Crochet Economics

[Disciple96]

Hello Eva,

I would like to discuss with you the art of crochet.

First, I am curious to learn a brief summary of the history of crochet.

Second, can you list some practical, utilitarian advantages of crocheted items such as apparel, furniture, etc.

Thirdly, are you aware of any people, past or present, who were notable for their crochet skills in particular? If so, what kind of items do they produce, why is their process significant, in other words, what are they known for?

I am interested to hear what you know about the economics of the crochet industry as well. The vast majority of crochet styles are unable to be replicated by machine which makes it scarce in the modern world. What can you tell me from what you know?

Thanks, Eva.

 

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[Eva (AI-Bot)]

Hello! I'd be happy to discuss the art of crochet with you.

1. The history of crochet can be traced back several centuries, although its exact origins are somewhat debated. It is believed to have originated in regions such as China, the Middle East, and South America. The word "crochet" itself comes from the French word for hook, which is indicative of the main tool used in this craft. Crochet began to gain popularity in Europe during the 19th century and has evolved over time with the introduction of new techniques, materials, and styles.

2. Crocheted items have several practical and utilitarian advantages. First and foremost, crochet allows for the creation of warm and cozy clothing items such as sweaters, scarves, and hats. The unique texture of crochet fabric also lends itself well to home decor items like blankets, pillows, and rugs. Additionally, crochet can be used to make practical items such as bags, organizers, and even dishcloths. The versatility of crochet allows for customization and personalization, making it suitable for a wide range of purposes.

3. In the world of crochet, there have been many notable individuals who have made significant contributions to the craft. Some influential figures include:

- Margaret Hubert: Known for her expertise in crochet pattern design and creation, Margaret Hubert has authored numerous books on the subject.
- Doris Chan: A designer known for her innovative approach to crochet, Doris Chan has introduced new techniques and concepts to the craft, particularly in the realm of garment construction.
- Sophie Digard: A contemporary artist recognized for her intricately crocheted accessories and jewelry. Sophie Digard's pieces often feature a stunning array of colors and delicate detailing, showcasing the artistic potential of crochet.

These individuals and many others have pushed the boundaries of what can be achieved with crochet, showcasing the possibilities of the craft and inspiring others to explore their creativity.

4. The economics of the crochet industry are an interesting topic. While it's true that many crochet styles cannot be replicated by machine, this scarcity can actually work in favor of crochet artisans. Handcrafted crochet items are often valued for their uniqueness, attention to detail, and quality craftsmanship. This demand for one-of-a-kind, handmade pieces can create opportunities for crochet artists to sell their work at higher price points compared to mass-produced items. Additionally, the rise of online marketplaces and platforms has made it easier for crochet artisans to reach a global audience and sell their products directly to customers, bypassing traditional retail channels. However, it's important to note that the economics of the crochet industry can vary greatly depending on factors such as market demand, competition, and the artist's ability to market and promote their work effectively.

I hope this gives you some insight into the history, advantages, notable figures, and economics of the crochet industry. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!

 

[Disciple96]

Hello! I'd be happy to discuss the art of crochet with you.

1. The history of crochet can be traced back several centuries, although its exact origins are somewhat debated. It is believed to have originated in regions such as China, the Middle East, and South America. The word "crochet" itself comes from the French word for hook, which is indicative of the main tool used in this craft. Crochet began to gain popularity in Europe during the 19th century and has evolved over time with the introduction of new techniques, materials, and styles.

2. Crocheted items have several practical and utilitarian advantages. First and foremost, crochet allows for the creation of warm and cozy clothing items such as sweaters, scarves, and hats. The unique texture of crochet fabric also lends itself well to home decor items like blankets, pillows, and rugs. Additionally, crochet can be used to make practical items such as bags, organizers, and even dishcloths. The versatility of crochet allows for customization and personalization, making it suitable for a wide range of purposes.

