Looking back, over my childhood, I remember all the weekends spent at the flea markets. Oh, how I loved to walk up and down the isles and see all the new and used items, spread out on a sea of tables, for onlookers to purchase. My favorite section was always the craft tables. I could only imagine all the hours those people had put into making their wares and then bring them to the flea market to sell. And, it always seemed as though the craft tables were the ones that always gathered the crowds.

Is it just that the items these vendors have to offer are simply items that people need to have in their homes? No, most often the buyer are at flea markets simply to spend the day with the family and to see what kind of good deals they can buy. So, how can we, the sellers, work things so that we can make a profit at these indoor and outdoor flea markets? I’d like to share a few things that I’ve noticed while attending these flea markets.

Most flea markets are in business during the warmer months. For these months, the crochet items that sell the fastest are anything that is fun, amusing and looks pretty on a baby/toddler. The lower the prices, the higher the chance that buyers will be spending their money at your table. But, the idea is to make money and not to sell your wares for less money than it cost to purchase the yarn in the first place.

Frilly baby dresses can sell for upwards of $50.00. Soft balls/blocks (stuffed with Polyfil) can be made up quickly, with scrap yarns, and sell for $2.00-$3.00. Light-weight bonnets and booties can sell for $7.00-$10.00/set. And, a sweater, bonnet and bootie set can sell for $25.00. All too often I’ve seen baby booties sell for $3.00. While this is a good price for the buyer and, if the pattern can be worked up fast enough and not use a lot of yarn, it can also be an item that can be made up fast and sold fast for the seller. Know your skill, your market and the area you’re in when you price your items.

Other than what to sell and for how much (keep in mind that you need to know your area and their needs), there are a few other things to know. If you have the choice-ahead of time-some of the better places to place your booth is near the entrance, near tables for food and a shady spot. Sometimes making your own shady spot is the best solution. It’s also best to have bright colors. I often suggested that vendors bring along some brightly multi-colored balloons that will float in the air with a gentle wind. If you have your own canopy, a bright color or a bright colored painted sign will help. Also, make sure your items are not only made in various colors, yarns and threads, but make sure you have some where, up high, where these can be pinned so they can be seen from a distance. These draw customers to your tables.

I’ve also included a couple of books, which can be purchased through www.amazon.com for a small fee. These books can give you more ideas to help with being a success at the next flea market.