Knife and kitchen tool market stall with sharpening

Market shoppers, home cooks and gift buyers who like to see and handle a knife before buying.

Mark-up on products sold at the stall, plus a small fee for on-the-spot sharpening that also leads to sales.

• Product knowledge and demonstrating safely
• Friendly selling face to face
• Handling cash, cards and stock

• Market or vendor permits and municipal rules for selling in public spaces, check with each market organizer and your municipality
• Safe display and handling of blades, and commercial general liability insurance that many markets require
• Winter weather and short outdoor seasons in many regions, so plan indoor holiday markets
• Register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold and check provincial sales tax rules
• Storing and transporting stock securely

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on your stock range, stall setup and sharpening equipment. Insurance and market fees are also worth budgeting for before your first event.

Estimates put monthly revenue typically around $500 to $3,500, depending on how many markets you attend, your range and the season. Winter weather and short outdoor seasons in many regions can affect sales.

Check market or vendor permits and municipal rules for selling in public spaces with each market organizer. Also check safe blade display, liability insurance that many markets require, and GST/HST and provincial sales tax rules.