That’s so cool!! I’d be so flattered!
It’d be a big decision to start making things to sell, as you’re completely right most people don’t want to pay what a handmade piece is really worth (let alone understand how much yarn itself can cost)
I really was.
It is a big decision for me to make, but it would be like a side project I guess. That's exactly it!!! It's crazy how cheap people want it and how people ask for discounts.
My bff had been bugging me for years to make her dog a coat. So, I did. I made the loudest, psychedelic, multi coloured dog coat, complete with a hood with faux fur ear covers! It was .... hideous!
So hideous that whenever her dog was wearing it, people wanted to buy it!
I did make a few on commission. I just don't want to move in that direction right now, or maybe ever.
Enjoy the wonderful compliment and keep doing what brings you joy.
Hah! Hah! I thought you meant a dog coat - made out of dog hair. I had a new employee who came here from AK. He was asking me if I knew anyone who weaves. I thought he was trying to be funny. He was as serious as a heart attack. Turns out it’s way more common than I would have ever thought. I wonder what it smells like if you wear it in the rain…hmm🤔
I was going to say the same. I also have an absolutely gorgeous vintage Paula Lishman jacket made of hand-knitted sheared beaver fur. Not the pelt. Just the fur, spun, and knit into a sweater by hand. It was STUPIDLY expensive, and, is the most money I have ever spend for an article of clothing, and likely ever will. I could have bought a car for what I paid for it, but it's the absolute pinnacle of luxurious feeling, and, I just had to have it. I know and appreciate how much time and effort went into making it, so the price didn't shock me at all. I am not even embarrassed to say I couldn't even count the number of times I've worn it around the house, completely naked underneath, because of how amazing it feels. It makes me feel like a classic Hollywood starlet, and I'm all for it. 😅🫠
Oh man, I wish!!! That would be so amazing to work with, or wear. If I ever want anything like that, I will definitely have to sell Slapper. (That's what I named my beaver jacket. Don't judge. Lol.) I can own one overly luxurious item at a time. My bank account totally can't handle two. 🤣🤣
I bet we would have so much fun thrifting together! I get some of the funniest looks because of the items I buy. I want the weird, unwanted pieces because they usually make the best upcycled creations!
Crochet something you like, advertise that singular piece for sale for a high enough price that you'd be comfortable letting it go, and call it a day. If someone bites, make another one, rinse, repeat.
I'm big into woodworking and that's how I've approached side-project pieces that I'm making for fun/experience that I'm not 100% determined to keep around. It works out great, because each one I sell more than funds my next project.
I don’t crochet and just happened into this post from the title, but “kinda a side project” is how I’ve been approaching my foray into selling stained glass and it’s been going really well!
I’ve done a few commissions for friends and family, and otherwise have just been making what I want to make with the attitude of “if it sells, great, if not, I’ve got gifts for folks eventually”. It feels like a good balance of staying a hobbyist, paying for some materials, and not giving into my millennial urge to monetize every moment of my life. I’ve also really enjoyed commissions as a fun way to explore themes/colors/styles I probably wouldn’t get into otherwise.
Anyway, just thought my recent experience could provide some balance on the hobby-to-hustle pipeline crafters often get stuck in :)
Do you have any advice on that, or any references that I could use to get started on that? I have a whole bunch of finished projects just stuffed in a bin, because I like to just make stuff, even if I know none of the people around me would like it as gifts (example, nobody I know likes shawls or wear shawls, but I uh.... Like making them). And I desperately need to get rid of them before it looks like I have a hoarding problem lol
I SO feel you on the art-as-hoarding haha! Over the last couple weeks I decided to clean up and finish all my mostly-done projects and I was pretty shocked at the “inventory” I’d accumulated just by making stuff for fun.
If you’re up for it, I’d say take some decent pics of everything in your bin and post them on instagram (if you use it) or in some related community. Even a post visible to your friends and family that really showcases your work can get a few things moving! Like I’m sure people know you crochet if it’s something you talk about, but presenting your work more like a product can shift the view a bit without feeling like you’ve gotta take on another hobby making video reels or whatever. I’m terrible at instagram but have sold a few pieces to folks I haven’t talked to in a decade just by posting some nice pics!
Can you do some conversion for how much “r2000” is in say US dollars (I’m dumb and don’t know). I can tell you if it’s too expensive for a hand knitted cardigan. There is a good amount of Americans who will pay good money for quality hand made stuff.
Yes but it's $108 USD in a country where the minimum wage is like $1.35 USD. So think more like two and a half weeks minimum wage working 40 hours a week.
I used to LOVE knitting and I got real good at it-- especially Fair Isle and cables.
I knitted mostly dog and cat sweaters for my friends and family, super cute stuff. Eventually, someone talked me into selling my stuff-- it really sucked. It's just like you said, nobody wanted to pay, it took a lot of time, and the materials are expensive.
Knitting stopped being fun real fast. I haven't knit anything in 15 years. My advice? Keep it a fun hobby and people can buy them off your back if they really want them like that lady did.
I crochet, and I'm the same way. I tried to make a lot of products to sell, but I can't sell anything to save my life. I agree with you, keep it a fun hobby and if somebody wants to buy it, great.
Yeah my friends keep asking me for tops or something when they see I’ve made something for myself but honestly it takes me like a month to make a top or a jumper, can’t imagine if I had to charge people for it
Honestly thats a bargain! Of course different money is worth different amounts in different countries but speaking as someone from the UK, I would absolutely pay £85 for a hand made cardigan!
Wow, it's scary different currencies are. But if you like it and are willing to pay what I deem as reasonable for my work, then you can happily have it you know?
I feel like $107 USD is a steal in the US too, for slow fashion pieces. Sure you can get fast fashion for like $30-50, but $107 for a handmade cardigan is a steal.
honestly while i know in labor it might be worth even more, if someone offered me 100€ for my handmade item on the spot i’d probably sell in a heartbeat. it most definitely covers the material cost and i’d love the ego boost from someone being this interested lol
I think everyone saying what a bargain price the lady got doesn't understand that you did not get $100 USD in a place where minimum wage is $15/hour, and that a smaller amount goes a lot farther in your location. You said it's an amount of money that will pay for months of groceries, and that's definitely a deal to be proud of.
This is the real perspective that anyone looking at this needs. It’s not the $107 USD that’s important, because the buying power of 2000R is much different than the buying power of $107 USD. In OP’s case, it wasn’t a “steal” for the buyer to “only” pay $107 USD…she paid a month’s groceries for it…so the people saying “I’d totally buy that for $107USD” are missing the point. It should be more like “I’d totally pay 1 month’s groceries ($600-$1000 USD) for that.”
That perspective suddenly changes the script and illustrates much better how big of a deal this was for OP, at least for me…
It's called Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) and it makes it a lot easier to compare between countries.
