How to Plan Your Craft Fair Inventory!

One of the most common questions we get from new vendors is:“How much product should I bring to the fair?”

We totally get it — finding that sweet spot between “sold out too soon” and “took way too much home” can feel tricky. Unfortunately, there’s no magic formula that guarantees the perfect amount, since every event, location, and audience is a little different.

That said, there are some tried-and-true tips that can help you plan strategically and set yourself up for success at Jackalope and beyond.

1️⃣ Bring More Than You Think You’ll Need

While selling out might sound like a dream, it’s best if that happens right at the end of the fair — not halfway through day one. It’s always better to have a little extra stock on hand, especially if a product suddenly takes off. You never know which item will become the weekend’s must-have.

2️⃣ Review Past Sales or Online Performance

If you’ve sold online or at previous markets, take a look at what consistently performs well. Which products get restocked most often or sell fastest? Those are your “anchor products” — make sure you bring plenty of them.

Your best sellers not only drive revenue, but they also attract attention to the rest of your booth.

3️⃣ Think About Your Booth Display Strategy

How you set up your booth plays a big role in how much product you’ll need. Are you going for a minimalist, boutique-style display, or do you prefer a bountiful, full-table presentation?

Minimalist setups often use one of each product on display with backup inventory stored neatly behind the table.

4️⃣ Don’t Feel Obligated to Display Every Variation

If you offer multiple colors, scents, or styles of the same product, you don’t need to have every single one visible. Instead, display one of each type and clearly let customers know you have other options available.

You could add a small sign like:🪧 “Ask about other color options or custom orders!”This keeps your table organized while still letting shoppers know you offer variety.

5️⃣ Offer a Range of Price Points

A mix of price points helps you reach a wider audience. Not everyone will be ready to purchase your higher-end pieces, but smaller items (like prints, accessories, or sample packs) can attract impulse buyers and help increase overall sales.

Having “something for everyone” also keeps your booth approachable and engaging throughout the day.

6️⃣ Do a Mock Setup Before the Show

We can’t recommend this enough! Set up your booth at home before the fair to see how everything fits and flows.

This helps you:

• Visualize your display.

• Decide how much product to feature.

• Spot any gaps in signage or supplies.

And don’t forget to take a photo of your setup — it’ll save you time when setting up on event day.

What If You Have Leftover Inventory?

Don’t stress! Ending the weekend with some extra stock isn’t a failure — it’s valuable data. Review what didn’t sell as quickly, take notes, and use that information to adjust for next time. Sometimes a different season, display, or price point can make all the difference.

Final Thoughts

Every event is a learning experience. The more you do, the better you’ll get at gauging what to bring. With a little planning, thoughtful display design, and attention to what your customers respond to, you’ll find your perfect rhythm in no time.

We can’t wait to see your booth shine at the next Jackalope Indie Artisan Fair!