Not sure why Google won't let me post a reply so thought I would try a new thread in response.
- You can sell a lot on eBay if you make good stuff that people like. Stic kley is still flaming hot. People want a deal on there but of you can contr ol cost and have production type speed/labor, you can be profitable. Small items are better because of shipping hassle.
- Etsy is a higher-end eBay type place and you can actually sell for real prices. Make small things so shipping is easy. Smaller audience but buyers do exist.
- Local art fairs, etc. Don't do those "only" because you can get skunked (zero sales) real easy on a bad day or bad fit. It takes a while to learn t hat business and see what sells and to learn what shows are good and gettin g into the juried shows, etc. But can be one good source among many.
- Consignment is tough. They want at least 30% and often 50% but if you ca n find some places it can be easy money. I make "Antique like" faux finishe d stuff and it sells through consignment some.
- Roadside setup. I made Adirondack chairs and could seel a truck load any weekend I wanted to park in the wine country area near my home. Also sold my faux antiques along side the road in the gold-country area. Any tourist areas. I never had a permit, just took cash and never got hassled except on ce and they just said "move along" it was more of a traffic issue than sell ing. I have a "Square" now and can take credit cards this summer season whi ch I plan for Gold Country again.
- Local cabinet shops, the big ones, often get requests for custom stuff t hey don't want to bother with. If you can impress them they may throw work your way but you need to keep visiting once they say maybe.