Applying to juried craft shows or art events can be a daunting process, especially when you’re met with rejection despite your best efforts. But don't worry! Getting accepted to a juried craft fair is totally possible with the right approach.

I spent nearly a decade selling handmade products at craft shows, including many juried events. (I even wrote a book about it!)

And in this video, I invited Dear Handmade Life founder Nicole Stevenson to share her insights on how to get into juried craft shows.

Nicole has been running Patchwork Show, a series of juried craft shows in California, for more than 16 years. She's spent a lot of years jurying craft fair vendors and has some tips on what crafters should expect and how to stay on a craft show organizers good side!

Watch the video, or keep reading for our tips on getting accepted by juried craft shows and art events!

But first, What's the difference between a juried craft fair and a non-juried craft show?

A juried craft show or art event involves a selection process where you have to apply and be accepted to participate in the show. Sometimes it's just the craft show organizer who is there to review the applications and make sure that the vendors that are accepted are a good fit for the show, based on whatever that particular show is looking for. Sometimes a panel of experts reviews and approves applicants based on the quality and originality of their work.

A non-juried show is where you apply within their deadline, and you get in. That's basically it. There's no formal review process, so the range of vendors at the show can vary in terms of the quality of their work. Non-juried craft shows usually don't have strict rules about craftsmanship, and they may allow non-handmade items or MLM products such as Stella & Dot or Avon.

For handmade vendors and artists, juried craft shows might offer greater prestige and potentially higher sales, while non-juried events provide broader access and more opportunities for exposure.

Tips for Getting Accepted by Juried Craft Shows & Art Events

Here’s our tips for navigating the application process, getting on the jury's good side, and increasing your chances of success:

1. Understand the Craft Show’s Juried Process

Each craft show has its own unique set of criteria and judging process.

While Nicole shares tips based on her own experience running a juried craft show, each event will have their own application process and requirements.

Familiarize yourself with these specifics by thoroughly reading the event’s guidelines and rules. Pay attention to:

• Eligibility Requirements: Ensure your work aligns with the show's focus and requirements.

• Judging Criteria: Understand what the jury is looking for, whether it's originality, craftsmanship, or marketability.

• Application Deadlines: Mark these on your calendar and plan your application timeline accordingly.

Nicole advises craft fair applicants to consider whether your brand and your handmade products are a good fit for the show.

Who do your handmade products appeal to? And are those people attending the juried craft show you're applying to?

Nicole suggests walking the show before applying or researching past shows to see if your ideal customer will be there.

2. Craft a Strong Portfolio

A compelling portfolio is crucial for making a lasting impression.

As Nicole points out, "You need some type of a way for the jury to see what you make. At Patchwork Show, we ask for your website, your Instagram, your Etsy, any or all of those things. We also have a section on the application that says, if you don't have an online portfolio, upload five photos of your work. Because for our show in particular, I like being a show for emerging makers."

As she points out, while some shows might not care if you have a website or Etsy store yet, you still need to be able to provide high quality photos of your work.

Nicole says, "It needs to be as professional as possible. Your photographs need to be well lit. They need to be in focus... Photographs are kind of our biggest thing that we look at as the jury."

Your portfolio should include:

• High-Quality Photos: Use professional photos with good lighting and a simple background to showcase your work. Include multiple angles and detail shots to give a comprehensive view. Make sure it’s obvious to the jury what objects in the photos are the products you sell.

• Consistent Branding: Ensure your portfolio reflects your unique style and branding. Consistency in your presentation helps the jury understand your aesthetic.

• Diverse Selection: Include a range of work to demonstrate versatility, but ensure all pieces align with the show’s theme or focus.

3. Perfect Your Application

Your application is your first chance to make an impression, so make it count:

• Follow Instructions: Adhere strictly to application instructions. This includes format, word count, and submission requirements.

