How do I handle inventory and fulfillment when doing art shows?

Display large, impressive pieces (like 24x36 to 36x72 metal prints) as your showcase work, but plan to ship most large orders as print-on-demand since display pieces get dinged up from travel. Keep a bin of one standard-size print that serves as your volume seller, and maintain a backup bucket of unbagged prints to replace sold inventory throughout the show. This system lets you sell immediately while managing logistics. For large custom sizes, take orders and fulfill after the show. Be willing to sell display pieces off the wall if they’re in good condition and it closes a sale, possibly offering a small discount for minor wear. Consider stretching and printing smaller items yourself for better margins on volume products.

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Asked by general teaching · Answered by John Kennington · art-marketing-podcast · 2024-11-22