What is Etsy?
Etsy is an online marketplace where people can buy and sell unique, handmade, and vintage items. It has become a popular platform for independent sellers to showcase and sell their creations to a global audience.
Pros and cons of selling on Etsy
Pros of selling on Etsy
- Large and diverse customer base
- Support for small businesses and independent artists
- Customization options for products
- Ability to set up a shop quickly and easily
- Community and support for sellers
Cons of selling on Etsy
- High competition among sellers
- Listing and transaction fees
- Limited control over the website and user interface
- Difficulty in standing out among the vast number of products
What is Amazon Handmade?
Amazon Handmade is a platform within Amazon.com that is specifically designed for artisans to sell their handcrafted products. It offers a curated collection of handcrafted items across several categories.
Pros and cons of selling on Amazon Handmade
Pros of selling on Handmade
- Access to millions of Amazon customers
- Integration with Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)
- Professional and trusted platform
- Opportunity to reach a wider audience
- Customer service and support
Cons of selling on Amazon Handmade
- Strict guidelines for product eligibility
- High competition and saturation in certain categories
- Limited customization options for products
- Higher referral and selling fees
Etsy vs. Amazon Handmade
General website and user interface
Etsy’s interface is known for its quirky and artsy feel, which appeals to its target audience. On the other hand, Amazon Handmade offers a more professional and streamlined platform, similar to the main Amazon website.
Custom products offered
Etsy allows for more customization and personalization of products, catering to the handmade and unique aspect of the items. Amazon Handmade, while still offering handcrafted products, may have more limitations in terms of customization.
Listing and selling fees
Etsy charges a $0.20 listing fee per item and takes a 5% transaction fee, whereas Amazon Handmade charges a 15% referral fee on each sale. Sellers on Amazon Handmade also pay a monthly subscription fee of $39.99.
Product category organization
Etsy has a broader range of product categories, including vintage and craft supplies, while Amazon Handmade focuses solely on handcrafted items. This can affect the visibility and discoverability of products on each platform.
Sign-up process
Etsy’s sign-up process is relatively straightforward, allowing sellers to set up a shop quickly. Amazon Handmade, on the other hand, has a more rigorous application and vetting process, ensuring that products meet the handmade criteria.
Payment process
Etsy offers payment options such as PayPal, credit cards, and Etsy gift cards, while Amazon Handmade utilizes the standard Amazon payment system, providing a seamless and familiar payment process for customers.
Fulfillment services
Amazon Handmade integrates with Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), allowing sellers to benefit from Amazon’s efficient and reliable fulfillment services. Etsy sellers are responsible for their own shipping and fulfillment.
Final thoughts
Both Etsy and Amazon Handmade offer unique opportunities for sellers to showcase and sell their handcrafted products. The choice between the two platforms depends on the individual seller’s goals, products, and target audience.
Amazon Handmade vs. Etsy FAQ
Is Amazon handmade cheaper than Etsy?
It depends on the seller’s specific situation, including the type of products, sales volume, and fees associated with each platform. Sellers should consider their individual circumstances before making a decision.
Is Etsy or Amazon better?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Both platforms have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for a seller depends on their unique products, target audience, and business goals.
Is Amazon handmade profitable?
Amazon Handmade can be profitable for sellers who are able to effectively showcase their products to the large audience of Amazon customers. However, it’s important to consider the fees and competition associated with the platform.
What is the best site to sell handmade items?
The best site for selling handmade items depends on the individual seller’s products, target audience, and business goals. Both Etsy and Amazon Handmade offer unique opportunities, and sellers should carefully evaluate their options before making a decision.