How To Sell Prints On Etsy in 2024: A Complete Guide

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Etsy is a vibrant marketplace teeming with art enthusiasts and collectors. If you’re considering diving into this realm, understanding how to sell prints on Etsy is crucial.

One of the best tips to start with is ensuring that your prints not only resonate with your passion and style but are also aligned with current market trends, making them attractive to a wider audience.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process, from setting up your shop to marketing your prints to your target consumers, to help you establish a successful print-selling venture on this platform.

Why Sell Prints on Etsy

Prints, in particular, have found a significant audience on Etsy due to their customizable nature, affordability, and sheer diversity.

Here are some reasons why prints are especially popular on Etsy:

Affordability

Original artworks can be expensive, but prints offer an affordable alternative for art enthusiasts to own and enjoy art. This price-friendly option appeals to a broad audience, making it a popular choice.

Ease of Digital Delivery

Some artists offer digital prints, which buyers can download and print themselves. This eliminates shipping costs and concerns, making the buying process seamless.

Diversity of Choice

Prints allow artists to reproduce a single artwork multiple times. This means that buyers have a wider selection of artworks to choose from, compared to unique pieces, which, once sold, are gone.

Space and Decor Flexibility

Prints, especially those that are unframed, are easy to ship and can be customized by the buyer to match their decor. They can choose their frame, size it according to their space, or even use it in crafts and scrapbooking.

Customization

Many sellers offer customization options, where buyers can adjust colors, add names, or include specific dates. This personal touch increases the appeal of prints as gifts or commemorative pieces.

Low Overhead for Sellers

Artists and sellers don’t need a large upfront investment to start selling prints. Digital reproductions, in particular, have minimal costs once the original design is created.

Safe to Ship

Unlike fragile or bulky art pieces, prints are relatively easy and safe to ship. They can be rolled in tubes or sent in rigid mailers, reducing the risk of damage.

Trendy and Contemporary Designs

Etsy is known for its unique and contemporary offerings. Buyers often look for designs that reflect current trends, and artists quickly respond by offering prints that match these demands.

Gift-Ready

Given their affordability and variety, prints are often seen as ideal gifts. Whether it’s for a housewarming, birthday, or anniversary, there’s likely a print that’s suitable.

Introduction to Art

For many, buying a print is the first step into the world of art collections. It’s a low-risk way to explore personal tastes and preferences.

Sustainability

Digital prints, in particular, have a lower carbon footprint, as there’s no physical product to ship. Many buyers appreciate this eco-friendly aspect.

How To Sell Prints on Etsy: 10 Steps to Get Started

Step 1: Research and Planning

• Study the Market: Begin by exploring Etsy. See what other print sellers are offering and observe popular themes, styles, and prevailing price points. This will give you a clear understanding of what sells and at what price.
• Identify Your Niche: What makes your prints stand out? Do they have a unique style or theme? Understanding your uniqueness will help you position yourself effectively in the market.

Step 2: Setting Up Your Shop

• Create an Etsy Account: Signing up is straightforward. You can use an email address or quickly sign up through your Google or Facebook account to start an Etsy store.
• Name Your Shop: Your Etsy shop name should be memorable and resonate with the kind of prints you offer.
• Shop Settings: Set your Etsy store and preferences. This includes choosing the shop language, indicating the country you’re based in, and selecting a currency.

Step 3: Product Preparation

• Design Your Prints: If you’re an artist, create original designs. If not, ensure you’re selling designs you have legal rights to.
• High-Quality Images: Potential buyers see images before anything else. Clear, high-resolution photos are crucial. Natural lighting, without harsh shadows, often gives the best results.
• Price Your Prints: Factor in material costs, Etsy’s transaction fees, shipping charges, and the time you’ve invested. Ensure you’re competitive but also fair to yourself.

Step 4: Listing Your Prints

• Title: Your title should clearly convey what you’re selling. Include keywords that potential buyers might use.
• Description: Offer a clear description. This should include the print’s theme, materials used, size, and any other selling points.
• Tags: Use tags effectively. Think about what potential customers might type into the search bar.

Step 5: Payment Setup

• Payment Methods: Decide on the methods you’re comfortable with. Etsy offers a range of options, like PayPal, credit cards, and Etsy Gift Cards.
• Billing: Etsy will need to bill you for Etsy fees, so ensure you provide the necessary billing details.

