Building Inventory

[Former_Member]

How many items do you create at one time for a specific pattern? Do you make them all exactly the same or do you vary the fabrics used?

I'm new to the craft selling world. I'm just trying to figure out the best way to build my inventory quickly. I'm also afraid of creating too much of one item and being stuck with them.

Thanks!
Erica

[KelleenKreations]

I was just creating one at a time. it would be hard once that sold and I kept it in my shop. Then when someone wanted that item I would have to stop what I was doing and work on the order. Now I have started making the same thing at the same time if I have more then one size to make. If I were you I would maybe make 3 of the headbands at least. For the Journals I would maybe say one of a kind since those might take a little longer to make. I do know the more product you have in the shop the more people can find you. When I list something I list one thing then wait a hour or so to list again. I like people to find my shop through out the day. Hope this helps.

[Former_Member]

I find it best to design your creations have them photographed and them make as you get a order request. I used to make a bunch of different sizes and I ended up with a lot of left over inventory.

If you get multiple orders of one item then make all those one day it tends to decrease time spent.

[Former_Member]

Thanks for the suggestions. I'm wanting to get an inventory built up because I work a full time job and sew on the evenings and weekends. I'm running out of time to create as the orders come in, while still trying to get things made to sell at shows. I'm just going to muddle through this season and come up with a better game plan for next year.

[Former_Member]

Certain items, .like my tissue cozies and business card wallets I keep stocked up, in different fabrics. They're easy to make and don't require a lot of time but they sell out very quickly LOL. Other things, I make and photograph one, and list it, then make more as the purchases come in.

[Former_Member]

I'm kind of gotta have a few things going at the same time since I tend to get bored with doing the same thing for to long! Right now, I have mug rugs going and 6 different prints of them..and doing all the hand sewing on them..at least they are different colors! And I have 2 quilts going, one bargello and one civil war and I have some pillowcases going...other than the 2 quilts, I have to have everything done by first of Aug to post in my shop! I also have to have things done based on the temperature here in the CA desert.. my sewing room is to hot to work in during afternoons, so I spend the mornings in there and do all the machine sewing and then have the hand sewing and cutting to do in the afternoon's in the kitchen.