What to bring to an art fair
When planning to attend an art fair, you’ve probably already figured out what artwork to bring, to make the best use of your booth space. On top of that, you’ll need other items for hanging, and to make your stay more comfortable during your time selling. Here is my list of what to bring.
Image of Johanna Reynolds' booth by Marina Dempster
Hanging supplies
It’s important to refer to your booth package before you plan how to hang your booth. Depending on the walls, you will need different supplies. For instance: most hard-wall fairs require you to install with a drill and screws.
What’s in my tool kit?
4 foot level (not one of those tiny ones!)
sharp pencils with erasers
small drill
drywall screws
extra d-rings and screws for back of artwork
picture wire (although I usually hang off the D-rings)
small pot of wall putty for filling holes
small pot of white wall paint for touch ups
Furniture
You are welcome to add a piece of furniture to your booth, so why not make it functional? A console table, bench or media console can be extremely helpful. A tidy place to stash your water bottle, snack and personal items will be your best friend.
Items for your presentation
signage with your name (vinyl, or re-usable sign - pay attention to the fair rules here!)
art labels (see my post on how to design these) - bring 2-3 labels for each piece in case you move things around
signage that shows website, social media, or QR code
Be sure to check with booth guidelines to ensure you follow the presentation rules of your particular show. For instance, some allow wallpaper or paint, but in others that is strictly forbidden.
Items to help facilitate sales
painter’s tape and a sharpie for writing SOLD names on the back of artwork
bubble wrap/tape for wrapping sold artwork
a few extra small pieces to pull out and show people
red dots for sales, blue dots for holds
notebook to keep at hand for writing down client names/emails
a method to collect email addresses (ipad, notebook, clipboard sheet)
And finally…bring some sales skills!
Don’t head into your expensive art fair without preparation.
I am available for 1:1 coaching for sales, and sometimes I’ll even do it on an art fair set up day, just to get you in the mood!
If you don’t have time to meet, take my crash course in sales. I know it will help you make the most of your fair experience.
No need to be pushy! Say goodbye to 'salesy' tactics. This course provides thoughtful and considerate methods that prioritize client respect and information gathering. In only 15 minutes, you'll learn Alissa's best sales tips cultivated over a 20 year career working with artists, galleries, art fairs and online art sales.
