🌷 "All Crocheters Sell the Same Thing" - Let's talk about it! 🌷 Crochet Market Talk

Hello! I'm Tina, I run 'Made with April' with my dog, April! Recently I've been thinking a lot about what direction I want to take my small biz, I love crochet but there are some things that I feel like I need to change to make it sustainable long-term. Another thing I didn't mention in this video is that I'm teaching my friends/family some of my unreleased patterns so they can help me stock up!
Leave a comment below on what you think of this - I was a little hesitant to upload this video because I'm not sure if people will agree with me but I think it's important to stay creative! Please be respectful of everyone's opinions, everyone has a different perspective and it's good to consider all views!
Leave a like if you enjoyed the video and don't forget to subscribe to follow my journey as I learn more about the market/craft fair world!
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[@NellyMad3It]

I get how you feel about staying unique, I wrestle with the same anxiety, because I make plushies, but so does everyone else 😅 I started branching out with easy wearables and accessories, and even things that aren’t crochet related. And mannn, this explosion of fast fashion and cheaper brands doing crochet for dirt cheap is so bad to me. It makes people question why my stuff is expensive when they can get it for 2 bucks on tiktok shop or something! Great vid, always nice to hear your scattered thoughts about things 😂

[@madewithapril]

Ahh thank you for sharing!! I agree, on the one hand people always tell me that the people paying dirt cheap for unethical fast fashion and crochet aren't your target demographic anyway, but it affects everyone. It's worse when I see people buying that stuff online and selling it at makers markets 🥺

[@theamalgam9114]

Listen. I NEVER comment, but you got me in a tizzy, honey. I was wondering when someone was going to make this video! Fast crochet is such a dumbing down of the beauty of what crochet can be. Where has the originality gone? It's so safe to create the dreaded chunky yarn bee ad nauseum to make a quick buck and not stretch the mind or your brand. Who wants to do that for the rest of their crochet career?. Not I. So, I guess I'm here to say, stick with making your own patterns, no matter how difficult it seems, and no matter the negative self talk that can creep in telling you you can't do, it's too tedious, etc. Develop designs that separate you from every other table at the markets, and price accordingly. The people that frequent these events bought chunky yarn crochet items like the same ones you're seeing 5 years ago! Unless their dog tears it up, why would they need another one? You're on the right track mentally, now let your hands take you above and beyond. You're doing so great, and this mindset will take you such a long way. It was due time someone mentioned the obvious, so thanks. And good luck.

[@madewithapril]

HAHA thank you for sharing, I appreciate it!! The chunky bee is exactly what I pictured when I thought of seeing crochet at markets before I started - it's also why I dont make it hahaha people always suggest it to me but I'm a little tired of seeing it everywhere! I was also surprised that no one has talked about this before - I looked it up on KZbin to hopefully try and get some other perspectives about it but couldn't find anything. Your support makes me feel super excited to keep going and learn new things and I can't wait!! Thank you!!

[@madewithapril]

I should also mention, if you see an artist/creator selling crochet products and they don't usually, please be wary 😭 I'm not one to namedrop and I don't want to cause any chaos but suddenly coming out with a complex design at low cost is not a good sign 🥺

[@amikireicraftstore]

I was just thinking about this today 😫

[@WeirdSnakeGal]

I agree. I've been getting into crochet more seriously since the beginning of the year and I'd like to eventually sell and do markets. Luckily my country isn't too over saturated for now so making popular plushies probably won't be a problem. I think one important thing is also the quality of the work. I see many people make plushies but not paying attention to details and not caring about really obvious colour changes etc. Personally I want to make something to the highest quality possible with my current skill levels and small details is my jam. I always think, would I buy it? Would this detail bother too much that I wouldn't enjoy it in the longrun. Obviously quality is not a problem for you cause your flowers are truly amazing. I haven't seen many people make crochet flowers, I personally wouldn't make it my main product because I've never been a flower gal but I am tempted to try some and make them as gifts.

[@madewithapril]

I do notice that sometimes when people buy a lower quality crochet item, they'll start to assume all crochet items are low quality and break easily :S

[@MystLily]

I totally understand what you are saying and I'm always hesitant to pump out heaps of the same that I see others making. I'm looking at other not-so-popular patterns to buy because it really bothers me that some patterns are really high in price and they use the same pattern with just a few little tweaks and resell it as another entirely new pattern for the high price again. As a pattern buyer, I'm also looking at pattern makers who genuinely love pattern making and will help you out with the intricate little bits within the pattern they are selling.

[@madewithapril]

Agreed! I'm not big into pattern making but I've noticed some kind of questionable things when it comes to pattern making and plagiarism. Unfortunately just like the stuff I mentioned it's hard to control who really copied who, and sometimes it really is just a coincidence and two people came out w similar things.

