How to Pay Vendors at Craft Shows

Paying at Craft Show Booths: What to Expect

Payment technology at craft shows has improved dramatically over the past decade. Most vendors now accept multiple payment methods — but "most" isn't "all," and knowing what to expect saves awkward moments at checkout.

Option 1: Cash (Still King)

Cash remains the most universally accepted payment at craft shows. Bring it. Recommended amounts:

• Small show (under 40 vendors): $60–$100
• Medium show (40–100 vendors): $100–$200
• Large holiday show: $150–$300 if you're gift shopping

Practical cash tips:

• Bring a mix of bills — $20s, $10s, $5s, and some $1s for small purchases
• Ask for small bills from the ATM, not just $50s
• Keep a designated pocket or section of your bag for cash so you don't mix it with receipts

Some vendors will offer a small cash discount (5–10%) since they avoid the card processing fee. This is never guaranteed, but it's worth knowing you might be asked.

Option 2: Square, Stripe, or PayPal Card Reader

Most active vendors now carry a card reader. The most common is the Square reader — the small white square or rectangular device that plugs into a phone or sits on a small stand. Stripe and PayPal Here readers are also common.

These accept:

• Debit cards (with or without PIN — most run as credit)
• Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover)
• Apple Pay and Google Pay (tap-to-pay)

What to watch for: Outdoor shows sometimes have spotty cell service, which can make card readers slow or temporarily offline. If a vendor's reader is struggling, offer cash if you have it, or wait a few minutes while they get a signal.

Option 3: Venmo and PayPal (QR Code)

Many vendors display a Venmo or PayPal QR code at their booth. You scan it with your phone's camera, enter the amount, and pay directly from your app.

This is fast, fee-free for the vendor, and works even with slow data (QR codes just need to load once).

To be ready: Have the Venmo or PayPal app installed and your account funded before the show. Sending from a bank account is instant and free; sending from a credit card charges a fee (usually 3%).

Option 4: Zelle, CashApp, or Other Apps

Less common, but some vendors use Zelle or CashApp. These work similarly to Venmo — scan or enter a phone number/email, send the amount.

Always confirm the amount with the vendor before sending. Unlike a card swipe, there's no receipt prompt.

When a Vendor Is Cash-Only

Some vendors — often newer makers, older vendors less comfortable with technology, or vendors at church/community shows — are cash-only. Signs to look for:

• A "Cash Only" sign at the booth
• No card reader visible
• A jar or cash box rather than a tech setup

What to do: If you don't have cash and love the item, ask if they have a website or Etsy shop where you can purchase later. Many vendors maintain online shops and can ship. You might also find an ATM on-site at larger shows.

One Golden Rule: Ask Before You Fall in Love

Before you spend ten minutes admiring something and negotiating a price, a quick glance at the booth setup tells you a lot. If you see a card reader, you're probably fine. If you see only a cash box, ask early: "Do you take cards or is this cash only?" It saves everyone time.