• Write a Compelling Artist Statement: Clearly articulate your artistic vision, process, and what makes your work unique. Avoid jargon and keep it engaging.

• Provide Accurate Information: Double-check all details, including prices, dimensions, and materials. Inaccuracies can detract from your credibility.

If in doubt, or if you're nervous about getting rejected by the jury, ask a few friends or family members to review your application info before submitting. Get feedback on how you can improve before pitching yourself to the craft fair jury.

4. Build a Strong Online Presence

An impressive online presence can boost your application. But simple marketing mistakes could ruin your chances of getting accepted by the craft fair jury!

Nicole told me, "When people put their Instagram as the place to see what they make and then their Instagram account is set to private, that's one of my pet peeves. Or they put their website and it's like, this website's under construction or their Etsy shop is empty, there's nothing in it."

Don't frustrate the craft show organizers before you've even met!

As Nicole says, "Make it easy for the jury to see what they need to see to make their decision because the harder you make it for them, the crankier they're going to get."

As you begin to apply to more competitive juried art events, make sure you have the following:

• Professional Website: Ensure your website is updated with your latest work and contact information. A well-organized site reflects professionalism.

• Social Media: Actively engage on relevant social media platforms. Share updates, behind-the-scenes content, and interact with your audience.

You do NOT have to be on every single social media platform. It's important to develop a marketing strategy that makes sense for your creative business.

The main thing is to make sure that whatever website or social media info you share with art show organizers is cohesive and represents your brand well.

If you need help developing a marketing strategy that works for your unique business, please reach out.

5. Gather Feedback and Refine

If you don't get accepted into a juried show, it can be hard not to take it personally.

But like Nicole points out, "It's a judgment on not whether what you make is good or bad, but on whether what you make is a good fit for that particular show.

She told me, "I was rejected from a couple of craft fairs in my craft fair career and it hurt. But when I stopped and thought about it, I was like, man, they're right. This wasn't a good fit, you know? And it's not necessarily that your art is bad. (Although it might be, I don't know.) But it's usually that whatever it is that you're making doesn't fit in with what that particular show is looking for. That's all it is."

If you’re consistently being rejected, consider seeking feedback:

• Reach Out to the Jurors: Some shows may provide feedback on your application. Use this insight to make improvements.

• Network with Peers: Connect with other artists who have been accepted to similar shows. They might offer valuable advice or insights based on their experiences.

Nicole recommends, "You should try to look at your application objectively and think about some general reasons why you weren't accepted. Some shows will allow you to email them and get feedback. We do, but it's after the show season is over. We say if you need specific feedback, email us after the show season is over and we will let you know why you weren't accepted."

She explains, "It could be that your stuff is too expensive. That's something that happens with us. We want our vendors to be successful at our shows. And if they have, you know, $500 necklaces, that's not a good fit for our show. It could be that your stuff doesn't seem handmade, even though you said it was, and it's a handmade only show. It could be that you're in a category that's very competitive, like jewelry is very competitive, and now bath and body is very competitive."

Prepare for the Show!

Once accepted, ensure you’re fully prepared:

• Create a Cohesive Booth Display: Your booth should be visually appealing and reflect your brand. Invest time in planning a layout that attracts visitors and showcases your work effectively. Learn more about how to make your craft show booth look great!

• Get Your Craft Show Must Haves Ready: Prepare business cards, price lists, and other promotional materials to distribute at the event. My craft show tool kit evolved a lot over the years, with a few handy items I couldn’t live without bringing to a craft fair. Check out my craft show must haves!

Getting accepted into juried art and craft shows requires a blend of preparation, persistence, and presentation. By understanding the show’s requirements, crafting a strong application, and continuously refining your work and approach, you’ll significantly improve your chances of success.

Remember, every rejection is an opportunity to learn and grow. Keep honing your craft, and your dedication will eventually pay off!

For more marketing & business tips for artists and handmade business owners, check out Badass Creatives on YouTube!