[@AlliRayne]

this!! i’ve seen people talk about paying $10 for a pattern and it’s just “repeat this row until you reach your desired length” with 2 pics. no details, no progress pics, worse pattern than literal free ones online. it seems a lot of people use it as a fast cash grab rather than “i love creating, i want to share what i create”

[@mycustompaintedlife502]

Are you joking that Temu and SHIEN are selling homemade items? People who aren’t creators love Temu. I used to buy from SHIEN but their sht is such low quality. Initially, 50% of the items I got from SHIEN was ok but towards the end, I couldn’t use their stuff for anything except rags

[@kaivee3929]

I completely understand how you feel about trying to stay relevant or finding the balance of selling/making things you love to make while having things someone wants to buy. It’s not easy! I crochet plushies mostly, but.. who doesn’t these days, right? It causes me so much anxiety sometimes. I love seeing other crocheters and I’m so excited to celebrate their talents as well, but it also means you may lose a sale. I think I’ve accepted that that is inevitable, and that sometimes in-person markets are also successful when you’re a good talker. A friendly face and a quick chat with a possible customer can be the thing that causes the sale. I love your work, your flowers are impeccable! On your last point about “not feeling right to sell my pattern someone could get for free” I think you shouldn’t feel that way! Sure, some patterns are going to be available free.. but lots of your fans/followers WANT to pay the money because they know it supports you. Id pay for your pattern even if I saw a free one because I like you as a creator.

[@madewithapril]

Thank you so much for sharing!! I've definitely felt the same way and there was even a month this summer where I attended 3 markets, and all 3 of them had over 5 crochet artists!! In the beginning it was hard not to attribute my lack of sales to more experienced vendors. I'm glad people can think that way about patterns!! Thank you!!

[@RaysCrochet]

this is so real. It almost makes me worried that my crochet stuff won’t sell unless I make my own patterns, which I’m not sure I’m experienced enough to do

[@madewithapril]

I went through this at the beginning and it was the only thing that mega-motivated me to pump out patterns. To be honest, it's better to take your time to find your own niche and then go from there. Lots of crocheters do well specializing in one of either patterns, or finished products.

[@RaysCrochet]

@@madewithapril that makes sense! Thanks for the advice!!

[@sketchygato7847]

I know PLENTY of other peeps are saying the exact same thing…however I wanna also add onto the “I understand” BECAUSE I DO! Some friends have wanted to join in on the crochet adventure, and I’ve been trying to find patterns that are easy for us to produce a lot of but also be unique. I see a lot of the same frogs, octopus, Dino’s, etc. which is COMPLETELY FINE! They’re simple and cute! However due to this it’s heavily encouraged me to do more difficult or unique patterns, but because of that it’s not easy to make a lot of the same thing (I recently made an owl bear that took me 10 hours). I’m stuck in this weird dilemma where I’m worried about having the exact same thing and not being unique enough. I found your channel recently, seen your set up, AND I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT! I think presentation is so so so important and yours is just so inviting and absolutely wonderful! It def makes you stand out, so just keep doin what you’re doin man! I know it can be discouraging when you see stalls that are so similar but follow your gut man! It’s important to do what makes you happy too!

[@madewithapril]

Thank you for sharing!! It's true - I face the same thing where when I'm trying to come up with unique patterns they are inevitably more complex, and I become limited at how many I can create. Thank you for the support!!

[@shirl100000]

Beautiful and unique design.. I love how you believe in yourself and you don't make what everyone else is making

[@madewithapril]

Thank you so much!

[@MJAlleywayCrochet]

I totally get it girl. I mentioned the same thing in one of my recent videos. I don’t want to just make what everyone else is making but at the same time I really like what everyone else is making, so I’m just trying to use more fun and funky color combos and also just do a lot of googling and deep dive and try and find the patterns that are underrated. When it comes to plushies with like chenille yarn, I find it fun to recreate a worsted weight pattern using chenille yarn. Just have to find the small stuff bc it’s obvi gonna be a lot bigger. I’m hoping to get to a point in the future where I have a whole vibe of my own but right now I’m just figuring out what I like.

[@madewithapril]

It definitely takes time to find your niche but take your time and explore, even when you find it it will continue to change! I did the same and experimented around with patterns I found until I learned to come up with my own!

[@kctheteacher1]

I was thinking I wish I could say to you, "I HEAR YOU SISTUH!" You're not in this struggle alone. Thank you for being transparent and open and sharing your struggle.

