How do I know if anyone wants what I make?

[NymanPerkins]

I make handmade “vintage” maps personalised for individuals and small businesses. I’ve been doing it on a very ad hoc basis up to now. My question is how do I know if there’s enough demand to make a proper business out of?

Survey? Who's your target audience? Set up a small stall somewhere and see what the interest is like?

Have you tried selling on Etsy, Folksy or Notonthehighstreet?

Not tried yet, still at the stage of nervously standing on the edge wishing I had the nerve to dive in with the cool kids!

@notthesoap the problem is I live in a very out of the way place. I think I will need to be an online seller to reach a big enough customer base.

I love Etsy and always search there first when buying anything for the house or looking for something unique. I am sure there are lots of people like me who are looking for something different that isn't super expensive as shops have costs to cover. It sounds as though your maps would would fit in nicely with what people like myself would look for. Good luck!

Thanks for all the replies. I’ve begun reading up about Etsy and notonthehighstreet. I think I just need to take the plunge. It’s not like me to be so diffident!

Yes, you do need to take the plunge. What could be the worst thing that happened?

We’re covering lots of the topics you’re asking about at our events - the next few are being held in Barnet, Central London, Wilmslow and Cardiff, and we’ll be holding them around the country in the months ahead. If you’re interested in coming along or receiving our newsletters/info about our mentors, you can sign up here. Just to be clear, it’s free to register and we’re not-for-profit. Really hope you find it useful.”

Therefore a few facebook auction sites for crafts: submit an item to list and see if you get chosen / see what the interest is like. All 3 of these have listings open now.

Happy Mail Bazaar
Vintage bazaar
Roll Up Roll Up

there are not therefore

Thanks @playmobil and Alison, I’ll look into these.

Etsy is the best place to start as it is a very low cost to get started. Make sure you read up on the Consumer Contract Regulations as you need to comply with these. Also,make sure your maps are old enough to not be copyrighted anymore.

Find out everything you can about your competition .
Where do they advertise?
However small your business, do a plan.

Thank you, these are great tips. The maps are my take - actual geographic areas, but with a “fantasy” spin.