Before you think crafting is only comprised of grandmothers getting together for quilt knitting and cross-stitch parties think again. Crafting has been a hobby of many people for many years, and very recently the crafting industry was valued at just over $30Billion. Some of the success of crafting has come thanks to a few pieces of technology that allow crafters to publicize their work, share ideas, sell their crafts, and network with each other.
Etsy. Etsy is an makes ecommerce websites available to crafters free of charge in exchange for a very minuscule royalty from all products sold. Basically Etsy acts as a large online store and host allowing crafters and artists to list their work with pictures and a description, and sell it to any interested party. Many crafters have found great success on Etsy, and have found it to be a great promotional tool. If it is handmade, it can be bought or sold on Etsy.
Digital Camera. The digital camera has proven to be an invaluable piece of technology for crafters. Digital cameras let crafters show off their work to the entire world. The pictures of the crafted materials are invaluable marketing tools, and are often a large part of what helps sell the craft to the customer. Digital cameras don’t have to be expensive either. Find a great list of quality digital cameras under $100 here.
Crafty Insipiration. While most crafters have already figured out their strenghts and have chosen their niche, new craft hobbyists might still be looking for their expertise. The Craftzine craft blog is a wonderful resource for all crafters providing inspiration and directions to new craft ideas, and interviews and pictures of crafting experts and their creations.
Social Crafting. Social networks have proven to be a great way to interact with others in the world who share similar interests and ideas. The premier social network for crafters right now is Crafty Nation. Crafty Nation allows crafters to discuss projects and share ideas. They are able to promote and comment on each others work. Crafters are also able to buy and sell their work in the Crafty Nation Classifieds. Crafty Nation has also added an amazing bonus to the site that sets it apart from the others. The Crafty Nation show is a periodic video series interviewing crafters, crafting experts, and successful crafters whose ideas and projects have gained recognition and popularity.
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