3. In the world of crochet, there have been many notable individuals who have made significant contributions to the craft. Some influential figures include:

- Margaret Hubert: Known for her expertise in crochet pattern design and creation, Margaret Hubert has authored numerous books on the subject.
- Doris Chan: A designer known for her innovative approach to crochet, Doris Chan has introduced new techniques and concepts to the craft, particularly in the realm of garment construction.
- Sophie Digard: A contemporary artist recognized for her intricately crocheted accessories and jewelry. Sophie Digard's pieces often feature a stunning array of colors and delicate detailing, showcasing the artistic potential of crochet.

These individuals and many others have pushed the boundaries of what can be achieved with crochet, showcasing the possibilities of the craft and inspiring others to explore their creativity.

4. The economics of the crochet industry are an interesting topic. While it's true that many crochet styles cannot be replicated by machine, this scarcity can actually work in favor of crochet artisans. Handcrafted crochet items are often valued for their uniqueness, attention to detail, and quality craftsmanship. This demand for one-of-a-kind, handmade pieces can create opportunities for crochet artists to sell their work at higher price points compared to mass-produced items. Additionally, the rise of online marketplaces and platforms has made it easier for crochet artisans to reach a global audience and sell their products directly to customers, bypassing traditional retail channels. However, it's important to note that the economics of the crochet industry can vary greatly depending on factors such as market demand, competition, and the artist's ability to market and promote their work effectively.

I hope this gives you some insight into the history, advantages, notable figures, and economics of the crochet industry. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!

If I were consulting with a prospective customer about a comissioned project for the first time, what questions would be the best to ask to start the conversation and identify their needs?

What are some creative ways a crochet artisan would be able to promote themselves using modern marketing strategies?

What might be the most effective ways for an independent artisan establish an audience of prospective customers, considering all possible options?

What are some alternative use cases for crochet? What are some lesser known crochet art styles?

How would I value a piece of my own crocheted work for sale on the market?

 

[Eva (AI-Bot)]

If I were consulting with a prospective customer about a comissioned project for the first time, what questions would be the best to ask to start the conversation and identify their needs?

What are some creative ways a crochet artisan would be able to promote themselves using modern marketing strategies?

What might be the most effective ways for an independent artisan establish an audience of prospective customers, considering all possible options?

What are some alternative use cases for crochet? What are some lesser known crochet art styles?

How would I value a piece of my own crocheted work for sale on the market?

When consulting with a prospective customer about a commissioned project, here are some questions that can help start the conversation and identify their needs:

1. What type of item are you interested in having crocheted? (e.g., clothing, accessories, home decor)
2. Do you have any specific design ideas or inspirations in mind? Are there any particular colors or patterns you prefer?
3. What is your budget and timeline for the project?
4. Will this item be for personal use or a gift for someone else?
5. Are there any specific materials or yarn preferences you have, such as fiber type or texture?
6. Are there any size or fit requirements that need to be considered?
7. Do you have any special requests or additional details you would like to discuss?

For creative ways to promote oneself as a crochet artisan using modern marketing strategies, consider the following:

1. Building an online presence: Create a website or blog to showcase your work, share patterns, and engage with a community of crochet enthusiasts. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook to share photos, tutorials, and behind-the-scenes content.
2. Collaborations: Collaborate with other artisans or brands in related fields, such as fashion or interior design, to cross-promote each other's work and reach new audiences.
3. Workshops and Classes: Offer crochet workshops or tutorials, either in person or virtually, to teach others your techniques and skills. This not only promotes your expertise but also establishes you as a trusted authority in the craft.
4. Local Craft Fairs and Markets: Participate in craft fairs and local markets to showcase and sell your work directly to customers. This provides an opportunity to network with other artisans and connect with customers who appreciate handmade products.
5. Influencer partnerships: Identify influencers or bloggers who align with your style and values, and collaborate with them to feature your crochet work in their content. This can help expand your reach to their followers who may be potential customers.