[@madewithapril]

Hahaha thank you! I'm glad people can relate 🥲🩷

[@josworld_]

I completely get how you feel! I'm trying to open my own lil crochet biz early next year, and I've really been struggling on being unique from others.

[@madewithapril]

It definitely takes time to find your space! Everyone's work is inevitably different but branding will come in time!

[@randyarmstrong5658]

I think your work is great and I think we all understand how you feel. Your on the right path, try to continue talking it out with everyone, we are here. Maybe look at flowers etc. from other cultures etc. for ideas. You will figure it out I am sure. Love the jasmine! I started making jewlery like chokers and bracelets to try something new. I think variety is good.

[@madewithapril]

Ahh thank you so much for the support 🩷🩷 i really appreciate it 😭🩷

[@roses74216]

I get what you're talking about. I haven't yet created any patterns of "my own" So each time i go for an exhibition I'm always afraid what if someone else also have all the same products as myself. I love all your creations and I'm sure you'll come up with your own new unique ideas soon. I also hope that I'll soon be able to make my own patterns like you and many other experienced crocheters out there! ❤

[@madewithapril]

Thank you so much for the support! That's another thing I didn't acknowledge - not everyone makes their own patterns, and that's okay too! I think it's more so the conscience to not copy someone else's entire product line that makes a difference. Otherwise, it's totally okay to use other people's patterns (unless they say not to, which I've rarely encountered). Branding and having a unique identity as a small biz makes a big difference!

[@roses74216]

​​@@madewithaprilThat's all right. I wasn't trying to correct you or anything regarding that. And I really love all your makes. They're all so pretty.😍😍

[@giansfranz7681]

the jasmine flowers look amazing!❤

[@madewithapril]

Thank you!!

[@duffchick58]

Love your videos and love your content. It inspired me to start crocheting :) I now have too much yarn and have only made 3 flowers. Not even assembled, just the top bits cause I'm slow and learning. With information heavy videos like these, I'd recommend editing them down. Maybe breaking them into sections for specific topics with headers and timecodes? You mentioned not enjoying research and speaking about these things but they are very important for the crafting community. I worry the scheduled stream start time may have made this task more stressful. I know it would have for me. I love how you mentioned adding new pieces while staying on brand. It keeps your work unique at each show but also keeps YOU engaged in the crafting process. It must be difficult to find patterns you like online but always have a gremlin in the back of your mind saying "but what if it doesn't sell?". If you decide to just make the one and want to get rid of it , maybe add a "last one!" tag. If it's picked up quickly you can always make more for your next show with a little more confidence in the audience interest. It's wonderful seeing how much your stall setup has changed over the course of your youtube. I don't sell (and don't intend to) but I wonder if a video about the different kinds/stages of booth setup may be interesting to your viewers? Like if you were to go back, what did and didn't work VS now. What to keep in mind when displaying/interacting with customers. How the environment of the convention may change your layout. How people selling should interact with customers in the event (tips/tricks to keep the audience engaged and at your stall). What are ideal spots to reserve or things you keep on hand for long stints at a show, etc? Keep up the amazing work!

[@madewithapril]

Thank you so much for the comment!! There are definitely things I can improve on with the organization but tbh it's just hard for me to edit and I don't love editing so I decided to leave it mostly as is this time around 😅 The video idea about my previous displays is a really good idea and I think if I have time I will def make one! Ive learned a lot about making my display more optimized for sales throughout the summer.

[@makamess8913]

I was scrolling through crochet content and i stumbled upon this video. I just want you to know you are SO pretty. Great video too! :)

[@madewithapril]

Thank you so much!!

[@claudiacano4916]

I agree with you about trying to establish a unique business. I myself I’m trying to start an amigurumi business but I always modify the patterns trying to make unique pieces, and I find annoying when someone asks for the pattern, or even asks me to teach how to make my creations. How people think that’s a fine thing to do. You don’t go to a restaurant and ask the chef for the recipes because you want to replicate them. Anyway, good look with your vision of keeping your business unique.

[@madewithapril]

Haha I fully agree with the restaurant + chef analogy! Sometimes I've even had people ask if they can take pictures of my booth - and then super zoom in and take pictures of each petal and leaf and I'm pretty sure they're planning to replicate the pattern at home :S

[@roses74216]

​@@madewithaprilI've experienced this actually. I'm new to crocheting flowers so it's just tulips, sunflowers and lavenders for now. But I'm one of the few people who does crochet flowers and plants here in my area so that's an advantage. Few months back when I did an exhibition(or a market) a lady came there and she was trying to get the pattern of the tulips along with a few other toys pattern from me so that she can make it. She was initially asking the prices for each product and taking the pictures telling that she wants to show it to her daughter. She was taking lots of close up photos and all and then after everything wanted to know which exact tutorial I followed so that she can make them. I knew whose pattern I'm following but then I just told here I mix different patterns so I'm not sure.😅 If she just wanted the pattern then she could've told initially itself that she's also a crocheter and then asked, but the way she was asking it felt as if she was going to buy something from me so I felt quite bad and didn't want to make it easy for her by telling whose pattern I'm following.