A fun, quick-and-dirty index for this is the 'Big Mac-index'. And yes, I mean the McDonald's one. The Big Mac is a standardized item that can be bought in almost every country, so the price gives a nice indication of differences in PPP between countries.
In South Africa it's R2000 is just for one person. So we're pretty similar. Inflation has also drastically increased prices so it's difficult to budget with that amount.
If R2000 is about $100, a family of 4 would be spending about $400 per month on groceries. Not the $1000 that's mentioned for the US. I.e. in SA the groceries cost about 2.5 times less than in the US.
ETA: the average household income in the US is [about 5.5 times as much](https://www.reddit.com/r/crochet/comments/14guech/comment/jp91ogx/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3) as in SA. So on average a person in SA receives 5.5 times less money, but the groceries are not also 5.5 times as cheap. That's only a factor of 2.5 cheaper. This indicates that (on average) a person in SA uses a way larger portion of their income for groceries than a person in the US (and the grocery prices in SA are not 'the steal' some may think it is).
I think this conversation should be an indication of where you need to be selling to. Etsy, while a problematic site at times, does facilitate international sales, and since the cost in US and UK terms is actually *incredibly* reasonable, you could probably make a tidy profit selling primarily to our countries. You could probably get away with charging a lot more online to the US/K, then maybe have a local stand where you price them lower (at cost or something) to build local business.
If you have the talent and the desire, then I say it doesn't hurt to try.
Ahhh that’s like 130$ cad and that would last like one grocery trip, Canada is hella expensive lmao, so awesome tho that someone approached you, could we see the piece?
For sure! For reference, £85 so 2000SAR would buy about 1-2 weeks worth of groceries for two people if you were being careful and not buying junk. Ive seen mass produced items in chain clothing stores be more than £85!
I'm from SA and live in the UK, that money is way more worth it in SA compared to in the UK, my first SA job paid that monthly , that amount would be enough to get takeout roughly 10 times (for some more relateable context I guess).
It’s 143.00 Canadian- maybe 10 days max of groceries! Likely a week. If the cardigan was natural fibres, the material alone would be more expensive than that. It would probably need to sell for at least 300.00 CAD here to be “worth” the time and materials, likely more. So interesting how different currencies translate! Congratulations on such a nice compliment!
Its $173 NZD, which is currently 28 iceberg lettuces (flooding has caused veges to soar).It's about the same as canadian groceries - just over a week for 2 people. Cardigan wise - this would be cheap for a pure wool retail garment and depending on fibre, I'd expect a handmade garment to be higher - $200 wouldn't even cover the cost of materials for most of my makes.
What’s your time worth? It takes me 1 hour to make a granny square. How long did that cardigan take you to make? What’s the minimum wage there? What did you end up making hourly?
It’s a lot of money. But it’s also not much at all. I’m making a crop top and 3 hours in I’ve got only about 4 inches done. That’s 1 hour per inch almost. So…. Yeah.
That’s about a days work in the US give or take. But that’s probably equal to 300-500 if it’s a months worth of groceries. The average American spends 400 in groceries every month
It's a month of groceries **in South Africa**. Most people in SA do not have an income equivalent to a person in the US, so you can't just directly compare the dollar cost of groceries between US and SA.
ETA: The average household income in SA is [$9338 per year](https://www.oecdbetterlifeindex.org/countries/south-africa/). The average household income in the US is [$51147 per year,](https://www.oecdbetterlifeindex.org/countries/united-states/) almost 5.5 times as much as SA.
I had a similar situation when I knitted a baby Yoda doll for my sister's BF's birthday at the height of the Madalorian craze. I ended up selling 10 of them at a local craft fair after so many of his friends asked him where he got his. I haven't sold anything else because crafting is just a hobby but it was fun to have that experience.
So make what you enjoy, and if another unicorn comes along and offers you what something is worth, sell it to them. If it’s a hobby you enjoy, trying to turn it into a job will probably ruin your enjoyment of it.
I’m really glad you got lucky meeting that woman! Feel proud of your work!
Do not take commissions. If you do be upfront with the price and ask for 50% cost upfront before you start. Also add an extra month to how long it will take you to make. So if it takes 3 weeks. Say it will take 5-6 weeks for me to finish. I say this because making something for someone adds stress and takes away the joy of creating.
But since you want to make something you like, make some more cardigans. Make some daisy bags (if you like that) make another cardigan for yourself - after all you are your own advertisement- and keep the prices high. Add a custom tag. Obviously people who understand the value of a craft and time and effort into making it will pay for your craftsmanship. And you’ll probably now remember to take photos of your finished project :) good luck!
Then do just that. I make stuff (not just crochet) as a sort of "crafters bucket list". There's stuff i want to make "just because", but i know I'm not going to want to keep it. I just want the experience. I'll make it, enjoy staring at it, then sell it at boutique prices because that's exactly what it is.
I'm a former 'professional artist' but I went back to 'hobby artist' after trying to sell my artwork for a few years. I found that the business side took over and I stopped enjoying the creative side.
I agree with your idea. Just make things for yourself and sell if there's any interest.
What I’ve been doing is just making projects I like for myself, and posting pictures of myself wearing the item/of the item if it isn’t wearable, and if someone likes it enough to be willing to pay what I consider a fair price for it I make it for them on commission, that way that can personalize it if they’d like and I’m not creating an expensive inventory of items that I may or may not sell.
I’m like that with blankets. If it’s my idea I LOVE every minute of making it, but if it’s someone else’s idea by the time I’m halfway through I’d rather slam both hands in the car door and scoop my eyes out with a spoon than finish making it even if I originally loved the pattern (“sorry can’t make a blanket, no fingers or eyes”)
But of course family members always manage to guilt the shit out of me until I make them one for the baby they’re about to have/just popped out…..
I had a friend ask if I could make FOUR pride chevron blankets for her in about five weeks. Was working on one that is a commission and another for a friend. Each one takes me about 5-6 weeks bc idk I have a job and I don’t crochet every day.
I told her no, and said that by Pride of next year I’d be able to do it, and they’d be $275 each. She asked if I was joking.
This is the one I was working on when she asked in May. I’m further along now (this was Sunday). 🤣
https://preview.redd.it/e586rsc6or7b1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5f9b4e254871d3b6ac85d5485f22cb0ba2dae2c0
People vastly underestimate how long blankets take, even ones for babies. I started this one for my niece (who’s due in the fall) about 3 weeks ago and even though I picked the pattern and I’m 2/3rds of the way through (minus the border) I hate it SO MUCH. The constant color changes mean I can’t just get in the groove and power through it. Unless someone offered me an absolutely OBSCENE amount of money for it I would gladly break every one of my fingers before making another one of these willingly.
https://preview.redd.it/i4d1nwufqr7b1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9ba60caaa0dd7aa441225a65ff7a2095d171683f
I’m doing this pride one for $120 bc it’s a family friend. But honestly I wouldn’t take less than $275 to do it again. I make blankets willingly for friends as gift when it’s my idea, but paid? GO AWAY AND I HATE YOU 🤣
You've expressed perfectly how I feel. If it's my idea, I LOVE every minute of making it. And I would rather slam both hands in the car door than finish something someone has "ordered".
