Relief

Because I can have a few days off being on High Productivity mode...

The craft fair was fun. Tiring, but fun. Here's my stall (complete with assistants) - we were all set up in plenty of time and had a nice spot with a welcome breeze. Come midday the sun was shining directly overhead and polytunnels are very warm places indeed.

This is the view from outside: a pumpkin field. It was lovely in the morning to wander around, breathe in the fresh air and take it easy before the day began.

I got a chance to chat with other, more experienced stallholders. One lady in particular had some very lovely things and gave me lots of helpful advice. And she even bought some of my wares.

We had family around too so Joe got to play outside (he particularly liked the chickens). We had a bit of a picnic, and Jay took him home for a couple of hours in the afternoon for his nap. Kenyon Hall's pretty near home so it worked out nicely.

It was definitely a learning experience but the aim was to recoup the cost of the stall. I managed that and also made quite a tidy profit. For someone who hopes to earn money flexibly and enjoy what they do, it was a huge boost and a good start.

Here's what I learned:

Selling at a fair is hit-and-miss but it's great to meet people face-to-face

Prints (lino cuts) and vintage pottery are popular

Knitted and sewn items, not so much (although I sold some wristwarmers)

Networking isn't that hard or intimidating

Selling online is a good option too so I'll try both.

So I've set up a Facebook page and decided that the more time-consuming crafts are probably better done purely for enjoyment and gifts for family and friends. And I'll be concentrating on art and vintage bits and pieces for the commercial side of things.

Yesterday was nice and relaxed. No deadlines or plans to work to. Although I did make a little something: a fox brooch from a kit (from this month's Mollie Makes magazine). I think I must have the bug....

Thank you all for your good wishes. It was tiring but inspiring!