Starting a Scrapbooking Business – Ways to make money from your favorite hobby
by Carrie Hinkel on November 28th, 2007
If you’re thinking about starting your own scrapbooking business, chances are it’s a favorite pastime of yours already. That’s great! What better business to start then something you already have a passion for!
Did you know that scrapbooking is the fastest growing craft in America? Currently, it’s a $2.55 billion dollar industry here in the U.S. And, what’s amazing is that this lucrative industry is far from reaching its peak. There are many areas of the country where the art of scrapbooking is still unknown – imagine that!
If you are already into scrapbooking, then you know that it’s a very social activity, with almost a cult-like following. Scrapbooking is a great way for friends to connect and talk, or just share creative ideas. There are scrapbooking websites, blogs, forums, conventions, cruises, events, etc. Scrapbookers are really into scrapbooking and meeting and talking with other scrapbookers. So, what does that mean for you as you think about what kind of scrapbooking business to start? Well, what’s great about this industry is the word of mouth factor. If you offer something unique and different, then word inevitably gets out. If one scrapbooker likes your business, chances are hundreds of others scrapbookers will soon know about it too.
Ways to make money with scrapbooking
Scrapbooking website: True, there are literally hundreds of scrapbooking websites already out there. But, scrapbookers are always looking for something new and different. Something that makes their scrapbooks stand out from the rest. Your site should offer something that’s not currently on the market, something different from the competition. Perhaps offering handmade one-of-a-kind scrapbooking supplies? Or creative pre-made scrapbooks? Remember, scrapbookers are very social, so treat your customers extra nice!
Sell scrapbooks or handmade supplies on eBay: There’s already a ton of scrapbooking activity on eBay, so why not get in on it. Find (or create) something that’s new and different and see how it sells. There are enough scrapbookers on eBay to keep you busy if sales do well!
Direct Sales Consultant: This basically means that you organize home scrapbooking parties for scrapbooking suppliers. While most consultants do it for the product discounts, there is definitely room to make good money if you take it seriously.
Manufacturer’s representative: If you have a background in sales, then this is a great way to be involved in the industry and make a good living. As a manufacturer’s rep, your job is to get a manufacturer’s scrapbooking supplies into stores, websites and catalogs. Typically this is a commission-only business, with commission rates ranging from 5%-10% of the wholesale cost. Since manufacturer reps are independent contractors, you can work with several manufacturers to carry a wide selection of product offerings.
There are plenty of other ways to make money with scrapbooking, those are just a few. So, be creative and think of ways that you can break into this still-growing craft industry. If this is already a favorite hobby of yours, then it’ll be easy to do the research to find out what products or services are missing from the scrapbooking market.