Step 6: Marketing and Promotion

• SEO: Optimize your listings for search engines. Use keywords strategically.
• Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are excellent for visual promotions. Showcase your prints and share behind-the-scenes peeks.
• Etsy Ads: For increased visibility, consider investing in Etsy ads and services.
• Join Teams: The Etsy community is vast and supportive. Engage, learn, and share.

Step 7: Shipping

• Packaging: Ensure prints are packaged safely and attractively. Consider using protective sleeves, cardboard backing, and branded elements.
• Shipping Profiles: Create standardized shipping profiles for different products or shipping zones.
• Fulfillment: Ensure timely shipment. Consider using tracking for your shipments.

Step 8: Customer Service

• Communication: Respond to inquiries promptly and professionally.
• Feedback Management: Address negative feedback and consider ways to improve.
• After-sales Service: Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews and possibly return for future purchases.

Step 9: Regularly Update Shop

• New Listings: Keep your shop fresh by regularly adding new print designs.
• Seasonal Themes: Consider seasonal or holiday-themed prints for relevant times of the year.
• Engage with Analytics: Monitor your shop’s performance through Etsy’s analytics tools and adjust strategies accordingly.

Step 10: Expand and Diversify

• Offer Custom Prints: Allow personalization or bespoke designs. Personalized items often have a higher perceived value.
• Diversify Products: Consider branching out to related products, like frames, canvases, or other printed merchandise.

How To Sell Prints On Etsy: Creating Your Artwork

Traditional Art

When creating your artwork for selling prints on Etsy, it’s essential to consider the different mediums available.

For traditional art, you might choose to create original paintings, drawings, or mixed media pieces. Regardless of the medium, ensure that your artwork is high-quality and showcases your unique creativity.

To make the process more efficient, you can:

• Utilize high-quality materials like watercolor, oil or acrylic paints, or various pencils and inks
• Experiment with diverse techniques to discover your artistic style
• Keep a consistent theme in your artwork to build brand recognition

Digital Art

Digital art provides another viable option for selling prints on Etsy. With advancements in technology, digital artwork can be just as appealing and detailed as traditional art.

To create digital art, consider the following:

• Invest in a reliable drawing tablet and essential design software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator
• Learn different brushes, layers, and blending options for a versatile creative process
• Save your artwork at a high resolution to ensure the best quality prints

Photography

Photography offers a unique opportunity to showcase your creativity by capturing moments in time.

Offering prints of your photographs on Etsy allows customers to connect with your work and purchase a piece that resonates with them.

In order to successfully sell and make money with photography prints, consider:

• Utilizing proper equipment and techniques to capture high-quality images
• Experiment with various subjects, including landscapes, portraiture, and abstract photography
• Editing your photos to enhance their inherent beauty and make them print-ready

By exploring these different methods of creating artwork, you can find the one that best fits your skills and interests.

Ultimately, the key to selling prints on Etsy is focusing on producing high-quality, unique pieces that showcase your creativity and style.

How To Sell Prints On Etsy: Converting Artwork into Prints

Digital Prints and Downloads

When selling art prints on Etsy, you can offer digital downloads and prints as an option for your customers.

To do this, ensure that your digital files are high-resolution, ranging between 300 and 600 DPI, to maintain the quality and colors in the reproduction process.

Keep in mind that you should offer different sizes and formats to accommodate the various preferences of potential buyers.

For instance, consider providing files in JPEG, PNG, SVG, or PDF formats, as well as popular dimensions like 8×10, 11×14, and 16×20 inches.

Always remember to compress the files and maintain the balance between quality and file size for easy downloading.

Physical Prints and Products

Another option to sell on Etsy is physical prints and products. For high-quality physical prints, invest in good-quality paper and printing methods.

Some popular paper types include:

• Matte paper: for a smooth, non-reflective finish
• Glossy paper: for a shiny, reflective appearance that enhances colors
• Fine art paper: made of 100% cotton and suitable for reproducing artwork with intricate details

When it comes to printing methods, you can choose from various options like Giclée, inkjet, or professional-grade laser printing.

These methods allow for accurate color reproduction and maintain the quality of your artwork on physical art prints.

It’s essential to package your prints securely to prevent damage during shipping. Consider using sturdy mailing tubes, stiff cardboard envelopes, or cushioned mailers for added protection.

Furthermore, remember to include information about framing and care instructions to ensure customers enjoy your art prints for years to come.

