Etsy is a mecca for handmade goods and vintage finds with over 4.3 million active sellers. If you’re a crafter, there’s a good chance you’ve considered selling your wares on this popular site. But can anyone do it, and is it worth it?
On the plus side, Etsy is a well-established platform with a massive audience of potential customers. As you’ll see in the following text, there are tons of unique and creative Etsy shop ideas. Starting an Etsy shop is easy, and listing items is straightforward. You’ll also have access to powerful marketing to help your SEO efforts on Etsy.
On the downside, there are fees associated with selling on Etsy. You must also compete with millions of other sellers with the same Etsy business ideas. Of course, you’ll have to invest time and effort in marketing and promoting your shop if you want to be successful.
Key Points
- Etsy Store Ideas
- Do I Need to Be Crafty to Sell On Etsy?
- What to Sell On Etsy
- Our Takeaway
Etsy Store Ideas
Now we’ll dive into the list of things to sell on Etsy. We’ll discuss everything from craft supplies to printables and everything in between. Get ready; turn on your business noggin! Not crafty? No worries!
Do I Need to Be Crafty to Sell on Etsy?
One of the most common misconceptions people have about selling on Etsy is that it’s only meant for crafty people. Not at all! There are many things you can sell on Etsy, even if you don’t have a crafty bone in your body. The best-selling items on Etsy include vintage and antique items. So, if you have a knack for finding unique treasures, give Etsy a go.
What to Sell on Etsy
To start selling, all you need to do is create an Etsy store and list your items. And how to start an Etsy shop? Simply go to the Etsy website, click on Get Started, and follow the steps. You’ll be done in minutes.
Remember to take sharp photos of your items and write detailed descriptions of each one. You’ll also want to set realistic prices, considering the item’s condition, the materials used, the time spent making it, and the market value.
Craft Supplies
Etsy is an excellent platform for selling arts and crafts supplies. With a wide variety of items to choose from, you’re sure to find something Etsy shoppers will go crazy about. Lace, fabrics, zippers, ribbons, buttons, feathers, painting supplies, bits, and pieces for making jewelry are just a few examples. This idea will undoubtedly feed other sellers, too, as those who sell their crafts on Etsy need to make their stuff from something.
Printables or Physical Paper Items
This is one of those Etsy business ideas that require minimal investment. If you’re planning to sell paper goods, you need a printer and some basic crafting supplies. Also, if you’re going for printables, you’ll potentially spend even less (plus there’s no shipping). Here are some examples of physical and printable items on Etsy: business cards, greeting cards, invitations, planners, wallpapers, complex origami, stationery, coloring pages, books/e-books, courses, wrapping supplies, etc.
Clipart
You can create your own designs or sell other people’s designs to which you have purchased the rights. It’s possible to sell individual images or create a digital package of images that buyers can download.
Stickers
Ever find yourself doodling on a scrap piece of paper, only to realize that what you’ve created is pretty cool? That’s how an Etsy stickers shop usually starts. Stickers add a personal touch to your belongings, and there are endless customization options, so you will undoubtedly attract many customers.
Sewn, Knitted, and Crocheted Items
We love being warm and cozy in winter, so a scarf, beanie, hat, or soft knitted sweater are always welcome to our wardrobe. And for summer, there are crocheted dresses, shorts, tops, bikinis, and beach bags. Kids can enjoy crocheted toys as well. The cool thing about knitted and crocheted items is that they are unique, can be worn for years, and fit many styles. Plus, these Etsy crafts are so fun to make.
Knitting, Crochet, and Sewing Patterns
Before you immerse yourself in selling patterns on your Etsy shop website, you should understand that pattern buyers are looking for quality—clear instructions and well-written or well-drawn patterns. Patterns are essentially just instructions for making something, so they must be easy to follow.
Phone Cases
Selling phone cases on Etsy can be very lucrative since people are willing to pay good money for something that protects their expensive investment. Also, with so many different models of phones on the market, there’s a lot of opportunity for customization.
Soaps
Handmade soaps are often a healthier option than store-bought. They can be made with so many different scents, in various colors, be spiced up with glitter, dry leaves or flowers, coffee grounds or salt for a gentle scrub, and poured into fun-shaped molds. Starting a soap Etsy store is among the best small business ideas for women, men, and everyone who has a nose for creating scented products.
Seeds and Plants
If you have a green thumb, it’s even possible to sell flowers, vegetables, and herbs through Etsy online shopping. You can either grow the plants yourself or buy them from a wholesale nursery. If you’re growing the plants yourself, you’ll need to ensure you have the proper equipment and space.
Baking Supplies
Be it differently shaped baking pans, utensils, or cake decorating kits, selling baking supplies on Etsy is not just about making money—it’s also about spreading the joy of baking. After all, what could be more satisfying than knowing that your products are helping people create delicious treats? No wonder baking supplies are among the best things to sell on Etsy.
Mouse Pads
Anyone who has ever run a computer mouse over a bare desk will know the value of a good mousepad. They provide a smoother surface for your mouse to glide over, protecting your desk from scratches. Plus, mousepads can be stylish, as they’re customizable.
Wood Projects
Wood projects are on the list of Etsy best sellers for a good reason, especially those from upcycled wood (good for your wallet and the environment). Also, if you want to take your woodworking hobby to the next level, this is a perfect opportunity to start an Etsy store. By selling items made from reclaimed or recycled materials, you can tap into a growing trend while helping to reduce waste.
