Etsy has long been a popular platform for individuals to buy and sell unique, handmade, and vintage items. It has succeeded in creating a loyal community of buyers and sellers that appreciate the creativity and quality of the products available.
However, as the platform has grown, some may find it increasingly difficult to stand out or might be seeking alternatives that better align with your specific needs and preferences.
There are a multitude of Etsy alternatives available online, each offering its own unique features, user experience, and niche markets. These alternatives can cater to sellers looking to diversify their online presence, reach new customer bases, or discover lower fees and easier listing processes.
Similarly, buyers in search of unique items and supporting independent artisans can explore new marketplaces that offer a fresh selection of products.
In this article, we will explore a variety of Etsy alternatives, delving into their perks and advantages for buyers and sellers alike. By exploring these alternative platforms, you can make an informed decision on where to conduct your online shopping or selling and find the best fit to enhance your online experience.
What Are Etsy Alternatives
Etsy alternatives are online marketplaces that provide a platform for sellers to offer their handmade items, crafts, and vintage products. They allow sellers to set up shop, market their products, and connect with buyers.
There are a variety of reasons you might look for alternatives to selling on Etsy, including;
- Fees and Commissions: Some sellers may feel that Etsy fees and commissions are too high, cutting into their profit margins. Alternatives may offer lower fees, broader price flexibility, and better value for sellers.
- Niche Marketplaces: Sellers might be interested in focusing on a specific niche or target audience. Many Etsy alternatives cater to dedicated markets like fashion, craft supplies, or home decor, offering a more specialized platform for sellers to connect with their target customers.
- Ease of Use: Different online marketplaces offer a diverse range of user experiences, and some sellers may prefer the layout, tools, and functionality of an alternative platform over Etsy.
- Customer Engagement: Alternative marketplaces can provide a different level of customer engagement and interaction. Variety in platforms can allow sellers to build more meaningful relationships with their customers, impacting repeat business and buyer loyalty.
A few popular Etsy alternatives include the following:
Amazon Handmade
An online marketplace specifically for handcrafted products. As a part of the e-commerce giant Amazon, this platform has the potential to reach a wide customer base.
Bonanza
A marketplace that focuses on unique items, including handmade and vintage products. It has lower fees compared to Etsy and offers unique marketing tools for sellers to optimize their visibility.
Society6
A platform designed with creatives in mind, delivering a plethora of personalization options along with a seamless eCommerce framework. Society6 ensures that every unique piece of art, whether it’s a print, home decor, or clothing, can easily be shared and sold, fostering a vibrant and diverse community of creatives.
There are a multitude of Etsy alternatives available for sellers to explore. The best fit depends on your needs, preferences, and goals. By considering factors such as fees, niche offerings, user experience, and customer engagement, you can optimize your online presence and better connect with your target customers.
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16 Etsy Alternatives to Consider
1. Amazon Handmade
Amazon Handmade is an alternative platform for crafters and artisans to sell their unique handcrafted items. This platform offers sellers to take advantage of Amazon’s massive customer base, with a 15% referral fee on every transaction. There are no listing fees or monthly subscription fees.
2. Sellfy
Sellfy is one of the best ecommerce platforms with features such as product selling, email marketing, and integration with social media platforms. Pricing plans start at $19/month, without any listing or transaction fees.
3. Shopify
Shopify is a comprehensive e-commerce platform, with pricing plans ranging from $9 to $299/month along with a transaction fee when not using Shopify Payments.
4. Redbubble
Redbubble focuses on print-on-demand products, allowing artists to sell their designs. They charge a commission fee based on the product type, with no listing fees involved.
5. eBay
eBay is an online marketplace that allows for selling handmade, vintage, and other items. They charge listing fees and a final value fee based on the product category.
6. Wix
Wix provides sellers with a do-it-yourself website builder and e-commerce platform. They offer various pricing plans and transaction fees will depend on the payment processor used.
7. Squarespace
Squarespace offers customizable websites with integrated e-commerce tools. Pricing plans start at $12/month, and transaction fees are determined by the payment processor used.
8. Big Cartel
Big Cartel caters to creative businesses offering limited and specific products. They offer different monthly plans starting from $9.99 to $29.99 based on the number of products and features. They do not have listing or transaction fees.
9. Bonanza
Bonanza is an online marketplace with lower fees than Etsy, with transaction fees ranging from 3.5% to 9.5%. Sellers can also benefit from marketing tools and integration with platforms like eBay and Google Shopping. No listing fees are charged.
10. Aftcra
Aftcra is a platform focused on promoting American-made handmade goods. They charge a 7% commission fee on every transaction but do not have listing fees.
11. Society6
Society6 operates as an online storefront that levies fewer charges than comparable platforms, with transaction fees only applicable when a product is sold. Artists can take advantage of promotional tools and integration with social media platforms, thereby amplifying their reach.
