HoneyBee Heather at the Winooski Farmers Market

I’ve been doing this art thing for three years now and have gone through a significant amount of trial and error and money to figure out what works for me. I love guiding folks just starting out- with a little bit of guidance, it makes life much easier! Since I wrote my initial post a couple of years ago, I’ve updated a bit. If you find this useful, feel free to “buy me coffee” via Venmo (@HoneyBeeHeather) or buy a few stickers!

Peach Fuzz has an amazing resource list plus FUN products. Check it out here.

While I try to buy local, sometimes that is impossible, especially living in Vermont. I strive to research the businesses I purchase from and go ethical. Being a small business, it is undoubtedly very difficult to do so. But we try!

My suggestion for folks just starting out at markets is to explore creative options with what you either have already or get second hand for displays. You’d be surprised by the treasures you can find! Learn from me- don’t spend a ton of money on market displays only to find you don’t really need what you spent money on!

Prints, Cards, Etc

Spartan Printing in the Old North End of Burlington is a one man, tiny print shop. Everything is super affordable, and Jacob will work with you to make sure everything is aligned, etc. You can reach Jacob at SpartanCopies@yahoo.com.

Stickers

Sticky Brand has had quality issues in the past, but I’ve found them to be great the past year. I’m particular to them because they’re local to me too.

Jewelry Findings

Monarch Pine via Etsy has a large array of quality products, great sales and quick turnaround time.

Display Items

I love Store Supply Warehouse. They have great sales, quality products and good shipping rates.

My sticker trays are great for storing, displaying AND transporting stickers, jewelry, really anything. I have the trays, inserts and storage bag.

I also got my spinning print rack from them.

Banners

I LOVE MilWeb on Etsy. Their banners are QUALITY, low cost and less than a two day turnaround time. This is what I purchased as my main tent banner (I suggest 8 feet then using bungee cords.

I also purchased a couple of other banners from them and they are also great!

Fun hint: someone told me about using cornhole bags as weights for my jewelry displays and let me tell you, this was a game changer! Putting bean bags or something similar on most of my items has saved me so much stress.

Tent Weights

I have had my tent fly away even with 20lbs on each leg, so I know how important having tent weights are! I’ve tried all sorts of weights, but what works for me are these (unfortunately from Amazon). Easy to transport, fit on the tent.

A Note on Tents

This is where I suggest you spend and get a quality tent plus sides for rain and wind. When I first started I purchased a $60 tent and then had to replace it within a month.

Bags

I get my shopping bags from SSW. Look for sales for the best deals. I may be using Christmas Tree bags year round, but they’re quality, and were on a super sale!

For plastic bags for cards, sticker packs, etc, I use Clear Bags. I also get mats for my paintings and prints from them.

Thrift Stores, Facebook Marketplace

These are great places to find a variety of items, you just need to have patience! Locally, ReSource and ReStore are where I’m able to find organizers for my studio, card holders and more. If you go….just don’t take what I need, okay?!?!?

I was VERY lucky to get my tent and tables from Facebook Marketplace.

That’s all I have for now! I hope this has been helpful and good luck on your journey!

Update: Where I Get Stuff, a Little Small Business Resource 2025