As a craft enthusiast, keeping track of your inventory is essential to ensure that you never run out of supplies mid-project. However, with so many materials and tools to keep track of, it can be challenging to stay organized and maintain an accurate inventory. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on how to keep track of craft inventory. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting, our tips and techniques will help you stay on top of your inventory and ensure that you always have the materials you need to bring your creative vision to life. So, let’s dive in and learn how to keep your craft supplies in check!
How do I keep track of my craft orders?
If you are an avid crafter or own a crafting business, keeping track of your craft inventory and orders is crucial. Proper inventory management and organization will not only save you time and frustration, but also help you make informed business decisions. Here are some tips on how to keep track of your craft orders effectively:
1. Use a spreadsheet or inventory management software: Using a spreadsheet or inventory management software is a great way to keep track of your craft orders. You can create a database of your inventory, including product descriptions, quantities, prices, and suppliers. You can also track orders, sales, and customer information. There are many inventory management software options available, such as QuickBooks, Craftybase, and Stitch Labs.
2. Label your products: Labeling your products with a unique identifier, such as a barcode or SKU, can help you quickly identify and track your inventory. You can use a label maker or order pre-printed labels online. This will also help you keep track of your orders, as you can easily match the order with the product.
3. Set up a system for tracking orders: Whether you use a spreadsheet or inventory management software, it is important to set up a system for tracking your orders. This can include creating a separate tab for orders, tracking the status of each order (e.g. received, in progress, shipped), and adding notes or comments for each order. You can also use color coding or filters to make it easier to see which orders are pending or completed.
4. Keep track of your suppliers: If you order supplies from multiple suppliers, it is important to keep track of their contact information and pricing. This will help you make informed purchasing decisions and quickly reorder supplies when needed.
5. Schedule regular inventory checks: It is important to schedule regular inventory checks to ensure that your database is accurate and up-to-date. This can include conducting physical inventory checks, comparing your inventory to your sales records, and reconciling any discrepancies.
6. Use a task management tool: Keeping track of your craft orders can be overwhelming, especially if you have multiple orders to fulfill at once. Using a task management tool, such as Trello or Asana, can help you break down your orders into manageable tasks and track progress.
In conclusion, keeping track of your craft orders and inventory is essential for any crafter or crafting business owner. By using a spreadsheet or inventory management software, labeling your products, setting up a system for tracking orders, keeping track of your suppliers, scheduling regular inventory checks, and using a task management tool, you can stay organized and make informed business decisions.
What is the best app to keep track of craft supplies?
As a crafter, it’s important to keep track of your inventory to ensure you have all the necessary materials for your projects. With so many different types of supplies, it can be difficult to remember what you have and what you need. That’s where inventory management apps come in handy.
There are several apps available for both iOS and Android devices that can help you keep track of your craft supplies. Here are some of the best apps based on their features and user reviews:
1. CraftKeeper
CraftKeeper is a popular app for managing craft supplies. It allows you to track your inventory, create shopping lists, and even generate reports on your usage and spending. The app is free to download, but some features require a subscription.
2. MyStuff2
MyStuff2 is a versatile inventory management app that can be used for a variety of purposes, including keeping track of craft supplies. It offers barcode scanning, customizable categories and tags, and the ability to create alerts for low stock levels. The app costs $4.99 to download.
3. Craftybase
Craftybase is a more advanced app designed specifically for craft businesses. It offers features such as material cost tracking, product pricing calculation, and sales and expenses tracking. The app offers a free trial, but requires a paid subscription to use all features.
4. Sortly
Sortly is an app that can be used for inventory management in a variety of settings, including craft supplies. It offers barcode scanning, customizable categories and tags, and the ability to add photos and notes to your items. The app is free to download, but some features require a subscription.
5. StashCache
StashCache is a free app that is specifically designed for tracking craft supplies. It allows you to add items to your virtual stash, categorize them, and even add photos and notes. The app is ad-supported, but offers an in-app purchase to remove ads.
In conclusion, there are several inventory management apps available for crafters that can help keep track of their supplies. The best app for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Be sure to read user reviews and try out a few different apps before deciding which one to use.
How do small craft businesses keep track of inventory?
If you are running a small craft business, keeping track of your inventory can be a daunting task. However, it is crucial to have an accurate inventory to ensure that you have the necessary supplies to fulfill your orders and avoid stockouts. In this article, we will discuss some of the best ways that small craft businesses can keep track of their inventory.
1. Use inventory management software
One of the best ways to keep track of your inventory is by using inventory management software. This type of software can help you track your inventory levels, sales, and purchase orders. It can also alert you when you are running low on a particular item or when it is time to reorder. Some popular inventory management software options include QuickBooks, Stitch Labs, and TradeGecko.
2. Set up a spreadsheet
If you prefer to keep things simple, you can set up a spreadsheet to track your inventory. You can create columns for the item name, SKU number, quantity on hand, and reorder point. This will allow you to quickly check your inventory levels and determine when it is time to reorder. You can also use formulas to calculate your reorder point based on your sales history.
3. Conduct regular physical counts
While inventory management software and spreadsheets can be helpful, it is still important to conduct regular physical counts of your inventory. This involves physically counting each item in your inventory and comparing it to your records. This will help you identify any discrepancies and ensure that your inventory levels are accurate.
4. Label your inventory
Labeling your inventory can be a simple but effective way to keep track of your items. You can use labels with barcodes or QR codes to scan items in and out of your inventory. This will help you track your inventory levels in real-time and reduce the risk of human error.
5. Use a first-in, first-out (FIFO) system
If you sell perishable items, such as fabric or yarn, it is important to use a first-in, first-out (FIFO) system. This means that you sell the oldest items in your inventory first to prevent spoilage or expiration. You can use inventory management software or spreadsheets to track the expiration dates of your items and ensure that you are selling them in the correct order.
6. Train your employees
If you have employees who are responsible for managing your inventory, it is important to train them on your inventory management system. This will ensure that everyone is on the same page and that your inventory levels are accurate. You can also designate one person as the inventory manager to oversee the entire process.
In conclusion, there are several ways that small craft businesses can keep track of their inventory. Whether you choose to use inventory management software, spreadsheets, or a combination of both, it is important to have an accurate inventory to ensure that you have the necessary supplies to fulfill your orders. By following these tips, you can improve your inventory management and streamline your business operations.In conclusion, keeping track of your craft inventory can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can become easier and more manageable. Whether you choose to utilize a spreadsheet, a craft management software, or a combination of both, it is important to find a system that works for you and your specific needs. Additionally, it is important to prioritize organization and consistency in order to avoid any potential inventory mishaps or setbacks. By following these tips and implementing them into your crafting routine, you can help ensure that your inventory stays up-to-date and accurate. Remember to also check out related keywords such as craft storage, organization, and management to further enhance your crafting experience and ensure success in your creative endeavors.