[@dedrahilliard9437]

I love how you’re so honest about how you feel 🥺🥺 everyone is selling the same thing & especially in the crochet business it’s sooooo hard to stand out from everyone else . But I do believe that even if you’re selling the same thing, maybe your business is different because of packaging or something you offer that the other person doesn’t. My booth did really well & I sold some of the items everyone sells. but I included free stickers on my table & people (kids & adults) loved my booth. Everyone had their own audience. Last year I made alot of money from cat ear beanies, shein started selling the hats for $8!!!! 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 so I’m not really making sells with the cat ear beanies this fall😭😭but I picked up another hobby & it’s been going pretty well

[@madewithapril]

Totally true! Sometimes two people have similar products but because of the branding, packaging, and overall vibe of the artist it comes off totally different! Ultimately it will be different because two crochet products, even made by the same person, will never be the exact same, but it's the little details that counts. Shein is awful :(

[@mlolvera91]

im new to crochet, and im so exicted by it that i want to start my own shop. this is something that does worry me a lot. i don't want to be making the same tired old thing, and would love to have variety in my shop over time. i just hope thats the case. i actually also won't shop on places like shein, temu, fashion nova, anything similiar. i have a terrible story with fashion nova, and will now no longer buy from anything that gives "great deals" and "prices". hoping one day people will learn to appreciate local hand made goods.

[@madewithapril]

The best part of it is you can decide what you stock and how much! I've seen lots of people like me that like to restock the same designs but also many people that like to change their inventory constantly!

[@yarnchickenkim]

I just looked at your website. Your flowers are beautiful! Especially when put in the bouquets. I don’t blame you for holding tight to your patterns to stay unique.

[@madewithapril]

Thank you so much!

[@mad44060]

Your work is beautiful. Just now discovering the crochet flower bouquets

[@madewithapril]

Thank you! 😊

[@TheModernYarn]

I looooove to make different things for my events. So sometimes I make something for one or two events. But for my customers I don’t want to just have the same things all the time so I have different items every time I do a pop up. I love that there is always something new to make and always new patterns to try. I like to keep things that sell well, and then everything else is pretty much new for my customers

[@madewithapril]

I've been working on figuring out kind of a 'baseline' of standard products (types of flowers) that I want to offer! Sometimes the ones that sell well are the ones I hate making and I get very conflicted 🥲

[@mad44060]

You are making so much sense. I find myself trying to make my products look different or make different products for my display to look different. Keep in mind, I don’t think the customers are as exposed to as much as we are as creators. If that makes sense. I have found some customers get excited to see something in person that they saw online.

[@madewithapril]

Thats true! Some people have come to my booth saying they've seen stuff like this on pinterest haha

[@BeeWOWdbyAprilLee]

I'm glad I found your channel. I'm going to give you a shout out on my channel. I loved everything you showed today. I'm prepping for 2 markets right now. One April 27th and one for August. My friend and I do them together. We also have one coming in the fall. I try to only do like 3 q year because I do work full time so it's hard for me to build up my inventory

[@madewithapril]

Thank you so much!! I really appreciate it. Good luck with your upcoming markets!!

[@lunamalicreations]

Your thought process about being unique but also making things simple enough to be long term sustainable/ doable as a business makes total sense!! I have not even started selling but I have branding dilemmas all the time 😂where I try to figure out what I would sell, how to be unique, can I be unique by altering paid patterns, if I’m altering paid patterns is it still ok to sell the final product?! I can totally relate and understand what you discussed in this video and I do think it’s the one going dilemma of being an artist/ crocheter.