To establish an audience of prospective customers as an independent artisan, consider these effective strategies:

1. Networking: Engage with the crochet community both online and offline by participating in crochet groups, forums, and social media communities. Connect with fellow artisans, share your work, offer helpful advice, and build relationships within the community.
2. Word-of-mouth marketing: Encourage satisfied customers to spread the word about your work by providing exceptional products and customer service. Offer incentives for referrals or testimonials to encourage them to share their positive experiences with others.
3. Consistency: Regularly create and share high-quality content, such as photos, patterns, tutorials, and stories behind your handicrafts. This helps to establish your brand identity and build trust and recognition among your audience.
4. Collaboration and Cross-promotion: Seek opportunities to collaborate with other artisans or businesses complementary to your craft. This can help expand your reach and expose your work to new audiences who may be interested in your crochet creations.
5. Local partnerships: Explore partnerships with local boutiques, gift shops, or interior design stores that align with your style. Create mutually beneficial arrangements where they can showcase and sell your products, expanding your customer base.

Crochet has a wide range of alternative use cases beyond traditional apparel and decor. Here are a few examples:

1. Amigurumi: This popular Japanese crochet style involves creating small stuffed animals or dolls using crochet techniques. Amigurumi creations can be whimsical, cute, and perfect for children or adult collectors.
2. Crochet jewelry: Crocheting with fine threads or wire allows for the creation of delicate and unique jewelry pieces like earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
3. Sculptural crochet: Some artisans experiment with crochet to create three-dimensional sculptural pieces, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with yarn.
4. Crochet in art installations: Crochet can be incorporated into large-scale art installations, adding texture and a tactile element to these pieces.
5. Recycled or upcycled crochet: Utilize recycled materials like old t-shirts, fabric scraps, or plastic bags to create eco-friendly crochet items such as rugs or bags.

Valuing your crocheted work for sale on the market can be subjective but here are some factors to consider:

1. Time and Skill: Consider the amount of time and skill invested in creating the piece. Intricate designs or complex patterns may command a higher value.
2. Materials: Take into account the cost and quality of the materials used. Luxury yarns or specialty fibers may justify a higher price.
3. Uniqueness: If your piece is one-of-a-kind or custom-designed, it may have a higher perceived value due to its exclusivity.
4. Market Research: Research similar crochet items being sold by other artisans to get an idea of the price range and market demand.
5. Reputation and Branding: Building a reputation for quality and craftsmanship can justify higher prices as customers value the value of your work.

Ultimately, setting a competitive yet profitable price requires finding the right balance based on the factors mentioned above and understanding the preferences and buying power of your target audience.

 

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[Disciple96]

When consulting with a prospective customer about a commissioned project, here are some questions that can help start the conversation and identify their needs:

1. What type of item are you interested in having crocheted? (e.g., clothing, accessories, home decor)
2. Do you have any specific design ideas or inspirations in mind? Are there any particular colors or patterns you prefer?
3. What is your budget and timeline for the project?
4. Will this item be for personal use or a gift for someone else?
5. Are there any specific materials or yarn preferences you have, such as fiber type or texture?
6. Are there any size or fit requirements that need to be considered?
7. Do you have any special requests or additional details you would like to discuss?

For creative ways to promote oneself as a crochet artisan using modern marketing strategies, consider the following:

1. Building an online presence: Create a website or blog to showcase your work, share patterns, and engage with a community of crochet enthusiasts. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook to share photos, tutorials, and behind-the-scenes content.
2. Collaborations: Collaborate with other artisans or brands in related fields, such as fashion or interior design, to cross-promote each other's work and reach new audiences.
3. Workshops and Classes: Offer crochet workshops or tutorials, either in person or virtually, to teach others your techniques and skills. This not only promotes your expertise but also establishes you as a trusted authority in the craft.
4. Local Craft Fairs and Markets: Participate in craft fairs and local markets to showcase and sell your work directly to customers. This provides an opportunity to network with other artisans and connect with customers who appreciate handmade products.
5. Influencer partnerships: Identify influencers or bloggers who align with your style and values, and collaborate with them to feature your crochet work in their content. This can help expand your reach to their followers who may be potential customers.

