Why People Aren’t Buying Your Products (And How You Can Change That!)

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve poured your heart and soul into creating amazing products. You’ve perfected your craft, you’ve set up shop, and you’re ready for the sales to start rolling in. But for some reason, they’re just not. Can you make a living selling crafts, or should you give up and return to the “real” world?

Many talented artisans and creators face the same struggle: they have fantastic products, but they’re just not seeing the sales they expected. So, what’s going wrong? Why aren’t people buying your products? And, more importantly, how can you turn things around and start seeing the success you deserve?

Let’s dive in!

Disclosure: some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

What’s Missing: Lack of Visibility

One of the most common reasons people aren’t buying your products is simply that they don’t know about them.

In today’s crowded marketplace, standing out can be tough.

If you’re not actively promoting your products and getting them in front of your target audience, they’re unlikely to find you on their own.

Solution: Get Visible!

Invest time and effort into marketing your products. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to showcase your creations. 

Engage with your audience, share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your creative process, and build a community around your brand. 

Consider collaborations with influencers or participating in craft fairs and markets to expand your reach even further.

Need more help with marketing? Consider my Marketing School for Makers!

What’s Missing: Poor Product Presentation

Even if your products are top-notch, if they’re not presented well, potential customers may pass them by.

This includes everything from your product photography to your product descriptions.

If your images are blurry or poorly lit, or if your descriptions are vague and uninspiring, shoppers may not feel confident enough to make a purchase.

Solution: Up Your Presentation Game!

Invest in high-quality product photography that accurately captures the beauty and craftsmanship of your creations. 

Use clear, descriptive language in your product descriptions, highlighting the features and benefits of each item. 

Consider incorporating storytelling into your listings to create an emotional connection with your audience and make your products more memorable.

What’s Missing: Pricing Issues

Pricing can be a major stumbling block for many small business owners.

If your prices are too high, you risk alienating potential customers. 

On the other hand, if your prices are too low, people may perceive your products as cheap or low-quality. Finding the right balance can be challenging.

The most important answer to, “can you make a living selling crafts” is yes, if you’re pricing is right!

Solution: Price Strategically!

Do some market research to see what similar products are selling for and use that information to inform your pricing strategy.

Consider factors such as the cost of materials, your time and labor, and your desired profit margin. 

Don’t undervalue your work, but also be mindful of what your target market is willing to pay.

Read more about pricing your products here:

Overcoming Fears When Pricing Handmade Items

What’s Missing: Effective Marketing

Even if you’re actively promoting your products, if your marketing efforts aren’t resonating with your Perfect Customer, they’re unlikely to convert into sales.

This could be due to a variety of factors, such as using the wrong channels, targeting the wrong audience, or simply not communicating your value proposition effectively.

Solution: Know Your PC!

Take the time to really understand your Perfect Customer: their demographics, interests, pain points, and purchasing behavior.

Use this information to tailor your marketing messages to resonate with them on a deeper level.

Experiment with different marketing channels and tactics to see what works best for your unique business.

What’s Missing: Trust

In today’s online marketplace, trust is everything.

If potential customers don’t trust you or your brand, they’re unlikely to feel comfortable making a purchase.

This could be due to a variety of factors, such as a lack of social proof, unclear return policies, or a poorly designed website.

Solution: Build Trust!

Invest in building trust with your audience through transparent communication, excellent customer service, and social proof.

Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews and testimonials, and prominently display them on your website and social media channels.

Make sure your website is user-friendly, secure, and mobile-responsive, and clearly communicate your return and exchange policies to alleviate any concerns shoppers may have.

Can you make a living selling crafts?

I truly believe you can! If people aren’t buying your products, it’s likely due to a combination of factors, from lack of visibility and poor presentation to pricing issues and ineffective marketing.

The good news is, these are all things you have the power to change! By investing time and effort into improving these areas of your business, you can increase your chances of success and start seeing the sales you deserve. 

Be sure to get on my VIP list for the upcoming Spring class of the Marketing School for Makers. I’ll be sending information on free workshops and priority sign up for makers who add their names to the list.