Do not be influenced by your family's or friend's appraisal of your work. The best thing to do is to get the judgment of an impartial and competent person.

Since sales value as well as skill and artistry enter this picture, your best judge would be the buyer or proprietor of a successful gift shop. She looks at hundreds of different things each season. If anyone can, she is most apt to put you on the right track. Why not telephone her for an appointment? The conversation might run like this . . .

"Mrs. James, my name is Mary Blank. I wonder if, at your convenience, you could give me some advice. It would take but a very short time and I would certainly appreciate it."

Mrs. James may beat about the bush or she may come directly to the point and ask you what you want advice about. Tell her. "I'm studying craft work and am thinking about going into it professionally. I've made up some things that look quite good to me compared with the display in Jones' window. Your criticism and advice would be extremely helpful." When you get your appointment, and you undoubtedly will for everyone loves to give advice, be sure that it is at a time that you can keep. Do not skip school. If she suggests a time when you are supposed to be in class, tell her so. People are reasonable when you give them a chance to be.

Be on time. Do not take more than two or three things to show. Let Mrs. James do most of the talking and listen carefully. If the conversation is slow in getting started, give it a gentle nudge by asking, "Do you think these would sell?"

Mrs. James may be impressed with your things. On the other hand she may look at them with a fishy eye. That does not necessarily mean that they are no good. Listen to her criticisms and suggestions, even if you don't like them, for her experience is not to be discounted. A friendly, appreciative attitude on your part is the key mood even if your feelings and pride are being torn to bits.

Some of the things you'll want to ask her are . . . "Why don't you think they would sell?" "Can you suggest how I might improve them?" "If those suggestions could be worked out satisfactorily, what price do you think they could be sold for?" "Would you buy them for your shop if I could supply you with the quantities you might want?" "Would you mind telling me why you don't think your shop is the place for them?" Whether pleased or depressed at the results of your interview, do not forget to express your thanks for her time and courtesy. On the way out ask if, at some future time, you might have the privilege of calling on her again. Always leave a way open for another visit.