From time to time I am asked about opening a shop on Etsy. I began selling vintage goods in my shop in January of 2013. The platform easy to use, and the buyers are wonderful. So I thought it would be fun to share a few success tips!
1. Develop a Network
Networking is so important. Start a Facebook page and Twitter handle for your shop. Share items on Instagram. My most loyal buyers are friends I have discovered through social media. Join teams on Etsy. The team I was a part of in Minnesota developed treasury lists (an example here). One of my items, a vintage baby blanket, ended up on the front page of Etsy through that team. It provided a lot of traffic to my shop and the blanket sold within hours.
2. Take time with pictures
Etsy is a popular place to sell so put a unique spin on items. Add props and study other shop owner's style you admire. Natural light is always best, and you can't go wrong with a white backdrop. You can list up to 5 photos of each item and I recommend sharing at least 3. Your first picture should be square, eye catching, and look good in thumbnail size.
3. Describe and Tag
Tagging each item will produce a lot of traffic to your shop. If you item is aqua, mid century, or industrial tag it as such. Use all the tags that you can. Spend time writing the descriptor for your item. Explain the material, condition, and size. If it is vintage research the history of the item and share a sentence or two. Be sure to disclose any handmade or vintage flaws.
4. Budget your Time
But just be prepared to work hard, especially on the first few listings! The promptness of your response to buyers, how well you package, and how quickly you ship will affect your rating. Research and listing each piece takes time, as does photography. But It is also incredibly rewarding!
Have any other tips? Do you run a shop? Please share advice!
