The pictures on the Etsy home page are sumptuous, the success stories of featured artisan sellers guarantee pure inspiration. “Dreamers Into Doers,” another of Martha Stewart’s ventures, has been a virtual cheerleader. And at the root of my own dream are the expensive lessons from my experience with an old-fashioned brick-and-mortar store front.
When I first registered as a seller on etsy, my vision was for an emporium of the kinds of things I love to make or collect: handsewn, vintage, and photography treasures. In general Etsy seller categories are: handmade, vintage and supplies.
Lesson #1: Keep the shop offering focused and singular in theme. Do you have any idea how challenging this is? Yes, you probably do. {I finally narrowed my handmade goods to “photo treats” in this initial etsy store front; you can open additional stores, as the themes of items for sale require.}
Lesson #2: The shop description should read as though you are engaged in a private, one-on-one conversation with each and every visitor — in spite of the reality that these very personal words are being shared with a universe of strangers. {I have yet to master this and consider my store description a work in progress.}
Lesson #3: Become a student of the marketplace! Like my store description, this is an ongoing part of the process. Study what kinds of items are getting attention, the artisans behind the successful shops. Consider price points and shipping. Notice appealing product photos and take notes — maybe you can bring in some of the same elements (lighting? props?) into your own presentation.
There is so much to learn about how to run a successful Etsy shop. I’ll keep you posted as I have more to add to this.
I’m certain you’ll work it all out beautifully. Art is your gifting!
Oh, thank you, Jenny! A smile and a blush …
Wishing you great success on Etsy! I have a shop but my stuff is so expensive I don’t see it as a viable way to sell on a regular basis. So I haven’t worked hard at making it stand out. At least it’s a place I can direct people if they want to know what I have available for sale.
Lisa, I love your stationary idea! Perfect way to display your cheerful photos! K
Thanks, Kathleen! I’m having a lot of fun with the images and vintage illustrations.
🙂 this is helpfull, since I’ve an Etsy shop and don’t know much how to run it! lol! thanks for sharing. today I gave you the Versatile Blogger award! check my blog dear. xo
Thank you, Ana! I’m working on my own posting with all of those surprise trivia bits about myself. eeek! But as this is my first-ever blogging award, your mention of My Artful Life is particularly special. Thanks again.