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QR Codes Decoded: Boost Your Sales with This Simple Marketing Hack

plus even more Makers insights inside

Author

Rob & Ali Mobberley
August 15, 2024

Good Morning Makers.

As Ali will attest, I'm a stickler for keeping promises, and my commitment for Makers Digest has always been to bring you your weekly dose of value at 7am each Monday morning.

However, this week saw an unexpected return of Covid to our home, which hit me hard, making it difficult to even string two thoughts together, let alone put them to the page.

This also meant Ali had less time to develop ideas for this week's issue. But there's good news - my energy is returning and the fog is lifting, allowing me to put this week's newsletter together.

So without further ado, let’s get into it….

This week, we've packed our newsletter with a treasure trove of insights and inspiration to help you elevate your maker business. From our top 10 stall tips to a deep dive into eco-friendly packaging choices, we've got you covered.

We're also thrilled to showcase the talented Nikola from Metamorphic Charm and give you a sneak peek at the upcoming Autumn Fair 2024. Plus, we're demystifying QR codes to boost your marketing game. So grab a cuppa, get comfy, and let's dive into this maker's paradise together!

Tip Of The Week

Not One - But Our Top 10 Stall Tips

This week we’re bringing you not one, but ten of our top tips for setting up and running your stall at events. And over the coming weeks we’ll also be doing deep dives into a selection of these tips:

  • Pricing Confidence
    Stand firm on your prices, even if customers try to haggle. Lowering your prices can devalue your work; those who appreciate your craft will pay the asking price. By all means look to increase your average order value (AOV) with bundle options. Keep a note of all orders from events and calculate your AOV over time and then look for low cost value adds that can increase this and improve your profit.

  • Event Preparation and Research
    Thoroughly research events for footfall and marketing activity. Not all events will be profitable, so choose those that attract your target audience to avoid disappointment. Pay particular attention to how much the organiser has promoted past events

  • Gazebo and Stall Setup
    Invest in a sturdy, easy-to-assemble gazebo, and secure it properly. Weather conditions can be unpredictable, and a strong setup is crucial for protecting your products. Invest in quality ratchet straps, pegs and leg weights, they can make a huge difference.

  • Customer Interaction
    Engage actively with customers by greeting them and initiating friendly conversation. How many stallholders do you see starring down at their phones for the whole time? Stand out from them. A warm approach can draw people to your stall and encourage sales. Take an interest in them and capture their details at every opportunity (see previous 2 issues)

  • Handling Negative Comments
    Expect and ignore dismissive remarks like "I can make that cheaper." Such comments are often unconstructive; stay focused on valuing your work and not letting negativity affect your morale.

  • Stock Management
    Balance your stock levels carefully; avoid overstocking to prevent wastage, but ensure you have enough to meet demand. Monitor what sells and adjust your stock accordingly. Keep note of items sold so you can see trends by location and seasonality.

  • Logistical Planning
    Be early and well-prepared, including having sufficient change and charged equipment. Planning ahead minimizes stress and allows you to focus on selling. Have an event pack (markers, tape, zipties, scissors, card, calculator, charging pack etc)

  • Event Learning Curve
    Every market is a learning experience—some will be successful, others not. Use each event to refine your strategy, understanding which venues work best for your products. Have a notebook dedicated to just the learnings and obsservations from each event. Keep it open and add to it when you can during each event.

  • Marketing and Promotion
    Promote your stall in local online groups and social media before the event. Effective marketing can increase footfall and visibility, crucial for driving sales. Also include on-stall marketing materials (see Makers Essentials below)

  • Security Awareness
    Keep a close watch on your stock, especially at busy events. Theft can happen, so position valuable items securely and be vigilant throughout the day. And don’t forget your own vehicle if not with your stall. Ensure it is locked, windows up and nothing visible on seats.

Do you have any other tips or additional advice from your own experiences? Please share your insights and help fellow Makers navigate the challenges of trading at events!

