Crafts are every bit a part of camp as is nature and hiking. Crafts are easy to learn, but it is a skill, and this skill, taught well, leads to instant success. It is recommended that the entire staff go through your leather and crafts area. The staff gets excited by what they can do and discovers how fun and easy working with leather is. This excitement can spread throughout the camp. The fun and excitement rubs off on your campers as well. This is the secret of a great camp. Here are some recommendations to help you get started.

1. DISPLAY BOARDS showing "projects" & "how to steps" to do a particular method or skill are very helpful. Your Beck Leather Store Manager can help you build these.
2. Have staff members make a LEATHER TOTEM to set them apart as Leaders and to promote staff excitement and desire to do crafts. Many camps have a leather and crafts project for staff to encourage their participation.
3. Watch VIDEO TAPES on how to do Leather & Crafts. These are available at the Beck Leather & Crafts store. Camp Crafts & Beginnings in Leather videos are recommended. Seeing is an important part of doing.
4. Have finished samples of projects that may be sold or built. Mount on peg or foam board for easy handling and presentation. Prices should be posted by the individual projects creating a MENU BOARD similar in nature to the items listed at a McDonald's or Burger King.
5. HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE IS BEST - Many campers give a leather project to their staff as a fringe benefit and require that they wear/use them. The added exposure will increase your sales of craft items to campers.
6. USE LEATHER SIGNS instead of poster board (they keep and store well) and these signs will add atmosphere and character to your camp setting.
7. Make own THEME COSTUME if your camp is Indian or Mountain Man oriented.
8. Arrange for your BECK LEATHER & CRAFTS STORE TO ASSIST IN TRAINING your staff at a training session held at the store or use their video tapes.

9. USE TIME WISELY - Remember:

   10% of time for explanation (how to) 25% of time for demonstration (showing) 65% of time for camper's action (doing)

10. BE PREPARED for when camp starts. Be familiar with tools and equipment to prevent loss or damage. Know what you have, and do not have.