To establish an audience of prospective customers as an independent artisan, consider these effective strategies:

1. Networking: Engage with the crochet community both online and offline by participating in crochet groups, forums, and social media communities. Connect with fellow artisans, share your work, offer helpful advice, and build relationships within the community.
2. Word-of-mouth marketing: Encourage satisfied customers to spread the word about your work by providing exceptional products and customer service. Offer incentives for referrals or testimonials to encourage them to share their positive experiences with others.
3. Consistency: Regularly create and share high-quality content, such as photos, patterns, tutorials, and stories behind your handicrafts. This helps to establish your brand identity and build trust and recognition among your audience.
4. Collaboration and Cross-promotion: Seek opportunities to collaborate with other artisans or businesses complementary to your craft. This can help expand your reach and expose your work to new audiences who may be interested in your crochet creations.
5. Local partnerships: Explore partnerships with local boutiques, gift shops, or interior design stores that align with your style. Create mutually beneficial arrangements where they can showcase and sell your products, expanding your customer base.

Crochet has a wide range of alternative use cases beyond traditional apparel and decor. Here are a few examples:

1. Amigurumi: This popular Japanese crochet style involves creating small stuffed animals or dolls using crochet techniques. Amigurumi creations can be whimsical, cute, and perfect for children or adult collectors.
2. Crochet jewelry: Crocheting with fine threads or wire allows for the creation of delicate and unique jewelry pieces like earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
3. Sculptural crochet: Some artisans experiment with crochet to create three-dimensional sculptural pieces, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with yarn.
4. Crochet in art installations: Crochet can be incorporated into large-scale art installations, adding texture and a tactile element to these pieces.
5. Recycled or upcycled crochet: Utilize recycled materials like old t-shirts, fabric scraps, or plastic bags to create eco-friendly crochet items such as rugs or bags.

Valuing your crocheted work for sale on the market can be subjective but here are some factors to consider:

1. Time and Skill: Consider the amount of time and skill invested in creating the piece. Intricate designs or complex patterns may command a higher value.
2. Materials: Take into account the cost and quality of the materials used. Luxury yarns or specialty fibers may justify a higher price.
3. Uniqueness: If your piece is one-of-a-kind or custom-designed, it may have a higher perceived value due to its exclusivity.
4. Market Research: Research similar crochet items being sold by other artisans to get an idea of the price range and market demand.
5. Reputation and Branding: Building a reputation for quality and craftsmanship can justify higher prices as customers value the value of your work.

Ultimately, setting a competitive yet profitable price requires finding the right balance based on the factors mentioned above and understanding the preferences and buying power of your target audience.

What are the most technical and challenging crochet styles, and what are their use cases?

What are some examples of use cases for crochet that involve using the most possible yarn? In other words, what could you crochet that is practical yet covers a lot of surface area?

How would one begin to create their own original patterns to distribute? Are there any softwares available to help simplify and streamline the process of pattern creation?

Is there any software available that is able to generate a pattern based on visual input, or by designing the final product, that can be used fo create patterns without knowing how to crochet at all?

What kinds of crochet styles are able to be mass produced?

 

[Eva (AI-Bot)]

What are the most technical and challenging crochet styles, and what are their use cases?

What are some examples of use cases for crochet that involve using the most possible yarn? In other words, what could you crochet that is practical yet covers a lot of surface area?

How would one begin to create their own original patterns to distribute? Are there any softwares available to help simplify and streamline the process of pattern creation?

Is there any software available that is able to generate a pattern based on visual input, or by designing the final product, that can be used fo create patterns without knowing how to crochet at all?

What kinds of crochet styles are able to be mass produced?

Sorry I couldn't contact the ChatGPT think tank

 

[Disciple96]

Sorry I couldn't contact the ChatGPT think tank

What are the most technical and challenging crochet styles, and what are their use cases?

What are some examples of use cases for crochet that involve using the most possible yarn? In other words, what could you crochet that is practical yet covers a lot of surface area?

How would one begin to create their own original patterns to distribute? Are there any softwares available to help simplify and streamline the process of pattern creation?

Is there any software available that is able to generate a pattern based on visual input, or by designing the final product, that can be used fo create patterns without knowing how to crochet at all?

What kinds of crochet styles are able to be mass produced?

 

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[Eva (AI-Bot)]

What are the most technical and challenging crochet styles, and what are their use cases?

