What you need for a craft market

A craft market needs more than tables and handmade goods. You will need a clear setup for stalls, safe power access, lighting, refreshments, signs and protection from changing weather. Plan quantities around the number of exhibitors and visitors, then add a small reserve for breakages and unexpected demand. Buy or collect disposable items, cash and printed materials several days before the market so setup morning is reserved for building and checking the site.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Market stallsqty 25
Party tentsqty 4
Foldable tablesqty 8
Folding chairsqty 40
High tablesqty 6
Clothes racksqty 8
Stall weightsqty 32
Bollardsqty 12
Barrier tapeqty 4

Tableware

Coffee cupsqty 60
Glassesqty 80
Platesqty 80
Cutlery setsqty 80
Serving traysqty 8

Equipment

Coffee machinesqty 3
Kettlesqty 2
Coolersqty 6
Extension cordsqty 8
Power stripsqty 8
Cable matsqty 12
Cordless drill driversqty 2
Toolboxesqty 2

Lighting

String lightsqty 8
LED lightsqty 12
Battery lanternsqty 6

Decorations

Buntingqty 10
Windbreaksqty 8
Tableclothsqty 12
Diaper clothsqty 25
Chalkboardsqty 10
Booth numbersqty 25
Information boardsqty 6

Catering

Thermos flasksqty 6
Water jugsqty 6
Ice packsqty 24
Cash boxesqty 2
Card machinesqty 2
Price sign holdersqty 30
Serving traysqty 6

Cleaning

Waste binsqty 12
Dustpan and brushqty 4
Broomqty 4
Floor squeegeesqty 2
Bucketsqty 6
Cleaning glovesqty 12
First aid kit
Fire extinguishersqty 2

Print materials

Floor plansqty 40
Route arrowsqty 20
Volunteer badgesqty 20
Exhibitor badgesqty 30
Markersqty 12

Groceries

Coffeeqty 8
Tea
Sugar
Milk
Oat milk
Cola
Cola Zero
Sinas
Iced tea
Spa Blauw
Spa Red
Apple juice
Beer
Alcohol-free beer
Paprika chips
Plain chips
Savory snacks
Nuts and snacks
Cookies
Mini ice pops
Currant buns
Mini rolls
Young cheese
Ham
Hummus
Cucumber
Tomatoes
Grapes
Apples
Mayonnaise
Ketchup
Mustard
Napkins
Paper cups
Paper plates
Wooden stir sticks
Ice cubes
Trash bags
Paper towels
Toilet paper
Dish soap
All-purpose cleaner
Hand soap
Hand sanitizer
Sponges
Aluminum foil
Cling film

Tips

Allow one market stall or clearly marked table space per exhibitor, then keep at least one spare table available for shared supplies, registration or late changes.
Pack one extension cord, power strip and cable mat for every powered area, and reserve extra cable length rather than running cords across walkways without protection.
For refreshments, count two to three drinks per person for the first hour and add around 10% extra cups, plates and cutlery for breakages and unexpected visitors.
Use one stall weight for each exposed tent leg as a minimum, increasing the number in windy conditions; add windbreaks and check the forecast before deciding what can stay outdoors.
Prepare signs, stall numbers and the floor plan at least two days ahead. Bring chalkboards, tape and spare printed copies so layout changes do not stop registration or setup.

Frequently asked questions

What do I need to buy for a craft market?: Plan for market stalls, tables, chairs, tent or weather protection, stall weights, signs, lighting, power cables and serving items. Add drinks, cups and cleaning supplies based on your expected attendance, with about 10% extra for disposable items.
How many tables do I need for a craft market?: Start with one table or stall space per exhibitor, based on the confirmed registrations. Add at least one spare table for shared materials, refreshments or a last-minute stall change.
How many drinks and cups should I buy for a craft market?: Allow two to three drinks per visitor for the first hour, then adjust for the planned opening time and weather. Buy roughly 10% more cups and glasses than the calculated total to cover spills, breakages and unexpected guests.
When should I prepare the craft market shopping?: Buy non-perishable supplies, printed signs and setup materials at least three days before the event. Chill drinks the day before, and check power, lighting, weights and tools before setup begins.

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