Bead wholesaler selling at craft fairs and shows

Jewellery makers, craft fair sellers, workshop leaders and small shop owners who like to see and handle beads before buying in bulk.

Sales at each event, plus repeat orders from trade customers you meet there. Your margin comes from buying in volume and selling in smaller trade or retail packs.

• Talking to customers and building regular buyers
• Eye for colour and display
• Stock control and cash handling
• Driving and loading a van

• Stall fees, travel and fuel can eat into takings, so check costs before booking events
• Public liability insurance is usually required by event organisers
• Check whether you need a trading licence or permission for any pitches outside organised events
• Hallmarking rules apply to precious metal items, so check before selling silver or gold
• Product safety rules may apply to jewellery findings and children's craft items, so check what applies
• Keep records of cash sales and register for Self Assessment with HMRC
• Weather and quiet events can make income uneven

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £1,500 to £7,000, depending on the size of your stock, your stall display and the van or vehicle you use to get to events.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £600 to £3,000, depending on how many events you attend, stall fees and travel costs, and how many regular buyers reorder. Income can be uneven because of weather and quiet events.

Check stall fees, travel and fuel costs before booking. Organisers usually require public liability insurance. Check whether pitches outside organised events need permission, and which hallmarking and product safety rules apply. Register for Self Assessment with HMRC.