[@madewithapril]

Thank you for sharing!! It's def something I didn't fully consider when starting out and even after I kind of had an idea it took a while to figure out how I was going to carve out all the details! Even now that most people see me as a specific niche I still feel some pressure to continue to change and make new things 🥲

[@lunamalicreations]

@@madewithapril that’s totally understandable!!! And your an artist your art can change and evolve over time. You have to enjoy whatever your making and selling so don’t evert feel bad about wanting to change/ make new things!! 🙌🏽💜

[@StitchADeeDooDoll]

What a great topic Tina! I mostly crochet amigurumis and dolls, but don't do markets. However, I have been noticing that many amigurumi makers that sell at markets gravitate towards certain patterns that are no-sew, quick, and easy to whip it. This concept makes total sense! However, I have wondered on occasion about the customers' perspective. Are the customers tired of seeing the same things over and over again at each of the markets. If they're repeat customers, are they purchasing the newest product offerings? Are they requesting things that have never been offered at markets before? I don't have any market experience, but it was just something that I wondered. I can foresee this topic having the potential to being controversial but definitely worthy of discussion. Thank you for bringing it up. I would love to read more comments and thoughts from our crochet community. All the best Tina. Love your products and market setup and love your channel. Keep up the great work.❤

[@madewithapril]

Ahh thank you for the support! To be honest part of the reason why it was so rambling was because it was my third time recording myself talk about this and I still wasn't sure if I was going to upload it or not 🙈 It's definitely important to discuss I agree, but also yes - the potential to have conflicting views on it! I think addressing it will help fuel some creativity in the crochet community! After doing a couple of the same markets (same host/location) I definitely see people looking to buy new or different products. Unlike food vendors where people can buy the same thing every week to consume, we have more pressure to switch it up a bit! I think so anyway 🥺

[@StitchADeeDooDoll]

@@madewithapril I don't mind the ramble, your perspective came across as genuine and I appreciate you posting this video regardless of your reservations. That's a great comparison! I am a creature of habit when it comes to consuming edibles, but definitely a more discriminating shopper when it comes to most everything else, so for that very reason, unique traits tend to be more attractive to me. I know that there are some patterns that are viral and sell really well at markets (for the time being), but it would be nice to see a larger variety of offerings (at least from a consumer's perspective). Not to say that marketers should diversify their offerings, but if the niche is amigurumis, perhaps offering other cute amigurumi creations in addition to the viral patterns that are currently out there. There are tons more easy, no-sew amigurumi patterns that would do great at markets, but sellers just aren't making them. Well, that's my opinion at least 😃. Take that with a grain of salt as I have zero market experience 🤣. Loving this discussion🥰

[@ellikahavea3063]

Just stay being you, also another most imporant lesson i learn from people i grow up with in my life is think outside the box, try coming up with new ideas that no one else has ever thought of.

[@madewithapril]

Its true!! Build a bouquet was my initial out of the box idea, but as it's caught on and gotten more popular I have to come up with new things again 😵‍💫 I feel like part of being a small biz is constantly chasing novelty and ideas to stay unique!!

[@lizziegracecrochet]

I totally understand and agree how you feel. I am trying and wanting to start a small business but I want to respect other crocheters with there different niche groups.( I already have an idea). (To everyone that is watching) I hope that you DO NOT quit crocheting or a business (if you have one or if you want to start one) because you are worth it and do not copy anyone and ✨ to bloom like a flower (maybe pun intended). Remember, be unique and keep up the amazing work. Love Lizzie❤❤💐

[@madewithapril]

Hahaha thank you for the support!! Sometimes it's hard too to fully avoid anyone else's niche but I try to at least avoid being too similar to people that sell locally!

[@stormyshappyplace]

I definitely feel the same. Trying to stay unique and competitive out there is so hard!

[@madewithapril]

It's definitely not easy 😅

[@MonstarChan3]

I also think about these things a lot 😅 I make a lot of kawaii voodoo dolls from my own pattern which I don’t really see too much of at markets…I really like your creations/aesthetic and you’re stuff is unique in its own way…you’re literally my favorite crochet KZbinr btw 🖤💚

[@madewithapril]

Having personally made patterns is def inviting to customers! I noticed that people do acknowledge when they haven't seen a pattern before! Thank you so much for the support 😭🩷

[@MonstarChan3]

@@madewithapril Yes! I love your work soo much, so cute 💚

[@tanysims]

Dont worry alot ❤ your already special and your flowers are amazing so adorable❤❤ not many can do so many cute flowers im one of them even thogh i crochet too,

[@madewithapril]

Thank you so much 😊

[@iamjenbrodie]

Yeah! That's tough! One thing i have noted though is even when i make the same pattern as other local crocheters (our shelfs are next to each other in a store), we use different yarn, stuff differently and use different eyes. So at least from thst perspective we contrast enough.

[@madewithapril]

Definitely true!! I try to use acrylic yarn for all my keychains because I've noticed blanket yarn is a lot more popular for them at markets near me, plus buying some online for different colors and things like that!!

