Hi all,
My name is Ingrid and I'm a college student just starting out at art shows (my first one is in October). I'm planning on buying a 10x10 tent and using metal grids as the "walls". I make wall art, so the more "wall" space the better. Any ideas about maximazing my space? The art show is outside on a "gently rolling lawn".
Also, how do I know if/what I collect for sales tax? I live in Virginia.
Here's my online store: http://www.bottlevations.etsy.com
Thanks!
Ingrid
Replies
Hi Ingrid, and welcome to AFI. Lot's of good info here. Are you doing the Ocean View Show in October? It's a great show to start with, and lot's of people to help you there. Don't worry about the gently rolling part, most spots are basically level.
I use steel gridwall myself, and use about 15 panels. They are good for adding weight to the tent, and also keeping the tent from swaying in the breeze. My panels are 2 x 6 and most are hinged in pairs. You can also put 3 together in a triangle. I found using the feet on the gridwalls lends to people tripping over them, so I don't use them.
Also, in Ocean View, it's suggested that you add extra weight. A good cheap solution is buckets of sand. Fill them at the show. You can cover the buckets to make them look better, but not necessary.
Don't worry about sales tax at Virginia shows. Each show is supposed to give you the form, although most don't. You can do 3 shows a year without registering for a sales tax number. I usually figure tax in and don't add it on at the sale. Easier to charge even amounts than to deal with change all day. Sign up for Square to take credit cards!
If there's any more information you need for the show, let me know. I can put you in touch with a lot of locals. You may also want to join up with the Chesapeake Bay Art Association.
Good luck!
Thank you, Dave!
Yes, it is the Ocean View Art Show. I have experience with art shows (my mom used to make/sell jewerly, and I'd go with her to help), but the whole "wall" thing is very daunting. How do you attach your panels together? I read something that said to use zip ties... not sure how sturdy that would be. Where did you buy the metal grids? I need to buy small because I have a very small car... and woud like to avoid renting a van from UHaul.
Thanks for the sand tip... should i just stick the feet of the tent directly into the buckets?
I do have square already :)
Thank you!!
-Ingrid
I have my panels in pairs, using hinges that you can buy with the gridwall. I also use ball bungee cords to connect them together and to attach them to the legs of the tent. You can get ball bungee cords at places that sell camping stuff, but ordering them online is cheapest. I use the 6" size.
I think 2 x 6 ft is the minimum size for gridwall. I've seen others with a small car put them in with the back seat folded down, then load everything else on top of the gridwall. You can buy them at Dolphin Fixtures, 2500 Monticello Avenue in Norfolk. Get the gridwall hooks there, too.
For the buckets just use a strap of some kind to tie them to the tent frame. I use the cheap cargo tie down straps, but rope or even bungees will work.
If I had a local show before Ocean View I'd suggest coming out. August 25 & 26 is the Seawall Show in Portsmouth. Be sure to check it out and look at all the different setups. I will be there helping a few others.
Maximizing***