Expert: Valerie Randall - 2/16/2009

Question
I want to design wrapping paper to sell.  I have design ideas but don't know how
to start.  I'm not looking to create a company to rival Hallmark; just a small
business for myself.  Where do I begin?

Answer
Just because you can design doesn't mean you should start a business without some realistic research and goals. Understanding the market, your competitors and how you'll make money doing this are more important than whether you can design a pattern. Without a solid background in marketing and knowledge of distribution channels in the gift industry, it will be difficult.

I'd start by going to a gift show and seeing who's out there doing what you want to do, these are trade shows not open to the public. There are small local shows as well as the major shows, here's a link:

http://www.greatrep.com/trade_shows.asp

Also read and study books on selling your art, you may want to contact a paper goods company and get experience that way. You can also prepare some samples and see if you can engage a rep.

An excellent book is called the Artist's Market:
http://www.amazon.com/2005-Artists-Graphic-Designers-Market/dp/1582972788

You'll need to understand printing, shipping, delivery, finance and sales. You can try setting up your own website but you'll have to do a lot of publicity to get people to your site.

You can do a lot of research online, learn about others doing the same thing, perhaps even find a mentor. You can try online companies like Esty. I'd spend time on Google looking for different terms; like "sell my art" and see what comes up. Here's a site that looks interesting:
http://www.anniecatherine.com/about/

Good luck.
Valerie Randall