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Helpful things to have with you when doing an art show

4/17/2012

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I was at a show this weekend. It was cold, windy, and miserable. After twice going back to my car to get my heavy jacket and then some bungee cords, I got to thinking about things that you should always have with you for a show.

Aside from the normal things necessary for a show, like a canopy, and print bins, there are other not so obvious items that can be a big help on those occasions when you really need them.
So, here is a list of helpful items to have for doing shows. They are in no particular order.

Make a list so that the next time you are packing for a show you don't forget anything. And, if you think of something that you want while you are at a show, write it down on one of your index cards and put it with your money so you remember it for next time.

Index cards - Great for writing makeshift signs or making notes to yourself.

Post-its - For notes to yourself or emergency price tags.

Scissors - For cutting papers or if you can't find your wire cutters to cut the tie wraps. And if you're really bored, you can make paper dolls.

Stapler & extra staples - Good for emergency repairs of tarps and other things.

Tape - Duct tape is another great emergency supply with lots of uses.

Multipurpose tool - A Leatherman or Swiss Army knife is a great thing to have to handle most any situation where you would need a tool. Plus it doesn't take up much space.

Advil - You never know when you're going to get a headache

Imodium or Pepto-Bismol - Just in case.

Toilet paper - By the end of a show, the portapotties may be out.

Cell phone (fully charged!) - Forgetting your cell phone is like forgetting to get dressed in the morning!

Change of clothes - You never know what the weather is going to be like. It is a good idea to have a full range of clothing so you stay comfortable throughout the day.

Handi-wipes or paper towels - Great if you are a messy eater or if some kid smears ice cream all over everything.

Lunch and Snack food - You never know what sort of food items will be available at a show. It's a good idea to bring something with you just in case. Plus it's a lot cheaper.

Spare car key - If you've ever locked yourself out of your car you'll understand why you should carry a spare key. Locking yourself out at a show is really bad. And, yes, I've seen it happen.

Sunglasses - If it's an outdoor show, your eyes can get really tired from being in the bright light.

Hat and sunscreen - You don't want to go home sunburned!

Water - Keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.

Work gloves - Wearing gloves while setting up and tearing down prevents all those little cuts and scrapes.

Flashlight - In case you're setting up or tearing down in the dark. Or, for an indoor show, in case of power failure.

Bungee cords - You never know when you might need to hold something down.

Fan - A small battery powered fan (or even an old fashioned folding fan) can really help on those hot days.

Umbrella - In case of rain.

If you have any other "must haves" in your show kit, please share them in a comment.
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    Loretta Alvarado, Fiber Artist

    About the Author

    Helping artists and crafters improve their sales, one word at a time.

    Loretta Alvarado is the author of several business for artists books. She spends most of her time in her studio making art and writing. But you can sometimes find her on Facebook.



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