Today, we’re diving into a topic that hits close to home; handmade creations and why they deserve way more respect (and zero “Can I get a discount?” DMs). Whether you’re a crafter yourself, a supporter of small handmade businesses, or someone who’s ever wondered why a crochet plushie costs more than a mass-produced toy, this episode is for you.
I’m breaking down:
- The real time and effort behind handmade goods
- Why bulk orders don’t mean lower prices
- How to genuinely support creators even if you’re on a budget
- And the one thing that means more to a crafter than money
Let’s change the way we view handmade, one respectful conversation at a time.
Full Podcast Transcript:
Hey! Welcome back to JacQ of All Trades, a podcast for curious minds, creators with too many tabs open, and anyone who’s ever said, “Wait, this thing is handmade?!”, today’s episode might just make you clutch your artisanal mug a little tighter.
So here’s the thing, I usually talk about digital stuff, gaming, solopreneur life… but today, I’m taking a slightly different turn in this episode 6.
Because as someone who loves arts and crafts and who knows how much blood, sweat, and glitter goes into making something by hand, I just had to say this out loud: Handmade deserves more respect.
Let’s talk about it.
So here’s what really gets under my skin and I say this with all the love in my heart. There are two types of people that drive crafters absolutely up the wall:
- The “Can I get a discount if I buy more?” folks.
- The “I need this custom handmade thing by tomorrow” people. (You know who you are. We see you.)
Like… are you okay? Do you think handmade means just sitting down and whipping it up like we’re making instant noodles?
People will drop thousands for a handmade Louis Vuitton bag and wait for it, too. But when it’s a small business owner crocheting keychains or hand-pouring candles? Suddenly they want it cheap and fast.
The math ain’t mathing, people.
Let’s break this down a little, yeah?
Handmade Takes Time. And Effort. And Sometimes Band-Aids.
Making something by hand is no joke.
There’s the designing, the prepping, the actual making, the drying or curing or finishing, and oh, let’s not forget, all the finger stabbings, glue burns, back pain, and random emotional breakdowns along the way.
Crafting isn’t just a hobby. It’s a process. A journey. Sometimes a tiny war with the tools. Ever heard of carpal tunnel, tendonitis, or chemical burns from lye?
Crafters have.
So the next time you’re holding a handmade soap or a custom knit scarf, know this:
You’re not just holding a product. You’re holding someone’s time, skill, and probably a few cuss words they whispered while making it.
Why “Bulk Discount” is a Dirty, Dirty Word in the Handmade World
Let me be blunt: asking a crafter for a discount because you’re ordering more is like saying,
“Hey, I know this took you hours and possibly your soul, but since I want ten, can you just… suffer for less?”
No.
Factories give bulk discounts because machines do the work. For handmade? Every. Single. Piece. takes just as much effort.
Sometimes more because now the crafter has to keep each one consistent. And guess what? People aren’t machines. Their energy and focus shift. They have bad days. Crafters don’t have a “Perfect Replica” button. If only.
That’s why asking for a discount is not just disrespectful, it’s ignoring the reality of what handmade is.
Now, let’s move on to the real value of handmade.
Here’s what you are paying for with handmade:
- Time
- Skill
- Creativity
- And the fact that it’s unique. One of a kind. There will never be another just like it.
That crocheted doll? Someone spent hours making sure every stitch was right.
That painting? It’s not just paint on canvas. It’s someone’s vision, executed with precision (and maybe some playlist-fueled breakdowns in the background).
When you buy handmade, you’re not buying a thing.
You’re investing in a person. A process. A passion.
How Can You Support Crafters?
Let me break it down, nicely, for the people in the back:
1. Pay the asking price.
They’ve done the math. They know what their time and materials cost. If it’s out of your budget?
Say, “I love your work and I hope to support you one day.” Not “Wah so expensive!”
2. Spread the word.
Share their posts, tag your friends, leave a nice review. It costs you nothing and it matters more than you know.
3. Respect the process.
If you need something by tomorrow, you should probably consider what’s already available by the crafters or go shop mass-produced. Handmade takes time. That’s kinda the point.
So, the next time you come across something handmade, stop for a moment.
Think about the person behind it. The energy. The craftsmanship.
And instead of “Got any discount?” try:
“Wow. This is amazing. Thank you for your work.”
Trust me. You’ll make someone’s day.
Alright, that’s my TED Talk for today or I guess, my “crafty rant” episode.
If you’ve ever made something by hand or supported someone who does, you get it.
And if this episode gave you a new perspective, share it with someone who needs to hear it.
You can also follow me on Threads @jacqtydus where I talk about creativity, solopreneur life, and occasionally rant about things like this when I’m holding a felt needle.
Until next time, treasure the handmade things in your life and maybe go thank a crafter. With your words, your wallet, or your five-star review.
Catch you in the next episode of JacQ of All Trades!