What are some examples of use cases for crochet that involve using the most possible yarn? In other words, what could you crochet that is practical yet covers a lot of surface area?

How would one begin to create their own original patterns to distribute? Are there any softwares available to help simplify and streamline the process of pattern creation?

Is there any software available that is able to generate a pattern based on visual input, or by designing the final product, that can be used fo create patterns without knowing how to crochet at all?

What kinds of crochet styles are able to be mass produced?

The most technical and challenging crochet styles typically involve intricate stitch patterns, complex shaping, or advanced techniques. Some examples include:

1. Irish Crochet: This style involves creating delicate motifs and lace-like designs using fine thread. It requires attention to detail and skill in working with small hooks and intricate patterns.
2. Tunis

 

[Disciple96]

The most technical and challenging crochet styles typically involve intricate stitch patterns, complex shaping, or advanced techniques. Some examples include:

1. Irish Crochet: This style involves creating delicate motifs and lace-like designs using fine thread. It requires attention to detail and skill in working with small hooks and intricate patterns.
2. Tunis

I think I broke you

 

[Eva (AI-Bot)]

I think I broke you

Sorry I couldn't contact the ChatGPT think tank

 

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[Disciple96]

GPT says:

1. "The most technical and challenging crochet styles include:
   • Tunisian Crochet: It's a mix of crochet and knitting techniques, creating a fabric that resembles woven fabric. It's often used for blankets and scarves.
   • Irish Crochet: Known for its intricate lacework and motifs, this style requires patience and skill. It's used for doilies, tablecloths, and wedding dresses.
   • Filet Crochet: Involves creating mesh patterns using open and filled squares. It's used for decorative items like curtains and table runners.
2. Crocheting items that require a lot of yarn and cover a lot of surface area include:
   • Blankets: Afghan blankets or bedspreads can be large and use a substantial amount of yarn.
   • Rugs: Crocheted rugs are practical and can cover a large area, making them a yarn-intensive project.
   • Wall Hangings: Creating intricate wall hangings with various textures can be both artistic and yarn-consuming.
3. To create your own original crochet patterns for distribution, you can start by:
   • Sketching: Draw your design on paper to visualize it.
   • Materials: Choose yarn and hook sizes that suit your project.
   • Write Instructions: Document each step clearly and concisely.
   • Test: Crochet your design to ensure it works as intended.
     There are software tools like Adobe Illustrator or specialized crochet pattern design software that can help you create and share patterns more professionally.
4. While there are software tools that can assist with designing and charting crochet patterns, they typically require some crochet knowledge. As of my last update in September 2021, there wasn't software available that could generate crochet patterns solely from visual input without human expertise.
5. Crochet styles that are relatively simple and can be mass-produced include:
   • Amigurumi: Small stuffed animals or dolls can be produced in batches.
   • Basic Scarves and Hats: Simple, repetitive patterns can be made quickly.
   • Granny Squares: Creating individual squares for blankets or other projects can be efficient when made in large quantities.
     Keep in mind that mass production often involves consistency and speed, so choosing simpler designs and using the right materials is key."

 

[Bekit]

I've been crocheting since I was 10. Is there anything you want to know that might benefit from a human answer?

In the meantime, since it seems like you're doing research on the topic of crochet, here's a fun video segment on a crochet designer who uses lots of yarn (since you had a question about that).

View: https://youtu.be/ge5YLoLL5Ys?si=tBnllLhy7Tow_bJo&t=3390


And here's another interesting interview with a crochet designer who makes lovely use of color (and who also makes money selling an online course with her crochet designs).

View: https://youtu.be/HiAxGatDki0?si=6Is0Y-d-CEefPF84&t=3662


Also, I wanted to mention Ravelry. This is the go-to place for finding, buying, and selling patterns.

Ravelry

www.ravelry.com

I also can't resist pointing out the very high unlikelihood of this part of Eva's answer, and it relates to your question, "What kinds of crochet styles are able to be mass produced?"

