Packing for Arts and Crafts Shows

It is inevitable that the best of plans go bad when we are in a hurry. If you do not want to forget something then by all means, make a detailed packing list of absolutely everything you will need for the show and check it off as it is packed. (This coming from the guy who forgot the table at our last show!) The list should be very precise and include absolutely everything you will need for the duration of the show. Including a cash fund.

For example if you have a stapler on the list then staples should also be on the list. Don't assume someone else will remember to pack something you overlooked. This seemingly simple task will help insure that when you get to the venue you will have everything necessary for the weekend. Running out to pick up tent pegs or a table to replace the one that was left home can be a real problem, especially in an unfamiliar area, not to mention the extra expense and added stress that goes along with it.

Some people even even use the list to pack for home.

While you are making lists, make a complete inventory of all stock you are bringing. If you make items at the show add the new items to the list as you go. This list will be used later to see what you have sold. It is easy to check your accuracy by comparing the list of stock to the list of stock sold and then to the money taken in. If the numbers are off drastically perhaps you dropped money or made the wrong change while busy.

Everybody packs differently and the type of vehicle and your gear will usually have a lot to do with it. We always pack the canopy and rain gear where they can be removed and set up first in case of rain or other bad weather. Make sure the heavy part of the load is where it should be for the type of vehicle you are using. For example if you are using a pickup truck you would keep the heaviest items in front of the rear wheels, toward the front of the bed.

For safety sake refer to your vehicle manual for proper loading and be sure to check the tire pressure. Make sure you have the show registration materials including acceptance letter, parking permit and written directions to the show. Don't assume the GPS will get you there every time on time. Recently we set ours for S. Lincoln Ave and it took us to South Lane. It would not have been a problem except that the extra ½ hour trying to find the correct address meant we had to set up in the dark. Thank goodness it wasn't raining too!

Packing early or even the day before leaving can make the whole job much easier. Packing, driving, unpacking and then setting up can be a lot of work. Nothing beats jumping in the vehicle, fresh and rested and ready for the road. Nothing is worse than hastily packing and rushing off to the show with the though that you may have left something behind.

Be sure to bring an umbrella or rain coat, aspirin or pain medicine, any prescription medicine and layers of warm or cool clothes depending on the weather and time of year.

Be Prepared Even indoor shows can be cool. Little things can make your show experience more enjoyable if not endurable. It is surprising how cold it can get when sitting in an gymnasium or fire hall with the doors opening and closing all day. We have set up on an ice rink with ½ inch thick beaver board covering the ice. Needless to say our feet were cold all weekend.

At other shows we have been faced with dressing up in long johns, sweat pants, wind pants, parkas and caps to keep warm as the snow swirled around and the next year be in t shirts and shorts for the same show. Extra shoes and socks are a good idea if out doors and something to raise your feet up off the ground.

Don't forget the sunscreen. It is surprising how the burning rays of the sun can bounce into your booth and pass through the fabric of the canopy.

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