Exploring the business prospects of handmade resin and polymer clay jewellery in Finland
Mudannayake, Sanduni Darshanika (2025)
2025
All rights reserved. This publication is copyrighted. You may download, display and print it for Your own personal use. Commercial use is prohibited.
Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025121235378
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025121235378
Tiivistelmä
Handmade products have become increasingly popular as consumers search for unique, personal and well-crafted items. Finland, with its strong design culture and appreciation for local makers, provides a potential environment for small creative businesses. This thesis explores whether a handmade jewellery brand using resin and polymer clay could be feasible in the Finnish market.
The aim of the study was to evaluate market demand, customer preferences, competitive conditions and the financial requirements of starting a small-scale handmade jewellery business. The theoretical framework covers entrepreneurship, consumer behaviour, marketing strategy and feasibility analysis, with critical discussion on the suitability of small craft-based enterprises. The empirical data was collected through a survey of 113 respondents and market observation in both online platforms and the “Suomen Kädentaidot” exhibition in Tampere.
The findings show that Finnish consumers prefer colourful and well finished earrings made from resin and metal. Price sensitivity is moderate, with the most accepted price range being €15–€30. Instagram, Facebook and local craft markets were identified as the most effective sales and promotional channels. Competitor analysis revealed a market dominated by small brands with bright and playful designs, leaving room for more balanced and elegant styles. Financial evaluation suggests that the business can be started with a low investment and can become viable over time, although sales may remain seasonal and grow gradually.
The thesis concludes that the business idea is feasible on a small scale, especially with clear branding, strong online presence and participation in local craft events. Recommendations are provided for product focus, pricing, marketing and future development, offering guidance for turning a handmade hobby into a potential micro-enterprise in the Finnish context.
The aim of the study was to evaluate market demand, customer preferences, competitive conditions and the financial requirements of starting a small-scale handmade jewellery business. The theoretical framework covers entrepreneurship, consumer behaviour, marketing strategy and feasibility analysis, with critical discussion on the suitability of small craft-based enterprises. The empirical data was collected through a survey of 113 respondents and market observation in both online platforms and the “Suomen Kädentaidot” exhibition in Tampere.
The findings show that Finnish consumers prefer colourful and well finished earrings made from resin and metal. Price sensitivity is moderate, with the most accepted price range being €15–€30. Instagram, Facebook and local craft markets were identified as the most effective sales and promotional channels. Competitor analysis revealed a market dominated by small brands with bright and playful designs, leaving room for more balanced and elegant styles. Financial evaluation suggests that the business can be started with a low investment and can become viable over time, although sales may remain seasonal and grow gradually.
The thesis concludes that the business idea is feasible on a small scale, especially with clear branding, strong online presence and participation in local craft events. Recommendations are provided for product focus, pricing, marketing and future development, offering guidance for turning a handmade hobby into a potential micro-enterprise in the Finnish context.