In my last post, we discussed taking pictures to prepare for your jewelry catalog. Now what do you do? Believe it or not, it’s easier than you think!
First, we are going to start off simple. Some people use Microsoft Word, I prefer Microsoft Excel. If you have Microsoft Publisher or another publishing program, great! Many people don’t know how to use these programs. (this would be me:) and if you do, go ahead and use those programs!
If you need to save money, and if you are purchasing your jewelry from a distributor; this is the way to go. Why? Because your jewelry that you may have in stock or offer for purchase, may not be in stock for long, and you might need to change the pictures out. This is easy, once you have your catalog set up.
If you are a designer, and you don’t change your designs frequently, you can do the above or perhaps take it one step further and look up catalog software. This does cost more, however. If you are just starting out, doing it completely yourself with the tools on your computer, will work just fine.
When using Microsoft word OR Microsoft Excel, Open the program. At the top, in pretty script writing, type the name and contact information for your company. If you are using Excel, don’t worry, those lines won’t be on your final project. Play with the colors and the styles a little bit, until it suits you. If you have a logo already in place in a jpeg image, then go ahead and insert it.
Click “Print Preview.” This will allow you to view your page to see how it looks.
Next, there is an insert icon at the top of your production, known as your “tools.” Click it, then click browse. This will enable you to locate your first picture you want in your catalog. Let say I’m ready to put in this ring:
FK42
You’ll sparkle like the stars when you wear this fun celebrity-style ring! Measures 1.5 inches in diameter. A definite Favorite, as this ring is fashionable and trendy, and very classy! Looks and feels like a very expensive costume ring!
Now that wasn’t hard? Was it. Be sure to click “Print Preview” frequently to make sure your picture is located where you want it and on the page you wanted it on.
Next, it’s time to add an item number. You can do this beside, above, or below the picture. Just make sure that the user can tell that the item number belongs with the proper product.
In my example, I put my item number “FK42″ directly beneath the ring.
Now it’s time to do a description. I already put my description of this ring beside the picture. Again, you can place it where you wish, but make sure that it’s user-friendly, and that your client can tell where the description belongs.
Congrats! You just added your first jewelry picture, item number and description in your first jewelry catalog!!
You don’t have to be super fancy with your catalogs; but your pictures do need to be clear and concise, as well as the descriptions. Definitely have the measurements of your jewelry included.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask! I’ll help walk you through it any way that I can!!
We’ve already talked about catalogs. Now it’s time to let people know you are in business!!! I’ll be talking about marketing your jewelry business in the near future, however, business cards are a must, if you intend to let people know that you have started your own jewelry business. You’ll want to not only hand out business cards at your jewelry events; but you’ll want to hand your business card to everyone you meet. You want to get your name out there!
