In any economy, to be successful, you need more than one business. And if you are looking for a small business to start, I will recommend a bead making business. If you know how to create an eye-catching bead, then you have a business. And if you don’t have the skill, you can learn.
It doesn’t require much capital to run a small bead business in Nigeria. Less than N100,000 should be enough to get you started in the business niche. The best part is that you can do this from the comfort of your home.
Isn’t that awesome? Yes.
In this article, I will give you an idea of how to start and run your own bead-making business in Nigeria.
How do I start a bead making business?
It is good practice to understand any business you wish to enter and either have the ability to produce it or know how to sell it for a high profit margin. In the case of bead making, it is preferable to seek training and learn how to make beads. This gives you flexibility in your business.
You can go about the training in two ways:
Traditional training
This is where you go to any fashion institute to learn bead making or do an apprenticeship for a bead making business.
An apprenticeship is usually preferable because you will learn not only how to make beads but also about market competition, pricing, and trends.
You will be equipped with the necessary knowledge for the bead business when you start it.
Personal training (development)
In today’s world, you can teach yourself almost everything with the help of the internet. You have the option of learning the bead making business online using platforms like YouTube, Google, and even Tiktok. You can learn and perfect the craft when you see a beautiful bead style. You save it and try to replicate the same style.
You get inspiration from another piece to create your own. This way, you can always improve on the craft while you design a unique bead. Personal training, combined with dedication and a desire to build the best bead making business possible, will help you excel tremendously.
So, regardless of which method you choose to learn bead skills, the bottom line is to get trained.
Now that you have the skill, you want to start the business and make money.
How do I start the bead making business?
I will simplify the process to help you decide faster.
Method
This is the 21st century, and you want to do smart business, not just the conventional way of doing business. Not all people can afford to rent a shop/office to start a business, so there should be another way to go about it.
You can leverage the internet using social media platforms to showcase your bead work, as opposed to showing it only in the shop. And if you have the funds, you can start off by renting a good location where people will see your work. Also, use social media like Facebook, Instagram, etc.
Capital
Capital is essential for all businesses. Bead making does not require high funds to start, especially when you do it from the comfort of your home. You will need to acquire some tools to make your beads, such as:
- Wire cutters
- Tape measure
- Pins
- Clasps
- Different types of beads
- Design board for beads
Trends
To be successful in the bead-making business in Nigeria, you need to be on top of your craft. Follow the trends, be creative, and be skilled to stand out.
There are different types of beadcraft you can do, which are:
Wristbands and headbands
A more common use of beads is in wristbands and headbands. Most young people love the all-black wristbands because they’re light and unique. A nice-shaped beaded headband is also great for outings.
Accessories
Beads are also used to adorn the house. Beads can be used to make vases, picture frames, and other home accessories. You can use beads to make bags, shoes, etc.
Clothing
Beads are a huge part of traditional weddings. It’s ultimately safe to say you will not see the bride without beads on her traditional attire. They make excellent adornment materials for both men and women.
Platform
You now have unique bead products in different styles. You need to bring your products in front of potential buyers; these are people who would be interested in your beads. You can do this yourself; take a clear photo of the beads or a video, then post it on a social media platform. Be active in telling anyone and everyone about your bead making business.
Is bead making a profitable business?
You need to understand that business is profitable when there is a demand.
There is a demand for beads, and it is also a competitive business, so you need to be smart to understand the trends and be creative. With this in mind, you will sell and excel in the business.
BONUS:
You can make money on the YouTube platform with your bead making business, but how?
- Simply do a video guide and coverage on how you make beads and post it on YouTube; soon subscribers will want to learn from you.
- Another way to make money with bead business, you can create a class on WhatsApp or Telegram when your subscribers would pay a fee to join.
Conclusion
Starting out your bead making business can be a bit confusing at first. You need to choose who you want to serve. With whom do you want to start? Traditional wear and accessories can be a great place to start, but they can be very expensive because of the fabrics.
My advice is to start with wristbands, especially the all-black ones. They are currently in various Whatever your choice is, make sure you are good at your skill.