Crystals
Etsy is a place where people go to buy things that are handmade and unique. Crystals fit that bill perfectly. Amethysts, quartz crystals, aquamarine, fluorite, you name it—there’s something for everyone.
Enamel Pins
Enamel pins are all the rage among young people, and Etsy is a great place to sell them. Just make sure they’re unique, fun, and of high quality. They could feature cartoon characters, pop culture stuff, or be made from scratch if you have the necessary materials and equipment.
Cosmetics and Skin Care
There’s a massive demand for natural and handmade products, and Etsy shoppers are always looking for new brands to try. However, they are looking for quality, so don’t skimp on ingredients or packaging.
Candles
Etsy is home to a wide variety of artisanal candlemakers, and you can be one of them. Soy or beeswax, scented or unscented, your candles will entice customers to treat themselves.
Wedding Party Gifts and Wedding Stationery
People are crazy about unique wedding party gifts and stylish wedding stationery, from something special for a maid of honor to thank-you cards for hundreds of guests.
Jewelry
You don’t need to be a pro jeweler to open an Etsy shop and sell jewelry. Many of the most successful Etsy jewelry sellers are self-taught hobbyists who simply love making jewelry. Therefore, don’t be afraid to try it.
Stuff for Babies
From cute onesies to handmade bibs and burp cloths, there can never be too many adorably tiny things. Those cute hats, boots, binkies, or sippy cups are after people’s hearts! Maybe your creation will find its way to top-selling items on Etsy!
Original Artwork
Your Etsy store can sell any form of original artwork—photos, paintings, drawings, digital art, etc. Your store can be a godsend for all the people who find shopping for art in galleries intimidating.
Vintage Stuff
Many Etsy shops sell vintage jewelry and clothing items. You can make a decent profit too if you find good-quality things. We recommend scouring your local thrift stores and your family’s attic. You may find an original flapper dress in your grandma’s dusty wardrobe.
Party Supplies
Who doesn’t love a good party? Party supplies are easy things to sell on Etsy and a great way to be creative and tap into people’s love of party-related things. If you’re crafty, you can design and make your party decorations, or you can curate a selection of unique items from different sources.
Pottery
There’s something special about pottery. It’s both rustic and refined, unique and universal. Whether you’re using it to set a beautiful table or hold your keys, pottery adds a touch of elegance to your life. That’s why many successful Etsy shops sell this kind of craft.
Home Decor
People are constantly looking to spruce up their living space. Some like wall art and some adore throw pillows. You can either make your own items or outsource them. In any case, success is guaranteed.
Washi Tape
Washi tape is a Japanese decorative masking tape made of paper, so it’s both sturdy and easy to tear by hand. It’s versatile, colorful, and just plain fun. Thus, selling it belongs on any list of easy Etsy shop ideas. As with many products, you can resort to reselling or designing your own patterns.
Printable Party Games
Party games are always a hit, but store-bought options can be pricey. That’s where your ingenious ideas for an Etsy shop can come in, backed by some clever marketing. Make your games affordable so that people can save their money for important things (like party snacks!).
Pet Accessories
Put yourself in the shoes of a pet owner (if you’re not one already). You’ll realize that few things are more gratifying than watching your pet lounge around in the luxury you provided them. Some cat and dog Etsy shop ideas could include customized bowls, collars, leashes, cute pet clothes, pillows, or even houses.
Face Masks
We’re officially tired of COVID-19, but it doesn’t hurt to have a few more masks. So, let your imagination run wild and come up with fantastic ideas to make wearing masks interesting at least.
Food
Before listing your food products, it’s essential to understand the rules and regulations related to selling food on Etsy. You may also need to comply with labeling requirements and adhere to other safety standards, so check Etsy Seller Handbook.
Our Takeaway
Etsy is an excellent platform for both creatives and non-creatives who sell handmade goods, vintage items, and craft supplies (among other things). Opening an Etsy store can be very lucrative, provided you find a niche market and build a brand around that, especially if you have original crafts to sell. Still, even if you don’t have any creativity whatsoever, you can still turn your Etsy shop into a booming business with some of our best Etsy shop ideas.
Etsy Shop Ideas FAQs
What are the most profitable items to sell on Etsy?
To find the most profitable items to sell on Etsy, it’s essential to understand what buyers are looking for and which items are in high demand overall and your niche. One way to do this is to browse through the site’s bestseller lists and see which items are consistently selling well. Another approach is to conduct keyword research to see what terms people use when searching for products.
What sells easiest on Etsy?
Handmade and vintage items are always popular. Etsy shoppers are looking for things that are unique and full of personality, so if you can offer something that fits those criteria, you’re likely to find interested buyers. Also, anything related to weddings tends to do well. This could be wedding decorations, bridal party gifts, or even items with a romantic vibe to them.
Are there any Etsy millionaires?
While there are no official “Etsy millionaires,” there are many people who made millions in sales on the platform. One example is Alicia Shaffer and her jewelry shop Three Bird Nest (no longer on Etsy).
What handmade items sell best on Etsy?
Even though the best sellers on Etsy vary widely depending on the season and current trends, some popular Etsy shop ideas include jewelry, soap, candles, clothing, home decor, and paper goods. These items sell at various prices, making them accessible to a wide range of buyers.