[@joanneblackmoore7437]

Honey, you have been creative with your flowers, ( they are beautiful) I think what un settles us creatives is when your beautiful vision comes to life, and your super happy and doing your thing, sharing the love...and then... you see someone thats has hijacked ur style and marketing 😥. It can hurt, I think this may have happened to you. You keep being you! Heres a wee thought for you, pop your flowers into seasons, you know, Spring, Summer, Fall, amd Winter. Dragonflies for Summer 😍. All the best to you sweet lady, dont let others squash your light

[@madewithapril]

It's definitely true haha, at the same time it's not something I can trademark or make entirely my own - I always think that it would be unfair anyway since there's no way I can physically supply crochet flowers to everyone around the world - so everyone should have a chance to be able to fill that space for their communities. I'll continue to do my best to keep it different and original!

[@mad44060]

Wow…your keychains are beautiful as well.

[@madewithapril]

Thank you so much 😊

[@JingoCrochet]

GIRL... I FEEL YOU 💖😭

[@madewithapril]

😭😭🩷🩷

[@ChantelleArts]

that store banner looks adorable ❤❤❤

[@madewithapril]

Hehe thank youu

[@GracelyCrochets_]

I understand you! I have an idea that would make you stand out with plushies. You duck plushies have flowers around their head. You would totally stand out if you made flower themed plushies!! Like a lion with a flower mane, or a turtle with a sunflower shell ect 🩷

[@madewithapril]

I def have been trying to keep everything flower themed, I don't love making plushies hahaha but if I do make more ill keep it in mind!!

[@kathytincler2446]

I know what you are taking about. I'm just learning to make plushies but the market is already so saturated with same ole same ole. Many are starting to branch out to really fancier plushies and here I can barely do a magic ring! LOL I just want to make and sell those darling turtles and the cute whale, etc, keychains! Tfs

[@madewithapril]

Sometimes it's just about something new and not made before, that doesn't necessarily have to be fancy!! Fancy is hard to make a lot of 😭

[@jasemeal7849]

Congrats on the great market! Curious, do you run your cash sales through Square also?

[@madewithapril]

Thank you! Square helps keep track of inventory!

[@marianwinnett8570]

Think inside the box. I would love to see any terrariums you could make. Lightweight and beautiful. Your crochet would look so good.

[@madewithapril]

Ouuu I do love terrariums so maybe 👀

[@user-wp6cl9yd3z]

I completely understand what you are saying. I'm afraid to put anything on line because of copying.

[@madewithapril]

Unfortunately sometimes people are really quick to accuse also :S

[@ilostsomethingonce]

Hey Ive never sold at a market... But maybe you can copy how they display jewelry, like for earrings or something, for your keychains. They look amazing btw 🤩

[@madewithapril]

I definitely look into inspo in jewelry retail displays when I'm optimizing my own!!

[@cathiecollier5578]

Your keychains are so cute! Maybe zip ties would work to secure your banner?

[@madewithapril]

I hate zip ties because they're so hard to take off but they are definitely the most secure option!

[@luulusoul]

My general idea is to have a few of the "popular designs" because they are usually super fun to make, but also have my "for me" designs. The ones that challenge me, or are part of something i personally care about but dont see very often.

[@madewithapril]

That's true! Some of my 'popular designs' are becoming designs i really dislike because I have to make them so often hahaha

[@luulusoul]

@madewithapril having to make the SAME. THING. ALWAYS. gets frustrating after a while haha.

[@pitterpat4561]

An idea: the bunny holding flower design created in 3d ? crochet "plushie" big one and keychain version ?

[@madewithapril]

The more complicated designs are harder to make as keychains because it's hard to make them small 😭 but plushies maybe!

[@kahelidescope]

For someone tryimng to participate in markets how do you suggest pricing and do you accept haggling or is that general;ly frowned upon? Also how do you find market spaces esp if small following/not big audience?

[@madewithapril]

Definitely not! I set my prices proportionally to time taken and I do not accept haggling. I have another video on finding markets to attend!

[@zbornak00]

I definitely can't think of anything else i haven't seen out there🤷🏽‍♀️ and I also like when pattern creators share their patterns😅 I don't generally like gatekeeping

[@madewithapril]

It's hard to be a pattern creator and product seller though - if I sell all my patterns what keeps me unique?

[@timbit625]

are the keychains hanging there just your samples? or do you sell them too?

[@madewithapril]

I sell them as well!

[@alicewright8367]

My OCD is telling me to tell you to switch the frog and the chicken keychain over! Other than that your set-up is sooo pretty 🥰

[@madewithapril]

Hahaha I'll switch em over!! Thank youu

[@Lizbestdeals]

Don't feel bad about not sharing everything you make. Most businesses don't share their secrets of success or their special ingredient, etc.. it is just fine... I am just starting to crocheing as a hobby and I am not sure to start a business. I do love it and I could crechet for a long time, but I have seen that people don't value it as much since you can get things online very cheap.. so, I understand how you feel..

