The following was originally published in The Beading Wire, Volume 1, Issue 1:

Where has the time gone? The holiday gift-giving season is upon us and the time to start getting ready is now. Whether you are making gifts for loved ones or selling jewelry at holiday fairs, you need to plan ahead and allow yourself plenty of time to get all your projects done. Here are some hard-earned words of advice to help you stay stress-free this season.

If you are making gifts for loved ones:

Start by making a list of everyone you want to make a gift for. If there is something that really stands out to you about an individual, write that down next to their name. For instance, “Susie loves dolphins” or “Amanda collects charms.” Once you have your list, write down an idea for a project next to each name. You can check out Beadaholique’s new Gift Center to get some great ideas for every taste and budget. Next you will want to order all your supplies. Don’t forget to order pretty organza or velvet drawstring gift bags to package your handmade lovelies in. Do all your ordering as soon as you can. Remember it takes time for supplies to be delivered and then you might have to mail some of your gifts off—plan ahead. Also keep in mind that the holidays mean a very full social schedule so you will actually have a lot less free time each week then normal. As soon as you can, begin your projects. Have fun, make them personal and don’t be afraid to let your creativity flow! Once your jewelry is made, wrap it up and package it artfully.

Let your friends and family know that you hand made this gift just for them; they will treasure it even more.

If you are making gifts to sell:

Think about the type and style of jewelry the most people would want to give or get as a gift. This was a particularly hard lesson for me to learn. I love making very elaborate, very specific (Steampunk, Neo Victorian, etc.) pieces, but what sells best are simple charm necklaces, pretty crystal earrings, and more universally appealing items. Look at your current inventory and make a list of what you are missing to fill in the gaps. Set goals and decide what you are going to make. Order your supplies and do this early, well before your show date. You don’t want to end up beading the night before a big holiday fair. Remember to order bags to package your jewelry in once it sells and also any jewelry displays you need to showcase your art. Start producing and make, make, make! When packing for the show, make sure to: (1.) keep your necklaces separate so they do not become tangled, (2.) bring a tool kit to the show for any last minute repairs or requests to switch out chains or earring hooks, (3.) bring a few extra “common” beading supplies such as jump rings and earring hooks as well as bags or boxes to package your jewelry, and finally, don’t forget business cards or a short printout talking about yourself as an artist. People giving gifts will want to make sure the recipient knows the gift is artist-made and you want to make sure both the gift giver and recipient know how to get a hold of you so they can order more!

Most important tip of all, have fun!