6 Craft Fair and Market Must Haves: The Basics

When I first started doing craft fairs (also known as markets or shows), I knew I wanted to have an eye-catching set up. While my stuffies were the main eye-catcher, I still needed a quality setup to accentuate the stuffies. I have gone through a number of different products and accessories, and have found that some things work and some don’t. Through the process of working to build an attractive set-up, I have also learned that while visually attractive products are important, high quality and sturdy materials are also essential. Here are my 6 craft fair must haves for a good starting base: 

Craft Fair Must Have #1: A White Pop-up Canopy Tent

If you are doing outdoor craft fair markets, this is a must! Most organizers require you to provide a tent for your space, and in some cases they will highly recommend a white tent. I use a Eurmax USA pop-up tent; it’s high quality and durable for those windy market days. The one I bought comes with a case that has extra storage, straps to wear it like a backpack, and rolling wheels. I recommend getting a high quality tent right from the start. Unfortunately, the first tent I bought was lower quality and the first time I used it, it started breaking from strong winds. 

Craft Fair Must Have #2: Tent Weights

Make sure you have tent weights for your outdoor markets. Like the tent, craft fair organizers will often require that you have tent weights, especially if your space is on concrete. When my space is on grass, I use both the tent pegs and tent weights. I recommend weight bags that you can fill with sand that strap around the tent legs, rather than weights that interlock. 

Must Have #3: Folding Tables

Tables are the perfect starting point in creating your space! You will want to include smaller shelving as well to display your products with depth and dimension. Stay clear of laying all of your products right out on the table. For my products, I have found that having one 6 foot and one 8 foot table is best. Spaces at craft fairs can vary, specifically when they are indoor. Having different sized tables helps you be better prepared for different sized spaces.

Must Have #4: Table Covers

If you are using tables, table covers are a must have for craft fairs and markets! The table covers I use are long enough to touch the ground on the front side of the table. I put my storage bags and other things I don’t need out under the table. The long table covers hide my storage bags and keep my space looking clean and appealing. In the same fashion, fitted or spandex table covers are another great option and wonderful for windy days! 

Must Have #5: Wooden Crates

My favorite item to add to my display tables are wooden crates. You can stack them in different ways and help bring your products to eye level. I’ve seen vendors get really creative with wooden crates, such as using them as a checkout counter. 

Must Have #6: S Hooks

My last craft fair and market must have a S hooks! If you have a product that hangs, S hooks are a great item to add to the list of market must-haves. For my jellyfish stuffies, I like to use my S hooks to attach the jellyfish to the side of my wooden crates or on the tent frame itself. 

In conclusion, keep in mind that what works for me and my products may not always work for you and the products that you make. But I hope that this was helpful for you, especially if you are just starting out in the world of craft fairs, markets and shows.

Shop my stuffies featured in the pictures here

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