Super Simple packaging idea for hair clips

Let's keep it easy and cheap.  Goal: $0.10 per product card.  I'm using my first show in May as a TEST MARKET to learn about myself and my Super Cute goodies - what am I capable of making, selling, and at what quantity.  I'm not yet willing to spend money on printed, glossy product cards since I don't know how they will be used or what size(s) to order.  My solution: use what I have to create really simple product cards.  Here we go...



Step 1: Cut card stock to size using a paper cutter because it's sssooo much easier, faster and more precise than using scissors.
I'm able to cut 400 cards from a pack of 50 - 8.5" x 11" sheets.

Step 2:  Punch a decorative edge for added craftiness  
I selected this design after testing others because #1: pretty pretty and #2: there is a hole at the top which can be used for hanging, thus eliminating the additional step of punching a separate hole.  NOTE: Use punch guidelines to ensure card is centered.  At the mouth of the punch, there are two lines to show the left and right design boundaries.  About a month into regularly using my tools is when I discovered this feature.  Such a fool I am.

Step 3: Punch two holes for clip
The holes are there to hold the clip in place.  You'll see how this works below.  In my case, I'm using a 1.75" alligator clip. So my hole is about an inch apart. TIP: Punch one card and use it as a template for others.  I was able to punch 3 cards at a time.

Step 4: Stamp product card
On the front, I used the large logo stamp.  On the back, I used the small logo stamp at the top (because the card looked bland without something there) and my website and e-mail address directly above where the clip goes.  Alternative: Avery labels.  Personally not a fan, but they make work life easier.  Even though there are clear labels available, I still prefer the crafty look of stamps.

DONE.
Just need to add a price sticker to the back.  My reasoning for putting the price on the back is I don't want price to be a turn-off to a customer before they pick it up.  Even though my prices are fair, I think the product and business name should be the only info initially seen.  Check out how the clip is 'threaded' through the 2 holes.



Cost breakdown

1. Hole punch - $1, Dollarama
2. Decorative punch - $14, ek punch, Winners  If you were to purchase this from a craft and/or art store, it will be $27.  If you're ever in Winners, check their craft section.  They usually have a good selection of scrapbooking supplies, but you need to be aware of competitor prices.
3. Self-inking stamps - $8-$14 (purchased on sale), logo stamps, Vistaprint and $60, trodat customized text stamp, Staples  This is where it gets pricey, but you'll be using these stamps a lot.  When starting a business, if you want to play around with where you can place your logo (packaging, shipping supplies, price tags, etc.), it's super convenient to just push and stamp.
4. Card stock - 4 packs for $10 (purchased on sale) or $2.50 each, Recollections brand, Michaels  Reg. $4.99/pack.  50 - 8.5" x 11" sheets per pack.  You get less sheets if there is a pattern.  I just used solid colours.
5. Paper cutter/trimmer - $30 (maybe...was purchased for my wedding in 2010), Wescott, Staples  GREAT INVESTMENT for a beginner!  Stop using scissors for paper!  Just STOP!  If you need a straight edge, invest in a paper trimmer because you'll be using it for promotional material, packaging, paper products, signage, etc.  

THE MATH...tax not included
$130 / 400 product cards = $0.33/card
If I take into account that 4 packs of card stock was purchased for $10
$137 / 1600 product cards = $0.09/card  Pretty good! 
Since I'll be using these tools for other projects, the cost/card is lowered more.  Bonus!

While this tutorial showed the product cards for my hair clips, learn from me, adjust for your needs and apply to your business.  Remember to include the cost of packaging supplies into your product cost!  The best part of working on the packaging is knowing you're near the end of a final product that is good to be sold.  :)  So anxious to get my goodies out there!

Much love,

j.anne