How Stall Holders Should Price Their Products at West Sussex Craft Markets

Pricing your handmade products for a craft market is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a stall holder. Whether you're new to the vibrant West Sussex craft market scene or a seasoned trader looking to refine your strategy, getting your pricing right can make the difference between breaking even and thriving.

In this blog, we'll explore practical, proven pricing strategies specifically tailored for West Sussex craft market stall holders, ensuring your handmade creations are both competitive and profitable.

1. Understand Your Costs First

Before you even think about pricing for your West Sussex stall, calculate your costs. This includes:

• Materials (e.g., yarn, wood, fabric, clay)

• Tools and equipment (e.g., sewing machines, kilns)

• Time (Yes, your time has value!)

• Stall fees (Common at craft markets in Chichester, Worthing, Arundel, etc.)

• Packaging

• Transport

💡 Tip: Keep a spreadsheet with every expense. West Sussex craft events can vary in location and cost, so being aware of fluctuating overheads is key.

2. Research Your Local Market

West Sussex has a rich and diverse craft scene—from seaside towns like Bognor Regis to countryside villages like Petworth. Take time to visit local markets and observe:

• What similar items are being sold for

• Who your competitors are

• What pricing structure they use (e.g., bundled items, tiered pricing)

• Which stalls seem to attract more customers

💬 Example: If you’re selling hand-poured candles in Worthing, and most stalls price them between £8–£12, your pricing should sit within or justifiably above that range—depending on your unique selling points.

3. Don’t Compete on Price Alone

It's tempting to undercut other stall holders, especially in competitive markets like Chichester’s artisan fairs or Shoreham’s riverside events. However, pricing too low can:

• Devalue your work

• Make customers question quality

• Undercut the entire community of crafters

Instead, compete on value—highlight craftsmanship, sustainability, or bespoke design. West Sussex customers often appreciate locally-made, ethical products and are willing to pay a little more for them.

4. Use a Simple Pricing Formula

A commonly used formula among craft stall holders is:

(Cost of materials + Time x Hourly rate) x 2 = Retail Price

Let’s say you make jewellery in Arundel and it takes you 1 hour at £10/hour and £5 in materials:

• (£5 + £10) x 2 = £30

This covers your costs and includes a margin for profit and overheads.

5. Offer Price Points for Every Budget

Craft market shoppers come from all walks of life. Offering a range of price points helps appeal to more people. For example:

• Impulse buys under £10 (e.g., badges, bookmarks)

• Mid-range £10–£25 (e.g., mugs, prints, small homewares)

• Premium £30+ (e.g., artworks, handmade textiles)

Having clearly marked prices also builds trust—something West Sussex market-goers value.

6. Factor in Seasonal Trends

Craft markets in West Sussex often align with seasonal events—Christmas fairs, summer artisan shows, Easter markets. Adjust your pricing slightly to reflect:

• Increased demand (especially for gifts)

• Limited-edition items

• Higher footfall during festive periods

🎄 During a Christmas market in Midhurst, for example, customers may expect to pay more for festive-themed items or gift bundles.

7. Ask for Feedback

Talk to customers! Ask what they think of your pricing. Their feedback can guide future decisions and help you tailor your offer to local expectations. You can also:

• Test different prices at different events

• Bundle products together to create perceived value

• Offer small discounts for multi-buys

8. Promote Your Unique Selling Points

Pricing isn't just about numbers—it's also about perception. Use your product labels and signage to promote:

• Locally-sourced materials

• Eco-friendly production

• Handcrafted uniqueness

• Storytelling behind the piece

📍 For example: “Handmade in West Sussex using reclaimed oak” adds value and justifies a higher price.

9. Keep an Eye on the Competition (Without Copying)

While it’s good to be aware of what others are charging, your pricing should reflect your brand, your quality, and your customer base. West Sussex craft markets are full of diverse makers—stand out by owning your niche.

10. Review and Adjust Regularly

Markets evolve. Your skill improves. Costs change. Don’t be afraid to re-evaluate your prices:

• Monthly or quarterly

• After every major market

• In response to customer demand

You’re running a small business—and smart businesses stay agile.

Final Thoughts

Pricing handmade products for West Sussex craft markets requires a balance of logic, research, and intuition. When done right, you’ll not only cover your costs but build a brand that’s trusted and valued across the local community.