Are you passionate about arts and crafts? Do you want to turn your hobby into a career? Subscription boxes may just be the answer you’re looking for. If you’re keen to start your own art and craft subscription box business, here are a few ideas to inspire your future venture.
1. Maker crates and technology kits
There’s nothing quite like seeing a technology project come to life, especially if you’re the one building it. And the process for your subscribers would be really simple! Because instructions and relevant parts arrive in the mail each month, all they need to do is focus on the fun stuff: building and admiring their project in all its glory. There are even projects that can take a couple of months to complete, like building their very own drone!
2. Book boxes
One of the most popular subscription box services we’ve found is book boxes. While e-readers have taken off in the last decade, there remains something special about holding a physical book in your hands and turning those pages as you go along. Most boxes will operate within a genre (niche), like psychological thriller or romance, so all customers need to do is pick their favorite genre and open the door when the delivery arrives.
3. Jewelry-making
Who doesn’t love flaunting their latest statement piece? Jewelry subscription boxes are extremely popular, with many customers coveting bespoke pieces they can add to their collection on a monthly basis. Imagine the pride those customers would feel to say they’d made that piece of jewelry themselves!
4. National Parks
There’s something super special about our nation’s National Parks. Places like Yosemite and Zion are so intriguing, it’s understandable that so many people out there want to learn more. So give the people what they want! A subscription box can help customers learn all about the parks in their area and beyond.
5. Vinyl
Vinyl’s back, baby! And when it’s not on trend, vinyl is still super cool to own, even if it’s just for its vintage appeal. In 2016, vinyl sales hit a 28-year high, and it doesn’t look like it’s slowing down any time soon. So, give the people what they want and start up a vinyl subscription box!
6. 3D print cartridges and designs
There’s no denying that the 3D printing industry is rapidly growing. In fact, it’s forecasted to grow to $35.6 billion by 2024. There’s definitely a need out there, so why not fill it? There are heaps of people who want to enjoy a steady supply of materials and designs to create 3D models in their very own homes.
7. Origami
We might get the name of origami from Japan, but this art of paper-folding is quite popular all around the world. A subscription box of origami would involve sending out a challenge each month with the paper required and the instructions.
8. Knitting, crochet, and cross-stitch
It’s no longer the domain of all the nanas out there. Nope! Knitting, crocheting and cross-stitching is beloved by so many people, they’ll be lining up for a subscription box. It may even get them out of the comfort zone with new designs and patterns. It’s a hugely popular field, though, so it may be best for those who have already made a name for themselves in the industry.
9. Kids’ education and craft boxes
It’s a “material world” out there, but slowly parents are shunning toys and games for presents and turning to experiences. How cool would it be for children to open up a box every month with new educational and craft experiments and projects they can enjoy? Whether it’s science, new languages, or craft and design, be creative with what you offer and parents will jump on board.
10. Planning and stationery boxes
Whether it’s journaling, calendars, family planners, or stationery, the desire to be organized is on the rise. (Thanks, Marie Kondo!) So jump on the bandwagon and offer subscription boxes with everything people need to keep themselves, and the people around them, on track.
11. Kids’ books and toys
Imagine a child’s face when a new toy or book arrives at their front door every month. Make magic for these kids and create a book or toy subscription box service! You can even theme each month, so each child receives something they’re passionate about.
Starting a subscription box business
The only way to know whether your subscription box idea is going to work is by actually jumping in and getting started. Of course, the hard part is actually convincing people to sign up for it, so it’s absolutely crucial to do your research.
Before jumping in, ask yourself a couple of questions. Is there already a subscription box covering what you want to do? If so, is it working? It’s important to make sure your idea has longevity.
Once you have your idea, it’s a matter of following a few steps:
- Price the subscription box. Cratejoy offers various calculators you can use to find the recommended price point for your box.
- Put together a prototype box. Choose your product, type of box, and packing materials.
- Begin your prelaunch. Set up your website and social media channels to start capturing those email addresses! A prelaunch also gives you some time to iron out any hurdles along the way.
- Start taking orders and shipping boxes!
Of course, there are a number of other things you need to consider before you can actually start the selling process. One of the most important elements to get right is the size and weight of the box as this can impact your shipping costs. You also need to decide on the design of the box and how it will be branded.
It’s also a good idea to use your family and friends as test subjects. After you’ve created the prototype, ask for feedback from those around you. Would they consider buying it? How do they find the price? Do they like the products?
Why you should start an artsy subscription box
If you love something, chances are there are thousands of other people out there who love it too. So why not share the love? Art and craft subscription boxes allow you to turn your passion and hobby into a profitable business. And all you’ll be doing is sharing the products and projects that you love with the rest of the world.
While starting a subscription box isn’t easy money, it does allow you to earn some extra money. And who knows, maybe the hobby will turn into a full-time career. Not only that, but if you participate in activities around your hobby – for example, art expos or gallery openings – these can be counted as business expenses. That means they are tax-deductible. (Just make sure you’re following the right guidelines around this!)
Finally, starting a subscription box business gives you flexibility. You’re your own boss and you can choose when and where you work.
If nothing else, starting an art subscription box means you’re helping to bring a bit of creativity into the world. And that’s super special, if you ask us.
