How To Sell Templates on Etsy: A Quick 7-Step Guide (2024)

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Etsy has become a popular platform for creatives to showcase and sell their work, including unique and practical templates. If you’re wondering how to sell templates on Etsy, especially designs crafted on Canva, you’re in the right place.

Selling digital templates, especially from platforms like Canva, has become the latest trend, bridging design simplicity with e-commerce.

But how do you navigate this space successfully?

In this guide, we’ll delve deeper into the step-by-step process, ensuring you’re well-equipped to maximize your earnings.

What Are Etsy Templates?

If you’re a seller looking to expand your ecommerce business, offering Etsy templates could be a rewarding avenue to explore.

Etsy templates are digital files that you create and sell to other small business owners or individuals who are looking for a foundation for their projects.

These templates can be customized by the buyer to fit their specific needs.

As a seller of Etsy templates, your target market is often other lifestyle entrepreneurs, small businesses, or individuals looking to streamline their design process.

By offering pre-designed, easy-to-use templates, you’re providing a valuable resource that can save them time and effort.

Etsy templates can be used across various sectors and for a multitude of purposes.

By selling these, you’re not only leveraging your creative talents but also opening doors to a wide-ranging audience looking for quality, customizable designs.

Here’s a bullet-point list of template examples that could be offered on Etsy:

• Logo Designs: For businesses looking to brand or rebrand.
• Social Media Graphics: To enhance online presence across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
• Invitation Templates: Suitable for events, both professional and personal.
• Resume Templates: To help job-seekers present their qualifications in a visually appealing way.
• Newsletter Layouts: For businesses that want a consistent and professional look in their communication.
• Digital Planners: For organizing schedules, tasks, and goals.
• Ebook Layouts: For authors looking to self-publish online.

Understanding what Etsy templates are is the first step in recognizing the potential of this opportunity.

If you possess design skills and an understanding of what businesses and individuals might need, selling templates on Etsy could be a rewarding addition to your business offerings.

How To Sell Templates on Etsy: 7 Actionable Steps

Ready to turn your creative skills into a profitable business by selling templates on Etsy?

Here are 7 actionable steps to guide you on this exciting journey.

Step 1: Explore the Market

To get started, you’ll need to explore the market to better understand the industry.

This will allow you to make informed decisions and help ensure the success of your venture.

• Start by analyzing your competitors. Look at their offerings, customer reviews, and pricing strategies to gain insight into what works and what doesn’t. Take note of any gaps in their offerings or areas where they are excelling. This will help you identify potential niches and opportunities for your own templates.
• Focus on finding your niche. Choosing a specific area within the template market will make your store stand out and appeal to a targeted customer base. Consider your skills, interests, and expertise when deciding on a niche. Whether it’s wedding invitations, resume designs, or digital planners, your unique angle will help differentiate your store from the competition.
• Evaluate pricing strategies. Examine a range of successful template shops on Etsy. Take note of their price points, bundling options, and any promotions they offer. Make sure you pay attention to the pricing of the templates within your chosen niche, as it can vary from one category to another. Keep in mind that pricing your products competitively is essential to attracting customers, but don’t undervalue your work.

After completing your market research, you’ll have a wealth of information to help you get started selling templates on Etsy.

Use this knowledge to build a strong foundation for your store, and always be looking for ways to stay ahead of the competition.

Step 2: Who’s Your Target Avatar?

Knowing your target audience is crucial for marketing your templates on Etsy.

Start by defining your ideal customer’s persona. This will help you create templates that cater to their specific needs and preferences.

• Identify the characteristics of your potential customers. Think about their demographics, such as age, gender, location, and income. For example, are your templates suitable for small business owners, stay-at-home moms, or teenagers?
• Consider your ideal customer’s psychographics. These include their interests, hobbies, values, and lifestyles. For example, do your customers value eco-friendly practices? Are they passionate about DIY projects or perhaps interested in fitness and health? Understanding their mindset will help you create templates that resonate with them.
• Think about their pain points and challenges. What problems are they trying to solve by purchasing a template from Etsy? Are they looking for inspiration, seeking to save time, or trying to access a professional design without spending a fortune? By understanding their issues, you can create templates that address their needs and position yourself as a solution provider.
• Determine the best way to communicate with your target audience. Find out which platforms they use, such as social media, blogs, or email. This information will help you choose the right channels to promote your templates and reach your ideal customers.

Remember, defining your customer’s persona is an ongoing process.

As you continue to sell templates on Etsy, gather feedback, track sales, and adjust your understanding of your target audience.

This will help you fine-tune your marketing strategy and increase your chances of success.

Step 3: Start Creating Your Etsy Templates

Now it’s time to create your Etsy templates to sell.

As a designer of digital products, it’s essential to make templates that cater to your target audience’s needs.