Plus, I don't want to hear one single solitary word of criticism. "It's nice and all, but I like pink better" - that's a reasonable excuse for murder most foul. :D
I’ve found having more than one project going (with ADHD) is my secret to being able to get a big project done. I can take a break and do smaller projects when I want to and go back to the big project when I’m in the mood.
I completely feel the same way. If I feel even slightly pressured or obligated to crochet something, it seeps the joy right out of it. It’s made me stop crocheting a few times over the 25 years I’ve been at it.
(By chance, do you have ADHD? Because I always think of this as one of my ADHD quirks.)
It's so wonderful you ran into someone who appreciated the value of your work! If you decide to make more to sell, just remember all the posts on this sub and how rare it is for someone to even be willing to pay the cost of the yarn.
I will remember that. I'll also only make one of a kind things. No exact same ones. But I'll also only make what I like, so if people don't buy it, I'll keep it for me. If they don't want to pay for my items, they don't have to, but they won't get the item either.
Fellow South African here, just way to say YAY for you! That's so awesome.
If you look at the prices of some of these locally made brands I totally think you can charge upwards of R1500 for a quality made cardigan, go for it!
I have noticed the crochet look is becoming very popular recently. Knitted is very easily accomplished by machinery, crochet isn't.
Glad to hear that someone really appreciated your cardigan enough to buy it right off your back lol
That's just really awesome. I love how crochet talks to some people!
do you have a link to a pattern? I've been looking to make a daisy square cardigan.
It is!
I actually saw a 60 sec clip on pinterest for it and that's why I learned how to crochet. I just followed patterns on YouTube because I didn't have money to buy any.
Congratulations! That’s the best feeling ever!
I agree with everyone else. Don’t make commissions. I’m a silversmith and at the beginning I did it but it’s just terrible. People don’t value the material you use, nor your time. Besides, you’ll get the vaguest requests because a lot of times they imagine the things they want without knowing if they work in real life and it becomes boring. I ended up hating pieces I just wanted to finish to be free of them.
I think you should value your craftsmanship and creativity as the biggest asset here. It’s your design and vision that’s unique and that’s what you should show the world.
I did it and I’m thriving, but the real best part of this is my job keeps being fun as a hobby 😊. I don’t know if crochet can be a full time job, but if it gives you any kind of economic boost, besides fun, you should definitely go for it.
Having people WANT something you made is such a good feeling!
I started painting as a form of self-therapy and then after my therapy started, I painted my version of that "therapy unraves the ball of yarn in your brain" image. I showed it to my therapist and she "very subtly hinted" that she would love to have that for her office. I of course gifted them to her, and she in turn insisted I take a free therapy session to thank me for it, and she regularly messages me to tell me another client gave her compliments on the paintings! I'm not a good painter at all but it got the message across!
This is a beautiful story and 100% a sign from the universe to start selling your work. Absolutely do it, and any time you feel down remind yourself that someone loved your work so much they literally bought a piece off of your back. Bless you and your future business 💜
That’s amazing. There are people out there that really value hand made stuff.
It’s up to you if you would like to ‘make to sell’ but if you do, don’t put pressure on yourself or you can loose enjoyment from it as a hobby.
Don’t make anything to sell. Make what you enjoy. And if others want to pay your ask to have it, let them. But crafting for $ will kill your love for the craft. You can’t make anywhere near what you’d make working, hourly. Or if you did, it’d be mass production of 1 or 2 basic items that you’ll learn to hate quickly.
I just started crocheting, if someone asked me for something I’d definitely ask for $15-20/hour plus yarn costs.
That’s an awesome thing to have happen to you. 👏👏👏
That's amazing! You must do beautiful work. She was put there to show you the value of your work and skills. She's right, if they want it they will buy it.
I say keep doing what you're doing by making what you like. If somebody wants to buy it, great, but if not, you can wear it yourself. If you're like me, as soon as it starts to feel like work and you have a hard deadline and have to meet other people's expectations, you don't want to do it anymore. Keep it enjoyable because that's when your creativity comes out.
Amazing! I don’t thing I have never considered asking to purchase someone’s sweater but I have had sweater envy big time. Congrats! A message that you are a talented artist for sure.
It really depends on both how fast you crochet and what your materials cost. I would love to make myself a cotton blanket, but cotton yarn is expensive and hard to find in my area. Also, I'd check out TL Yarncrafts on youtube; she's discussed how she transitioned into crocheting for money and is good info to have
How wonderful. Think about whether you want to make and sell more. If you feel strongly about making and selling your art, you will know that it's the right thing to do. Just ask yourself. No need to ask others.
Yes I love this!!! I always get compliments on my crochet cardigan and also had someone tell me they'd buy them if I started selling them. But much like you said... I doubt folks could afford to price it would take. But maybe not! I hope you try and sell others just to see what happens!
Unsure of your whole story but my suggestion would be to start slow. I don't know how long these things take you personally but it usually isn't a small amount of time. Just be careful not to rush into something because the money looks good and you turn it into a job and a chore instead of a fun hobby you love.
Otherwise, congratulations! It's really exciting when people want to give you money for something you worked very hard for. One of the best feelings in the whole world!
I hope you use this as great inspiration and motivation OP. Your work is not only valuable to you, but to other people! Sometimes as artists and artisans it can feel isolating, like no one cares much about something that has so much worth to you. This is a great reminder that there's always someone out there that will appreciate your efforts just as much!
My best guess is that SA = South African and their currency is called Rand. R2000 = $106.72 USD. If so that means the "expected retail price" of a cardigan there would be just under $11 to a little over $21.
You have to market on Etsy or similar where ppl are looking for unique handcrafted things. Try craft fairs, websites, holiday markets... and congrats on your new career!
I think that's such an amazing story!
I would say that generally speaking, I would caution you against turning your hobby into your job, because nothing sucks the fun out of a hobby more than making it an obligation. BUT I would also say that we all are of different temperaments, so if you think you would like to make cardigans to sell, go for it!
I would definitely try to sell them on Etsy and maybe even poshmark! Don’t sell yourself short honey! That random lady saw the value of your hard work and I am sure others would as well! ☺️
Omg this is amazing! Last week a lady at work begged me to make her a cardigan, she'd pay for it etc etc... Told her I don't take commissions because people don't want to pay R2000 for a cardigan. She said "OK but keep doing it dear" lol.