4. The economics of the crochet industry are an interesting topic. While it's true that many crochet styles cannot be replicated by machine, this scarcity can actually work in favor of crochet artisans. Handcrafted crochet items are often valued for their uniqueness, attention to detail, and quality craftsmanship. This demand for one-of-a-kind, handmade pieces can create opportunities for crochet artists to sell their work at higher price points compared to mass-produced items.

While it may be possible that crochet artists could sell their work at higher price points, what usually happens instead is that crochet artisans are some of the most exploited and underpaid workers of all. You can get a crochet sweater on Amazon for $16, and there are 4,000 results on Amazon right now for "crochet sweater" under $50. This has to mean that the person who slaved away making each of those pieces, stitch by stitch, row by row, for dozens of hours, would have made one of the worst hourly wages of any kind of worker in a sweatshop. There's only so fast you can get with crochet, and it comes with a lot of repetitive motion injuries if you do it a lot. I refuse to buy crocheted items in shops for this reason, because I know how under-compensated the maker was.

But let's say, for the purpose of argument, that you were one of the fastest crocheters on the planet, you had established brand recognition in a niche for yourself, you could command premium prices, and you set yourself up with a business model of being commissioned for bespoke pieces. What price would you have to charge just to make minimum wage?

Back-of-the-napkin math:
Let's take a sleeveless sweater as pretty much one of the simplest designs you could offer. I'm using this one as a reference. Let's pick the Medium size as an "average" size you might be commissioned for.

• The yarn the pattern calls for is $28 per skein. One skein is 463 yards. Medium calls for 1193 yards. That means you're going to need to buy 3 skeins. Total for yarn = $84
  • Any similar substitute yarn is going to cost you $75-150, so this is right in line with what I'd expect.
• Then we calculate your time.
  • The sweater pattern says that the gauge is "19 stitches and 12 rows = 4 inches"
  • According to the schematic that comes with the pattern (see image below), the circumference at hem is 50 inches, and the circumference at bust is 38 inches. The length from underarm to hem is 13 inches. The arm hole opening circumference is 15 inches, so that's another 7.5 inches of length on top of the 13 inches. Map that onto a rough calculation of the surface area of the fabric you're creating, and we come out to about 857 square inches. We'll consider the square root of 857 to simplify this - so we're looking at a crocheted square that's 29.27 inches high by 29.27 inches wide in order to calculate approximately how many stitches comprise this piece.
  • Now translate that to the rows and stitches of the gauge. Rows build height and stitches build width. So that's approximately 139 sts x 87 rows, which works out to 12093 stitches.
  • Let's assume you can do one stitch per second, which would be pretty fast. That means that you'd spend 3 1/3 hours on this garment.
  • That doesn't count the time spent reading the pattern, sewing up the garment, any finishing stitches for edging or decoration, etc, so let's round it up to 4 hours. That's very conservative.
  • Total for time: 4 hours x $10 hour is $40.
• Yarn + time = $84 + 40 = $124 for you to get paid minimum wage for your work.
  • I guarantee you, if you did the work for this piece and then sold it for $124, you'd be very aware that your customer was getting a STEAL. But the customer might feel like they were ripped off. "Just this thing for $124??? I could get the same exact thing at Wal-Mart for $20! Crocheters are just greedy."
  • So you'd really need to cater to a premium market instead.
  • Let's say you set your prices to pay yourself $50/hour for your time.
  • Now that's $84 for yarn and $200 for your time, or $284.
  • This is more of the range where you'll start to find upscale buyers who want one-of-a-kind items, who don't bat an eye at those rates. So you market yourself towards those people and you could get somewhere. But still - you'd be making $50/hour and that would be your ceiling. All your hours wouldn't be able to be billable. So assuming 20 hours a week are billable, you'd end up making $50,000 a year. Not fastlane by any stretch.
  • You'd have to aim even higher - like your lowest-priced item is $1,000+ for you to make any kind of serious money. But some people pay more than that for a mere T-shirt. So your niche would be that audience.

So going back to this question of yours,
What might be the most effective ways for an independent artisan to establish an audience of prospective customers, considering all possible options?

Really the only viable option I see is if you can make yourself into the Picasso of crochet, where celebrities come to you to pay premium prices because of your unique designs.

