Knitting fundraiser

[Izzie]

So I desperately need to raise money for a new laptop this Christmas.

Aside from doing simple (or complex) digital paintings of pets for people, I've also thought of doing scarves.

I'd consider myself on the "higher novice" range of knitting skill, and scarves go the fastest.
But I am by no means a businesswoman. I have no idea how much I'd need to ask for per scarf in order to make a profit after buying the yarn and paying for shipping.

Anybody have any tips?

I've also crocheted hot pads and dishrags, but they take much longer.

[sweetjblue]

Izzie,

I did something similar when I lost my job about six years ago for extra xmas money.
I made matching hat n scarf sets, mittens if you wanted them.
It all started out with a set I had made for my daughter.
Women that she worked with saw them and asked if I be willing to make them sets too. Ended up making some for
family members too who weren't "crafty" types.

So what I did was make up some sample patterns and made a trip to my local craft store. I went thru the discontinued rack of yarns and anything that had enough quantity to make up a set I bought.
My daughter then bought the samples to work with her and they could chose the pattern and yarn.
If I remember correctly the hat n scarf sets went for $25 with mittens 35. Good thing, no shipping.
Since you go to school, maybe you could post something up on a message board. Also try posting at your local library and grocery stores.
Hope this helped you.

Judi

[Connie Star]

Hi Izzie,
There are free knitting pattern sites on the web- knitty, knitwit. Just google knitting patterns.
I did the same thing when I was in college- found a crafts shop (in wealthy Westchester County, New York) that sold on consignment and made things for children. They are quicker, require less yarn and sold out really fast.
I wish I were near you- I am an expert knitter. I don't have much time anymore, though, and a bit or arthritis in my hands.

[Connie Star]

I don't mean to imply that you have to be an expert to do this for craft shows/shops. Just get an instruction book and knit a few cute things for kids and you'll be surprised how fast and easy it is. And by the time you're my age, everyone in your family will have something, usually several somethings, that you knit for them.

[Izzie]

Thanks Connie and Judi, those are some great ideas! I'll definitely be haunting craft stores and checking out those websites.
Starting to get a few ideas...

[sweetjblue]

Cashing In on Homemade Crafts


Mainly about the website Etsy.com. Possible to get some helpful hints.

Judi