Purposeful Packaging

Compostable or Biodegradable Packaging: Which is best?

When considering eco-friendly packaging options, it's crucial to understand that compostable and biodegradable are not interchangeable terms. There's a significant difference between the two, and as a UK maker, you should be aware of these distinctions to make informed decisions for your business and the environment.

Compostable packaging offers genuine environmental benefits, whilst so-called "biodegradable" plastics often fall short of their eco-friendly claims. Here's why you should opt for compostable materials:

Biodegradable vs. Compostable:

  • Biodegradable materials break down naturally, but the timeframe and end products vary widely

  • Compostable materials decompose into non-toxic components within a specific timeframe

The truth about biodegradable plastics:

  • Many simply fragment into harmful microplastics

  • Degradation often takes far longer than advertised

  • They can contaminate recycling streams

Benefits of compostable packaging:

  • Breaks down completely in industrial composting facilities

  • Supports the circular economy by returning nutrients to the soil

  • Can often be reused or recycled

Currently, there is no such thing as truly biodegradable plastic. Many products labelled as "biodegradable" cause more harm than good by fragmenting into microplastics that pollute our oceans and soil.

By choosing compostable packaging, you're aligning your business with circular economy principles, minimising waste, and reducing your carbon footprint. This choice reflects a genuine commitment to sustainability, which can resonate strongly with environmentally conscious consumers.

As a UK maker, your packaging decisions have far-reaching implications. Opting for compostable materials not only reduces your environmental impact but also sets a positive example for other businesses in the manufacturing sector. Make the informed choice - choose compostable over biodegradable for a truly sustainable approach to packaging.

Here are a few of our favourite suppliers:

Metamorphic Charm – Handmade Silver Jewellery

I first came across this absolute gem of a place when visiting a local countryside retail centre. There I got chatting with the lovely and friendly Nikola who I discovered was not only the designer but also the owner of the business.

Nikola who clearly has a huge passion for her jewellery making talents talked me through the details of all the aspects her business has to offer. From a range of jewellery making classes to offering unique bespoke jewellery commissions.

Established in 2016, the business had just moved into a newly refurbished and larger unit and offer a range of handmade silver jewellery inspired by simple, organic forms. From earrings to necklaces, bracelets to rings, Metamorphic charm has it all.

Located at the picturesque Curborough Countryside Centre in Lichfield, Metamorphic Charm’s shop & studio is open to visitors Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm, where you will receive an extremely warm welcome from Nikola, her lovely and charismatic assistant Charlie and you may even get to meet her adorable dachshund, Ruby, they will all make you feel welcome from the moment you step inside.

Make Your Own Workshops

One of the things that make Metamorphic Charm stand out from the rest is the range of silversmithing workshops they offer.

These workshops are a great way to learn how to create your own bespoke silver jewellery pieces under the guidance of an experienced silversmith. They cater to all skill levels, from complete beginners to more experienced jewellery makers.

In addition to jewellery and workshops, Metamorphiccharm also offers greeting cards and artisan prints. These make the perfect addition to any jewellery gift or as a standalone present.

Metamorphic Charm Online

Metamorphic Charms’ online shop at www.metamorphiccharm.com is an excellent resource for those who cannot make it to the studio in person. The website showcases the full range of jewellery, prints, and cards available to purchase.

Jewellery prices range from £15 to over £100 for a bespoke item of jewellery, ensuring there is something for everyone.

From the time I spent chatting to Nikola and wandering around the shop, her passion for silversmithing and jewellery making is evident in every piece she creates, and her enthusiasm is infectious.

The studio’s relaxed and welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect place to spend an afternoon browsing for a special gift or attending one of Nikolas’s workshops

Since that first visit, I’ve been back on many occasions and also met Nikolas’s father who regularly helps out in the shop when Nikola is displaying at local makers and farmers markets.

I’ve also purchased a number of items both for myself and for others as well as planning to attend one of Nikolas’s workshops with my daughter.

