If you’re looking for a checklist for starting a craft business, you’re in the right place. The to-do list for starting any business can feel a bit overwhelming. There’s the worry about missing important steps or just not having clear guidance with your start-up. I created this handmade business startup checklist to ensure you cut out the overwhelm.
It’s available as a PDF printable so all you have to do is print it out and get to work!
Use this checklist for planning your own craft business in any way that fits your needs.
I would love for you to share this business startup checklist on social media. If you find it helpful, please be sure to pin to Pinterest or Share on Facebook!
THE BUSINESS STARTUP CHECKLIST INCLUDES THESE 6 KEY SECTIONS:
Planning, Marketing, Business, Branding, Product Services, Finances
Planning Your Business
During the planning stage of your business, you will need to think about the things that actually take your business from just an idea to a reality.
Some steps you need to take in the planning stage are:
Explore the Niche for Your Business. A niche is basically the topic of your business. What products do you plan to sell? Example: women’s clothing, cat toys, pastries, wood birdhouses, etc.
Develop a Business Plan. It’s important to write out a business plan especially if you want to request any financial assistance from lenders.
Set Aside a Workspace. Choose a nice and quiet area where you can operate your business. Make sure you have plenty of space to store the supplies you need at your fingertips. If you plan to rent a space, that is great too. Consider where you will keep your products and shelf those in a safe place.
Choose a Business Name: Your business will need a name that is easy to spell and understand. Don’t pick a name that will box you in. This means if you are selling birdhouses today don’t pick a name such as Becky’s Birdhouses unless you never plan to sell anything other than birdhouses.
Research Start-Up Costs and Budget. You need to do your research to determine what your startup costs will be in your particular field. What are the cost of materials you’ll be using? What’s going to be your overhead expenses? You’ll need to plan and set aside funds to get your business going. This is your start-up budget.
Research your Competition. It’s important to get an idea about your competition. What they are doing, how their social media is set up, and their overall success. Study the why and the how.
Business Set Up
Once you have your planning in place, it’s time to start getting things set up.
Choose a Legal Structure. There are several different types of businesses you could start. Most small craft businesses start out as sole proprietorships and then become limited liability companies later on.
Register Your Business Name. To keep things legal and keep up with taxes and bookkeeping, you will need to register your business with the state and/or county you reside in.
Obtain an EIN. You can get a free EIN from the IRS.
Obtain Licenses and Tax Permits. Check with your state and local offices to find out what particular tax permits and licensing you need depending on the type of business you plan to operate.
Your Products and Services
Research Suppliers. When starting a craft business, we will all need suppliers. You will depend heavily on your suppliers so they need to be reputable and dependable! Be sure to check out reviews, ratings and do your due diligence.
Create Price Plans. Determine your pricing and be sure to price your products so you can make a profit. Find a pricing formula that makes sense for the type of product you are selling.
Document Inventory. Keep electronic documentation of all of your inventory so you are aware when something is running low.
Marking Your Business is Vital
You can build an awesome business but if you don’t market what you’re selling, it will fail.
You have to create a system of getting your products in front of the people who want and need them.
This system will include:
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Email and Website
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Social Media Accounts
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Product Photos
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Create Content
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Paid Ads
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Business Cards
Build Your Brand
Building a brand is another important part of the checklist for starting a craft business. Your brand is your business identity. You want it to be unique and easy to spot.
Choose Your Brand Colors. Every brand uses a color scheme that it keeps universal throughout its website, social media, and all other aspects of its business.
Get a Logo A logo is another necessary part of your business. Again, be sure the color scheme is in line with your brand.
Get Your Social Media Matched with Your Brand. Every social media platform you use should keep your brand colors and tone in line with your business.
Business Finances
It’s critical that you have your business finances in order.
Open a Business Bank Account. You will want to open a business bank account and keep your business separate from your personal banking.
Track Income and Expenses. Be sure to track everything and keep receipts. You will need the documentation when it comes time to file taxes.
I hope this information helps you start your business on the right foot. Don’t forget to download my free checklist for starting a craft business. Grab yours here!
