Maximise Your Market Presence: Tips for Artisan Vendors at Craft Fairs
Stepping into a craft fair as a vendor is always exciting—tables lined with handmade treasures, friendly faces, and the buzz of creativity in the air. But in a sea of beautiful things, how do you make your stall stand out?
Whether you create beaded jewellery, collage prints, or upcycled accessories, getting noticed (and making sales) is about more than just showing up. At Papalla Nuna, we’ve seen what works—and what makes shoppers pause, smile, and spend.
Here’s how to maximise your presence and make every market a success:
Make Your Display Work Hard for You
Your booth is your brand’s first impression—make it count. Treat your stall like your shopfront, because that’s exactly what it is. It should reflect who you are as a maker, with professional signage, consistent colours, and thoughtful product displays.One key tip: elevate your items to eye level. Don’t just lay everything flat. Create layers and use different heights—think crates, stands, or even small ladders—to make your products pop. This adds visual interest and guides the shopper’s eye to your best pieces.
And don’t forget the “void.” Empty spaces can detract from the overall look, so if you have room to fill, use it! Put up a branded logo poster, business cards, or flyers—something that communicates who you are and adds to the overall vibe.
For delicate items like handmade jewellery, or collage prints, lighting is essential. Use battery-powered fairy lights or clip-on lamps to illuminate your pieces and make them shine. Natural materials like wood, linen, or slate can also help your products stand out and create a tactile, inviting atmosphere.
By making these small adjustments, you’ll create an inviting, professional stall that draws people in and keeps them engaged.
Tell Your Story
People love buying from people. Use small chalkboards or printed cards to share the story behind your craft. What inspired your latest range? Why do you use recycled silver or vintage fabrics? These details create emotional connection—and they’re often what makes someone choose your earrings over another pair.
Bonus? When someone repeats your story to a friend, they’re doing your marketing for you.
Engage Genuinely (Not Pushily)
You don’t have to be a slick salesperson to make a sale. A simple “Hi! Let me know if you have any questions” goes a long way. If someone lingers, share a quick fact or fun detail about the item they’re looking at—but avoid hovering.
Smile. Be present. People want to support real humans, not be sold to.
Use Thoughtful Signage and Pricing
Make sure every item has a visible price tag—many people won’t ask if they’re unsure. Clear signage also helps during busy spells when you can’t speak to every browser.
Consider signs that say:
“Handmade locally in [your town]”
“Ask me about custom orders!”
“Made with reclaimed materials”
These spark interest and can start conversations organically.
Have Something for Every Budget
Not everyone can spend £40 on a statement necklace or a £90 alpaca poncho—but they might happily buy a £6 mini print or £10 pair of studs. Small, lower-cost items increase your chances of converting a browser into a customer and spreading awareness of your work.
If they love their small purchase, they’re more likely to come back for something bigger.
Encourage Repeat Visitors
Your goal isn’t just to make a sale—it’s to build a fan base. Bring business cards, include a care tip or thank-you note with each purchase, and mention when you’ll be at the next around for an event - and where.
Even better? Hand out a flyer with your next events with a small discount or gift for return customers. Loyalty grows communities.
Join a Supportive Network
Craft fairs aren’t just sales opportunities—they’re where collaboration begins. Chat with neighbouring vendors, swap tips, share resources. At Papalla Nuna, we love seeing artisans support each other, whether that’s through cross-promotion, shared travel, or future collabs.
You’re Not Just Selling Products—You’re Sharing Passion
Craft fairs are your stage. With a little planning and personality, you can create an experience that sticks in people’s minds long after they’ve left.
Share Your Passion on Social Media
Let’s be honest: social media can feel like a chore, especially when you’re already juggling crafting and running your business. But here's the truth—it works. By sharing your passion, process, and products online, you create a deeper connection with potential customers.
Most people don’t just want to buy stuff; they want to feel like they’re part of a story. When you post about the inspiration behind your jewellery, your creative process, or even your booth setup, followers feel like they’re getting a peek behind the curtain. This connection is what gets them excited to visit your stall in person.
Post consistently on your Instagram, Facebook, or even TikTok, showing off your craft fairs, behind-the-scenes shots, and happy customers. Share sneak peeks of your new creations or even your booth prep process—it all adds to the story. And remember, the more personal and authentic you are, the more your followers will feel connected to you.
While it may take a little extra time, the payoff is real. Social media is a powerful tool for building community and driving foot traffic to your market stall.
Want more real-life stories and upcoming opportunities? Join the Papalla Nuna newsletter, follow us on Instagram, and check out our next events—because your creativity deserves to shine.