Have you ever thought about signing on with a scrapbooking direct sales company, just to get the discount on your own supplies? It can be a great way to get your own product at a discount and meet other scrapbookers, but it's also important to read the fine print. Here are seven of the most important factors to consider:

1. Style of products. The most important factor to consider is whether that the product line fits with your style and budget. If you are big into embellishments, make sure that the product line encompasses this. How often are new products released?

2. Discount levels. What is the discount for Instructors/Consultants? Is there a special plan and/or personal volume requirement for scrapbookers who are joining the company "just for the discount?" (often referred to as "Hobbyists.")

3. Monthly minimums. What kind of personal volume is required on a monthly basis? If you decide to design custom albums for clients, can you use the discounted products in these books? (If the answer is yes, this is a great way to expand your profit margin on scrapbooks you create for others.)

4. Initial investment. What kind of cash outlay will your start-up require? Look closely at the company's joining fee and/or the cost of your business starter kit. Is there a deeper discount on products purchased at start-up? Start-up product packs are often significantly reduced to help new Instructors with their initial inventory needs. Are these product packs available for Hobbyists, too?

5. Does your sponsor welcome Hobbyists? Make sure that you aren't going to be pressured to build a business if that's not your intention. Ask your potential sponsor if she welcomes Hobbyists onto her team (and make sure that she knows you are one.)

6. Team education. One of the perks of joining a team of scrapbooking instructors is the education you'll get in scrapbooking. Scrapbooking instructors are very often creative, talented women who like to share their knowledge and techniques. Ask your potential sponsor about team layout galleries and scrapbooking education or opportunities that the company provides. Are these resources open to both Hobbyists and Instructors?

7. Growth potential. Can Hobbyists with this company become instructors? And what are the requirements for making this transition? Many people are surprised with how easily a scrapbooking direct sales naturally unfolds when they become a source for exclusive in-demand supplies.

If you are currently considering a direct sales opportunity, feel free to forward this set of questions to your potential sponsor. And good luck finding the company that's just right for you!

About the author: Susie Cortright is the creator of the award-winning online magazine Momscape.com as well as a Team Captain for a rapidly growing new direct sales scrapbooking company (and she welcomes Hobbyists on her team): http://www.momscape.com/scrapbooking/business.htm Visit her scrapbooking site and sign up for her free weekly scrapbooking newsletter here: http://www.momscape.com/scrapbooking or join her scrapbooking club: http://www.momscape.com/scrapbooking/scrapbookclub