How to Stand Out More as an Artisan Furniture Maker

There are some crafts that seem to be slowly dying out, and it’s mostly due to more and more businesses catering towards mass-produced items. You have major companies like Amazon, Wayfair, Westwing, West Elm, and so many others, and they’re all focusing on low quality, high prices, and getting people to not think of furniture as an investment. Furniture used to not always be like this; it used to be more than just aesthetic appeal too.  

There used to be a craft, it used to be an investment, and it used to last for decades even. Just take a look at antique furniture, and you’ll get the idea. So, trying to start out as an artisan might seem a little crazy, maybe even over the top. 

However, the qualities that define your craftsmanship—attention to detail, unique designs, and personalised service—are exactly what can set you apart. Here’s how you can shine as an artisan furniture maker in a market dominated by mass production.

Start By Showing Off Transparency

Believe it or not, it can actually be as simple as this! Major companies who sell mass-produced items aren’t transparent about where they source anything, let alone who the manufacturer is. If you go to one of their websites, you’ll find that it’s pretty vague (if they even have a webpage for it). 

So, just being transparent about your sourcing practices can significantly enhance your credibility. But why does this even matter? 

Well, modern consumers are increasingly conscious of where their products come from and the impact they have on the environment. They hate the idea that the coffee table they’re using potentially destroyed a whole ecosystem or was made with slave labor. No one wants to think of that, and no one wants to contribute to his either!

Seriously, just by openly sharing information about your suppliers, you build trust with your customers. For example, partnering with reputable suppliers like New Forest Sawmill Ltd, known for their sustainable practices, ensures that the wood you use is responsibly sourced. In general, just highlighting such partnerships showcases your commitment to ethical practices and can be a compelling selling point. You’re already a major step ahead just by doing this!

Participate in Local Events

For the most part, anything that’s mass-produced isn’t allowed, so you have a leg up right here with this! So, why not consider participating in local markets, craft fairs, and exhibitions? All of these can provide valuable exposure (but you will usually need to pay for a table or spot to join). For the most part, these events offer a platform to showcase your work directly to potential customers who appreciate handmade, unique items. It also gives you the opportunity to network with other artisans and stay connected with trends in the industry.

It’s Craftmanship That Matters

Have you ever watched any of those celebrity Architectural Digest videos? They never mention mass-produced brands when they show off their furniture; instead, they brag about craftsmanship from artisans from whom they bought furniture. They like exclusive, and artisans are exclusive, but yes, there’s craftsmanship, too. 

So, just think of craftsmanship as your hallmark. You just need to ensure that every piece you produce reflects the highest standards of quality. This means investing time in honing your skills and staying updated with new techniques and tools that can enhance your work. When customers see the effort and skill that goes into each piece, they will appreciate the difference between your furniture and mass-produced alternatives.

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