Overall, Metamorphic Charm is a hidden gem for those looking for unique, bespoke silver jewellery pieces. With a range of jewellery, workshops, and other artisanal products, it is an excellent place to visit for anyone interested in jewellery making or looking for that extra special gift.

Makers Trade Events & Shows

Autumn Fair 2024!

Are you looking to get some fresh ideas and stay ahead of trends in the home and gifting market and can’t wait until the Spring Fair in Febuary, then the Autumn Fair could be just what you are looking for.

Event Details:

  • Dates: 1st to 4th September 2024

  • Location: NEC Birmingham, Birmingham, UK

  • Price: FREE

  • Parking: FREE in NEC car parks

Although smaller than it has been in years gone by, The Autumn Fair is still one of the premier UK trade shows for home, gift, and lifestyle products, offering a treasure trove of inspiration for creators and artisans. With over 800 exhibitors showcasing their latest designs and products, this event is a goldmine for discovering new trends and innovative ideas.

Why Attend?

  1. Explore Trends: Dive into the latest trends in home, gift, and lifestyle products. Observing current styles and emerging trends can spark new ideas for your own creations and help you stay relevant in a competitive market. For our candle making we would be sure to visit each candle making stand to sample any new and unusual fragrances that we discovered and to provide ideas and inspiration for our own.

  2. Network and Connect: Engage with industry professionals, from designers to suppliers. Networking at the fair can provide valuable insights and open doors to collaborations, partnerships, and new business opportunities.

  3. Attend Seminars and Workshops: Take advantage of the seminars and workshops offered throughout the event. These sessions often cover key topics such as market trends, business strategies, and creative techniques, offering practical tips and inspiration.

  4. Source New Materials and Suppliers: Discover new materials and suppliers that could enhance your craft. The fair showcases a diverse range of products, providing opportunities to explore unique materials and tools that can elevate your work.

  5. Gather Ideas for Future Projects: Walk through the various displays and gather ideas for future projects. The visual stimulation and diverse range of products can inspire fresh concepts and innovative designs for your own work.

As an added incentive the organisers are giving away £500 to one lucky attendee to spend with the exhibitor of their choice (but hurry - registration required by 16th August to be included).

Make the most of your visit to the Autumn Fair by preparing a list of areas you want to explore and goals you aim to achieve. For more details and to plan your visit, check out the Autumn Fair website. Don’t miss this opportunity to fuel your creativity and gain valuable insights into the latest industry trends!

And if you do spot us walking the aisles, please do stop us in our tracks and say hi!

Makers Essentials

Cracking The Promotion Code: QR Style

I recently responded to a facebook post offering a tip on maximising the use of promotional materials on an unattended stand and suggested testing the use of QR codes if they hadn’t already. The response that came back is, I am sure, not an unfamilar one… “I afraid I wouldn’t have a clue how to do that”

Whilst in that instant I reached back out offering to help futher (without cost) it got me thinking to write this quick guide.

Whilst QR codes have been around since 1994, its only since the mass adoption of the smartphones with cameras and web access that they have really come into their own.

The humble QR code now enables you to direct stall visitors to the web destination of your choice without them having to type in a www.longwindedwebaddress.co.uk.

There are essentially two forms of QR code that you can use;

  • Static - a link to a web address that can’t ever be changed

  • Dynamic - a link to a web address that can be changed overtime and usually requires a third party tool to maintain and change it

For most makers a static code will be sufficient but if you think there is a chance you will be changing your web address or the location on your site that you want visitors to go to, then a dynamic code generator is definately worth considering.

Canva QR Code Generator

Now this may come as news to even some of the most profilic Canva users, but you can generate QR codes right within Canva.

All you need to do is head over to your Canva account, login and use this link - https://www.canva.com/qr-code-generator/ 

And from there follow the simple instructions to include a QR code with a link to your chosen web address within your design. The image used for this section includes a code made using the Canva QR generator.

