Craft shows and art markets can be amazing for getting your work in front of new customers, making sales, and connecting with other artists. But if you’ve ever shown up to a market and realized you forgot something important, you know how stressful it can be.

That’s why we put together this ultimate craft show checklist to help you stay organized and fully prepared for your next event.

💡 Want a printable version? Scroll down and sign up for our email list and get a free downloadable craft show checklist to make sure you never forget a thing!

Check out my blog post that includes where I get all of my equipment with links HERE

1. Booth Setup Essentials

Your booth is your mini storefront for the day, make sure you have everything you need to create a welcoming, professional display.

• ✅ Tent or Canopy – If the event is outdoors, a 10x10 pop-up tent is standard. Don’t forget weights to keep it from flying away!
• ✅ Tables & Table Covers – A table or two helps showcase your products. A branded or solid-colored tablecloth makes it look polished.
• ✅ Shelving & Displays – Use riser stands, baskets, racks, or pegboards to create an eye-catching setup.
• ✅ Signage – A large banner with your business name + smaller signs with pricing, payment info, and social media handles.

💡 Pro Tip: Use vertical space! Stack displays or hang items to make your booth stand out.

2. Products & Packaging

Your setup is important, but your products are the star of the show! Make sure you bring:

• ✅ Plenty of Inventory – Bring more than you think you’ll sell—it’s better to have extra than to sell out too soon.
• ✅ Organized Stock – Keep items sorted and labeled so it’s easy to restock throughout the day.
• ✅ Pricing Tags & Stickers – Every item should have a visible price so customers don’t have to ask.
• ✅ Shopping Bags – Bring small bags, boxes, or eco-friendly totes for customer purchases.
• ✅ Protective Packaging – If you sell art prints, ceramics, or fragile items, pack them in sleeves or wrap them carefully.

💡 Not sure how much inventory to bring? Check out our craft show inventory guide for a simple formula!

3. Payment & Sales Tools

Make buying easy for customers by accepting multiple payment methods!

• ✅ Cash Box & Change – Have plenty of small bills and coins for cash sales.
• ✅ Card Reader – A Square or PayPal card reader lets you take credit card payments.
• ✅ Mobile Payment Apps – Set up Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App for quick digital payments.
• ✅ Receipts & Order Tracking – Keep track of sales with a notebook or app like Square.
• ✅ Sales Tax Info – Check if you need to collect sales tax and have a system for tracking it.

💡 Pro Tip: Have a sign that says "We Accept Credit Cards & Venmo" so customers know their payment options!

4. Marketing & Branding Materials

Even if a customer doesn’t buy something, you want them to remember you for later.

• ✅ Business Cards – A small card with your website, social media, and email makes a big impact. I don't include one with every purchase, but leave them out for customers to take if they want them.
• ✅ Social Media Sign – A sign that says “Follow us on Instagram @yourhandle” encourages engagement.
• ✅ Mailing List Signup – Have a clipboard or QR code where customers can join your email list.
• ✅ Stickers or Freebies – Small, branded freebies keep your business in people’s minds. I like to include a logo sticker in every order! It is free advertising.

💡 Pro Tip: Offer a small discount (like 10% off their next order) to encourage email signups!

5. Comfort & Personal Essentials

Markets can be long and exhausting, take care of yourself so you can stay energized all day!

• ✅ Comfortable Shoes – You’ll be standing for hours, so wear good shoes!
• ✅ Weather Protection – Bring sunscreen, a hat, rain gear, and layers just in case. I've gotten sunburned too many times.
• ✅ Snacks & Water – Stay hydrated and keep easy-to-eat snacks on hand. No one want's to purchase from a hangry seller.
• ✅ Notebook & Pen – Jot down ideas, customer requests, or networking contacts.
• ✅ Hand Sanitizer & Tissues – Markets can be messy! Keep your hands clean.

💡 Pro Tip: If the event lasts all day, pack a small cooler with lunch so you don’t have to rely on vendor food.

6. Emergency Kit

Even the best-planned events can have unexpected hiccups. Be prepared with:

• ✅ Tape & Scissors – Fix last-minute display issues.
• ✅ Zip Ties & Clips – Secure signs, tablecloths, and displays.
• ✅ First Aid Kit – Band-Aids, pain relievers, and wipes.
• ✅ Backup Power Bank – Keep your phone and card reader charged.
• ✅ Extra Light Bulbs – If you have a lighting setup, bring spares!

💡 Pro Tip: Keep all your emergency supplies in a small toolbox so they’re easy to grab when needed.

Download Your Free Craft Show Checklist!

Want to make sure you never forget anything again? Sign up for our email list and get a free printable craft show checklist to use for every event!

A well-planned booth makes all the difference at a craft show. With the right setup, inventory, and tools, you’ll feel more confident and ready to sell!

Looking for a creative way to take your market setup up a notch? An ArtVend vending machine attracts customers of all ages. Check out The ArtVend and start vending your art today!

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