Introduction
Running a handmade business is equal parts creativity and spreadsheets. One minute you’re knee-deep in glitter, the next you’re trying to figure out why your best-selling product doesn’t seem to be making any profit. The truth is, most makers stumble into the same traps. The good news? Every one of these mistakes can be fixed with the right tools — and that’s where Craft Business Manager from Ardent Workshop comes in.
Top Five Mistakes
Let’s break down five common mistakes handmade sellers make and how Craft Business Manager keeps them from tripping you up.
Guessing at Product Costs
Too many sellers price their items based on what “feels right” or what competitors are charging. The problem? Hidden costs like packaging, shipping supplies, and even your time can eat away at profits. Craft Business Manager uses detailed costing to track every penny, from materials to labor, so you know exactly what each product really costs. No more guessing games — just clear, confident pricing.
Ignoring Inventory Tracking
It’s easy to lose track of how many beads, jars, or skeins of yarn are left when you’re juggling orders. Running out of supplies mid-season is a nightmare for Etsy sellers. Craft Business Manager’s inventory tracking shows you what’s in stock, what’s running low, and when it’s time to reorder. It’s like having a personal assistant who never forgets.
Forgetting the True Recipe Behind Each Product
Handmade sellers often underestimate how many little pieces go into a finished product — from the main materials to the tiniest embellishments. Skipping those details means your pricing and profit margins are never quite accurate. Craft Business Manager’s bill of materials tracking breaks every product down into its exact components, so you know the real cost of each item. Whether it’s the clasp on a necklace or the label on a candle jar, nothing slips through the cracks. That clarity helps you price smarter, avoid undercharging, and scale your shop with confidence
Losing Track of What Was Made, When, and How Many
When orders pile up and production gets busy, it’s easy to forget which batches were made, how many units were completed, or which materials were used. That leads to missed shipments, inconsistent quality, and inventory headaches. Craft Business Manager’s production batch tracking keeps a clear record of every batch — from start date to materials used — so you always know what’s ready to ship, what’s in progress, and what needs restocking. It’s like having a backstage pass to your own production line.
Mixing Business and Personal Finances
Many solopreneurs start by running everything through one bank account. It feels simple, but it makes taxes and growth planning a headache. Craft Business Manager helps you separate business costs and revenue streams, giving you clean data. When tax season rolls around, you’ll thank yourself for not having to dig through coffee receipts to find your actual expenses.
Conclusion
The handmade world is full of creativity, but creativity alone doesn’t pay the bills. By avoiding these five mistakes and leaning on Craft Business Manager (available for Excel and Google Sheets), you’ll not only protect your profits but also free up more time to do what you love: making. Whether you’re an Etsy seller, a solopreneur, or a small business owner ready to scale, Craft Business Manager is the secret weapon that turns a craft hustle into a thriving brand.