How to Sell on Etsy

Etsy, an online seller specializing in homemade goods like jewelry, clothes, purses, original art and quilts, provides a spotlight for quirky items that may get lost on larger sites like Amazon and eBay. Here's how to sell your creations on Etsy and make some extra cash.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Sign up for a basic Etsy account. Choose a username and password and agree to the terms of service. Hit "Submit" to reply and send to the email confirming your application. Log in to your account after receiving a validation email.
2. Click on "Sell" in the homepage navigation bar. Your username will become your shop name, so keep this in mind when creating your account. Enter your address and credit card information to cover future sales fees. Etsy will charge a small percentage fee for each item that you sell.
3. Stock your store. Etsy charges a small fee to list each item. You may include up to five photos of each article in your store, as well as a bio and an original promotional banner. Learn to write brief but vivid product descriptions.
4. Choose a payment method. Most sellers pick PayPal as their primary method, although you may also accept credit cards, checks or money orders.
5. Do some research on what other sellers with similar products charge, then set your own prices. Unlike eBay, Etsy doesn't feature bidding.
6. Respond to buyers quickly and cordially. Ship your items when promised, and in the condition described in your listing. Etsy has a feedback system and a feature that lets buyers "heart" their favorite sellers.

Tips & Warnings

• If a buyer doesn't pay, Etsy will refund all fees and relist the item for free.