Upon reviewing your business finances, have you ever been shocked at seeing how much money you’ve unknowingly spent on craft supplies?

It’s happened to me more times than I care to admit.

I, too, have strolled through the aisles of my favorite craft store, my cart overflowing with things I didn’t plan on buying.

Then I reassure myself that “I totally need this for the business!”

Sound familiar?

And let’s not even get started on the online shopping rabbit hole!

A lot of us handmade business owners easily get sucked in, only to end up with a hefty bill and a bunch of stuff we don’t ever use.

Now, what if I told you that you can keep creating beautiful art without spending an arm and a leg?

In this blog post, we’re diving into the ultimate guide for handmade business owners on saving money on craft supplies, making your art business thrive even while on a budget.

I’m going to share some tips on keeping your costs down so you can increase your business profits, without sacrificing your creativity.

We’re talking about stretching every dollar without compromising on the quality of your art.

So, let’s get into it.

Buy in Bulk

First up, let’s talk about bulk-buying.

Buying in bulk isn’t just for grocery shopping.

When it comes to craft supplies, purchasing larger quantities can lead to significant savings.

But here’s the catch: you need to be strategic about it.

Focus on materials you use frequently – the items that you go through like crazy in your creative process.

This way, you’re not stuck with a mountain of something you’ll barely use.

Imagine the difference between buying a single paint brush versus a whole set.

Sure, the set might seem like a bigger investment upfront, but when you break it down per brush, it’s often way cheaper.

Plus, having extras means you’re prepared for those inevitable moments when one brush decides to call it quits midway through.

However, it’s important to resist the temptation of buying a lot of these supplies and materials just because it’s on sale or it seems like a good deal.

If what you’re buying in bulk is not something you use regularly, it’s not saving you money in the long run.

And every dollar you save on unnecessary supplies would be better used on other parts of growing your business.

So make sure you strike a balance between bulk buying and only stocking up on what you truly need!

Don’t forget to explore wholesale options too.

You can Google things like “Swarovski beads wholesale” or whatever supply you’re looking for with the word “wholesale” next to it to find suppliers who might be able to cut you a better price. 

Go Thrifting

Embrace the art of thrifting in sourcing materials for your craft projects.

Thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces are amazing places to shop for supplies or equipment.

You can find gently used or even new supplies at a fraction of the cost.

Think outside the box, right?

You can transform seemingly ordinary items into extraordinary elements for your creations. 

An old dress can become fabric for your next project, or a broken piece of furniture could supply unique wood elements to your new product line.

It’s not just about saving money; it’s about inspiring creativity with materials you might not have considered otherwise.

It’s also a chance to breathe new life into forgotten treasures and infuse your work with a sense of history and character.

You might have a Buy Nothing Facebook group for your neighborhood where you can stay updated on items other people are looking to give away for free. 

It’s a win-win situation.

DIY Before You Buy

Also don’t forget to DIY.

Sometimes, the best way to save money is to make something yourself.

Roll up your sleeves and get creative!

Need a specific color of paint?

Try mixing your own shades using colors you already have.

Mixing your own paint shades using colors you already have is not only cost-effective but also incredibly satisfying.

It’s like getting a whole new palette without having to spend anything.

Plus, experimenting with different combinations can lead to one-of-a-kind hues that set your work apart.

And, if you’re a sculptor and you’re looking for unique textures, you can create your own stamps instead of shelling out big bucks for those expensive ones.

With a little ingenuity and some everyday items from around the house, you can create custom stamps that add depth and personality to your pieces.

Think outside the box — anything from kitchen utensils to old buttons can become a unique stamp.

Not only does this save money, but it also adds a personal touch to your work that can’t be bought.

And let’s not forget the added bonus: when you DIY, you’re creating something truly original that other shops can’t copy. 

The next time you’re tempted to hit “buy” on that pricey supply, pause for a moment and ask yourself: can I DIY this instead?

You might just be surprised by the creative solutions you come up with—and the money you save in the process.

Explore Your Community

Leverage community resources.

Many communities are home to resource centers or reuse centers that specialize in art and craft materials.

These places accept donations of new and gently used supplies and sell them to the public for a very low cost.

It’s a fantastic way to not only save on materials but also to connect with a community of like-minded individuals which can be nice because running your own business can be a very lonely journey.

Whether you’re swapping stories, sharing tips, or collaborating on projects, these community spaces provide a supportive environment where creativity can flourish.

Many resource centers also offer workshops and events where you can learn new techniques, refine your skills, and broaden your artistic horizons.

And let’s not forget about swap meets, where you can trade materials with other people, so you can give new life to items that might otherwise be unused.

So, if you haven’t already, I highly encourage you to explore the resources available in your community. 

Use Digital Tools

Consider digital alternatives.

For graphic artists and designers, investing in digital software and tools can lead to lower costs and big savings.

Take, for example, digital sketch pads and design programs.

While there may be an upfront investment involved, the benefits far outweigh the costs.

With digital tools, you can say goodbye to the need for physical materials like paper, ink, or pens—resources that can add up over time. 

Plus, there’s the added benefit of having endless ‘supplies’ at your fingertips with just the click of a button.

I started getting into Procreate recently and I am blown away by how amazingly it can impersonate traditional art and its brushes, textures, and pens.

I know how expensive those tools can be, and Procreate’s only $12.99 as of this recording.

Considering the incredible value it provides, that’s an investment well worth making.

With the right tools and a dash of creativity, the sky’s the limit for what you can achieve!

Take Care of Your Things

Finally, this may be obvious for some, but for lazy people like me, a good reminder is to take care of the tools and equipment you’ve already got.

It’s a simple concept, but one that can make a world of difference for your budget and your creative process.

Maintain your current supplies to save yourself a lot of money.

This not only prolongs their lifespan but also saves you from the hassle and expense of constantly replacing them.

Clean your brushes properly, store your papers flat to avoid creases, and keep your tools in good condition.

Sometimes, the best way to save money is to not spend it unnecessarily on replacements.

Being resourceful isn’t just about saving money; it’s about fueling your creativity in new and exciting ways.

When your tools are well-maintained and in good working order, you’re able to focus more fully on the artistic process without being hindered by subpar equipment.

Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about working with tools that have been cared for and cherished over time.

And we can get creative while budgeting for our creativity, as well, right?

Wow, we just got really meta right there. 

Conclusion

These strategies speak to a deeper truth than the money we can save: the power of resourcefulness and creativity in fueling our artistic endeavors.

Whether it’s repurposing everyday items, embracing digital alternatives, or simply taking better care of our tools, each action represents a conscious choice to invest in our craft and our business.

So, always remember: creativity knows no bounds, and neither does your ability to thrive on a budget.

Did you find these tips helpful? Share your thoughts in the comments below!