As a company that is comprised of musicians, artists, storytellers, and all-around creative junkies, we’ve lived through and understand the struggle to make ends meet. The term “starving artist” has always been used to classify those who will sacrifice material needs to support their craft. But it doesn’t mean artists don’t want or need money. In fact, many performers find themselves working multiple odd jobs to supplement their income.
Our sole purpose at GigSalad is to help you make a living doing what you love. That’s why we’re constantly on the lookout for resources and methods for you to do just that. So, for all of you “starving artists,” we want to introduce you to Sparkplug.
Sparkplug is an online community where musicians and artists can rent instruments, gear, and venue spaces from one another. This marketplace gives users access to affordable equipment and provides a way for artists to make a little extra cash, which is a necessity during slow or off seasons. Their mission resonates with all performers:
“Sparkplug exists to drive connections around the world through the power of the sharing economy, helping artists to more effectively share their creative resources, ultimately to greater creative impact.”
How it works
Much like GigSalad, Sparkplug caters to two users: those who have listed their gear for rent and those who are need of gear for their performances. We’ll dive into each user’s experience so no matter what your needs are—instrument, equipment, venue, or cash—you’ll be able to see how this marketplace can work for you.
List your stuff
To create a listing, you simply enter details about the gear you have available. By selecting the appropriate category and listing name, your equipment or space can easily be found in a renter’s search.
Providing clear details about what you’re renting is important to avoid any misunderstandings. You want the condition of your equipment or instrument to be accurately presented, so you’ll need to be specific and use high-quality images in your profile.
Once you’ve entered your listing details, set your location to receive local inquiries and you’re all good to go!
Creating a listing on Sparkplug is free, and their platform makes it easy to manage. They provide a messaging system, a secure booking platform, and member verification tools to put your mind at ease. And if you need to make your equipment unavailable, you can hide your listing at any time as long as you fulfill any confirmed reservations.
Rent some stuff
If you’re an artist in need of a PA system, a place to record your music, an instrument you don’t already have, or any other gear, you can search for local rentals on Sparkplug. To begin your search, type in what you’re looking for and where you’re located. The site will display options and pricing for you to sift through.
Once you see something that meets your needs and budget, you can click on the photo to open up the profile. Here, you’ll find the rental description, photos, condition, and availability.
Once inside the profile, you can save the listing by adding it to your Wishlist, reserve the gear and start the booking process, or contact the owner to clarify any additional details. One feature we love about Sparkplug is their review system. Much like our own booking platform, reviews are displayed to give renters an idea of how satisfied the owner’s past clients are.
Benefits
With the music industry losing revenue due to streaming and piracy, artists are endlessly searching for ways to make more money. Even highly successful performers rarely have a steady, reliable income. Although we’ve highlighted Sparkplug’s obvious advantages for extra cash and affordable gear rentals, this marketplace provides additional benefits that can help you excel in your career.
Security
For a performer, an instrument can be one of their most prized possessions and, often times, the only way they can play a gig. Sparkplug secures rental gear by requiring a deposit that’s equal to the gear’s value. Once the reservation is confirmed, they hold 30% of the deposit for 24 hours after the gear is returned to the owner. This ensures an artist’s equipment is in the same condition as before the rental. With this level of security, an artist can make money without the risk of damage to their gear.
Networking
We’re firm believers in grasping every opportunity to connect with likeminded people. As a marketplace for musicians and artists, Sparkplug creates a space for the community to help each other see success. Each transaction is a chance for you to meet an artist and talk about your shared passion. By creating connections, you’re making new contacts for future referrals, collaboration, and great possibilities!
If you’re looking for ways to make more money—and really, who isn’t?—check out Sparkplug!