[@madewithapril]

Thank you for sharing! It's def been a journey learning that some people value handmade goods and some people dont

[@nyahtonks3914]

as someone with ADHD, i here the part abt like almost mass producing(?) ur own like products. like i want to make things for myself, but the idea of making something that i’ve already made again just fills me with such dread. it’s the biggest hurtle for me to selling my work

[@madewithapril]

Some people don't do it this way and instead make one or two of many plushies and have a large variety for sale! I would say 70% of crochet vendors at larger shows I've been to will do this instead of making tons of a few designs. My brain is just weird and I love remaking the same things 😅

[@barbaratouchy4815]

I think you could still make all the usual things out there but have something that is unique added... Add a theme of something to your market like the button babies and name it January's button baby.. Or a Love series with hearts a new love item of the month.. every month add a new one.. Stuffies with removable dresses and make a bunch of changeable dresses or bonnets. The creators of the Barbie doll made millions on this simple idea.. (Their classic wedding dresses, etc)

[@madewithapril]

Live the analogy to Barbie!! That's true they took one idea and made it unique in so many different ways!

[@AngeliqueHerrera-qo9ok]

Yes!! I am trying to start my lil crochet business & it’s hard to figure out what I want so I can stick out. I don’t want to make all the same plushies everyone else makes but I also wanna sell!

[@madewithapril]

Take your time finding your niche, that's one of the hardware parts!

[@creassyaking5574]

I feel the same way. Crochet artists are selling the same things! I don't see many of them being original or unique. I have two small businesses, and I look for things that are unique, but it's like looking for a needle in a haystack.

[@madewithapril]

It's hard to find a way to be unique and then after that, have to keep finding it 😭 it's a part of having a small biz I didn't anticipate for sure

[@saharalaw5684]

I think the key is to stop focussing on what everyone else is doing and focus on you, being your business and where you want to take it .....not selling your pattens bc theres similar free on KZbin is crazy, bc most people like a physical pattern to follow as well as the video. Someone may like he way you write a pattern over another, but to not even do it is a guaranteed fail. Don't fall into the trap of a scarcity mindset....imagine if all coffee maker/vendors thought this way, and there was only one or two available etc...coffee is coffee at its basic form, but ....its the marketing, skill, brand and the person behind it that elevates it to more than that and to stand out. People shop not only for product but for the brand, the person behind it, how they represent themselves and their attitude and their workmanship. Rarely is anything truely unique in art ...inspiration is taken from everywhere......make what you love, focus on yourself and put all that energy into that, your brand, marketing and being really passionate about YOU and what you do! Your crochet is highly skilled and very well made ...this is one way you stand out as an example. What you sell doesn't have to necessarily unique but you can be because you are! and that will be reflected in your product. If I went to a market where there were two vendors selling the same product I wanted , the one that gets my $$$ is the one that appears genuinely excited to be doing their craft and who is passionate about their business.The person behind the product is what sells it more, not just the product itself 💗

[@madewithapril]

Thank you for sharing!! 💗 I totally see where you're coming from - I think it's important for me to still acknowledge the competition because a little bit of pressure forces me to make sure I'm still testing my creativity, making new things, and not becoming complacent in my craft! It was a bit of a challenge to learn that competition is not all bad but recently I do feel more confident in myself and especially after hearing everyone's perspectives on this video! I am surprised that so many people think I should keep putting out patterns so I will keep it in mind and try to make some more haha thank you for the support!! 💗

[@amikireicraftstore]

Ok, so I do only anime events and markets, I go to different places and know who my public is, so yes in some markets I would bring more Leggy Froggies or in other I would bring more Penguins for example. I have come to discover that complex designs are just not worth it for me. I only do that when requested and charge accordingly, so I produce lots of stuff, easy to make and to sell and do not stress myself in that case. I'm personally against gatekeeping, I feel like the crochet community needs to straighten itself and help itself, we know that there are free patterns everywhere, to gatekeep is just not helping really, what I do is help my crocheting acquaintances whenever I can but I also don't follow a pattern entirelly, I always change parts of it to make it my own. You can see the mushroom chunky boys in several places but mine are never the same. Trust the process c: I love your new display ♡

[@madewithapril]

That's true!! Its good to adapt to your audience too, that's a good point. It's definitely important to try and do what is less stressful sometimes - I need to remember that hahaha

[@minsukaa]

could not agree more than you

[@madewithapril]

🩷🩷

[@raecrochetz]

In the UK where I am we have to test every single plushie style we intend to sell (including setting one on fire so that’s a loss of one of each type already) so a lot of people here stick to a few things. It’s put me off selling as I wouldn’t have creative freedom if I have to make at least two of each thing and one will be destroyed 😢

