Applying to your first craft fair can feel overwhelming. Between jury fees, booth costs, and application requirements, there's a lot to navigate. But don't worry — we've got you covered.
Step 1: Choose the Right Fair for You
Not all craft fairs are created equal. Before you start applying, consider these factors:
- Location: How far are you willing to travel? Factor in gas, hotels, and time away from home.
- Booth Fee: Fees range from free community events to $500+ for premium juried shows. Start with what you can afford.
- Event Type: Is it juried (selective) or open to all? Juried shows are more competitive but often attract better foot traffic.
- Audience: Does the fair attract your target customer? A fine art fair might not be ideal for handmade soaps.
- Indoor vs Outdoor: Consider weather, setup logistics, and whether you have appropriate equipment.
Step 2: Review the Application Requirements
Most craft fair applications ask for:
- Product Photos: High-quality images of your work. This is often the most important part of a juried application.
- Booth Photo: A picture of your display setup. If you don't have one yet, create a mock setup at home.
- Artist Statement: A brief description of your work, process, and what makes it unique.
- Business Information: Your business name, contact info, and sometimes tax ID or business license.
- Jury Fee: A non-refundable fee ($10-50) to cover the cost of reviewing applications.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application Materials
Product Photography Tips
Your photos are your first impression. Here's how to make them count:
- Use natural lighting (near a window works great)
- Keep backgrounds clean and simple (white or neutral)
- Show scale — include something for reference if helpful
- Photograph multiple angles and details
- Edit for consistent brightness and color
Writing Your Artist Statement
Keep it concise (150-300 words). Include:
- What you make and the materials you use
- Your process and what makes it handmade
- Your inspiration or story
- Why your work is unique
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Craft fair applications often have deadlines months in advance. Here's why early is better:
- Some fairs accept applications on a rolling basis — first come, first served
- Early submission shows professionalism and commitment
- You'll have time to fix any issues if something's missing
Pro tip: Use TheCraftMap's Deadlines page to track upcoming application deadlines.
Step 5: What to Do After You Apply
After submitting:
- Save your confirmation email or application number
- Mark the notification date on your calendar
- Don't put all your eggs in one basket — apply to multiple fairs
- If rejected, ask for feedback (some organizers will share)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Poor photos: Blurry, dark, or cluttered images hurt your chances
- Missing the deadline: Late applications are usually not accepted
- Not reading the rules: Some fairs have specific requirements (handmade only, no food, etc.)
- Incomplete applications: Missing info can disqualify you
- Mismatched products: Applying to fairs that don't fit your product type
Ready to Start?
Now that you know the process, it's time to find your first fair! Browse craft fairs on TheCraftMap, filter by your state and preferences, and start building your show schedule.
Remember: everyone starts somewhere. Your first fair might not be perfect, but it's a learning experience that will set you up for success.