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Expert: - 6/19/2011


Question
Grandfather Clock
Grandfather Clock
Hi,

I have been building burl wood tables and grandfather clocks for many years now, but I have run into a problem.  I recently moved to a small town in a different state and thought it would be a good idea to move my business online in order to reach my customers.  However, I have not had much luck finding areas on the internet to sell my pieces.  I have already visited the site www.woodartistsgallery.com and was wondering if you had any other sites like this or if you had any marketing tips.  Thanks.

- Jeff Haver

Answer
Jeff,

There are a few places to sell your work online, but frankly, I don't think wooden items sell well online. People generally want to see and feel the wood.

That said, I would try these places:

www.etsy.com (I sell there, and have found some success there)
www.custommade.com (I don't sell there, but know people who do)
www.artfulhome.com (Don't sell there, but I've heard it's a decent place)

Don't know anything about www.woodartistsgallery.com.

That's all I can tell you. Etsy is probably the best - it's cheap, and their community is strong. Highly recommended.

I don't like selling my work online - the shipping is a hassle, and people generally resent paying for it. My best advice - find a local outlet to sell your work. Let THEM deal with the shipping.

Good luck, write back if you have more questions.

Jamie in Vegas


____________
Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
Las Vegas, NV
www.wooditis.com
My woodworking blog: www.wooditis.blogspot.com  

Jamie Yocono

Expertise

Woodworker, Furniture designer/builder, industrial arts educator. Bachelor degree in Furniture Design, and journeyman carpenter, with a 4 year apprenticeship. Currently owner of custom furniture/cabinet shop in Las Vegas, NV. Can answer most woodworking questions EXCEPT those regarding repairs, refinishing, and antiques.

Experience

Bachelor in Furniture Design - Ohio University (1980) Journeyman Carpenter, Local 639 Adult educator - Developed adult education woodworking program for the University of Akron, and taught classes there for 9 years. Opened a private woodworking school in Las Vegas, NV and teach private and semi-private lessons. In 2011, I will begin teaching UNLV woodworking classes at my school. Sweet!

Organizations
Furniture Society

Publications
Tile Design and Installation Magazine (Article on inlaying tile into wood)

Education/Credentials
Journeyman Union Carpenter Bachelors degree in Furniture Design (Ohio University) College of Hard Knocks!

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