 

[Eva (AI-Bot)]

While it may be possible that crochet artists could sell their work at higher price points, what usually happens instead is that crochet artisans are some of the most exploited and underpaid workers of all. You can get a crochet sweater on Amazon for $16, and there are 4,000 results on Amazon right now for "crochet sweater" under $50. This has to mean that the person who slaved away making each of those pieces, stitch by stitch, row by row, for dozens of hours, would have made one of the worst hourly wages of any kind of worker in a sweatshop. There's only so fast you can get with crochet, and it comes with a lot of repetitive motion injuries if you do it a lot. I refuse to buy crocheted items in shops for this reason, because I know how under-compensated the maker was.

But let's say, for the purpose of argument, that you were one of the fastest crocheters on the planet, you had established brand recognition in a niche for yourself, you could command premium prices, and you set yourself up with a business model of being commissioned for bespoke pieces. What price would you have to charge just to make minimum wage?

Back-of-the-napkin math:
Let's take a sleeveless sweater as pretty much one of the simplest designs you could offer. I'm using this one as a reference. Let's pick the Medium size as an "average" size you might be commissioned for.

• The yarn the pattern calls for is $28 per skein. One skein is 463 yards. Medium calls for 1193 yards. That means you're going to need to buy 3 skeins. Total for yarn = $84
  • Any similar substitute yarn is going to cost you $75-150, so this is right in line with what I'd expect.
• Then we calculate your time.
  • The sweater pattern says that the gauge is "19 stitches and 12 rows = 4 inches"
  • According to the schematic that comes with the pattern (see image below), the circumference at hem is 50 inches, and the circumference at bust is 38 inches. The length from underarm to hem is 13 inches. The arm hole opening circumference is 15 inches, so that's another 7.5 inches of length on top of the 13 inches. Map that onto a rough calculation of the surface area of the fabric you're creating, and we come out to about 857 square inches. We'll consider the square root of 857 to simplify this - so we're looking at a crocheted square that's 29.27 inches high by 29.27 inches wide in order to calculate approximately how many stitches comprise this piece.
  • Now translate that to the rows and stitches of the gauge. Rows build height and stitches build width. So that's approximately 139 sts x 87 rows, which works out to 12093 stitches.
  • Let's assume you can do one stitch per second, which would be pretty fast. That means that you'd spend 3 1/3 hours on this garment.
  • That doesn't count the time spent reading the pattern, sewing up the garment, any finishing stitches for edging or decoration, etc, so let's round it up to 4 hours. That's very conservative.
  • Total for time: 4 hours x $10 hour is $40.
• Yarn + time = $84 + 40 = $124 for you to get paid minimum wage for your work.
  • I guarantee you, if you did the work for this piece and then sold it for $124, you'd be very aware that your customer was getting a STEAL. But the customer might feel like they were ripped off. "Just this thing for $124??? I could get the same exact thing at Wal-Mart for $20! Crocheters are just greedy."
  • So you'd really need to cater to a premium market instead.
  • Let's say you set your prices to pay yourself $50/hour for your time.
  • Now that's $84 for yarn and $200 for your time, or $284.
  • This is more of the range where you'll start to find upscale buyers who want one-of-a-kind items, who don't bat an eye at those rates. So you market yourself towards those people and you could get somewhere. But still - you'd be making $50/hour and that would be your ceiling. All your hours wouldn't be able to be billable. So assuming 20 hours a week are billable, you'd end up making $50,000 a year. Not fastlane by any stretch.
  • You'd have to aim even higher - like your lowest-priced item is $1,000+ for you to make any kind of serious money. But some people pay more than that for a mere T-shirt. So your niche would be that audience.

View attachment 51287
So going back to this question of yours,
What might be the most effective ways for an independent artisan to establish an audience of prospective customers, considering all possible options?

Really the only viable option I see is if you can make yourself into the Picasso of crochet, where celebrities come to you to pay premium prices because of your unique designs.

Sorry I couldn't contact the ChatGPT think tank

 

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[BizyDad]

Eva got snarkyyyyyy!!!