How to Buy Wholesale Crystal Beads

Any art or craft supplies can be purchased wholesale.

Creating any item of art or craft design can be expensive, particularly if you are making jewelry or items that abound in crystals. Purchasing your supplies wholesale is a dream come true for many artists, however, unless you are planning on selling your items, that is all it will ever be.

Things You'll Need

• Computer (for on-line shopping), catalogs or store that supplies crystal beads.
• Seller's permit for your state
• $100 to $200 to spend at one time

Instructions

1. Apply for a seller's permit for your area. First and foremost, no store whether it's online, by catalogue or in person, wants to sell you items at wholesale prices. They want to make a profit as much as you want to save money. Therefore, many suppliers will have strict guidelines on selling wholesale to consumers. The strictest is a seller's permit or business EID (Employer Identification Designation) number. This tells the supplier that you are a business that is going to be selling a product made from their supplies. Not only will a seller's permit give you the ability to apply for the lower prices, it also removes the sales tax from most items you will be purchasing from your business, specially from out of state. You will, however, need to record these purchases and any sales you make, so that you can pay the sales tax later.

2. Find the store you want to deal with. Once you have your permit number, most stores will want you to shop with them for they know you will be purchasing a lot if they deal with you fairly. Physically go into the local store you wish to deal with and ask if they will sell items to you at wholesale costs. This can also be done with any catalogs you might have, or any on-line store. They will always list either a phone number or email address where you can contact them. Once you have contacted them, they will more than likely send you an application to complete. Make sure you provide all the information they request.

3. Purchase your items. When buying wholesale you must always be aware that there will likely be a minimum dollar amount your will be required to spend in order to get the wholesale price. Also be aware that unless you are physically buying your beads at a store, it is best to deal with any catalog or online order in two ways. First, make the phone call to customer service. Make sure they know that you wish to order your items on your wholesale account. Then follow-up with an email if possible. This way you have verified the items you wish to order and have also confirmed the price you will be charged.

4. Shop around. Just because you are able to purchase some items wholesale, that doesn't mean the price won't be lower on sale somewhere else. Stay aware and be a smart shopper.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you keep all receipts and record any purchases for tax purposes.