This post sort of runs across both this and the any future for folk threads.

I spent 14 years as a full-time professional on the "Craft Circuit". I've done craft fairs, folk festivals, shopping centres, country shows, the lot. As a demonstrating craftsman then like a musician I'm in the entertainment business, honestly. A couple of thoughts. One - I could have had a similar discussion over the years on the craft circuit about the merits of different organisers/venues/door fees etc. Two - we all disagreed, it depended on what we did and if we were pro/semi-pro or subsidising a pension. Three - it is only now when I do a lot of things that aren't immediately Craft Shows (Schools, workshops, heritage/traditional working events) that I'm making a bit of money again. For the latter my pricing is flexible - a straight demo/workshop is a flat fee which is negotiable depending on what they want, If I can trade then I reduce the fee and either split my take with the organiser or I can reduce my prices so their punters have a bonus on their entry. Sometimes we don't agree, I have only so many days I can earn a living and, yes, it's competetive and I can't do a Sunday before Christmas for £100 because it's a prime time on the markets.

I deal with professional organisers (good and bad), amateur organisers (ditto), publis bodies (ditto). The bottom line is I have to make a living and the organiser has to balance their books. If we both understand that then we can usually work something out, like Villan says above (congrats on a lot of commonsense). Both sides have to listen to the other party but remember, please, if you are a full-time performer, craftsman or whatever your income, house, car whatever depends on the quality of your gigs and as an organiser I think you have a responsibility not to jeopardise that either.

All the best

Steve Ogden

PS at least a folk artist gets a fee, for the most part I have had to pay for the privilege of trading and that's when the quality of the organiser really kicks in - Folk Festival Craft organisers please note :)