| Making Money from Scrapbooking (Web Exclusive) |
From "Scrapbooking"
episode SCB-246 |
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Lots of folks would love to have their family history recorded but don't love making scrapbooks. If you do, making scrapbooks for others is one way to make money from your favorite hobby.
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By Holly Christian
Craft designer and writer
For those of you whose love of scrapbooking turns into obsession, the thought of making money from your favorite pastime has no doubt risen. It's not such a crazy idea. According to the Wall Street Journal, "scrapbooking is one of the fastest growing cottage industries in the world." They go on to note that the industry is "remarkably well-organized", with most businesses owned by women. The family-friendly nature of the business (many jobs can be done at home) and the wide range of commitment levels make this a popular choice for many women. Consider the options, from making just enough money to support your scrapbooking habit to full-time career. Here are some ideas for breaking into the Scrapbooking Industry on a large level or small: - Become a scrapbooking consultant -- Direct sales companies such as Creative Memories and Scrap in a Snap offer sales consultant opportunities, which vary from company to company. In direct sales, a product or service is sold face-to-face, in a location removed from the fixed retail location. Sales consultant positions may involve teaching home classes, conducting workshops or throwing parties. Creative Memories is a well-established multi-national direct sales company. Find information at their website, www.creativememories.com. For information on Scrap in a Snap, a new and growing direct sales company, go to www.scrapinasnap.com.
- Make scrapbooks for others -- As a crafty person it may never have occurred to you that there are people who actually hire others to make scrapbooks for them. But it's true. If this idea appeals to you and your scrapbooking skill is high, check out an email list called Scrapping4Others. Members of this discussion forum are more than 1100 strong, and support each other in finding answers to questions. Their web address is http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Scrapping4Others.
- Teach scrapbooking classes -- If you have basic scrapbooking skills or a special technique, consider teaching a class. Crafting has recently jumped in popularity and businesses and groups are offering more classes than ever before. Any establishment that teaches classes needs teachers. Look into art and craft stores, gift shops, and community education centers for possible teaching opportunities. I find that it's important to be organized when teaching a craft. Be sure your instructions are well thought out and easy to understand. Consider providing students with a handout or two with the basics outlined.
- Create a scrapbooking newsletter -- If you're just overflowing with scrapbooking tips and ideas, you may want to create a scrapbooking newsletter, to be distributed electronically via email or printed and mailed to subscribers. If you have a large subscriber list, you can make money by charging for advertising in your newsletter.
- Open a scrapbooking store -- A retail scrapbooking business is not a choice for many, but for those with a high level of commitment and entrepreneurial spirit it may be just the ticket. A less involved retail option to consider is an online scrapbooking store, perhaps selling only specialized products.
Before jumping into any moneymaking scrapbooking adventure, consider taking a look at these two highly recommended books: - Secrets of Scrapbooking Success: Making Money, Making Memories (Fun Facts, 1999) by Sue DiFranco, which outlines six scrapbook-based careers. Find information on other books by Sue DiFranco, plus classes, workshops, newsletter and much more at her business website, www.funfactspublishing.com.
- The Scrapbooker's Guide to Business: What You Need to Know Before You Invest , (Carlo Press, 2000) by Kathy Steligo.
Holly Christian was a frequent contributor to HGTV Ideas magazine and has written for other national publications.
RESOURCES :
Holly Christian
Craft artist and writer
Holly Christian
Website: www.hollychristian.com
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