Forum

craft tents

Posted by Sandra Tyler on March 18, 2011 at 10:11am

I need to buy my first craft tent and could use advise. I work alone, so it's got to be really easy to put up. Also, I don't do a whole lot of shows, so not sure how much I need to invest, or whether I even need the sides...

I've heard Cosco is the best bet for the EZ-ups but would welcome online suggestions.

Thank you!

Sandra

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craft, shows, tent, tents

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Replies

Connie Mettler April 18, 2011 at 9:12am

Many indoor event places will rent you pipe and drape for the weekend, totally eliminating having to have ProPanels. Or you can rig up your own version of this -- way cheaper and better looking than a tent frame indoors.
Tricia Simmmons April 17, 2011 at 4:21pm

I need to get a tent for both indoor and outdoor shows- looking or an inexpensive one I can take the top off. We called Craft Hut about the one they had at Costco and they said the top did not come off. Which ones do?
- Karole Bowlds > Tricia Simmmons May 27, 2011 at 2:56pm
  
  Ez Up tops come off. You actually have to install them when they first arrive. I take mine off at the end of the season, after I pressure wash it and let it dry for a few days, then pack it away for winter uninstalled. This reduces the wear on the fabric. When installed, the folding and unfolding will create wear in certain areas, which is why I will be waterproofing it this weekend, after I let the tent air out a bit. Just put it together and got it up today, for the first time this season.
- Larry Berman > Tricia Simmmons April 17, 2011 at 6:56pm
  
  You couldn't have called Craft Hut, maybe Caravan. Craft Hut was the Cadillac of art show canopies and when they went out of business, Flourish bought them.
  
  Looking for the cheapest canopy will only get you into trouble the first time it rains. I'm not going to comment on the pop up tents. I sold my Craft Hut two years ago and recently purchased a used Trimline. It's approximately the same strong construction as the Craft Hut.
  
  Larry Berman
  http://BermanGraphics.com
  412-401-8100
  - Renee Sullivan > Larry Berman May 13, 2012 at 9:40pm
    
    Larry,
    
    I was going to buy a Trimline, but recently found a used Craft Hut for a good price. I am considering it instead. You say you sold your Craft Hut and replaced it with a Trimline. Can I ask you why?
  - Tricia Simmmons > Larry Berman April 17, 2011 at 7:38pm
    
    You're right Larry- it was Caravan. I certainly understand it is better to get a higher end tent. What I really wanted to know was what tents can be used indoors or framing a booth. I have jewelry and don't want to get Pro Panels.
    - Larry Berman > Tricia Simmmons April 17, 2011 at 8:05pm
      
      I'd go to the KD Canopy and EZUp web site and contact the respective companies and ask which have removable tops. You can also try contacting HutShop.
      
      Larry Berman
      http://BermanGraphics.com
      412-401-8100
Jacki Bilsborrow March 22, 2011 at 10:21pm

Sandra, have you lookedd in the classified ads here in the forums? You can usually find very good tents there for sale. In fact, I think there is an almost new one for sale there right now. Good luck in finding what you need.

Jacki B
Connie Mettler March 18, 2011 at 5:12pm

Besides the Happifeet a friend of mine sculptor James Eaton manufactures canopy weights -- great product and good prices, nice and compact -- here you go on that: www.canopyweights.com
Diane Wright March 18, 2011 at 3:10pm

Karole is right. For the first few years you can use the business loss to offset your other income. Eventually of coulrse you must show a profit but the IRS gives you 5 years or so. Check it out with your tax person.