• Cater to your market. Research what types of templates are popular within your niche and identify the design elements that make them stand out.
• Focus on the visual aspects such as colors, typography, and graphic elements. Choose colors that blend well together and evoke the mood or feeling you want to convey in your template. In terms of typography, select fonts that complement your overall design and are easy to read. Remember to include user-friendly elements so your customers can easily edit and customize them.
• Use a design tool like Canva. One popular tool for creating templates is Canva. With its user-friendly interface and a vast library of design elements, it is suitable for both beginners and experienced designers. You can use Canva to create various types of templates, such as social media posts, banners, invitations, and more.
• Communicate with your design. When creating your templates, consider incorporating some phrases and text that appeal to your target audience. This could include inspirational quotes, motivational messages, or industry-specific jargon. Tailor these phrases to suit your customer’s needs and preferences.
• Test your template designs. After you’ve completed designing your templates, make sure to test them to ensure all elements are functioning correctly. If possible, have someone else try customizing your templates to ensure they provide an enjoyable user experience.

By following these tips, you can create visually appealing and user-friendly Etsy templates that will stand out in the marketplace.

Remember to keep your design elements cohesive and cater to your target audience’s preferences for the best results.

Step 4: Open an Etsy Store

Now that you have a clear understanding of your templates and target audience, it’s time to build and set up your Etsy store.

Ensuring your shop is well-designed and visually appealing will increase its chances of success.

• Create a captivating shop banner that represents your brand identity. This banner should be consistent with your overall design aesthetic and reflect the essence of your templates. High-quality images and a well-thought-out color scheme can help you achieve this. Remember, first impressions matter, and your shop banner can play a pivotal role in grabbing the attention of potential customers.
• Craft a compelling store description that showcases your unique selling points and expertise. Focus on what sets your templates apart from others and emphasize the value they can bring to your customers. Additionally, be sure to mention any customization options or offer support for customers who may require assistance.
• Organize your templates into categories. Grouping your products makes it easier for shoppers to navigate your store. This can be done by theme, purpose, or design style. For instance, categorize your templates as wedding invitations, business cards, or social media graphics. This not only provides a better shopping experience but also helps customers quickly find what they need.
• Include relevant tags and keywords in your product listings. This will help increase your store’s visibility in search results. When writing product descriptions, be concise yet informative. Clearly outline the template’s key features, size, and format. It’s also helpful to provide clear instructions on how to use and edit the template.

Ultimately, building a successful Etsy store requires a combination of attractive design, effective branding, and easy navigation.

By focusing on these aspects, you’ll create a store that appeals to your target audience and stands out among the competition.

Step 5: List Your Etsy Templates

To list your templates on Etsy, follow these steps:

• Log in to your Etsy account and navigate to your shop.
• Click on the Add a Listing button to get started. Here, you will create a new product listing for each template that you wish to sell.
• Begin by uploading images that showcase your template designs. Clear, high-quality images will make it easier for potential customers to visualize how their own content will look in your templates.
• Fill out the title and description fields for your product listing. Use the listing title to capture the attention of your target audience. Aim to be descriptive, concise, and highlight the unique features of your template. For example, “Modern Wedding Invitation Template – Editable and Printable.”
• In your product’s description, emphasize the key elements and benefits of your template. Explain what makes your template stand out amongst competitors, and tell your customers what they can expect upon purchase. This might include editable colors, fonts, or customizable text fields. Don’t forget to mention any necessary software, installation instructions, or support provided for digital downloads.
• Select a suitable category for your template, such as invitations, resumes, or business cards. This will help potential customers find your product listing when browsing and searching on Etsy.
• Specify in your product listing that your templates are digital downloads. Within the Type dropdown menu, choose Digital. This informs customers that they will receive a digital file, rather than a physical item.
• Set your desired price for the template. Keep in mind your target market and the value it provides.
• Click Publish once you are done with your design to make your listing live on Etsy. After creating an initial listing, you can continue this process to list additional templates and grow your Etsy shop.

Remember to periodically review and update your product listings to maintain their relevance and appeal to potential customers.

This will help you remain competitive and successful in selling templates on Etsy.

Step 6: Optimize Your Store & Listings

To make your Etsy store successful, it’s important to optimize it for both customers and search engines.

• Start with effective keyword usage. Research relevant keywords potential buyers will use when searching for your templates. Use these keywords in your product titles, tags, and descriptions. This will improve your visibility in Etsy search results and increase the chance of attracting potential customers.
• Pay attention to your product descriptions. Write clear, concise, and informative descriptions that showcase the benefits and features of your templates. Use bullet points and bold text for key points to make it easy for customers to see what they’re getting. Remember to keep the tone neutral and confident, highlighting your expertise and knowledge in the field.
• Categorizing your templates properly. This is another crucial aspect of optimizing your store. Etsy allows you to add your products to different categories and subcategories. Make sure to choose the most appropriate ones for your templates to make it easier for customers to find your products. This is not only helpful for your potential buyers, but it also helps search engines better understand and index your content.
• Search engine optimization (SEO) outside of Etsy. Share your listings and store on social media, blogs, and other relevant channels. This can generate additional traffic, increase your store’s visibility, and contribute to higher rankings on search engines. Consider using tools like Google Analytics to monitor your store’s performance and make data-driven decisions for continuous improvement of your Etsy store.

