains
Utilize fabric scraps to craft vibrant and colorful keychains. Experiment with different patterns, sewing techniques, and embellishments like buttons or ribbons. These small, portable creations not only showcase creativity but also serve as affordable and appealing items for sale.
Seasonal Decorations
Crafting seasonal decorations is an invitation to capture the spirit of holidays and special occasions. From spooky Halloween ghosts to festive Christmas ornaments, offering seasonal items attracts customers looking to add a touch of celebration to their homes.
Storybook Character Crafts
Create crafts inspired by beloved storybook characters. Bookmarks, puppets, or small figurines based on cherished characters capture the imagination of young buyers and make for unique, memorable gifts.
Flower Crowns
My daughter received this set for a present. She had fun making some crowns for herself, but also made some extra to sell at my summer craft fair. She sold Every. Single. One.
In our journey out of debt, and towards the goal of financial independence, we have strived for a lot of transparence with our children. My hope is that they will learn from our mistakes (and successes!) and end up being really good with money as adults. By involving my daughter in the process of crafting and selling, I hope to impart not just creative skills but also valuable lessons about value and making sound financial choices.