12. IndieMade
IndieMade offers sellers a customizable website with an integrated e-commerce platform. It has plans ranging from $4.95 to $19.95/month, with no listing or transaction fees. IndieMade also allows PayPal integration for transactions.
13. Folksy
Folksy is a UK-based platform for handmade and vintage items with low commission fees (6%) and affordable listing fees (£0.15).
14. GoImagine
GoImagine is an online marketplace with a social focus, donating profits to children’s charities. They charge a 5% commission fee on transactions but have no listing fees.
15. Storenvy
Storenvy offers customizable storefronts and a marketplace for sellers, charging 15% commission fees on sales from the marketplace. No listing fees are involved.
16. Weebly
Weebly provides website building, e-commerce, and marketing tools for sellers. Pricing plans start at $5/month, and transaction fees depend on the payment processor.
Features to Consider When Choosing an Alternative
When choosing an alternative to Etsy, it’s essential to consider various features that will benefit your online business. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Platform Compatibility: Ensure the platform supports the type of products you plan to sell, such as jewelry, vintage items, or unique crafts. Some ecommerce platforms cater primarily to artists, while others are more focused on print-on-demand merch.
- Customization and Templates: Look for alternatives that offer website customization options and templates so you can create an appealing and unique online store. This helps your brand stand out from the competition.
- Marketing Tools and SEO Features: An ideal Etsy alternative will provide marketing tools and SEO features to help bring buyers to your website. These tools can include email marketing campaigns, social media integration, and on-page SEO optimization.
- Inventory and Order Management: Efficient inventory management is crucial to running a successful online business. Choose a platform that offers inventory tracking, order processing, and returns management. Some options even include a mobile app for managing your business on the go.
- Shipping, Packaging, and Import Options: Consider the platform’s shipping and packaging options, as well as any import limitations. Some ecommerce platforms offer integrated shipping carriers, print-on-demand options, and customizable packaging solutions.
- Fees and Pricing: Compare the fees and pricing associated with each Etsy alternative, including any potential costs for premium templates, marketing tools, or additional customization options.
- Support and Free Trial: Choose an ecommerce platform that offers robust customer support and access to a free trial or demo period, allowing you to test the platform’s features and functionality before making a long-term commitment.
By factoring in these essential features, you can select the right Etsy alternative that best suits your unique requirements and online business goals.
Pricing and Fee Structures
Membership and Subscription Fees
Most Etsy alternatives offer varying membership and subscription plans with differing fees, catered to the size and needs of the sellers:
- Basic memberships are generally free and allow new sellers to try out the platform.
- Monthly subscription plans provide more comprehensive features to established businesses seeking advanced tools and services.
Listing Fees
Listing fees, charged when a seller adds a product to their marketplace store, vary considerably among platforms:
- Some platforms may charge just $0.01 per listing, while others go up to $0.50.
- Duration of the listing, number of items per listing, and enhanced listing features can affect these fee structures.
Transaction and Shipping Fees
Transaction and shipping fees are equally important aspects of a platform’s pricing structure for sellers. Make sure to check each platform’s transaction fees to see how much the fees will cut into your profit margins.
Examples of some typical transaction fees:
| Platform | Fee |
|---|---|
| Platform A | 3.5% + $0.20 per transaction |
| Platform B | 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction |
| Platform C | 5% + $0.10 per transaction |
Shipping fees:
- Some marketplaces offer shipping label discounts or their own shipping solutions, which can save sellers time and money.
- PayPal is often used as a payment gateway for handling transactions, which may charge additional fees based on the country or currency conversion.
In summary, Etsy alternatives provide various pricing and fee structures for sellers to choose from. It is essential for sellers to carefully evaluate how these fees match their business needs and affordability.
Support and Community for Alternative Platforms
Customer Support
While many alternative platforms offer unique items and opportunities for artists and artisans, it is essential to evaluate their customer support systems.
Customer service is crucial for both sellers and buyers in resolving issues and ensuring a smooth transaction process. Many platforms provide various channels for communication, such as email, live chat, and phone support.
Social Media
The presence of a strong community and social media presence is vital for sellers looking to promote their handmade crafts.
Platforms should offer tools and resources that enable artists and artisans to build their brands and connect with their audiences. Active participation in social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok can drive traffic to your online stores and facilitate organic growth.
Marketing
In addition to thorough customer support and social media efforts, alternative platforms should provide marketing tools to help sellers establish themselves and reach their target audience.
These tools can include promotional banners, email marketing, search engine optimization (SEO) assistance, and analytics to track sales and understand customer preferences.
By considering these critical aspects of support and community for alternative platforms, sellers can make informed decisions about which marketplace suits their needs and offers the best opportunities for their unique items and handmade crafts.
Additional Considerations
When exploring Etsy alternatives, it’s important to consider various factors that cater to your specific needs as a retailer or small business owner.
- Some platforms might offer a wide range of categories, while others focus on niche markets like handcrafted items, vintage pieces or American artisans’ creations.
