How to Navigate and Shop on Etsy.com

Etsy is a high-traffic online marketplace that allows direct access to affordable, handmade items. With over 170,000 independent shops, prospective buyers can sift through eclectic and traditional collections of ceramics, indie crafts, jewelry, recycled products, vintage and vegan items, housewares, clothing and more. Through Etsy, both professional and recreational craft makers can make a living through their art. Anyone who enjoys craft fairs, art shows, vintage stores and antique shops will discover that Etsy makes shopping for homemade goods (in the comfort of your own home) an addicting pastime.

Instructions

1. 

   Connect to Etsy's website by following the link in Resources. There are categories listed on the left navigation bar, hand-picked items in the center and a menu at the top of the page. Because the main page always features fresh content, it's a good place to begin your Etsy shopping experience.

2. 

   Sign in. While you don't have to be a registered member to navigate Etsy, it's a good idea to go through the free registration process. (Click "Register" at the top.) With the free membership, you are able to save your favorite sellers to your account, purchase items and personalize your profile. Because Etsy has over 170,000 shops, sifting through handmade goods can leave you forgetful of your favorites, so a profile is the best way to save information while you shop.

3. 

   Start shopping. There are several ways for a buyer to navigate Etsy. From the main page, you can start your shopping for handmade goods by category, peruse a gift guide, explore hand-picked items, enter a keyword, visit a seller's showcase and patronize local shops. Additionally, at the bottom of the page, Etsy features a new seller/artist, recently listed items and a blog. Click on any of these links to begin your Etsy experience.

4. 

   Click "Buy." Through this link, a prospective Etsy buyer will be introduced to a menu of shopping options. Be sure to "Pounce" (investigate fresh items from new shops or recently sold items), check out the Treasury (which is composed of member-selected items) and visit the "Geolocator" (a compendium of Etsy sellers from around the world).

5. 

   Visit Etsy shops. As you navigate the website, add shops and items to your account's favorites list by clicking the "Add to favorites" link in the lower right-hand corner of the page. Remember, all shops are run by independent artists, so the return policies, prices, shipping costs and methods of payment may differ. Read the shop profile to learn more information before making a purchase from a seller. (If you have questions, send her a message before buying.)

6. 

   Read "The Storque." Don't know what you're shopping for? Etsy's blog about all things handmade provides countless hours of entertainment and shopping inspiration.

7. 

   Be part of the Etsy community. Read forum posts, chat with friends, peruse craft blogs and view other members' Favorites to discover new and interesting shops.

8. 

   Make a purchase. When you're ready to buy your items, click the shopping-cart image at the top of the screen. Review your order before processing, understand the seller's policies and follow the purchasing instructions. Many sellers require PayPal (an online payment system) or a major credit card. Want to buy items from different sellers? Pay each seller individually during checkout.

Tips & Warnings

• Always follow Etsy's "Dos and Don'ts."

Resources

• Read this Article in Portuguese
• Etsy
• PayPal
• Etsy Help Guides
• Etsy's Dos and Don'ts