The current topic over on Flaming Hot glass worker's blog is about business diversification.

I am always a little surprised and saddened when I see other glassies, especially bead makers, complaining about slow sales. You see, since the start of my glass adventure, I've had ideas for products and markets that I haven't even begun to tap into. If ever my sales dry up I know there are many other ways to hawk my glass.

Here are just a few thoughts pulled out of my brain at random as I type this entry, but the list goes on and on:

- I've never tapped into local bead store sales (or even planned a trip to store hop and sell around the nation). You could even put together a wholesale packet/catalog of sorts.

- I've never done a large wholesale gift mart with finished work (yes, it means I have to create a production line but it could still include variety).

- I've never created custom items for other industries (wedding cake toppers and items or fancy knitting needles or whatever) and advertised in their main magazines.

- I've not done local selling or art shows or finished work in years.

- I haven't expanded my fusing to encompass production windows or other big ticket items

One thing that makes me different from some others in the bead world is that I am willing, to a point, to make what sells over what my heart demands. I allow time in my schedule (most Fridays) for pure play time but the rest of the week is devoted to creating items that will sell or filling custom orders. For the most part I adore custom work and I think this allows me to be more diverse without having to range too far afield within the bead world.

There are TONS of market opportunities out there that are untapped. Lots of products that could easily be adapted to a glass bead theme are just waiting for you to jump on them and go. Don't let a slow economy bring down your melting joy - find another way to sell it!