If you're passionate about quilting and looking to turn your hobby into a thriving business, you've come to the right place. In this blog post, we will explore Brandon's valuable insights on selling quilts. Brandon has successfully built a lucrative quilting business by establishing relationships, diversifying his offerings, implementing effective marketing strategies, and beginning with the end in mind. So, let's dive into Brandon's tips and learn how to boost your quilting sales.
- Building Relationships:
One of the key factors in Brandon's success is building relationships with individuals who have the financial means or are connected to affluent circles. While his primary focus has been on interior designers, Brandon suggests exploring other avenues such as real estate agents, doctors, lawyers, and other professionals who work with high-end clients. Collaborating with fellow artists and craftspeople, such as woodworkers, can also enhance your portfolio and widen your reach.
- Artistic Adaptation:
While art quilts are captivating, Brandon discovered that interior design quilts have greater market appeal due to their limited color palettes. To modernize your art and make it more appealing, consider creating useful objects like pillows or door stoppers. Brandon's unique door stop pillows have become a sought-after item, commanding high prices. Remember, innovation and practicality can go a long way in increasing the desirability of your quilts.
- Diversification:
Brandon emphasizes the importance of diversifying your quilt offerings. By creating a range of quilts, including art quilts, interior quilts, bed quilts, and competition quilts, you can cater to different target audiences and expand your customer base. This strategy allows you to tap into various markets, increasing your chances of sales and exposure.
- Marketing Strategies:
Effective marketing plays a pivotal role in selling quilts. Brandon suggests targeting design magazines rather than art magazines, as the former reach a broader audience, including potential buyers. Learning marketing tricks, such as creating a sense of exclusivity by saying "you can't have that," can spark interest and desire. Additionally, don't hesitate to ask for higher prices, as a higher price tag often implies greater value and quality.
- Highlighting Value:
To differentiate your work from others, emphasize the unique aspects that make your quilts worth buying. For instance, Brandon uses real silk threads and high-quality fabrics that offer a luxurious tactile experience. By incorporating these premium materials, you create a distinct impression that sets your quilts apart from the rest. Don't be afraid to showcase the difference in materials, as customers will appreciate and be willing to pay more for superior craftsmanship.
- Begin with the End in Mind:
One crucial aspect of Brandon's approach is starting each quilt with a specific buyer in mind. By envisioning the target customer before even creating the quilt, Brandon ensures that his designs cater to their preferences and needs. For example, he understands that a quilt designed for a competition judged by an older crowd will differ from one intended for a designer or a buyer's professional representative. This proactive mindset helps tailor each quilt to its intended market, increasing the chances of a successful sale.
Conclusion:
Brandon's journey in the quilting business offers valuable insights for aspiring quilt sellers. By building relationships, diversifying your offerings, implementing effective marketing strategies, and beginning with the end in mind, you can position yourself for success. Remember, targeting the right audience, adapting your art to different markets, and emphasizing unique value propositions are essential steps in selling your quilts. So, put these tips into practice, and let your quilting business flourish in the vibrant world of textile and mixed media shows.
