There are bags of potential when it comes to operating a crafts business. Perhaps because they’re fed up with big box stores, more people than we’ve seen in recent years are turning to craftspeople for their products. But because there’s a demand, there’s also competition, and that means that you have to work hard to build a name and make your business profitable. Alas, some people are their own worst enemies. Below, we take a look at five actions that could undermine your business. But if you identify them, at least you’ll be able to correct your mistakes!

Poor Materials

You could make the most beautiful crafts in your particular niche, but if they’re not made with the right materials, then you’re risking people forming a bad long-term opinion of your business. There’s nothing worse than buying something only to have it fall apart a couple of weeks later. The better the quality of their materials are, the more longevity it’ll have – and also, it’ll just generally look and feel better quality, too. You don’t have to absorb the higher costs of these materials into your budget, either – you’re within your right to up your prices to reflect improved quality.

Postage and Packaging

People buy crafts from makers because of the personal factor. If they want to get a faceless package, then, well, they can go just about everywhere else. They choose you because they know there’s a real person doing the work, a story behind the item. So reflect this in your packaging. High-quality packaging options like stand up pouches and textured boxes will impress your customers more than just a reused brown box! Also, you should use your packaging as a way to drive home the personal touch by including a handwritten note in there.

Amateur Attitude

You might just be a one-person operation, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be professional. Professionalism is all about your attitude, not how big your company is. So treat your business with a level of seriousness. If you’re acting like it’s just a side hobby, then that’s just what other people will think. Act like you’re going places, and that you believe in what you’re doing, and other people will, too.

Lack of Growth

It’s not easy to make a long-term, profitable crafts business. The only way to do it is to be bold, and brave! And that means stepping into the future with confidence, and forever having one eye on growth. In an age where the crafts market is bigger than ever, you have all the opportunity in the world to pursue opportunities and see how far you can go. If you have the opposite mindset, then you might be left behind once the winds shift just a little.

Customer Relationships

Finally, remember to work on your customer relationships. Get personal, if for no other reason than it costs nothing! Treat every customer like a friend, and you’ll be on your way to winning some loyal fans for your business.