How to Sell Made-to-Order Items on Etsy

Selling made-to-order items on Etsy can be a great business model to get started in selling online. There are lots of things to think about so in this article we will go through the main things to put you on the right track to success.

We will look at what Etsy is, the benefits of selling made-to-order items, what to sell, and how to get the best out of your shop and grow. We also have a great example shop to show you how this has been done well.

What is Etsy

Etsy is an e-commerce platform that was launched in 2005 and has since become one of the largest online marketplaces for handmade and unique items. It allows artisans, craftspeople, and small business owners to sell their handmade or vintage goods, as well as supplies for making crafts and artwork.

Etsy has gained a reputation for being a community-driven marketplace that supports independent creators and encourages creative expression. It offers a unique shopping experience that allows customers to discover and purchase one-of-a-kind items that they may not find anywhere else.

One of the reasons why Etsy is a great platform for selling handmade or unique items is because it attracts a specific audience of shoppers who are looking for personalized, high-quality, and unique products. Etsy’s search algorithm and navigation tools are designed to help shoppers find exactly what they are looking for, making it easier for sellers to connect with their target audience.

In addition, Etsy’s seller tools and resources are designed to support small business owners and independent creators. It offers features such as shop customization, inventory management, and shipping labels, which can help sellers manage their businesses more efficiently.

Overall, Etsy provides a unique opportunity for small business owners and independent creators to reach a wider audience and connect with customers who appreciate handmade and unique products.

Get 40 free listings when you sign up for Etsy here.

Benefits Of Selling Made To Order Items

Selling made-to-order items on Etsy can offer a number of benefits to small business owners and independent creators. Here are some of the key advantages:

Customization options: Offering made-to-order items allows sellers to offer customization options to customers, such as choosing specific colors, sizes, or designs. This can help sellers to meet the specific needs of their customers, and can also help to increase customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Reduced inventory management: Because made-to-order items are created after an order is placed, sellers do not need to carry large amounts of inventory. This can help to reduce the costs and complexity of inventory management, and can also free up space for other business activities.
Increased efficiency: When selling made-to-order items, sellers can focus on producing the items that are most in demand, which can help to increase efficiency and reduce waste. This can help to improve profitability and streamline business operations.
Reduced risk: Because made-to-order items are created after an order is placed, sellers are less likely to be left with unsold inventory. This can help to reduce the financial risk of stocking and selling items, and can also help to reduce waste and environmental impact.

Overall, selling made-to-order items on Etsy can offer a number of benefits to small business owners and independent creators. By offering customization options, reducing the need for inventory management, increasing efficiency, and reducing risk, sellers can build a successful and sustainable business on the Etsy platform.

What To Sell On Etsy

Choose A Niche

Choosing a niche or focus for your made-to-order items is an important step in building a successful Etsy shop. Here are some reasons why:

Differentiation: With so many sellers on Etsy, it can be challenging to stand out and attract customers. By choosing a specific niche or focus, you can differentiate your shop from others and appeal to a specific audience of customers who are interested in the types of products you offer.
Branding: By focusing on a specific niche or type of product, you can develop a clear and consistent brand image that is easy for customers to understand and remember. This can help to build brand recognition and loyalty over time.
Efficiency: By specializing in a specific type of product, you can develop a streamlined production process that is efficient and cost-effective. This can help you to produce high-quality products more quickly and with less waste.
Expertise: By focusing on a specific niche or type of product, you can develop a deep understanding of the market and the needs of your customers. This can help you to create products that are tailored to the specific needs and preferences of your customers, and can also help you to anticipate trends and stay ahead of the competition.

Overall, choosing a niche or focus for your made-to-order items is an important step in building a successful Etsy shop. By differentiating yourself from others, developing a clear brand image, improving efficiency, and becoming an expert in your market, you can build a sustainable and profitable business on the Etsy platform.

