As your handmade business grows, you may find yourself using the same materials frequently and in larger quantities. At some point, buying retail—especially at full price—can start to cut into your profit margins. That’s when sourcing wholesale becomes a smart move.

Buying wholesale allows you to purchase supplies in bulk at a lower per-unit cost, helping you increase profitability and stay competitive. However, diving into wholesale can feel overwhelming at first. Where do you find reputable suppliers? What are the minimum order requirements? And how do you make sure you’re getting the best deal?

Let’s break it all down.

1. Know When You’re Ready for Wholesale

Wholesale purchasing is a commitment—both financially and in terms of storage space. Before taking the plunge, ask yourself:

✅ Do I use this supply frequently enough to justify buying in bulk?

✅ Do I have adequate storage for large quantities?

✅ Can I afford a higher upfront investment for long-term savings? 

If you’re unsure, start small. Test wholesale purchasing with a few key materials you use often before expanding to other items.

2. Understand Wholesale Seller Requirements

Every wholesale supplier will have different requirements, and some may ask for business documentation before allowing you to purchase. Requirements vary, but wholesalers often ask for:

✔ A business license or sales tax ID (resale certificate)

✔ An EIN (Employer Identification Number) for tax purposes

✔ A business website, Etsy shop, or proof of business operations

While some wholesalers have an easy sign-up process, others require additional verification to ensure you qualify as a business buyer. Additionally, some wholesale suppliers only allow their products to be resold as supplies, meaning they must be sold as-is and not used as a material in handmade products. If you plan to incorporate wholesale items into your finished designs, carefully read supplier policies. Some wholesalers disqualify makers who modify their products. 

If a supplier has strict resale policies, don’t be discouraged—there are plenty of wholesale sources that cater specifically to handmade businesses. Keep looking until you find the right fit!

3. Get Creative with "Detective Work" to Find Wholesalers

Not all wholesalers are easy to find, so a little research can go a long way. Here are some sleuthing strategies to track down suppliers:

🔎 Check the Brand Behind Retail Listings – If you’re buying a product on the popular "arrow smile" website (you know the one), search for the brand name or store name selling it. Many brands also have standalone websites where they offer lower direct prices or even wholesale options.

🔎 Tweak Your Search Terms – Try searching for the product you need and adding "bulk wholesale" at the end. For example: "glass beads bulk wholesale" 

🔎 Dig Deeper Into Search Pages – The first few results will likely be big-name retailers. Be patient! Go beyond the first page of search results, and you may uncover smaller wholesale suppliers that don’t appear at the top of typical searches.

🔎 Check Product Packaging & Labels – If you’ve purchased supplies before, inspect the packaging or labels for company names. A quick web search of those details might lead you straight to a manufacturer or distributor.

🔎 Network with Other Makers – Craft business communities, Facebook groups, and online forums often share supplier recommendations. Connect with other sellers to exchange tips!

🔎Industry Trade Shows & Expos – These events showcase multiple suppliers in one place - even if you don't attend in person, you can often find a list of vendors on the event website, giving you access to contact infomation for suppliers.

4. Explore Wholesale Platforms Like Faire and Wholesale Central

Two platforms available for finding wholesale supplies are Faire and Wholesale Central.

• Faire is a marketplace that connects small businesses with independent brands offering wholesale pricing. Many handmade sellers use Faire to source materials, and some vendors offer low minimum order quantities (MOQs), making it an accessible option for smaller businesses.  ⚠️ A word of caution: Not all sellers on Faire provide true wholesale pricing. Before purchasing, compare their wholesale pricing with their Etsy or retail website prices to ensure you're getting an actual bulk discount.  Glass Daisy Craft Co. is a seller on Faire with a small selection of beads available, and we're expanding our offerings in the near future - check us out here:  FaireDirectGDCC

• Wholesale Central is a directory of wholesalers rather than a direct marketplace. It connects buyers with suppliers across various industries, including craft supplies. Because it’s a clearinghouse of wholesale sellers, it’s important to research suppliers carefully. Start with smaller purchases to ensure you're dealing with a reputable vendor before placing large orders.

These platforms can be valuable resources, but always do your due diligence before committing to a supplier.

5. Understand Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs)

Most wholesale suppliers require a minimum order quantity (MOQ), meaning you must buy a set amount of an item. These requirements vary—some may require 100 pieces, while others might set the minimum at $100 in total purchases.  If an MOQ feels too high, try these options:

✔ Look for suppliers with low MOQs tailored to small businesses.

✔ Join group buys with other makers to split bulk orders.

✔ Reach out and ask—some suppliers may be flexible, especially if you’re a new customer.

Pro Tip: Some suppliers offer tiered pricing, meaning the more you buy, the more you save. If you know you’ll use a supply long-term, investing in a higher quantity upfront can help offset shipping costs.

6. Be Prepared for Shipping Costs

For first-time wholesale buyers, shipping costs can sometimes come as a shock—especially when importing from overseas. As retail consumers, we’re used to free or discounted shipping, but wholesale purchases work differently. You have to let go of the mindset that free shipping is necessary to get the best pricing.

In many cases, even with higher shipping fees, the total cost per item is still significantly lower than buying retail. The key is to break down the cost per unit after shipping to see if you’re still getting a good deal. Often, the per-item price remains very affordable, even after factoring in shipping costs.

7. Request Samples Before Buying in Bulk

Never assume that all materials are the same! Many suppliers offer samples at a small cost or even for free. Ordering a sample before placing a large order can prevent disappointment and ensure the materials meet your quality standards.

8. Keep Track of Your Inventory

Once you start buying wholesale, it’s essential to stay organized. Too much inventory can tie up cash flow, while too little can leave you scrambling to restock. Use an inventory tracking system to monitor what you have and when to reorder.

9. Build Strong Supplier Relationships

A good relationship with your suppliers can go a long way in securing better pricing, early access to new products, and even priority service. Communication is key—if you need something specific, don’t hesitate to ask. Many wholesalers are willing to work with long-term buyers to meet their needs.

Handling Issues Professionally

Mistakes happen. Whether an order arrives damaged, is missing items, or contains the wrong products, it’s important to handle the situation professionally and courteously. As retail consumers, some folks are used to the idea that “the customer is always right”, but wholesale transactions don’t operate the same way. Some buyers make unrealistic demands for reparations, expecting full refunds or excessive compensation. This kind of approach can damage your relationship with the supplier and, in some cases, cause them to refuse future business with you.

Instead, if an issue arises:

✔ Remain cordial and professional in your communication.

✔ Provide clear details of the problem, including photos if applicable.

✔ Request a reasonable resolution, such as a replacement or a partial refund.

Wholesalers value customers who are reasonable and easy to work with. By handling concerns with patience and professionalism, you’ll maintain a strong working relationship—which could lead to better deals and priority service in the future!

Wholesale Buying: A Game-Changer for Your Handmade Business

Sourcing wholesale materials is a big step toward scaling your business and increasing your profit margins. By planning strategically, researching suppliers, and staying organized, you can take advantage of bulk pricing while keeping your costs manageable.

Happy sourcing!  🌼