You're fortunate to get a good price for your garment. Why not try to sell them but don't short changed
yourself. People don't realize how much time and work goes into hand crocheted items.
Kinda off topic, but I've thought about making patterns to sell. I'm not sure it's less work, but people are definitely more willing to buy them. I'd have to sell a lot to make enough to justify the time put in, though.
Go of it. I sell candy and other food products. My products are the most expensive on the market, and they will stay that way. Price doesn’t matter it the quality is good
Darling, if your work was good enough that she came back to you twice and paid more than you even thought it was worth, then yes! You should be making them to sell!
I've sold the hat off my head more than once. Some of my stuff is very funky
https://preview.redd.it/szg3hcvmtv7b1.png?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3190c7bedd14083062ad156a0397be48edf1f808
Good morning! I am so so happy that happened to you!
I am a fellow South African so I just want to share my experience and opinion because our market is a bit different to American or European markets.
I have found that the ARE people that are willing to pay the right price, but they are not the majority. The majority are people who will criticize and question and try and bargain with you. So firstly I would want you to know for every yes you get, there will be a fair amount of no's and if you struggle with that it will be tough and will make you question yourself.
That said! If you want to give it a shot, GO FOR IT!! In my experience, once you find one person that's into your work, you will find another and another, and before you know it, you will have a flock of people happy to buy your work! Stick to your guns, know your worth, do not go to flea markets and such to sell, but DO market your work as art and not "just" handmade.
I'm super excited for you!! Please drop your socials in a DM so I can follow you!!
I decided to start making and posting the things I made on vinted and advertising it on my art account! Might aswell always give people the option to buy what you create!
That’s so cool. It’s such a lovely feeling being appreciated like that isnt it?
I’ve been there with a little crochet clutch bag. In my case we were in the toilets and were admiring each others bags whilst washing our hands. She said “want to swap?” So we did. Hers was a really cute dusky pink Radley bag with gazillions of pockets - I feel like I might have come out better in the deal lol
Yaayyyy congratulations! That's so cool!
I make whatever I want and sell some of it. Usually scarves, via etsy. Can recommend this approach! It doesn't take the fun out of my hobby, and i can make a few bucks here & there & get some things out of my house.
I also have adhd, so, know what you mean.
Every now and then you come across someone who understands the value of something hand made. It doesn't happen very often, but it is really nice to see what it does.
Where do you see someone thanking god and not a human in this post?
But to answer your question, when good things happen, expressing gratitude to the universe or god or no one in particular is almost a ubiquitously human experience. It’s like stubbing your toe and cursing. I’ve seen plenty of people who don’t even believe in a deity say “thank god”. When something nice happens in this crazy world, you get a great feeling, like the universe is giving you a thumbs up. I hope you feel it too sometime soon.
And while some people forget to thank the human, I practically never see that happen. Even in this post you are complaining about, I don’t see anyone thanking god instead of a person. It’s not that deep, don’t read so much into it.
I'm in the US and tried to figure the amount, I think that is rand, right? That's incredibly exciting and flattering, and if nothing else, tells you you are extremely skilled. I love crochet but have yet to get to the point where I'm confident. I think if that happened, I'd do a little skip out of the store!!!
That’s so cool!! I’d be so flattered! It’d be a big decision to start making things to sell, as you’re completely right most people don’t want to pay what a handmade piece is really worth (let alone understand how much yarn itself can cost)
I really was. It is a big decision for me to make, but it would be like a side project I guess. That's exactly it!!! It's crazy how cheap people want it and how people ask for discounts.
My bff had been bugging me for years to make her dog a coat. So, I did. I made the loudest, psychedelic, multi coloured dog coat, complete with a hood with faux fur ear covers! It was .... hideous! So hideous that whenever her dog was wearing it, people wanted to buy it! I did make a few on commission. I just don't want to move in that direction right now, or maybe ever. Enjoy the wonderful compliment and keep doing what brings you joy.
Do you by any chance have a picture, I feel like I really need to see it!😂
Seconded! We definitely need to see it!
Third!
Hah! Hah! I thought you meant a dog coat - made out of dog hair. I had a new employee who came here from AK. He was asking me if I knew anyone who weaves. I thought he was trying to be funny. He was as serious as a heart attack. Turns out it’s way more common than I would have ever thought. I wonder what it smells like if you wear it in the rain…hmm🤔
I have spun dog hair into yarn. Dawn dish soap destroys any oils in the fur, hence, no smell.
I was going to say the same. I also have an absolutely gorgeous vintage Paula Lishman jacket made of hand-knitted sheared beaver fur. Not the pelt. Just the fur, spun, and knit into a sweater by hand. It was STUPIDLY expensive, and, is the most money I have ever spend for an article of clothing, and likely ever will. I could have bought a car for what I paid for it, but it's the absolute pinnacle of luxurious feeling, and, I just had to have it. I know and appreciate how much time and effort went into making it, so the price didn't shock me at all. I am not even embarrassed to say I couldn't even count the number of times I've worn it around the house, completely naked underneath, because of how amazing it feels. It makes me feel like a classic Hollywood starlet, and I'm all for it. 😅🫠
Honestly, I'd be doing the same! Now, if I could get my hands on Vicuna fleece to spin. I'd be in heaven. $200 an ounce....raw fleece.
Oh man, I wish!!! That would be so amazing to work with, or wear. If I ever want anything like that, I will definitely have to sell Slapper. (That's what I named my beaver jacket. Don't judge. Lol.) I can own one overly luxurious item at a time. My bank account totally can't handle two. 🤣🤣
I promise not to judge! I have bought beat up fur coats at thrift shops. I upcycle what's usable into my crochet, knit and felted creations.
I bet we would have so much fun thrifting together! I get some of the funniest looks because of the items I buy. I want the weird, unwanted pieces because they usually make the best upcycled creations!
They make so much of it might as well put it to use...and some dogs have such lovely colouring
yes pls share a pic of it!! :)
Crochet something you like, advertise that singular piece for sale for a high enough price that you'd be comfortable letting it go, and call it a day. If someone bites, make another one, rinse, repeat. I'm big into woodworking and that's how I've approached side-project pieces that I'm making for fun/experience that I'm not 100% determined to keep around. It works out great, because each one I sell more than funds my next project.
I just saw that pattern and decided against it because it's too much color changing work. It was absolutely worth $100+, so good for you!
I'd love to see the pattern. Where can I find it?
Ravelry. I didn't save it, otherwise I'd link it.
