1. Mailing out packages: Etsy pros know that handling packaging and shipping is no small task. While more sales can only be a good thing (people like what I make enough to buy it!), schlepping to the post office while staggering under the weight of tons of packages can somewhat diminish the excitement. That's when we opt for a Zipcar: throw everything in the backseat and go.

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2. Picking up supplies: Jewelry makers are lucky to work with pretty portable materials and tools. But not all crafters are alike: we're talking to you, fashion designers (ever tried to take a dressmaker's dummy on the subway?) and furniture makers (hauling found driftwood on public trans? Yeah, right.). For the really big projects, a Zipvan has the space to transport everything in one load.

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3. Selling at craft fairs: Few things are cooler than getting selected to display your wares at a local craft fair – until you have to think about logistics of transporting a whole booth's worth of products at once, that is. A Zipcar makes that process easier, and keeps you from having to beg pals for a ride.

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4. Or at flea markets: In some cases, your car isn't just a way of transporting your crafts – it becomes the booth itself. Many flea markets have sellers operating directly out of their vehicles. It's one instance where having a car on-hand isn't just recommended – it's a necessity!

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5. Seeking inspiration: What do you do to get those creative juices flowing? Some swear their best thoughts come to them in the shower or right before bed. We find that inspiration hits while cruising down the highway. The only caveat: make sure you find a good pull-off place before trying to write those ideas down!

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6. Meetings with prospective buyers: Have you hit the stage where you're starting to take your business further – to the point that buyers from boutiques, e-retailers, and other outlets are approaching you? If you've got meetings to attend (and samples to bring with), having easy access to wheels can be a real help.

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7. Freelance flexibility: A lot of crafters we know have several irons in the fire; making a living off of creative work can require cobbling together a few different gigs. If you're zipping around from office to home, into town or back to the 'burbs, there's nothing like the flexibility of having your own ride to make it all feel manageable.

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8. Getting a break from the home office: Working for yourself can have a lot of pros – but when your home is also your workplace, sometimes you need to take a few hours off to escape. Grab a Zipcar and round up a small group of friends for an afternoon out. Order a round of lattes, browse the racks at your favorite thrift stores, and you'll feel refreshed in no time.

Photo courtesy of Rahim Packir Saibo/Flickr

9. Head to Meetups with other local crafters: Ever attended an Etsy Meetup? They're a great way to connect with crafters and other artsy folk in your area. If you've got to travel a little way to make the get-together, though, a quick spin in a Zipcar can be your best bet.

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10. Host your own trunk show: Maybe you’ve been crafting long enough to build up quite the inventory—and have a curious group of friends that is eager to see the fruits of your labor. That's your cue to pack up your belongings and host your own trunk show, where invitees can browse your wares in a chilled-out setting. Socializing plus the chance to make some cash? Well worth a quick drive.

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