Creating a line sheet

One of the most common questions that I get from new artists is "What is a line sheet?" There is no mystery to this...no secret handshake to tell you how it is created. It is simply just a document that shows your line. It can be done in any layout that you choose. Imagine all of the catalogs that come to your mailbox, each one has it's own unique style, but they are all selling merchandise.

When I was first starting out and I could not afford to make a 4 color printed catalog I hand drew my images. My jewelry lends itself to that style since they are basically flat with an image and wording on them. Not a lot of texture so the words and the images are the most important design elements.

Here are the basics that a line sheet has to have:
1) All of your contact information-This is simple, your address, phone number, fax number, web page and email address.
2) Images of your designs-Make sure that if you are doing color photographs of your designs that they are professional quality.
3) Prices for each of your designs-Make sure you are noting wholesale prices on a wholesale line sheet.
4) Your terms of sale-This includes: how you accept payment, how long you will take to produce and ship the orders, shipping charges, return policy, if you will offer Net 30 on repeat orders.
5) Some added information that is helpful, but not necessary are; Artist Bio, Description of how your craft is made, history of your company and any press you have received.

That's all, it doesn't have to be a confusing thing. Really it is quite straigtforward.

Comments

[Angela]

Hi Amy,
I really appreciate all the tips/advice you have given on Switchboard and now you have a blog to help all of us who wants to get our business off the ground.

Just because someone knows how to craft or make something really well doesn't mean they know anything about the business side of starting a business. I am so glad that we all have a veteran like you to mentor us.

THANK YOU!

Sincerely,
Angela

[Patricia C Vener]

Would it make sense or not to create a line sheet for one of a kind lines? True, every time an item is sold, it's gone, but some of my OOAK pieces are part of a theme or line.

Thanks!

[Suzzan]

I have started a jewelry line of fine jewelry. I should have all of my samples finished in a few months I am thinking. Are trade shows my best bet to market or should I try to direct narket to buyers of the major retailers? I have no experience in this so I am just going by the seat of my pants so to say.

[Suzzan]

I have no clue as to how to price my jewelry for the wholesale number. Any help you can provide? I know what I think it should retail for compared to similiar products and I know what my costs are. But what I have no clue is what do I see them to a retailer for? Any help would be appreciated.

[Sonia Schimke]

Hi Amy,

How should I organize my line sheet? By product category - earrings, necklaces, bracelets or by collections? Any advise would be appreciated!

Thanks!

[Kelly Carroll]

This is great Amy! I am new to the business and simply trying to absorb all this on a daily basis.....yikes! I recently accomplished something very exciting, a significant account is picking up my line! As wonderful as this is, now I need to handle it professionally. I loaded over 300 images onto their FTP, and now they are asking me for a line sheet or something including pricing and stuff.....huh?? I googled line sheets and found you, thank you for taking the time to help out newcomers like myself! I hope someday I'm able to return the favor to the community. If you ever have a moment, please check out http://www.ecposedenvy.com and share any suggestions or comments you have! My business specialized in very cool designer removable bra straps, a great accessory to any girl's wardrobe! Thank you again!