How To Sell Prints On Etsy: Choosing a Printing Method

When selling prints on Etsy, it is crucial to choose the right printing method that suits your needs and budget.

There are three main options to consider: a home printer, a professional printing service, or a print-on-demand company.

This section highlights the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.

1. Home Printer

If you decide to print your artwork at home, investing in a good printer is essential.

A high-quality printer allows you to control the whole process and create customized art prints in various sizes and styles.

However, it also comes with some challenges:

• Initial costs to buy the equipment
• Ongoing maintenance, ink, and paper expenses
• Limited print quality compared to professional services
• Time-consuming if you have high-order volumes

2. Professional Printing Service

Opting for a professional printing service gives you access to higher print quality, a wider variety of printing options, and reliable output.

These services typically offer expert help and allow you to order bulk prints at a lower cost per item.

Some drawbacks to keep in mind include:

• Minimum order requirements limit the ability to print small quantities
• Shipping and handling fees
• Limited control over the printing process

Please research local printing services or online options to find the best one to suit your needs.

3. Print-on-Demand Service

Print-on-demand (POD) services, such as Printful and Printify, act as your manufacturing partner.

They print your artwork and ship it directly to the customer on your behalf.

The benefits of using a POD service include:

• No upfront costs or inventory management
• Shipping and handling are taken care of
• Wide range of products to print on, expanding your product offerings

However, there are some downsides to consider:

• Higher per-item costs, which may reduce profit margins
• Limited customization options
• Less control over the look and feel of the final product

Carefully consider each of these methods and their pros and cons before deciding on the best approach for your Etsy print shop.

Remember that your choice should meet your specific needs, budget, and artistic vision.

How To Sell Prints On Etsy: Packaging and Shipping Your Prints

Packaging

When packaging your prints, it’s important to protect them from damage during transit.

Here are some tips on how to properly package your prints:

• Use a rigid, flat mailer to prevent bending, especially for smaller prints. These types of mailers are available in various sizes and are often made from cardboard or plastic.
• For larger prints, consider using mailing tubes to ensure the print stays rolled up without creasing.
• Place your print in a clear, protective sleeve, such as a poly bag, to guard against moisture and fingerprints.
• Include a backing board, made of foam core or thick cardboard, to provide additional support inside the mailer or tube.
• Add padding, like bubble wrap or packing paper, to prevent movement and fill voids in the packaging.

Shipping

Once your prints are appropriately packaged, it’s time to think about shipping options.

Here are some aspects to consider when selecting a shipping method:

• Shipping carriers: Choose a reliable carrier, like USPS, FedEx, or UPS, and research their shipping rates, delivery times, and reputation for handling delicate items like art prints.
• Shipping charges: Calculate your shipping costs based on the carrier’s rates, the size and weight of your package, and the destination. You can use online tools provided by carriers to help with this estimation.
• International shipping: If you plan to sell your prints globally, be aware of extra steps, such as filling out customs forms and understanding international shipping regulations.
• Order processing time: Inform your customers about the estimated processing time for their orders, as this may impact their decision to purchase from your shop.
• Shipping insurance and tracking: Consider offering shipping insurance or tracking options, especially for higher-value prints, to protect both you and your customers in the event of lost or damaged packages.

Remember to regularly review your packaging and shipping methods, making improvements as necessary to provide the best customer experience possible.

How To Sell Prints On Etsy: Pricing Your Prints

To set the stage for a successful sale on Etsy, you need to price your prints effectively.

Pricing not only influences the profit margin and potential sales but is also an integral part of your marketing strategy.

1. Start by calculating the cost of materials and labor involved in creating your prints. Consider factors like the price of paper, ink, printer maintenance, and shipping materials. Additionally, account for your time invested in creating the artwork, running the shop, and providing customer support.
2. After totaling your expenses, determine a reasonable markup. Research similar products on Etsy to find out what competitors are charging for their prints, and analyze how they have priced their products to ensure you stay within industry-standard ranges. Keep in mind that you should adjust prices based on the quality, size, and exclusivity of your prints.
3. When calculating your profit margin, include transaction fees and commissions that Etsy charges so that you receive the desired revenue. Etsy takes a 5% fee on the sale price, including the cost of shipping, and an additional $0.20 listing fee per item.
4. Adopt various pricing strategies to suit different buyer segments. Offering tiered pricing with different print sizes or bulk discounts for multiple purchases can entice customers and encourage higher average order values.

