Craft teaching business opportunities
The Makery is a great example of how a craft workshop business can grow. In 2009, founder Kate Smith decided she was tired of working in marketing and founded the company with the simple goal of teaching as many people a new craft skill as possible. Fast forward 10 years and The Makery has taught over 100,000 people everything from upholstery to calligraphy all over the country, run craft workshops for the likes of Google and Anthropologie, and sells craft kits all over the world. Oh, and they’ve been running craft workshops in John Lewis’ Oxford Street store for the past six years.
This story gives a great insight into the current craft teaching market and the opportunities available for the right business. Of course, you’ll need to be a skilled crafter (or know skilled crafters) to start with – most craft workshops are run by experienced makers who teach alongside selling their products commercially to add another income stream and maximise their expertise. The good news is that this isn’t an area burdened by professional qualifications, as long as you know enough to teach your craft and confidently answer any questions your students might have, there’s nothing stopping you from running craft workshops from your home or studio (just make sure you have the right insurance in place).
Also, don’t just stick to targeting individuals, craft workshops are becoming an increasingly popular option for hen dos and other social gatherings, so make sure you have an offer catered to these groups. Also note the demographics of your local area and plan accordingly, knitting and crochet often cut across demographics, while other crafts may be more suited to specific social groups.
Depending on the craft, you may also be able to offer your workshops as therapeutic exercises. Part of the reason crafting has become so popular in the last few years is the desire for a digital detox, a chance to get away from tech devices and focus on a calming, physical activity for a few hours. Many craft teaching businesses are now using this as part of their marketing strategy, with The London Loom describing its workshops as “satisfying, healing, fun”.
This angle has also driven the growing business demand for craft workshops. They’re an ideal way to promote team spirit, get away from the pressures of the work day, and promote mental well being, so make sure you have an offering that suits their needs and get in touch with businesses in your local area. Connect with local retailers too, especially craft or knitting shops. Hosting workshops could be a great way to showcase their wares and attract new customers.
If you’re wondering what crafts are going to be in demand next year, then you’re in luck, the Eventbrite research discussed above questioned respondents about their future craft workshop plans and came up with the following up-and-coming areas:
- Basic DIY
- Upcycling furniture
- Photography
- Candle making
- Jewellery making
Additionally, Smith picks out crafts with a sustainability focus (like making beeswax wrap, an eco-friendly alternative to clingfilm) as an area whose popularity will only increase in 2020.
via https://www.AiUpNow.com/ by Alec Hawley, Khareem Sudlow
