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The following tips will
help you make the most of a visit to a quality exhibition
and sale of crafts, similar to the Inland Crafts Annual Sale
and Exhibition of Fine Contemporary Crafts.
- For serious collectors,
a floor plan is a must. Floor plans and a listing of
participating artists should be available at the front door.
This allows you to make sure you have seen everything and
also is a good way to remember certain artist names for
return or contact at a later time in the year.
- If possible come to the
show early, typically on a Friday, allowing you the
opportunity to view the show before a lot of purchases have
been made and also giving you time to return if you choose.
- Carry a pen and notepad
to make notes about the pieces with special appeal. You may
want to make a quick sketch of the piece to help you recall
your favorite works.
- Bring your checkbook
and major credit cards. Many artists honor credit cards, but
some do not. Bringing both gives you more flexibility and
buying power.
- Ask questions. If you
are interested in purchasing a piece, but want to think it
over a bit longer, ask the exhibitor if it's a one-of-a-kind
piece. Your favorite items may not be there when you get
back. Sometimes artists also have similar items they can
show you since the space restrictions may prevent them from
displaying all of their work at once. It's always better to
ask than miss a one-of-a-kind opportunity.
- As discussed in the
previous paragraph, talk to the artist. One of the rewarding
aspects of a show similar to Inland Craft Warnings is that
the artists who created the work are present.
- If you get tired - take
a break. There are usually concession areas inside a show
where you can get some refreshments, reflect on what you've
seen and trade impressions with your companions.
- Taking a break is also
a good time to make decisions about what will fit into your
budget. Prices at most shows range from a few dollars to a
few thousand (impulse perfect to collector range).
- Bring along your
shopping list. Fine crafts make wonderful gifts, especially
for those who seem to have everything. Many items are priced
similar to those you can find in finer department stores,
but fine crafts tend to be cherished more since they are
usually one-of-a-kind.
- Don't forget birthday
and anniversary gifts. Review what your gift needs are in
the coming year. This way, if you see things that are
perfect for your family and friends, you can tuck them away
for a special birthday, wedding or other occasion. You may
not see these national artists again, so you can't go home
and think it over for a week. Your opportunity to purchase
may be limited to this event.
- Allow yourself to
experiment, even on a small scale. Many first time buyers
begin buying functional crafts such as ceramic vases or
jewelry. As they grow in familiarity with a medium, they
expand their collecting to include other media and more
adventurous forms. That's because once you own and use a
unique craft object, you'll find there's no substitute for
the subtle way its beauty and spirit enhances your life.
- Related Information
-
How to choose the best craft
items for yourself!
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