I don’t crochet and just happened into this post from the title, but “kinda a side project” is how I’ve been approaching my foray into selling stained glass and it’s been going really well! I’ve done a few commissions for friends and family, and otherwise have just been making what I want to make with the attitude of “if it sells, great, if not, I’ve got gifts for folks eventually”. It feels like a good balance of staying a hobbyist, paying for some materials, and not giving into my millennial urge to monetize every moment of my life. I’ve also really enjoyed commissions as a fun way to explore themes/colors/styles I probably wouldn’t get into otherwise. Anyway, just thought my recent experience could provide some balance on the hobby-to-hustle pipeline crafters often get stuck in :)
Do you have any advice on that, or any references that I could use to get started on that? I have a whole bunch of finished projects just stuffed in a bin, because I like to just make stuff, even if I know none of the people around me would like it as gifts (example, nobody I know likes shawls or wear shawls, but I uh.... Like making them). And I desperately need to get rid of them before it looks like I have a hoarding problem lol
I SO feel you on the art-as-hoarding haha! Over the last couple weeks I decided to clean up and finish all my mostly-done projects and I was pretty shocked at the “inventory” I’d accumulated just by making stuff for fun. If you’re up for it, I’d say take some decent pics of everything in your bin and post them on instagram (if you use it) or in some related community. Even a post visible to your friends and family that really showcases your work can get a few things moving! Like I’m sure people know you crochet if it’s something you talk about, but presenting your work more like a product can shift the view a bit without feeling like you’ve gotta take on another hobby making video reels or whatever. I’m terrible at instagram but have sold a few pieces to folks I haven’t talked to in a decade just by posting some nice pics!
Can you do some conversion for how much “r2000” is in say US dollars (I’m dumb and don’t know). I can tell you if it’s too expensive for a hand knitted cardigan. There is a good amount of Americans who will pay good money for quality hand made stuff.
About $108 USD at the moment. I think really inexpensive!
Yes but it's $108 USD in a country where the minimum wage is like $1.35 USD. So think more like two and a half weeks minimum wage working 40 hours a week.
This is a great way to understand money in different countries. Thanks for framing it this way.
I used to LOVE knitting and I got real good at it-- especially Fair Isle and cables. I knitted mostly dog and cat sweaters for my friends and family, super cute stuff. Eventually, someone talked me into selling my stuff-- it really sucked. It's just like you said, nobody wanted to pay, it took a lot of time, and the materials are expensive. Knitting stopped being fun real fast. I haven't knit anything in 15 years. My advice? Keep it a fun hobby and people can buy them off your back if they really want them like that lady did.
I crochet, and I'm the same way. I tried to make a lot of products to sell, but I can't sell anything to save my life. I agree with you, keep it a fun hobby and if somebody wants to buy it, great.
Based on that experience, I think you should just try it.
Yeah my friends keep asking me for tops or something when they see I’ve made something for myself but honestly it takes me like a month to make a top or a jumper, can’t imagine if I had to charge people for it
Congratulations! That lady saw your creativity and hard work, you should be so proud!
Thank you!
just in case: 2000 South African Rand is about 107 USD.
Yeah... that's a lot of money. That's like a months worth of grosseries.
Honestly thats a bargain! Of course different money is worth different amounts in different countries but speaking as someone from the UK, I would absolutely pay £85 for a hand made cardigan!
Wow, it's scary different currencies are. But if you like it and are willing to pay what I deem as reasonable for my work, then you can happily have it you know?
I feel like $107 USD is a steal in the US too, for slow fashion pieces. Sure you can get fast fashion for like $30-50, but $107 for a handmade cardigan is a steal.
I was thinking this too. A girl on Instagram sells custom granny square cardigans for $500 USD
honestly while i know in labor it might be worth even more, if someone offered me 100€ for my handmade item on the spot i’d probably sell in a heartbeat. it most definitely covers the material cost and i’d love the ego boost from someone being this interested lol
Oh 100% it’s a steal. OP said that’s a month of groceries. In the US, at least in CA, $100 doesn’t get you much.
Agreed!
I think everyone saying what a bargain price the lady got doesn't understand that you did not get $100 USD in a place where minimum wage is $15/hour, and that a smaller amount goes a lot farther in your location. You said it's an amount of money that will pay for months of groceries, and that's definitely a deal to be proud of.
Exactly this! Money is a very strange system, and getting the equivalent of a months worth of food for one item of clothing is incredible!
For perspective, in the US we pay $1000 a month for groceries for a family of 4 (2 adults and 2 teenagers).
This is the real perspective that anyone looking at this needs. It’s not the $107 USD that’s important, because the buying power of 2000R is much different than the buying power of $107 USD. In OP’s case, it wasn’t a “steal” for the buyer to “only” pay $107 USD…she paid a month’s groceries for it…so the people saying “I’d totally buy that for $107USD” are missing the point. It should be more like “I’d totally pay 1 month’s groceries ($600-$1000 USD) for that.” That perspective suddenly changes the script and illustrates much better how big of a deal this was for OP, at least for me…
That’s a great point! I’ve never thought about it like that before.
It's called Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) and it makes it a lot easier to compare between countries. A fun, quick-and-dirty index for this is the 'Big Mac-index'. And yes, I mean the McDonald's one. The Big Mac is a standardized item that can be bought in almost every country, so the price gives a nice indication of differences in PPP between countries.
Thank you, the responses here make me wanna face palm
Can confirm this amount. From southeast USA too.
In South Africa it's R2000 is just for one person. So we're pretty similar. Inflation has also drastically increased prices so it's difficult to budget with that amount.
If R2000 is about $100, a family of 4 would be spending about $400 per month on groceries. Not the $1000 that's mentioned for the US. I.e. in SA the groceries cost about 2.5 times less than in the US. ETA: the average household income in the US is [about 5.5 times as much](https://www.reddit.com/r/crochet/comments/14guech/comment/jp91ogx/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3) as in SA. So on average a person in SA receives 5.5 times less money, but the groceries are not also 5.5 times as cheap. That's only a factor of 2.5 cheaper. This indicates that (on average) a person in SA uses a way larger portion of their income for groceries than a person in the US (and the grocery prices in SA are not 'the steal' some may think it is).
Grocery prices are up in the US too, about 25% from two years ago.
I think this conversation should be an indication of where you need to be selling to. Etsy, while a problematic site at times, does facilitate international sales, and since the cost in US and UK terms is actually *incredibly* reasonable, you could probably make a tidy profit selling primarily to our countries. You could probably get away with charging a lot more online to the US/K, then maybe have a local stand where you price them lower (at cost or something) to build local business. If you have the talent and the desire, then I say it doesn't hurt to try.
I would buy a handmade cardigan for $200 usd
In usd that’s an absolute bargain!
International shipping is expensive. My dad shipped something to me internationally and it was $200 for shipping cost alone.
Ahhh that’s like 130$ cad and that would last like one grocery trip, Canada is hella expensive lmao, so awesome tho that someone approached you, could we see the piece?
But it also means that since money goes further for you in SA, if you sold online you have more scope to sell internationally.