- For instance, if you’re selling digital products, you’ll need a platform that supports this type of merchandise. Additionally, consider the number of products you can list. Some e-commerce solutions may allow unlimited products, while others restrict the number or charge a fee for exceeding their limits.
- Regarding fees, pay attention to payment gateways and payment processing costs. Different solutions may have varying charges, which could impact your revenue. Also, some marketplaces provide free shipping options or discounts, potentially increasing your competitiveness.
- Home decor, housewares, and other unique products might benefit from platforms specializing in these specific retail offerings. Therefore, identify a platform catering to your target customers and product type. Platforms that offer messaging features, allowing communication with sellers, could also help maximize sales.
- Determine whether the marketplace restricts reselling or mass-produced items, as this can affect what you’re able to offer. For online retailers prioritizing unique and handcrafted goods, these limitations can help maintain the marketplace’s individuality.
- Dropshipping capabilities might be essential if you’re outsourcing your product fulfillment. Also, platforms that leverage global marketplaces and offer language translation features can help you reach diverse audiences.
- Assess each platform’s promotional opportunities, such as Amazon Sponsored Ads integration, to help increase product visibility. Finally, consider how each marketplace fares in search engine rankings and whether it offers custom domain names to enhance your online presence.
Keep these considerations in mind while identifying the most suitable platform for your business, ensuring you optimize your online retail experience and meet your desired goals.
Etsy Alternatives- FAQs
Is it easy to switch from Etsy to another platform?
Switching from Etsy to another platform can range from simple to complex, depending on the platform chosen. Some platforms offer migration tools or services, while others require a manual process.
How can I transfer my Etsy reviews to a new platform?
Transferring Etsy reviews to a new platform depends on the platform’s policies. Some may allow you to display past reviews, while others may not.
How does selling on Etsy compare with other platforms in terms of sales potential?
The sales potential on Etsy compared to other platforms varies. It depends on factors like your product type, the platform’s user base, and how well you market your products.
Can I sell on multiple platforms simultaneously, including Etsy and its alternatives?
Yes, you can sell on multiple platforms simultaneously, including Etsy and its alternatives. This can broaden your audience, but it also requires more management.
Are there any disadvantages to using Etsy alternatives?
Disadvantages to using Etsy alternatives could include fewer visitors, different fee structures, or the need to manage multiple shops. Each platform has its own pros and cons that should be carefully considered.
Are there free alternatives to Etsy?
Some Etsy alternatives may offer free listings or no monthly fees, but they often have other costs such as transaction fees. It’s important to understand all the potential fees on each platform.
How do I promote my products on Etsy alternatives?
Promoting products on Etsy alternatives can be done through SEO, social media marketing, email newsletters, paid ads, or participating in the platform’s community.
How easy is it to set up a shop on these Etsy alternatives?
Setting up a shop on Etsy alternatives varies by platform. Some are quite user-friendly, while others may require more technical knowledge.
Can I sell vintage items on these Etsy alternatives?
Yes, many Etsy alternatives allow the selling of vintage items. However, their definition of ‘vintage’ and the kind of vintage items they allow might differ.
Do all Etsy alternatives support international shipping?
Not all Etsy alternatives support international shipping. It’s best to check each platform’s shipping policies before setting up a shop.
What is the best Etsy alternative for handcrafted goods?
The best Etsy alternative for handcrafted goods can vary based on your specific needs. Platforms like Amazon Handmade, Aftcra, and Artfire are all popular choices.
Can I integrate my existing website with these Etsy alternatives?
Some Etsy alternatives allow you to integrate your existing website. Platforms like Shopify, Wix, and Squarespace are known for their strong website integration capabilities.
What type of customer demographics can I expect from these Etsy alternatives?
The customer demographics on Etsy alternatives depend on the platform. Some attract a younger, trendier audience, while others may appeal to a more traditional or specific demographic. Researching each platform’s user base can give you a better idea of your potential customers.
Earn Money Selling Printables on Etsy - FREE Workshop
If you're looking for the perfect side hustle to tap into your creativity, selling printables on Etsy could be your golden ticket!
This is for you, even if you have minimal time, experience or money. Join students who collectively have generated over $500,000 in selling printables on Etsy in the last year alone.
Join this FREE workshop and learn how to get started today!
Etsy Alternatives- Summary
Finding a platform that accommodates your unique needs and aspirations as a creative lifestyle entrepreneur can be a challenging endeavor.
Selecting the right platform is not merely about choosing a marketplace to sell your products.
It’s about finding an ally that aligns with your vision, values, and business strategy. It’s about finding a community that appreciates your unique craft, a support structure that is responsive to your needs, and an ecommerce business platform that makes your entrepreneurial journey a rewarding experience.
Ultimately, it’s crucial to remember that Etsy alternatives are more than mere substitutes – they are portals to new horizons, presenting unique opportunities to artists, designers, and makers worldwide. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your existing business, the choice of platform is a game-changing decision.
With the wealth of Etsy alternatives out there, the world truly is your oyster. Happy hunting!