[@madewithapril]

Ahhh omg someone told me about this recently and that is crazy 😭😭 rip to all the plushies that had to be sacrificed 🥲🩷 that definitely makes it harder to try putting out new things

[@barbaratouchy4815]

There are so many things you can do with flowers, ... make the state flowers of the united states, forget me nots for AK, blue bonnets for Tx, orange blossom for FL, etc. You can also do birth flowers on cards and giving them a meaning example... January's flower is the Carnation - Admiration, Love, Loyalty, Fascination, and Appreciation. I would certainly buy a card with my daughters birth month flower...a Poppy - Imagination, Strength, Success, Calmness, Luxury .. You could even go as far as doing up countries.. Do scented flowers.. the list is endless.. All is takes is a bit of research. You could become a well known flower lady..

[@madewithapril]

I'm from Canada so I'm not sure the state flowers would do that well but people do often ask about birth flowers! Some of them are a little complicated for me, so it becomes a question of do I make all the months except this one? Hahaha it's been on my mind and I need to work them out but I've also considered just selling them during the specific month!

[@mellyinspiredcrochet]

Why not Velcro strips? ☺️ unless you’ve tried that then nvr mind 😅

[@madewithapril]

Ouuu I saw these on Amazon but I'm not sure how well they work - I think I'll see if the dollar store has them so I can try it out for cheap hehe

[@pallor17]

I don't crochet (I used to loom knit - quite badly) but you are the only person who crochets that I subscribe to on YT. Actually, that's a lie. I do have a subscription to someone else, but they don't post often and I don't watch a lot of their videos because frankly, they aren't as interesting to me as you are. I like the way you walk us through your thinking process and how you are completely unedited on camera. Kind of like the way I do my thing. Also, you're a fellow Canadian. But seriously, you have a really good vibe and are accessible to people of all ages. Keep it up. And make sure to charge your value. I always tell people that I would never ask them to work for free and as such, cannot permit myself not to charge for my time either. XOXO

[@madewithapril]

😭🩷🩷 omg thank you so much for the support!! I try my best to share my process because I know people often just show the end product, and it's hard to learn from it when you don't see all the steps!! I'm so happy to hear you're enjoying what I'm making and I appreciate it a lot 🩷🩷 thank you!!!

[@Christina24life]

Make stylized flowers rather than realistic flowers, add character to them. Give them faces or little creatures

[@madewithapril]

I think it's a personal bias of mine to want to make them more realistic 😭

[@phoenixpwcrafting]

I don’t think you should feel guilty for keeping some of the knowledge you have for your crafts private. Most people wouldn’t consider a baker keeping their secret ingredients as gate keeping, so why would your situation be different.

[@madewithapril]

Omg that's so true about baking!! I love that and will probably use that comparison in the future, thank you!!

[@ciciscozycornerofficial]

I completely feel you about the copying me but you're copying someone else. We could just call it inspiration, and no need to be or feel selfish about your items. I think that it's a passion and it's easy to make money from this stuff. Anyone can be inspired by these videos and want to sell to make income. I am currently trying to rely on my crochet since it's still trendy. Sometimes you can only be so creative you need inpirstion from others, it's not about copying but of course, I would never copy a big brand because I know it sells well. That's where each other's creativities come in. My friend did start crocheting and I lost her as a client which really sucked. My worst nightmare was the shipping fees. That insoired her to crochet on her side which got me really depressed for a long time. But I'm slowly getting back on track. People's income are non of my business. As long as you don't steal my brand! 😊

[@ciciscozycornerofficial]

We musn't forget that this is a hobby, anyone can have this hobby. And sometimes we'll just have to watch it in our faces the other people's sucess. But it doesn't mean that we have to shut ourselves off from our hobby. It's comoetitive I'll tell you that! But I love the reflection I'm getting from this. This hobby makes me think.

[@madewithapril]

Thank you for sharing!! Definitely something to think about

[@charleneweege7149]

You could not sell your patterns and keep those crochet to sell and they would be unique to you. What sometimes happens is when everyone sells the same thing one person will do it cheaper than you. If you can it's better to keep your crochet as unique as possible but selling patterns is an easy download. You have to compete with people giving away free patterns and then some people start selling or giving away your patterns which is a copyright infringement which is hard to enforce.

[@madewithapril]

Definitely true about the price undercut - I want to give back to the community and have some crochet patterns available but in the end I have to put myself first because if I burn out or can't support myself, I won't be able to continue what I'm doing in the first place. I've heard lots of stories about the copyright infringement and how its hard to enforce so hopefully I never run into issues like that :S