Dynamic Code Apps

Within the Canva app store you will also find other options for generating QR codes including one or two that offer limited dynamic codes.

Here’s an example - Hovercode - within this Canva app you cab get up to 10 dynamic codes within their FREE plan. You will need to create an account with Hovercode to be able to use the dynamic codes.

However for more advanced Maker marketers this also includes additional design, editing and tracking capabilities.

And if you are not a Canva user you can still generate codes using Hovercode or other free and easily accessible tools such as QR Code Monkey (Static codes).

Uses For Your QR Codes

In addition to a straight forward link to your website or Etsy store etc you can also use them to direct your visitors to:

  • Email sign-up form

  • Competition entry form

  • Specific products or collections

  • Your email address (opens their email app with you email address pre-populated in the to: field)

  • Special offer page on your website

  • Your Social Media or Linktree pages

Displaying QR Codes

Subject to the app you use to generate your codes will also determine the formatting, colour and other options available for your final QR design. You can then print this onto paper or card and display on your stand, simply by taping to the table, using a leaflet display stand, or if you want to really enhance your display using something similar to the handcrafted displays produced the wonderfully creative Charlotte over at DragonCreated (Etsy store link).

Do you have any creative uses for or ways you display QR codes. Please do let us know, we’d love to feature them.

AI For Makers

More Than Just ChatGPT

As I begin writing this section, I can’t help but wonder if there’s anyone in the Makers community who hasn’t heard of AI in the past year or so. I’d be truly surprised if the answer were yes. Whether you’ve heard about AI’s incredible potential for good or the fear that it might take over the world and wipe out humanity, the reality is that, for now, it’s a powerful tool that can transform your handmade business.

In this first "AI for Makers" feature, I’ll introduce you to some AI tools that can help streamline your work and boost your creativity.

  1. Claude: A versatile AI assistant that can help with various tasks, from brainstorming product ideas to proofreading descriptions. Access it through the Anthropic website: https://www.anthropic.com or https://claude.ai/new. Example: Use Claude to generate creative product names or to refine your brand's tone of voice.

  2. Canva AI: This popular design platform now offers AI-powered features. Use it to generate unique product descriptions, resize images, or create custom patterns for your crafts. Access it at https://www.canva.com Example: Generate eye-catching social media posts for your latest collection in seconds.

  3. Midjourney: An AI image generator that can help you visualise new product ideas or create stunning backgrounds for product photos. Join their Discord server to get started: https://discord.com/invite/midjourney Example: Create mood boards for seasonal collections without spending hours on Pinterest.

  4. ChatGPT: This versatile language model can help with everything from writing product descriptions to brainstorming new ideas. Find it at https://chat.openai.com Example: Generate multiple versions of your product listings to A/B test on Etsy.

  5. Dall-E: Another AI image generator, great for creating unique graphics for your brand. Available at within ChatGPT Example: Design custom packaging or labels that stand out from the crowd.

Remember, these tools are meant to enhance your creativity, not replace it. Your unique skills and personal touch are what make your products special. Use AI to handle time-consuming tasks, freeing you up to focus on what you do best – creating beautiful, handmade items.

As with any new technology, there's a learning curve. Start small, experiment, and don't be afraid to ask for help in Maker communities. With practice, you'll find the perfect balance between AI assistance and your handmade charm.

Note: The image at the top of this feature was created with Dall-E 3.

Thank you for reading this latest issue of Makers Digest! We hope you found it of value. If you do please share details with your fellow Makers. It is truly appreciated.

Stay creative and please share your work with us. Happy making!

Sincerely

Rob & Ali

Joint Founders - Makers Digest

PS - If you would like to be considered in our Featured Maker section, have a Makers Market or Event coming up or can offer a great deal on supplies to other Makers please email us

Makers Digest is a publication of Gifts made Easy and is partly reader supported. When you buy through links in our content we may earn an affiliate commission to help support the production of the newsletter. Learn more

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