If you’re into arts and crafts, you’ve probably heard of Etsy. But have you thought about selling your creations on Etsy to make some extra cash? It’s a fantastic side hustle for creative people!
This week, I’m excited to share some insights from experienced crafter Annabelle Carter Short on selling on Etsy. She’ll walk you through setting up your Etsy store, branding yourself, and attracting your first customers.
Founded in 2005, Etsy is a leading platform for buying and selling handmade products. A 2018 study found it was the third most popular online marketplace in the US, with over 2.1 million sellers generating around $603.7 million that year. Unlike other marketplaces focused on mass-produced items, Etsy is all about handmade and artisan goods. It’s easy to set up and has affordable fees, making it a trusted platform for sellers.
If you’re ready to connect your products with a local or global audience, here are some tips to get started:
1. **Calculate Your Costs:**
Know how much it costs to make your product, including time, materials, shipping, stock, and Etsy fees. This helps ensure you make a profit. Don’t just aim to be the cheapest; focus on quality and providing a great customer experience to encourage repeat business.
2. **Customize Your Shop:**
Setting up your shop takes time, but it’s worth it. Complete your bio and add a photo to show who you are and what your business is about. Write an About section for your shop, sharing your story, purpose, and values. Be honest about your manufacturing process, shipping, payment, and return policies. Categorize your products so buyers can easily find what they’re looking for.
3. **Set Attainable Goals:**
Set specific, manageable goals for your new venture. Dream big, but start with small, realistic milestones. Focus on daily tasks to keep your shop growing. Small steps will lead you to bigger achievements.
4. **Invest in Good Product Photos:**
Great photos are crucial for any online business. Invest in a good camera, lighting, and a simple backdrop. If photography isn’t your strong suit, consider hiring a professional or learning some tips from experts. Upload multiple pictures per product to show different angles and details.
5. **Optimize Titles, Descriptions, and Tags:**
Spend time crafting detailed titles and descriptions for your products. Use up to 140 characters for the title and provide an in-depth description in the product overview. Use Etsy’s suggested tags to help people find your products through search.
6. **Label Your Products:**
Customized labels add a professional touch and can influence customers’ buying decisions. You can get personalized labels online at a reasonable price, with some suppliers offering small minimum orders.
7. **Use Social Media:**
Promote your shop on social media platforms like Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Engage with your audience by sharing your creation process, stories, tips, and more. Keep your posts professional and avoid sharing personal views that could spark unrelated debates.
For more tips, check out Etsy’s help articles, which cover everything from orders and shipping to marketing and social media. They also offer a handy quick-start checklist.
Annabelle Carter Short is a freelance writer and seamstress with over seven years of experience. She loves selling on Etsy and helping others start their handmade businesses. In her free time, she enjoys DIY projects with her kids and works with organizations supporting special needs education.