[Woodcarver] Re:Dust Mask

[85006]

Not to have this discussion fall into an us/them political debate, I believe 
that the drop is sale for non-essential items is more based on the 
perception of the economy than the reality.  In many areas, sales are the 
highest ever.  The biggest difference is where the money is being spent. 
Objects d'art, decor, and high fashion are down while furnishings, general 
clothing, and housewares are at an all time high.  I think that if you are a 
carver in this current economy of uncertainty, you would be best served to 
carve useful items rather than objects that are pleasing to look at.  For 
instance, a relief carving may not sell but the same carving that has the 
component of a functional clock might just off the wall.  The caracature of 
a cowboy might just sit but the same cowboy as a nutcracker will sell.  If 
you are seeking business from the gift arena, make sure it serves a purpose 
besides decorative.

As for showing carvings at a Home Show, make your carvings clocks, 
thermometers, coat racks, etc.  Otherwise, your competition is plastic items 
from China at 10c on the dollar.  A discussion on marketing would benefit 
everyone, above all, me.

Only one person in a thousand could afford to buy a sculpture by Rodin and I 
can assure you, they wouldn't be looking to buy one at a Home Show or a 
carving club competition.  Also, more Arizona cowboy carvers are selling out 
their goods in Traverse City, Mi than in Phoenix.  Meanwhile, Traverse City, 
Mi.carvers can sell their carved fish by the boat load in Phoenix.  Maybe 
you could sell more Chicago art in Phoenix, LA or Washington, DC. 
Perception is everything.

Arnie Webster
New to carving, Old to marketing


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Daniel Heine" <daniel.heine at comcast.net>
To: "[Woodcarver]" <woodcarver at six.pairlist.net>
Sent: Friday, November 11, 2005 6:43 PM
Subject: Re: [Woodcarver] Re:Dust Mask


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Joe,

My son and I belong to the local woodworking club, and we had a table in
October at the Woodworking show in Chicago. I could not beleive the lack of
vendors and people there. The first time I went, about five years ago, you
could hardly walk down the aisles. This year, we could throw a bowling ball
down an aisle, and not hit anyone. I think this economy is a lot worse that
our government would like us to beleive.

Thanks,
Dan Heine