Here are a few suggestions to consider when pricing your prints:

• Find a sweet spot: Strike a balance between making a profit and making your prints accessible to a wide range of customers.
• Factor in promotions: Plan for occasional sales or promotional discounts when setting your initial prices.
• Stay consistent: Maintain consistent pricing for similar items within your shop to avoid customer confusion.
• Reevaluate regularly: As your shop grows and expenses change, revisit your pricing strategy to ensure continued success.

By carefully structuring your pricing with a focus on both profit margins and customer appeal, you’ll pave the way for a thriving Etsy shop and long-term success.

Expanding Beyond Etsy

While Etsy is a great platform to sell art prints, expanding beyond Etsy will expose your work to a wider audience and potentially increase your sales.

By tapping into other online marketplaces, you can reach different types of customers.

One option to consider is Amazon Handmade, which specifically focuses on artisan goods, including art prints.

Amazon Handmade offers vast exposure to Amazon’s huge customer base and provides a professional seller experience.

You can list your art prints, set your prices, and manage your inventory just like on Etsy.

To start selling on Amazon Handmade, go to the Amazon Handmade website, sign up for an account, and follow their guidelines for setting up your shop.

Another way to sell art prints online is by creating your own website.

Having your own website provides more control over your brand, pricing, and customer interactions.

It also enables you to create a professional online presence without relying solely on third-party platforms.

To establish a website, you can use website builders such as Shopify, Squarespace, or Wix that offer e-commerce capabilities, user-friendly templates, and helpful support.

Social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook can also help you expand your reach and promote your art prints.

By cultivating a strong social media presence, you can showcase your work, engage with potential customers, and drive traffic to your Etsy shop or your website.

Share high-quality images of your art prints, provide engaging content, and use relevant hashtags to gain visibility and attract followers.

Pros and Cons of Selling Prints on Etsy

Pros:

1. Wide Exposure on Etsy Platform
   • By setting up your Etsy shop, your art prints gain access to a large audience of art enthusiasts and potential buyers, maximizing visibility for your Etsy listings.
2. Affordable Startup for Etsy Business
   • Etsy allows you to start selling prints with minimal upfront investment, making it a cost-effective platform for artists and Etsy sellers to establish their online presence.
3. Customization Options for Etsy Listings
   • Etsy’s platform enables you to offer customizable prints, providing buyers with the option to tailor colors, add names, or include specific dates, enhancing the appeal of your art for sale.
4. Low Overhead Costs for Etsy Sellers
   • Unlike traditional art businesses, selling prints on Etsy involves minimal overhead costs, particularly for digital prints, once the initial design is created, supporting the financial viability of your Etsy store.
5. Diverse Etsy Digital Downloads Options
   • Etsy facilitates the sale of digital downloads, allowing customers to instantly access and print their purchased art. This feature reduces shipping costs and adds convenience to the buying process.
6. Ease of Shipping and Safe Delivery
   • Shipping prints on Etsy is relatively easy and safe, especially compared to shipping fragile or bulky art pieces. Prints can be securely rolled or sent in protective mailers, minimizing the risk of damage during transit.
7. Trendy and Contemporary Marketplace
   • Etsy is known for its unique and contemporary offerings. By aligning your prints with current trends, you can capitalize on the platform’s reputation for featuring trendy and sought-after art.
8. Ideal for Art Prints as Gifts
   • Etsy’s diverse selection of prints, coupled with their affordability, makes them a popular choice for gifts. Your art on Etsy can cater to various occasions, from birthdays to housewarmings.

Cons:

1. Etsy Fees Impact Profit Margins
   • Etsy charges fees for listings and a percentage of each sale, impacting your profit margins. Sellers need to factor in these costs when pricing their art prints on Etsy.
2. Competition Among Etsy Sellers
   • Due to the vast number of Etsy sellers, especially in the art category, competition can be fierce. Standing out requires strategic marketing, unique prints, and effective Etsy video listings.
3. Limited Control over Etsy Platform Changes
   • Etsy occasionally updates its platform policies and algorithms, affecting how listings are displayed and promoted. Sellers may have limited control over these changes, impacting the visibility of their Etsy store.
4. Art for Sale Copyright Concerns
   • Sellers must ensure they have the proper rights to sell their prints, avoiding copyright issues that could lead to legal consequences and potential closure of their Etsy shop.
5. Dependency on Etsy for Sales
   • Relying solely on Etsy may limit your brand’s independence. Expanding beyond Etsy, such as creating your own website or selling on other platforms, can mitigate this risk.
6. Balancing Affordable Pricing with Profitability
   • Striking a balance between offering affordable prints to attract a wide audience and maintaining profitability can be challenging, especially with Etsy’s fees and competition in mind.