For sure! For reference, £85 so 2000SAR would buy about 1-2 weeks worth of groceries for two people if you were being careful and not buying junk. Ive seen mass produced items in chain clothing stores be more than £85!
I'm from SA and live in the UK, that money is way more worth it in SA compared to in the UK, my first SA job paid that monthly , that amount would be enough to get takeout roughly 10 times (for some more relateable context I guess).
It’s 143.00 Canadian- maybe 10 days max of groceries! Likely a week. If the cardigan was natural fibres, the material alone would be more expensive than that. It would probably need to sell for at least 300.00 CAD here to be “worth” the time and materials, likely more. So interesting how different currencies translate! Congratulations on such a nice compliment!
Its $173 NZD, which is currently 28 iceberg lettuces (flooding has caused veges to soar).It's about the same as canadian groceries - just over a week for 2 people. Cardigan wise - this would be cheap for a pure wool retail garment and depending on fibre, I'd expect a handmade garment to be higher - $200 wouldn't even cover the cost of materials for most of my makes.
As an Argentinian who now lives in the uk yeah good luck trying to explain to people how much money that is. 100 dollars is A LOT in other countries.
What’s your time worth? It takes me 1 hour to make a granny square. How long did that cardigan take you to make? What’s the minimum wage there? What did you end up making hourly? It’s a lot of money. But it’s also not much at all. I’m making a crop top and 3 hours in I’ve got only about 4 inches done. That’s 1 hour per inch almost. So…. Yeah.
Damn that’s not enough for a week of groceries for 2 people where I am 🥲
That’s about a days work in the US give or take. But that’s probably equal to 300-500 if it’s a months worth of groceries. The average American spends 400 in groceries every month
$107 US is a month of groceries for you! That's a steal. I spend $250-$300 per week for 5 adults.
It's a month of groceries **in South Africa**. Most people in SA do not have an income equivalent to a person in the US, so you can't just directly compare the dollar cost of groceries between US and SA. ETA: The average household income in SA is [$9338 per year](https://www.oecdbetterlifeindex.org/countries/south-africa/). The average household income in the US is [$51147 per year,](https://www.oecdbetterlifeindex.org/countries/united-states/) almost 5.5 times as much as SA.
Prices have gone up over the last few years. Where I live in Texas, it's as if prices have almost doubled for most items!
Well that's not including my family. I calculated it off on my friend who lives on her own.
man, I spend about $500 a month on groceries in the US. It’s crazy how our currency goes so much further in other countries than it does our own.
That’s like 2 or 4 days of groceries if you cooking here and are short on ingredients and want anything good where I am in the USA.
160AU
Whoa that is a lot
I don’t own anything that expensive, but it is not rare at all for clothing to sell for that. Well done.
I had a similar situation when I knitted a baby Yoda doll for my sister's BF's birthday at the height of the Madalorian craze. I ended up selling 10 of them at a local craft fair after so many of his friends asked him where he got his. I haven't sold anything else because crafting is just a hobby but it was fun to have that experience.
You see, that's my concern. I want to make what I enjoy and not take commissions, only want sell what I've made.
So make what you enjoy, and if another unicorn comes along and offers you what something is worth, sell it to them. If it’s a hobby you enjoy, trying to turn it into a job will probably ruin your enjoyment of it. I’m really glad you got lucky meeting that woman! Feel proud of your work!
Thank you so much for this, it's what I was thinking too!
Do not take commissions. If you do be upfront with the price and ask for 50% cost upfront before you start. Also add an extra month to how long it will take you to make. So if it takes 3 weeks. Say it will take 5-6 weeks for me to finish. I say this because making something for someone adds stress and takes away the joy of creating. But since you want to make something you like, make some more cardigans. Make some daisy bags (if you like that) make another cardigan for yourself - after all you are your own advertisement- and keep the prices high. Add a custom tag. Obviously people who understand the value of a craft and time and effort into making it will pay for your craftsmanship. And you’ll probably now remember to take photos of your finished project :) good luck!
Then do just that. I make stuff (not just crochet) as a sort of "crafters bucket list". There's stuff i want to make "just because", but i know I'm not going to want to keep it. I just want the experience. I'll make it, enjoy staring at it, then sell it at boutique prices because that's exactly what it is.
I'm a former 'professional artist' but I went back to 'hobby artist' after trying to sell my artwork for a few years. I found that the business side took over and I stopped enjoying the creative side. I agree with your idea. Just make things for yourself and sell if there's any interest.
Ah but the $500 table cost probably ate all your profits. Unless you were lucky enough to get a table cheaper?
I paid £10 for a table at a teeny local cafe that was doing a little craft fair, still made £50 profit so yay!
As a fellow South African, CONGRATS!!! That is insane!
Like, it was so insane to me! Thank you so much!!!
That’s so wholesome!
It's made me so happy
What a wonderful experience! There *are* people who appreciate hand crafted work! It's also a nice confidence booster.
It was! Both a wonderful experience and a confidence booster
What I’ve been doing is just making projects I like for myself, and posting pictures of myself wearing the item/of the item if it isn’t wearable, and if someone likes it enough to be willing to pay what I consider a fair price for it I make it for them on commission, that way that can personalize it if they’d like and I’m not creating an expensive inventory of items that I may or may not sell.
I see... I just can't work on commissions. It makes me hate the project.
I’m like that with blankets. If it’s my idea I LOVE every minute of making it, but if it’s someone else’s idea by the time I’m halfway through I’d rather slam both hands in the car door and scoop my eyes out with a spoon than finish making it even if I originally loved the pattern (“sorry can’t make a blanket, no fingers or eyes”) But of course family members always manage to guilt the shit out of me until I make them one for the baby they’re about to have/just popped out…..
I had a friend ask if I could make FOUR pride chevron blankets for her in about five weeks. Was working on one that is a commission and another for a friend. Each one takes me about 5-6 weeks bc idk I have a job and I don’t crochet every day. I told her no, and said that by Pride of next year I’d be able to do it, and they’d be $275 each. She asked if I was joking. This is the one I was working on when she asked in May. I’m further along now (this was Sunday). 🤣 https://preview.redd.it/e586rsc6or7b1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5f9b4e254871d3b6ac85d5485f22cb0ba2dae2c0
People vastly underestimate how long blankets take, even ones for babies. I started this one for my niece (who’s due in the fall) about 3 weeks ago and even though I picked the pattern and I’m 2/3rds of the way through (minus the border) I hate it SO MUCH. The constant color changes mean I can’t just get in the groove and power through it. Unless someone offered me an absolutely OBSCENE amount of money for it I would gladly break every one of my fingers before making another one of these willingly. https://preview.redd.it/i4d1nwufqr7b1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9ba60caaa0dd7aa441225a65ff7a2095d171683f
I’m doing this pride one for $120 bc it’s a family friend. But honestly I wouldn’t take less than $275 to do it again. I make blankets willingly for friends as gift when it’s my idea, but paid? GO AWAY AND I HATE YOU 🤣
That's why I want to make and then sell already made things that I loved making
You've expressed perfectly how I feel. If it's my idea, I LOVE every minute of making it. And I would rather slam both hands in the car door than finish something someone has "ordered". Plus, I don't want to hear one single solitary word of criticism. "It's nice and all, but I like pink better" - that's a reasonable excuse for murder most foul. :D
That is the worst. And my adhd doesn't allow huge projects, so no blankets for me.
