How much for homemade goods?

[otjm]

Umm, so I was shocked when I looked up flannel baby blankets on etsy. One seller is selling a 3-piece set for $17!!! A blanket, burp rag and bib. Oh. My. Goodness!!! There were even a few with the very same fabric I’ll be using and the blankets ranged anywhere from $15-$25. The only way I could sell one for $25 is if I was able to complete it start to finish in one hour flat. Wow, just wow. Oh well. If my buyer thinks $65 is too steep for a 5-piece set, she can buy the first set and retract her request for more sets.

Tie for a deep breath.

Not everyone buys on line. We have had a thriving “Saturday Market” in Portland for decades; local artisans sell their wares there and do a thriving business.

There is a potter there who makes bowls; I am constantly amazed at his glazes. $35 a bowl, and I have probably bought 20 or more over the years for wedding gifts. I am sure I could get a bowl for half that price that was decent. But it would never match his.

There will always be a market for etsy sets, and there will always be a market for yours. There will always be people who appreciate something well made, from better fabric. Remember that you are a nitch market, and are not trying to compete with etsy.

 

[JLCecilia]

Thanks otjm! I was grateful that the little shop downtown gave me my fabric for 1/2 price b/c of barely noticeable sun damage. While I was checking out, there was a little shoe box of handmade knit baby booties. They were Beautiful!!! $16+/pair. Too rich for my blood, but glad to see the handmade goods and pricing of another artist. They must be a pro and whip those things out in a flash for that price!

I bought a frivolous item from a friend who had a stand at the farmer’s market this weekend as sort of a prayer. Like, ‘Lord, I’m doing this JUST to support my friend and I hope you’ll help me too!’ It’s an 8 oz jar of coffee body scrub. I’ll probably give it to my GF at lunch next week.