Step 7: Promote Your Etsy Store & Templates

Now that you’ve created and listed your templates on Etsy, it’s time to promote them effectively to start earning passive income.

Marketing your store & listings is crucial to get the attention of potential buyers and increase sales.

• Create eye-catching social media graphics showcasing your templates. These visuals will help grab the attention of viewers and make your templates stand out. Use tools like Canva, Adobe Spark, or Easil to create professional-looking graphics that cater to your target audience.
• Identify the most relevant social media platforms for your target audience. Common platforms include Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter. Tailor your content and graphics to suit each platform and share frequent updates promoting your templates.
• Make use of hashtags and keywords when posting on social media. Research popular and trending hashtags related to your templates and use them in your posts to reach a larger audience. Likewise, include relevant keywords in your listings to boost Etsy’s search engine optimization. This way, your templates will be more likely to appear when users search for similar items.

How to Use Canva to Create Templates for Etsy

Canva is a versatile and user-friendly design tool that can be a game-changer for Etsy sellers looking to create professional-quality templates without needing extensive design skills.

Here’s how you can use Canva to create those eye-catching templates for your Etsy shop:

1. Sign Up or Log In: If you don’t have a Canva account, you’ll need to create one. It’s free to sign up, and there’s also a Pro version with additional features.
2. Choose Your Template Type: Start by selecting the type of template you want to create. Whether it’s a social media graphic, logo, or invitation, Canva offers a range of pre-set sizes and layouts.
3. Utilize Canva’s Design Tools: Use the drag-and-drop interface to add text, images, icons, and other design elements. You can also upload your own images if you want to add a personal touch.
4. Customize Your Design: Play around with fonts, colors, and other design aspects to create a template that’s both attractive and versatile.
5. Save and Download: Once you’re happy with your design, save and download it in the appropriate format. If you’re creating editable templates, consider saving in a format that allows further customization by the buyer, such as a PDF with editable fields.
6. Create a Preview Image: Before listing on Etsy, create a preview image to showcase what the template looks like. This image can be designed right in Canva.
7. List on Etsy: Upload your template and preview image to your Etsy shop, and craft a compelling description to attract potential buyers.

Here are some types of templates you might consider creating using Canva:

• Marketing Materials: Flyers, posters, brochures, social media posts, email headers.
• Business Essentials: Business cards, letterheads, logos, presentation slides, invoices.
• Personal Projects: Invitations, greeting cards, planners, vision boards, photo collages.
• Educational Tools: Lesson plans, certificates, worksheets, classroom posters, report cards.
• Event Planning: Wedding invitations, seating charts, menu designs, event programs, tickets.
• Digital Products: Ebooks, digital planners, web banners, online course materials.
• Creative Arts: Portfolio layouts, art prints, custom illustrations, comic strips.
• Health and Wellness: Workout plans, meal planners, medical brochures, wellness journals.
• Real Estate: Property flyers, listing presentations, open house invitations.
• Non-Profit Organizations: Fundraising flyers, volunteer certificates, event posters.

Canva’s user-friendly interface and broad selection of design options make it an excellent tool for Etsy sellers looking to create and sell templates.

Even if you’re not a professional designer, Canva’s intuitive platform can help you produce stunning templates that appeal to a wide audience.

Pros and Cons of Selling Canva Templates on Etsy

Pros:

1. Wide Etsy Marketplace Exposure:
   • Sell templates on Etsy to tap into a vast and diverse marketplace, reaching a broad audience of potential customers.
2. User-Friendly Canva Interface:
   • Create visually appealing Canva designs with ease, thanks to the user-friendly interface that accommodates both beginners and experienced designers.
3. Efficient Template Creation with Canva:
   • Utilize Canva templates to streamline and expedite the template creation process, allowing for efficient design without the need for advanced graphic design skills.
4. Customization Flexibility for Etsy Shoppers:
   • Offer customizable designs on Etsy, allowing Etsy shoppers to tailor templates to their specific needs and preferences.
5. Niche Differentiation:
   • Focus on a specific niche within the template market to stand out in the crowded Etsy marketplace, catering to a targeted customer base.
6. Competitive Pricing Strategies:
   • Leverage insights from successful Etsy template shops to determine competitive pricing, ensuring your products attract customers without undervaluing your work.
7. Targeted Communication Channels:
   • Know your Etsy shoppers and communicate with them through the platforms they use, such as social media, blogs, or email.

