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What crafter wouldn't like to know the 'secret' to finding thecrafts that sell? Especially the ones that sell most often, andfor the highest dollar. It is a common question, and one thatcertainly cannot be answered easily. A number of factors willdetermine the success of your craft on the craft show circuit.

If you can imagine craft shows all across the country, you couldprobably imagine several different types of crafts at each show. This is just one reason why it is difficult to pinpoint thecraft that will be successful in your area. But, if you want tosell crafts for a profit, then you are going to have to figureout which type of craft is already popular.

Go to craft shows and see what is selling Ask around at craftstores to find out what is really popular right now Find a nichefor something that ISn't offered at your local craft shows

The first point is probably the easiest to do, because if youalready like crafts, then chances are you don't mind going tothe craft shows. Besides, it is always important to check outthe competition before you even start your crafting business. Don't be afraid to ask questions of the retailer when you areout there. They may or may not be willing to answer some ' butif you phrase them out of interest rather than fact finding youmay have better luck.

Once again, if you are a crafter, you likely head to the localcraft store on a regular basis, and you can gather a lot ofinformation here as well. Ask the people at the checkoutcounter what has been moving really quick, or casually noticewhat other people are carrying out of the store. Make regularvisits and you will see for yourself what moves in the stores,as they rotate their goods and change their displays.

The third point is high-risk, high reward. If you find a nicheat the local craft shows, that doesn't necessarily mean that youare going to have the next hot-selling craft. With new productsit is often hit and miss ' with miss being more often. But,niche crafts ' especially if they take advantage of other hottrends ' can be very profitable. As it is in any business,those who stay on top of their market usually end up making moremoney and are more successful in the end.

Here are a few tips for creating a profitable craft:

Find something functional. Most people would like to get someuse (however limited it might be) out of a craft they see.

Create something that is unique to your area ' something thatpeople can only get if they come to your region. This appealsto tourists and others just passing through and going to thecraft show.

Crafts that will make good gifts for others. Practical itemsare also excellent for this purpose as well.

Rarely is there a sure thing in crafts. But, you can take muchof the guesswork out of finding the most profitable craft inyour area with a little research.

Still, across the craft show world, some of the top craft showexperts believe that the following craft areas are perennialbest-sellers: In no particular order '

Personal items (soaps, body lotion bars)

Entertaining items (wine charms, coasters, place cards)

Practical crafts (bread baskets, candles, placemats, anythingpeople can put to use!)

If you can find something in these areas, I would say that youstand a much greater chance of selling your craft ' and for topdollar ' at your local craft shows!