How to source materials for your handmade business

A practical guide for artisan business owners

Finding the right materials for your handmade business can be one of the most time consuming and frustrating parts of what you do! As someone who runs a handmade business and a commercial printing company, I sometimes must spend more time sourcing the right supplies than actually making my own products! I’ve learned a few things—sometimes the hard way—that can make the sourcing process easier, more cost-effective, and less stressful.

Whether you're wondering how to get wholesale pricing, where to find trustworthy suppliers, or how to plan ahead for supply chain hiccups, these are practical strategies to help you source materials like a pro.

Getting Started: The Basics of Sourcing Materials

If you’re new to sourcing non-retail materials for your handmade goods, there’s a learning curve when it comes to buying materials efficiently. Here are some key things to know:

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