What a juried craft fair application usually asks for

A jury is a group of reviewers, often artists, craftspeople and experienced organizers, who look at applications and decide which makers to accept. They may score images against criteria such as originality, craftsmanship, consistency and presentation. They often review many applications in a short time, so clear images and a clear body of work help them see your strengths quickly.

Jurors are usually asked to make decisions on the quality of work and on the balance of the show, so a good application can still be declined because the fair already has many makers in the same category. A decline does not necessarily mean your work is not good. Keep applying, and use any feedback you receive.

Most applications ask for a set number of images of your work. Choose pieces that show the range and consistency of your style. Use clear, well-lit photographs with a plain background and no distracting props. Make sure the colors are accurate, the work is in focus and the pieces fill the frame. Show detail where it matters, such as texture, finish or joinery.

Keep images consistent in lighting and background so that jurors see your work and not the photography. Follow the application's rules on file type, size and labeling. Do not show work you did not make, and do not include images that are heavily edited. If the application asks for one image per piece, do not combine several into one.

Consistency beats variety

A set of images that look like they belong together, with the same light, background and framing, tells jurors you control your process. Mixed backgrounds and uneven lighting make even strong work look uneven.

Many applications ask for a photograph of your booth. This shows jurors how you will present your work, how professional your display is and whether your booth will look good in the fair. Take the photograph in good light, with your products arranged as you would at the fair, and with signs and lighting visible.

If you do not have a booth yet, ask the organizer whether a mock-up or a photograph of a display at home is acceptable. Keep the booth neat, with your work at different heights and an uncluttered front. Show that you can handle the practical side of a fair as well as the making.

Applications often ask you to describe how you make your work. Be specific and honest. Name your materials and techniques, and say what you make yourself and what, if anything, others make for you. Many juried fairs require that work be made by the applicant, and misrepresentation can lead to removal.

A short statement about your work can help jurors understand your approach. Keep it plain, with no filler. Say what you make, how you make it and what makes your work yours. Avoid claims you cannot back up, and keep within the word limit. Ask a friend to read it, then check spelling.

Applications ask you to choose a category, such as ceramics, jewelry, textiles, wood, glass, painting or mixed media. Choose the one that fits best. If your work spans categories, ask the organizer how to apply. Some applications ask for a price range, which helps the organizer balance the show.

You may also be asked for your contact details, your website or social media, proof of insurance, and whether you have exhibited before. Fill in each field accurately. If you do not have an item, say so rather than guessing. Remember that permits, sales tax and insurance requirements differ by place and fair. Ask the organizer. This guide is general information, not legal advice.

Applications usually carry a jury fee and a deadline. Our guide on reading a jury fee and a booth fee explains the costs. Put the deadline and decision date in your calendar and submit well before the last day, since websites can be slow at the deadline.

Common mistakes include missing a required image, uploading the wrong file type, submitting poor-quality photographs, applying in the wrong category, ignoring word limits and not checking the instructions. Read the application twice and make a checklist. After you submit, keep a copy of everything.

Once you are ready to find fairs, browse the state pages, and see how to find craft fairs to sell at for a way to choose among them.