Research What Products Are In Demand

Researching what types of products are in demand on Etsy and differentiating your offerings can help you to build a successful and profitable Etsy shop. Here are some tips to get started:

Use Etsy’s search tools: One of the best ways to research what types of products are in demand on Etsy is to use the platform’s search tools. Look for popular keywords, search for similar products to yours, and pay attention to the tags and categories that other sellers are using.
Look at best-selling items: Take a look at Etsy’s best-selling items to get an idea of what types of products are currently popular on the platform. Look for patterns and trends in terms of design, style, and materials used.
Analyze customer feedback: Customer feedback can provide valuable insights into what types of products are in demand and what customers are looking for. Read through customer reviews and feedback on similar products to gain insights into what is working and what could be improved.
Differentiate your offerings: To stand out from other sellers and attract customers, it’s important to differentiate your offerings. Consider ways to make your products unique and special, such as through the use of high-quality materials, unique design elements, or personalized customization options.
Stay up-to-date on trends: Keep up with the latest trends in your niche or focus area by following blogs, social media accounts, and trade publications. This can help you to anticipate changes in demand and stay ahead of the competition.

By researching what types of products are in demand on Etsy and differentiating your offerings, you can build a successful and sustainable Etsy shop that meets the needs and preferences of your target audience.

Pricing Your Items

Setting pricing for your made-to-order items can be a challenging task, but it’s important to ensure that you’re covering all of your costs and making a reasonable profit. Here are some tips for setting pricing for your made-to-order items:

Factor in the cost of materials: The cost of materials is one of the most important factors to consider when setting pricing for your made-to-order items. Calculate the cost of all materials used to make your product, including any packaging or shipping supplies.
Consider the cost of time: Your time is valuable, so it’s important to factor in the cost of the time you spend creating each item. Estimate the amount of time it takes to make each item, including any time spent on design, production, and quality control.
Research competitor pricing: Take a look at similar products offered by other sellers on Etsy and elsewhere to get an idea of what the market rate is for your type of product. Keep in mind that you may need to adjust your pricing based on your unique value proposition and level of quality.
Consider shipping costs: If you offer shipping, be sure to factor in the cost of shipping materials, postage, and any additional fees that may apply. You can use a shipping calculator or research rates from various carriers to get an idea of what your shipping costs will be.
Determine your profit margin: Once you have calculated all of your costs, determine what profit margin you want to achieve. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a profit margin of at least 30-50% to ensure that you are covering your costs and making a reasonable profit.
Consider market demand: If your items are in high demand and there is limited competition, you may be able to price your items higher. Conversely, if the market is saturated with similar products, you may need to adjust your pricing to remain competitive.

By factoring in the cost of materials, time, shipping, and competitor pricing, you can set reasonable pricing for your made-to-order items that cover your costs and ensures a reasonable profit margin.

Creating your listings

Product Descriptions

Creating compelling product descriptions and titles is essential for attracting potential buyers to your made-to-order items on Etsy. Here are some tips to help you create effective product descriptions and titles:

Be descriptive: Your product descriptions should be detailed and descriptive, providing potential buyers with all the information they need to make an informed purchase. Be sure to include details about the materials used, the dimensions of the item, and any unique features or customization options.
Use keywords: Including relevant keywords in your product descriptions and titles can help improve their visibility in Etsy search results. Make sure to include the keywords that potential buyers are likely to use when searching for items like yours.
Highlight the benefits: In addition to providing information about the features of your made-to-order items, be sure to highlight the benefits that they offer. For example, if your items are made with high-quality materials, emphasize how durable and long-lasting they are.
Use compelling language: Use descriptive and compelling language to draw potential buyers in and create a sense of excitement around your products. Be sure to highlight the unique features and benefits of your made-to-order items in a way that sets them apart from similar products on Etsy.
Tell a story: Sharing the story behind your made-to-order items can help to create a personal connection with potential buyers. For example, if you make custom jewelry, you might include a brief description of the inspiration behind each piece.
Be honest: It’s important to be honest and transparent in your product descriptions and titles. Be sure to accurately represent the unique features and benefits of your made-to-order items, and avoid making exaggerated claims or using misleading language.