Cons:

1. Design Skill Requirement:
   • While Canva simplifies the design process, some level of design skills is beneficial for creating visually appealing and effective templates.
2. Ongoing Target Audience Understanding:
   • The Etsy marketplace can be competitive, requiring thorough research to identify gaps in offerings and unique niches to avoid saturation.
3. Competition in Pricing:
   • Pricing competitively is essential, but finding the right balance between attracting customers and valuing your work can be challenging.
4. Visibility and SEO Optimization:
   • Achieving visibility on Etsy requires attention to SEO optimization, including keywords in your Etsy listings and external promotion beyond the platform.
5. Limited Canva Pro Features:
   • While the free version of Canva is sufficient for many, certain advanced features in Canva Pro may require a subscription, impacting overall costs.
6. Template Testing Requirements:
   • Before listing, templates need to be tested to ensure functionality, potentially requiring collaboration with others to provide feedback.

How To Sell Templates on Etsy – Summary

In the vast world of Etsy, templates have emerged as invaluable tools, catering to a wide range of personal and professional needs.

Furthermore, understanding the various categories can assist users in quickly pinpointing the templates that best align with their project requirements.

For those eager to delve deeper into Etsy’s offerings or seeking insights into other related aspects, we invite you to explore our other Etsy-focused posts, such as;

• Amazon Handmade vs Etsy
• Shopify vs Etsy: Which Platform is Right for Your Business?
• How to Start an Etsy Print on Demand Shop

Your next inspiration or indispensable creative masterpiece may be just an Etsy template away.

How To Sell Templates on Etsy – FAQs

What templates can I sell on Etsy?

You can sell a wide variety of templates on Etsy, including but not limited to digital planners, monthly calendars, resume templates, social media post designs, wedding invitations, business cards, website themes, and more.

Ensure they are original creations to avoid any copyright infringements.

Does Etsy have templates?

Yes, Etsy offers a range of templates designed by sellers for various purposes.

While Etsy itself doesn’t provide design templates for sellers, the platform is home to countless creative designers selling their template creations.

Can you make money selling templates on Etsy?

Absolutely! Many sellers have found success and profitability by selling templates on Etsy.

However, the key lies in understanding market demands, optimizing your listings for search, and ensuring your designs are of high quality and relevance.

Do website templates sell well on Etsy?

Website templates do sell on Etsy, especially those tailored for popular platforms like WordPress, Shopify, or Wix.

Success largely depends on the uniqueness, functionality, and user-friendliness of the templates.

Is it necessary to have design experience to sell templates on Etsy?

While having design experience can be beneficial in creating visually appealing and functional templates, platforms like Canva have made it easier for individuals without a design background to craft professional-looking templates.

How do I price my templates on Etsy?

Pricing should be based on factors like the complexity of the design, the demand in the market, your expertise, and competitor pricing.

Researching similar listings can provide valuable

Are there any copyright issues to be aware of when selling templates?

Yes, always ensure that the designs you’re selling are original and do not infringe on any copyrighted material.

If you’re using design elements from third-party platforms like Canva, be sure to understand and comply with their licensing agreements.

How can I make my template listings stand out on Etsy?

Utilize high-quality images, write clear and concise descriptions, incorporate relevant keywords for better SEO, and gather positive reviews to enhance your template’s visibility and appeal.

Can I offer custom template design services on Etsy?

Certainly! Many sellers offer bespoke design services where buyers can request specific customizations or entirely unique templates tailored to their needs.

What’s the best way to promote my templates on Etsy?

Apart from optimizing your store and listings, consider using Etsy Ads, sharing your products on social media platforms, and collaborating with influencers or bloggers in the design space.

Is selling templates on Etsy profitable?

Yes, selling templates on Etsy can be highly profitable, especially when tapping into popular niches and leveraging effective marketing strategies. Successful sellers have generated significant income by meeting the demand for customizable and high-quality designs on the Etsy marketplace.

Is it legal to sell Canva templates on Etsy?

Yes, it is legal to sell Canva templates on Etsy, provided that the designs are original and do not infringe on any copyrighted material. If using Canva to create templates, it’s crucial to comply with Canva’s licensing agreements and terms of use.

Can you make $1000 a month on Etsy?

Yes, it’s possible to make $1000 a month on Etsy by implementing effective selling strategies, pricing competitively, and consistently offering high-quality templates. Success often depends on factors like niche selection, understanding your Etsy shoppers, and optimizing your store for visibility.

Is selling digital templates on Etsy worth it?

Yes, selling digital templates on Etsy can be worth it, especially if you have design skills and understand market demands. It offers an opportunity to showcase your creativity, reach a wide audience, and generate passive income. Success hinges on continuous adaptation to market trends and maintaining the quality of your Etsy digital