Thread: Pen types for the markets

your tables look good but i don't like the hanging tags, have a look for the barbell clip type, they look much better, or even group your pens by price - Just my 2cents worth - sorry

as to what i sell best
1. Siera
2. Cigar
3. Bolt Action
4. Streamline

they would be my top sellers and in that order, Rollerballs and Fountain pens i always have on display, but very few and all in different materials, i then take orders if the customer wants something different, touch wood, only once have i been stiffed on an order, but it sold to the first person that picked it up so all was not lost

for what its worth, i now display and sell all of my pens in boxes, previously velvet bags, Timberbits and many other component suppliers now have pen boxes for $1 - $2 and they make the pens look so much more professional

i hope this helps

all the best

MIK

Thanks Mik. Good advice. I will try the pen cases too as they are cheap

I too have only been doing the 2 local markets for a few months. Did the smaller market today. Only sold 2 pens but it only cost me $20 to display for the few hours. I have people that watch my FB page and also are waiting to buy for a gift later in the year. Will they? Time will tell. Apparently most "regulars" to the markets wont purchase until they have seen you 3 or 4 times so they know you are not a fly by nighter, so I have been told.

1. Fountain pens very slow sellers, people love them but dont use them. So I dont have many, but a choice nevertheless.
2. I had tags like you have but took them off as being outside the wind tangles them and when customers pick up a pen they pull 2 or 3 off. Plus my display now looks a lot cleaner.
3. I have a pad with a pen for people to try. I write on the top of the pad what the pen is and try me underneath, does it work meh not sure but have a lot more interaction with people when they try. I find it takes away the hesitation of trying a pen.
4. I dont have signs of any type just business cards. This is something I will change highlighting that they are handmade. Some people dont believe me so I have a blank and a pen kit or "a bag of parts" as I call it.
5. My Pens are a luxury item. So when money is tight, people wont buy.

I'm still feeling my way with the markets and what works for my area. I do not think I am well placed at the larger market, although I do not need a gazebo and I should be well protected during winter.

Time will tell.

Wish ya luck.

Cheers

Shawn