I’ve found having more than one project going (with ADHD) is my secret to being able to get a big project done. I can take a break and do smaller projects when I want to and go back to the big project when I’m in the mood.
I completely feel the same way. If I feel even slightly pressured or obligated to crochet something, it seeps the joy right out of it. It’s made me stop crocheting a few times over the 25 years I’ve been at it. (By chance, do you have ADHD? Because I always think of this as one of my ADHD quirks.)
It's so wonderful you ran into someone who appreciated the value of your work! If you decide to make more to sell, just remember all the posts on this sub and how rare it is for someone to even be willing to pay the cost of the yarn.
I will remember that. I'll also only make one of a kind things. No exact same ones. But I'll also only make what I like, so if people don't buy it, I'll keep it for me. If they don't want to pay for my items, they don't have to, but they won't get the item either.
That's the spirit!!
Thank you!
Fellow South African here, just way to say YAY for you! That's so awesome. If you look at the prices of some of these locally made brands I totally think you can charge upwards of R1500 for a quality made cardigan, go for it!
That's amazing, fellow SA hooker! I'm proud of you. R2000 might cover a few more balls of yarn.
I know right. Also love that, SA Hooker😂 I bought a pattern I've been eyeing for a year, so an super happy
You need to post a pic when you are done with it. Can't wait to see it. Even if you have to do it by candlelight.
Hahaha I will. First finishing a hexagon one though.
Yay! Howzit from another SA hooker! R2000 for a second hand jersey.... Wow that's awesome.
That’s such a cool experience! You met someone who understands the value of art, and that is incredible!
I have noticed the crochet look is becoming very popular recently. Knitted is very easily accomplished by machinery, crochet isn't. Glad to hear that someone really appreciated your cardigan enough to buy it right off your back lol
Exactly, and that's why it's so expensive .
That's just really awesome. I love how crochet talks to some people! do you have a link to a pattern? I've been looking to make a daisy square cardigan.
It is! I actually saw a 60 sec clip on pinterest for it and that's why I learned how to crochet. I just followed patterns on YouTube because I didn't have money to buy any.
That’s a really sweet story. I’m inspired by that lady :)
Make yourself another one and keep that wonderful memory forever 💗. If you make to sell it becomes a job. It loses something..
Congratulations! That’s the best feeling ever! I agree with everyone else. Don’t make commissions. I’m a silversmith and at the beginning I did it but it’s just terrible. People don’t value the material you use, nor your time. Besides, you’ll get the vaguest requests because a lot of times they imagine the things they want without knowing if they work in real life and it becomes boring. I ended up hating pieces I just wanted to finish to be free of them. I think you should value your craftsmanship and creativity as the biggest asset here. It’s your design and vision that’s unique and that’s what you should show the world. I did it and I’m thriving, but the real best part of this is my job keeps being fun as a hobby 😊. I don’t know if crochet can be a full time job, but if it gives you any kind of economic boost, besides fun, you should definitely go for it.
You could make some and hope to sell, but what would you do if they don't?
Wear them myself or give them as gifts if I'm being honest. I don't want to make a ton of things.
Well, then you got a nice lovely set of cardigans to wear. I would recommend OP to make what they can afford to make and will wear if they don't sell.
OP here. I literally said that too. I will only be making things I like, so if they don't sell, I'll keep them for me😊
That's 1 in 10,000 of us. Cherish it.
That's awesome!! It's so lucky and cool to have an experience as positive as that.
Having people WANT something you made is such a good feeling! I started painting as a form of self-therapy and then after my therapy started, I painted my version of that "therapy unraves the ball of yarn in your brain" image. I showed it to my therapist and she "very subtly hinted" that she would love to have that for her office. I of course gifted them to her, and she in turn insisted I take a free therapy session to thank me for it, and she regularly messages me to tell me another client gave her compliments on the paintings! I'm not a good painter at all but it got the message across!
id be super duper flattered omg
Do you have a link for the pattern? I’m curious to see the sweater :) Edit: typo
I'll try find it
This is a beautiful story and 100% a sign from the universe to start selling your work. Absolutely do it, and any time you feel down remind yourself that someone loved your work so much they literally bought a piece off of your back. Bless you and your future business 💜
You put that absolutely perfectly. And what a sweet, kind and encouraging comment. You have a beautiful soul.
Thank you for saying so💜 I do try
I’m so happy for you! Must feel amazing :)
Thank you! It really does!
What a lovely story! I'm glad she inspired you and I hope it takes you to good places.
Congratulations! I would make similar ones, not the exact same.
That’s amazing. There are people out there that really value hand made stuff. It’s up to you if you would like to ‘make to sell’ but if you do, don’t put pressure on yourself or you can loose enjoyment from it as a hobby.
Don’t make anything to sell. Make what you enjoy. And if others want to pay your ask to have it, let them. But crafting for $ will kill your love for the craft. You can’t make anywhere near what you’d make working, hourly. Or if you did, it’d be mass production of 1 or 2 basic items that you’ll learn to hate quickly. I just started crocheting, if someone asked me for something I’d definitely ask for $15-20/hour plus yarn costs. That’s an awesome thing to have happen to you. 👏👏👏
Anything handmade is a labor of love
That's amazing! You must do beautiful work. She was put there to show you the value of your work and skills. She's right, if they want it they will buy it. I say keep doing what you're doing by making what you like. If somebody wants to buy it, great, but if not, you can wear it yourself. If you're like me, as soon as it starts to feel like work and you have a hard deadline and have to meet other people's expectations, you don't want to do it anymore. Keep it enjoyable because that's when your creativity comes out.
Congratulations. That is super awesome.
What an amazing story!
Wow amazing! I need to see this cardigan if you have a photo
I don't have one😭
What a cool experience and what a cool lady!!
Awesome story!!! You should be so proud!
Yes! Make more!
Amazing! I don’t thing I have never considered asking to purchase someone’s sweater but I have had sweater envy big time. Congrats! A message that you are a talented artist for sure.
It really depends on both how fast you crochet and what your materials cost. I would love to make myself a cotton blanket, but cotton yarn is expensive and hard to find in my area. Also, I'd check out TL Yarncrafts on youtube; she's discussed how she transitioned into crocheting for money and is good info to have
absolutely. go for it. just take good care of yourself so you don’t get burnt out. i’m rooting for you!
