How to Sell Handcrafted Greeting Cards

There are many opportunities for selling handcrafted greeting cards.

Knowing how to sell handcrafted greeting cards successfully can make the difference between earning extra pocket change or pulling some satisfying extra income. Using the same creativity you applied to your card designs, give serious thought to where to sell and how to promote your cards. Making the most of selling opportunities, along with following government sales tax and permit requirements, can help you be successful.

Things You'll Need

• Sales tax information
• Digital camera
• Online store or auction website account
• Plastic zipper bag
• Padded envelopes
• Cardboard
• Local events information

Instructions

Before You Begin

1. Research your state's sales tax information by visiting the official state website. There will be links to information on sales tax and permits listed in the website index or site map. Often a telephone number for questions will also be provided. State sales tax permit requirements vary. Many states impose fines and/or jail sentences for failing to comply with sales tax payments and permit possession. Don't sell until you know the sales tax facts.

2. Apply for a sales tax permit. Many states allow application online. Some states require that you print, complete, and mail the application. Most states do not charge for the permit.

3. Wait for your mailed permit. Keep track of your sales so you can pay the correct amount at tax time. You will receive tax information with your permit. If you don't, contact your state's sales tax office to request the information.

Selling Handcrafted Cards Online

1. Take clear photographs of your greeting cards with a digital camera. Upload and save the photos on your computer.

2. Register for an account on a craft-selling website or auction website. There are many craft-specific websites where crafters can sell handmade merchandise through an account and online store. To locate these sites, search online for Selling Crafts Online or Selling Handcrafted Greeting Cards Online. Auction websites allow you to sell your creation to the highest bidder, or give you a fixed price option allowing the buyer to purchase the item without waiting for an auction to end.

3. Set up your storefront according to the instructions on the crafting website, or list the card as an auction or purchase-now item on an auction website.

4. Upload the photo to your account. Provide measurements and pertinent details about the card. Tell how the card is constructed. For example, if the paper is handmade containing pressed dried roses grown from your garden within the paper fibers, include this. Describe the text content of the card or if it is blank. Categorize the card as humorous, inspirational, friendship-related or whatever applies.

5. Set a competitive price for your greeting cards. Don't sell yourself short, but don't price your wares so high that buyers seek a less expensive alternative. Comparison shop on craft websites to see what other sellers are selling comparable products for.

6. Package your cards well when you make a sale. Place the card into a plastic, zippered bag. Place a piece of cardboard on each side of your card and slip it into a padded envelope to protect the card while in the mail system. Include a free sample card, or a promotional thank-you card with additional card ordering information. A cents-off or free card coupon is often appreciated by customers and encourages future purchases.

Selling Handcrafted Cards at Events or Stores

1. Contact your local chamber of commerce, schools or malls and request information on craft fairs, seasonal bazaars, or other selling events and opportunities where tables or selling space are sold to vendors. Register and pay for space to sell your cards. Display them on a pleasantly arranged table during the sales event. Use eye-catching colors that draw the buyer's attention to your table and to your handcrafted cards.

2. Contact local boutique and business owners in person to learn whether they are interested in consigning or purchasing your handcrafted cards to sell in their stores.

3. Leave a sample with local business owners and an order form to facilitate easy ordering of your cards. Promptly deliver the ordered cards to establish your reliability as a handcrafted card supplier.

Resources

• Tax Sites: State Tax Links
• Tax Sites: State and Local Tax Sites