How To Sell Prints on Etsy- Summary

In the dynamic world of ecommerce business, mastering how to sell prints on Etsy can provide artists and creators with a substantial platform to share their work and generate income.

Key takeaways from our guide include the importance of thorough market research, ensuring product uniqueness, optimizing listings for better search visibility, and offering impeccable customer service.

If you found this guide beneficial, we invite you to explore our other Etsy-related blogs for more insights and strategies to enhance your online selling experience. Check out our posts on;

• Shopify Alternatives: 6 Best Free & Paid Options for 2023
• How to Start an Etsy Print on Demand Shop
• Gelato Print on Demand Review: Best POD for Etsy?
• How to Make Money Selling Stickers on Etsy: A Comprehensive Guide for 2023

As you embark on this venture, always prioritize the quality of your work and the authenticity of your brand.

Happy print selling!

How To Sell Prints on Etsy- FAQs

How do I start selling prints on Etsy?

Starting is simple. First, set up an Etsy seller account, create your shop name, and fill in the relevant details.

Once done, design or acquire your art prints, take high-quality photos of them, and list them with descriptive titles, tags, and competitive pricing.

What art prints sell best on Etsy?

Trends on Etsy can change over time.

However, popular themes often include botanicals, landscapes, abstract art, quotes, and personalizable designs.

It’s also a good practice to research the platform regularly and see what’s currently trending.

How do I sell prints on Etsy without printing?

You can sell digital prints. This means, that instead of shipping a physical print, buyers download a file and print it themselves.

You’d list the item as a digital download, and once purchased, Etsy provides the file to the buyer automatically.

Can you make money selling digital prints on Etsy?

Absolutely! Many sellers have found success with digital prints due to the low overhead and ease of transactions.

Pricing them correctly and ensuring they’re of high quality and resolution will be key to attracting and retaining customers.

How much should I price my prints on Etsy?

Pricing depends on various factors, including production costs, competitors’ prices, and your desired profit margin.

Remember to account for Etsy’s transaction fees and any shipping or packaging costs for physical prints.

Do I need to worry about copyright when selling prints?

Yes, it’s crucial to ensure that the designs you’re selling are original or that you have the necessary rights to sell them.

Selling copyrighted designs without permission can lead to legal action and the closure of your shop.

What’s the difference between a digital print and a physical print on Etsy?

A digital print is a file that buyers download and print themselves, whereas a physical print is a tangible item that you ship to the buyer.

Each has its own advantages in terms of production costs and shipping logistics.

How can I ensure high-quality prints for my customers?

If you’re producing physical prints, invest in good quality printing materials and tools or collaborate with a reputable printing service.

For digital prints, ensure the resolution is high enough for the intended print size.

How can I promote my Etsy print shop?

Utilize social media platforms, engage in Etsy’s community through teams, consider Etsy Ads, and optimize your listings for search with relevant keywords.

Are there other platforms similar to Etsy where I can sell my prints?

Yes, other platforms like Redbubble, Society6, and Fine Art America cater to artists and print sellers. It can be beneficial to diversify and explore multiple platforms.

Is selling digital prints on Etsy worth it?

Absolutely! Selling digital prints on Etsy can be highly worthwhile. Digital downloads offer a convenient option for buyers, eliminating shipping costs and expanding your Etsy listings to a global audience. Ensure your digital files are high-quality, and offer various sizes and formats to cater to different preferences.

Do photos sell well on Etsy?

Yes, photos can sell well on Etsy. Whether they are digital downloads or physical prints, captivating and high-quality photography can attract buyers. Optimize your Etsy listings with descriptive titles, tags, and engaging descriptions to enhance the visibility of your art for sale.

How do I print on demand and sell on Etsy?

Selling on Etsy through print-on-demand is a straightforward process. Choose a reliable print-on-demand service that integrates with Etsy, such as Printful or Printify. Connect your Etsy shop with the print-on-demand platform, upload your designs, set product details, and the service will handle printing, packaging, and shipping when an order is placed on your Etsy store. This allows you to focus on creating and marketing your art prints without managing inventory or fulfillment.