Are you crafty? Perhaps you collect vintage items and want to get into the business of selling those items. Maybe you have an abundance of craft supplies or you are a craft supplier. If any of those descriptions apply to you than you may want to consider opening an Etsy shop. Etsy is becoming more and more popular with crafters and buyers interested in high quality, one of a kind creations.
What is Etsy?
Etsy is an online commerce site which sells handmade and vintage items. You can also find art and craft supplies to purchase on the site. The site if full of wonderfully handmade crafts, photography, artwork, children’s craft items, health and beauty items, quilts, one of a kind handmade items and more.
How do you sell on Etsy?
To begin selling on Etsy you must register for an account. Remember whatever you select for your username will be your store name so chose wisely from the beginning. Once you register for an account you will have to upgrade your account to a seller account. All accounts begin as buyer accounts. To have a seller account you need to have a credit card on file. Once you “open” your Etsy store you can begin selling immediately.
How do I list an item?
You can find detailed information on creating and listing items on the Etsy website. The website has a wonderful help section which will answer all your specific questions about selling on the site.
What are the fees?
There are no fees for opening a shop or any monthly fees to maintain a shop. The listing fee for each item is twenty cents. Etsy also charges a 3.5% transaction fee for all items sold.
If you fall into the kind of seller who can make a business on Etsy it is worth the low start up fee to try. You may surprise yourself and turn your hobby into a fun little business.