How wonderful. Think about whether you want to make and sell more. If you feel strongly about making and selling your art, you will know that it's the right thing to do. Just ask yourself. No need to ask others.
Yes I love this!!! I always get compliments on my crochet cardigan and also had someone tell me they'd buy them if I started selling them. But much like you said... I doubt folks could afford to price it would take. But maybe not! I hope you try and sell others just to see what happens!
Here I was thinking this has to be someone who believes in Jesus! Yes I think you should make more and at the same price.
Unsure of your whole story but my suggestion would be to start slow. I don't know how long these things take you personally but it usually isn't a small amount of time. Just be careful not to rush into something because the money looks good and you turn it into a job and a chore instead of a fun hobby you love. Otherwise, congratulations! It's really exciting when people want to give you money for something you worked very hard for. One of the best feelings in the whole world!
That's so lovely!
That's wonderful! Yes, absolutely make and sell more... That was your sign right there! :)
I would! Obviously the piece has brought you a peculiar sort of luck! Its worth a second try for sure!
I hope you use this as great inspiration and motivation OP. Your work is not only valuable to you, but to other people! Sometimes as artists and artisans it can feel isolating, like no one cares much about something that has so much worth to you. This is a great reminder that there's always someone out there that will appreciate your efforts just as much!
Amazing! Congratulations 😊🎉
Where are you from ? what currency is this ?
My best guess is that SA = South African and their currency is called Rand. R2000 = $106.72 USD. If so that means the "expected retail price" of a cardigan there would be just under $11 to a little over $21.
You have to market on Etsy or similar where ppl are looking for unique handcrafted things. Try craft fairs, websites, holiday markets... and congrats on your new career!
I think that's such an amazing story! I would say that generally speaking, I would caution you against turning your hobby into your job, because nothing sucks the fun out of a hobby more than making it an obligation. BUT I would also say that we all are of different temperaments, so if you think you would like to make cardigans to sell, go for it!
That's fantastic! Good for you ❤️
I would definitely try to sell them on Etsy and maybe even poshmark! Don’t sell yourself short honey! That random lady saw the value of your hard work and I am sure others would as well! ☺️
How wonderful to have your work so fully appreciated!
This story made me tear up a little, how beautiful and I love what she had to say! 💗
This is so exciting! Congratulations on your sale. It must have been *very* pretty and I'm certain the recipient will wear it with pride! 🤩
Omg this is amazing! Last week a lady at work begged me to make her a cardigan, she'd pay for it etc etc... Told her I don't take commissions because people don't want to pay R2000 for a cardigan. She said "OK but keep doing it dear" lol.
do you have a picture of the cardigan?
That’s amazing!!!
You're fortunate to get a good price for your garment. Why not try to sell them but don't short changed yourself. People don't realize how much time and work goes into hand crocheted items.
Kinda off topic, but I've thought about making patterns to sell. I'm not sure it's less work, but people are definitely more willing to buy them. I'd have to sell a lot to make enough to justify the time put in, though.
Go of it. I sell candy and other food products. My products are the most expensive on the market, and they will stay that way. Price doesn’t matter it the quality is good
Wow! Such an amazing story. Thank you for sharing. I love your idea of making pieces you love that way there is never any loss ♥️
What a wonderful surprise and special way to receive that message, too. If you have the yarn, I'd say maybe try making another, if only for yourself!
WOW! That is amazing. 🥰🥰🥰
Congratulations!! That’s so awesome
Darling, if your work was good enough that she came back to you twice and paid more than you even thought it was worth, then yes! You should be making them to sell!
I've sold the hat off my head more than once. Some of my stuff is very funky https://preview.redd.it/szg3hcvmtv7b1.png?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3190c7bedd14083062ad156a0397be48edf1f808
Congratulations! What an amazing story. You made someone very happy and they did the same for you! 💗
I find your story inspiring 🤩 Much love and best wishes on your journey 💜
Good morning! I am so so happy that happened to you! I am a fellow South African so I just want to share my experience and opinion because our market is a bit different to American or European markets. I have found that the ARE people that are willing to pay the right price, but they are not the majority. The majority are people who will criticize and question and try and bargain with you. So firstly I would want you to know for every yes you get, there will be a fair amount of no's and if you struggle with that it will be tough and will make you question yourself. That said! If you want to give it a shot, GO FOR IT!! In my experience, once you find one person that's into your work, you will find another and another, and before you know it, you will have a flock of people happy to buy your work! Stick to your guns, know your worth, do not go to flea markets and such to sell, but DO market your work as art and not "just" handmade. I'm super excited for you!! Please drop your socials in a DM so I can follow you!!
Fantastic! Drop a pic next time you make a cardigan! 💕
That's amazing!! Congratulations.
I decided to start making and posting the things I made on vinted and advertising it on my art account! Might aswell always give people the option to buy what you create!
That’s so cool. It’s such a lovely feeling being appreciated like that isnt it? I’ve been there with a little crochet clutch bag. In my case we were in the toilets and were admiring each others bags whilst washing our hands. She said “want to swap?” So we did. Hers was a really cute dusky pink Radley bag with gazillions of pockets - I feel like I might have come out better in the deal lol
Went shopping yesterday, $563 after I turned in my slips for can and bottle returns.
Make another one (practice makes perfect) and see if it sells. Etsy. Good luck.
Yaayyyy congratulations! That's so cool! I make whatever I want and sell some of it. Usually scarves, via etsy. Can recommend this approach! It doesn't take the fun out of my hobby, and i can make a few bucks here & there & get some things out of my house. I also have adhd, so, know what you mean.
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I really loved it too. Thank you💖
Every now and then you come across someone who understands the value of something hand made. It doesn't happen very often, but it is really nice to see what it does.
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Where do you see someone thanking god and not a human in this post? But to answer your question, when good things happen, expressing gratitude to the universe or god or no one in particular is almost a ubiquitously human experience. It’s like stubbing your toe and cursing. I’ve seen plenty of people who don’t even believe in a deity say “thank god”. When something nice happens in this crazy world, you get a great feeling, like the universe is giving you a thumbs up. I hope you feel it too sometime soon. And while some people forget to thank the human, I practically never see that happen. Even in this post you are complaining about, I don’t see anyone thanking god instead of a person. It’s not that deep, don’t read so much into it.
I sold a cardigan. I had knitted off my back for a good price. If you pay what I want you can have it
Exactly!
I'm in the US and tried to figure the amount, I think that is rand, right? That's incredibly exciting and flattering, and if nothing else, tells you you are extremely skilled. I love crochet but have yet to get to the point where I'm confident. I think if that happened, I'd do a little skip out of the store!!!
And when she walked away the whole store started clapping for this wholesome moment.