First find outlets for your works. Small boutiques, galleries, furniture stores, church bazaars, coffee shops, etc…Once you have your dates for shows, you must do several things.
Have plenty of your business cards on hand, create a flyer with a special offering and information about your show/sale, and start creating for that event. If you are hanging in a gallery, coffee shop or other eatery ask if you can have an art opening.
Creating buzz about your event on social networks and getting it on calendars are very good ways to get the word out free to the public. Remember to send out invitations to collectors, friends, neighbors, and family. Everyone you meet is a potential customer.
Having gift certificates for your art business is also a good idea during the holidays. If possible having the ability to take credit cards is also very useful. With the internet it is getting easier for artisans and artist to have the option of taking credit cards without paying large fees.
Hope this helps you in your quest for more sales and recognition.
Warm Regards,
Monique