I made a lot of mistakes the first time I sold prints during Miami Art Basel 2019. In order to avoid making the same mistakes again I made a checklist that helps me stay organized and keep customers happy.
Clear bags.
Place your prints inside clear plastic bags to protect them. I suggest looking at clearbags.com but then finding that same bag by the same company on amazon because it might be cheaper there. Make sure you buy the right size.
Backing.
Make sure to buy a sturdy cardboard backing to place inside the plastic bag, it keeps your print from getting bent. I also looked at clearbags.com for this one.Payment Apps.
Unless you have a card scanner for your phone make sure you download all the payment apps and have them ready to use/find for people who don’t have cash. The most common ones I’ve seen are Venmo, CashApp, and Paypal. When someone pays you through the app, tell them to write the name of the print.
Mounting Putty.
Scotch tape does nothing if you’re hanging your prints on a wall outside. Bring lots of mounting putty, it will do the trick and best of all not damage your prints.Hang prints.
Don’t even think about laying them on the floor in front of you when you’re going to a place with lots of people walking by otherwise your art is going to get stepped on. Also, hang your best sellers. Hanging makes it easier for people to see your prints from afar. When they are on the floor people will have no choice but to look down.If you don’t have a permit, don’t go too early.
If you go too early the cops are more likely to say something if you’re not supposed to be there. I got kicked out of my spot…twice. ouch. The best time to be there is when it’s crowded, cops tend to be busy with more important things if it’s a big festival.Business cards.
I place one inside each bag in the back so people won’t lose it.Small Notebook.
I’m old school, I like to keep track of inventory and what prints are selling by writing them down. I also like to hand over people a notebook and a pen to write down their information just in case! You never know who you’ll meet. Plus, if you lose your phone, then what?Water & snacks.
A stool or cushion.
You’re going to get tired, the ground is dirty, and a cushion or a stool is much lighter to carry and takes up less room.Someone you trust. (this isn’t considered an item but something essential for sure!)
At some point, you are either going to have a huge crowd of people who want to buy your prints and you won’t even know where to begin or you will have to use the bathroom and you can’t leave your spot or artwork behind. Having someone there that you trust can be a big help.