Make Money

Any anime conventioneer will tell you just how easy it is to blow money a con. You can easily spend $300 within a few hours if you’re not careful, and all those ATM machines make it oh, too easy to access money you didn’t plan on spending!

But not everyone goes to anime conventions with the hopes of adding to their yaoi manga collection, or finding deals of their favourite anime DVDs and videogames. Some clever individuals see anime conventions as a chance to make some money of their own! =]

So, how does a person make money at an anime convention? Become a dealer. No, not a drug dealer. Dealers are what the people at cons who sell stuff are called. There are many, many types of dealers, so keep reading to see which one best describes you. ^0^

Art Dealer

Do you have a passion for drawing, sketching, painting, or digital painting? You, my friend, should consider getting a spot in the Artist Alley. Artist’s Alley is probably the safest and most popular place for anyone who wants to make money at an anime convention. Plus, the booths/tables that you sell at are the cheapest in A.A. They sell anything from fanart to original works, posters to murals, and from buttons to pins to keychains.

Tip: Consider buying a booth with a friend and splitting the cost. The less you spend is the more you save. =3

Crafts Dealer

Do you have a passion for creating things, but aren’t into drawing? Do you make clothing or jewellery? You may just be a Craft’s Dealer. These creative minds sell anything handmade! This includes Japanese charms and jewellery, Gothic/sweet Lolita bonnets/hats, Visual Kei accessories (nosebands, face masks, armbands, ties), anime hats, entire cosplay costumes, jackets, boots, wallets, and so much more.~

If you have a talent for making things consider being a crafts dealer! Craftsman at conventions, from what I’ve seen, do quite well. =3

Tip: Many people get their items at a craft’s store, and some right out of their own home! You’d be surprise what a few ribbons, old ties, fabric pieces and beads can make if you’re creative enough. ^-^

Merch Dealer

Merchandise dealers sell anime figurines/toys, art books, mangas, games, DVDs, official anime posters, anime backpacks, food, etc. This area is predominately run by adults. Why? Because most merchandise dealers are business owners, which is why they have the money to buy expensive anime merchandise in large amounts to sell. Most if not all do very well. Don’t believe me? I’ve seen one anime figurine go for $70 and someone bought it. Just imagine if 10 people bought a $70 anime figurine. That would be $700 just like that!If you are not an adult or a business owner but would like to be a merchandise dealer you still can! Here’s some steps you can take:

1. Do your research. Choose a product/products that you know will sell well.

2. Find a manufacturing company. You can find them on the internet, in phone books etc. But be careful and make sure they are legit.

A manufacturer is the company that makes the product. If you buy a product from its manufacturer – rather than in a store – you will get it a much cheaper price.

ex. one Naruto manga may cost you $15 in a bookstore, but from a manufacturer it may only cost $3.00. Here’s the catch, they are not sold separately. Manufacturers always have a “minimum order.” Meaning you may have to buy 200 Naruto mangas before you can get them for $3.00 each.

Book stores and comic stores can easily afford this price, but us normal people not so much. So granted that you have the money, buy your products from their manufacturer to get the best possible price.

WARNING

The above are just tips and much more research on your part is needed for them to be effective. Please use the internet to send money/receive products at your own caution. There are several scammers online that take advantage of people who don’t know what they are doing, or how to be safe online while ordering merchandise. We are not responsible for anyone’s loss of money.

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