Occupation Profile for Craft Artists

Create or reproduce hand-made objects for sale and exhibition using a variety of techniques, such as welding, weaving, pottery, and needlecraft.

About 62 percent of artists and related workers are self-employed.
Keen competition is expected for both salaried jobs and freelance work because the arts attract many talented people with creative ability.
Artists usually develop their skills through a bachelor’s degree program or other postsecondary training in art or design.
Earnings for self-employed artists vary widely; some well-established artists earn more than salaried artists, while others find it difficult to rely solely on income earned from selling art.

Core — Create functional or decorative objects by hand, using a variety of methods and materials.
Core — Attend craft shows to market products.
Core — Cut, shape, fit, join, mold, or otherwise process materials, using hand tools, power tools, and/or machinery.
Core — Develop concepts or creative ideas for craft objects.
Core — Select materials for use based on strength, color, texture, balance, weight, size, malleability and other characteristics.

Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.