Random but Useful Things I Bring to my Engraving Events
/I’ve been to many engraving events and for every single time I go, I think of how I can progressively work effectively. Events are fast paced but you have to maintain professionalism. Read more to see what I bring to keep my workflow efficient.
Here are the random things I find useful that I bring:
1. Sticky notes + pens + instruction sign
Sticky Notes + Pens + Instruction sign
Most of the time you will be getting engraving requests while you are in the middle of engraving. You will also have line ups of products/item to engrave. Bring sticky notes and pens for them to write down their requests that they can stick on to the products/items. Always double check to make sure you can read what they wrote.
With the current pandemic situation, I created an instructional sign and 2 pen holders. One holder is for sanitized pens and the other is for used pens. I sanitize the used pens after they’re all being used. This way we can all stay safe.
2. Flatlay Station
Most likely you’re allowed to take pictures of your beautiful work on the spot as long as it doesn’t include a guest’s face (due to privacy). Right after I finish engraving the items I would quickly lay the products in my flatlay station and take pictures in no longer than 5 seconds. I edit the pictures when I get home.
Flatlay station
My flatlay station consists of:
An 8” x 10” ornate frame from dollar store that I painted in white with brush and showing the brush strokes to achieve the rustic/elegant feel
A silk pillowcase from Amazon
Fake gems from dollar store
What I love is that the space is versatile for any beauty products in any size (mostly lipsticks, perfumes and candles). The fake gems ads a luxury touch to fill out space. The staff love my setup so much that they also took pics there as well. There are many ideas of how you want to create your flatlay station. You can use a rotating display table, or use a vintage book, or in colours that go well with your branding. I recommend you search “flatlay photography” on Pinterest for some ideas.
Example of how Flatlay station is used for 2 Gucci Lipsticks at Holt Renfrew Square One Mississauga
Example of how Flatlay station is used to take picture of a Chanel Perfume from side view
3. Essential Oil + Water Mix Spray
Essential oil + Water mix spray
I find that excess Rub ‘n Buff that gets stuck on your hands is very hard to come off. Rubbing alcohol also doesn’t work. But oil breaks anything down. My solution: I carry a mixture of tea tree essential oil + water in a spray bottle. I swear this is the only thing that works for me. Your hand also will be moisturized (I mean after all of that sanitizing, ya know?) and smell nice. I chose tea tree essential oil for its antibacterial properties. But if you’re allergic or don’t like the scent, you can choose any essential oil of your choice. I also use this mix in case I accidentally add Rub ‘n Buff on a frosted glass (which you should avoid).
4. Engraved Water Bottle
Engraved water bottle looks more luxurious than a flask
Some high end brand client don’t allow you to have your Starbucks cup on the table while working. Visual is everything. I carry my clear water bottle that I engraved for that luxury touch. Some customers even thought it was a sample (lol). Water keeps me hydrated while working in a fast paced environment. This is also perfect for calligraphy event to show your client that you also do engraving for next time they’re looking for an engraver. Just show it as your work sample!
5. Portable garbage bag
You will have a lot of garbage from those sticky notes, cotton buds and paper towel from applying Rub n Buff, etc. Sometimes, the client do not provide garbage can so it’s always best to prepare one yourself.
Garbage bag system set up under the table of my working station
My portable garbage system consists of:
Hook with suction cup from IKEA. This hook is removable and reusable
A used bag. I used an old Apple bag from my old purchase.
I set this up under the table where it’s close to me so I can quickly throw those garbage fast for efficient workflow and keeping my table clean. Remember, events are fast paced, the better your system the more efficient you are.
Thank you for reading. Like, share and comment if you find it informative!