Take Quality Photos

High-quality product photography is essential for selling made-to-order items on Etsy. Potential buyers rely on photographs to make purchasing decisions, and high-quality images can help your items stand out from the competition. Here are some tips for taking and editing great photos of your made-to-order items:

Use good lighting: Natural lighting is often the best choice for product photography. Set up your photo shoot in a bright, well-lit area, and consider using a reflector or diffuser to soften the light and reduce shadows.
Choose a clean and simple background: Use a clean, simple background to draw attention to your made-to-order items. A neutral background, such as a plain white sheet or poster board, can be a good choice.
Show different angles: Show your made-to-order items from different angles to give potential buyers a better sense of their size, shape, and features. Consider taking close-up shots of unique details, as well as shots of the item in use.
Edit your photos: Use photo editing software to adjust the brightness, contrast, and color balance of your photos. Crop your photos to eliminate any distracting elements in the background, and consider adding a watermark to protect your images from being used without permission.
Consider hiring a professional photographer: If you’re not confident in your photography skills, consider hiring a professional photographer to take photos of your made-to-order items. A professional photographer can help you capture high-quality images that highlight the unique features of your items and make them stand out on Etsy.

Setting Shipping Settings

Setting up your shipping options and pricing is an important step in selling made-to-order items on Etsy. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Determine your shipping costs: Before you can set up your shipping options and pricing, you need to determine how much it will cost to ship your made-to-order items. This will depend on the size and weight of the item, as well as the shipping method you choose.
Choose your shipping carrier: Once you know how much it will cost to ship your made-to-order items, you can choose a shipping carrier. USPS, FedEx, and UPS are all popular options on Etsy, but you may also be able to use a local or regional carrier depending on your location.
Set your shipping options and prices: To set your shipping options and prices, go to your Etsy shop settings and click on the “Shipping” tab. Here, you can choose your shipping carrier, set your shipping options (such as standard or expedited shipping), and enter your shipping prices.
Consider offering international shipping: If you’re interested in selling to buyers outside of your home country, you can also set up international shipping on Etsy. Simply select the countries you want to ship to and enter the appropriate shipping costs.
Communicate with buyers: It’s important to communicate with buyers about your shipping policies and any potential delays or issues that may arise. Make sure to include information about your shipping options and pricing in your product descriptions and shop policies, and respond promptly to any questions or concerns from buyers.

Managing Your Store

Communicate With Your Customers

Communicating with customers throughout the order process is crucial when selling made-to-order items on Etsy. Providing regular updates on the status of their order can help build trust and foster positive relationships with your customers. Here are some tips for effective communication with customers:

Set clear expectations: Be upfront with customers about the expected turnaround time for made-to-order items, and let them know what to expect throughout the order process. This can help manage expectations and prevent misunderstandings.
Respond promptly to messages: Respond to customer messages as quickly as possible, and be courteous and professional in your communications.
Provide regular updates: Keep customers informed of the status of their orders by providing regular updates. This can include letting them know when their order is received when it’s in production, and when it’s shipped.
Use order tracking: Consider using order tracking to allow customers to track their package and see the estimated delivery date.
Address any issues promptly: If there are any issues or delays with an order, be sure to communicate this to the customer as soon as possible and provide an estimated timeline for when the issue will be resolved.
Thank customers for their business: After an order is complete, follow up with customers to thank them for their business and encourage them to leave a review.

Manage Your Production Process

Managing your production process is essential when selling made-to-order items on Etsy. Here are some tips to help you ensure that you can fulfill orders within the promised timeframe:

Set realistic production timelines: Be realistic about the amount of time it takes to produce your made-to-order items. Consider factors such as the complexity of the design, the availability of materials, and the number of orders in your queue.
Create a production schedule: Use a production schedule to help you manage your time and resources effectively. This can include setting deadlines for each stage of the production process and allocating time for other tasks such as order fulfillment and customer service.
Track your inventory: Keep track of your inventory to ensure that you have enough materials on hand to fulfill orders in a timely manner. Consider using inventory management software to make this process easier.
Consider outsourcing some tasks: If you find that you are struggling to keep up with demand, consider outsourcing some tasks such as packaging and shipping. This can free up more time for you to focus on producing your made-to-order items.
Communicate with customers: Keep customers informed of the status of their orders throughout the production process. Let them know when you have started production, when the item is complete, and when it will be shipped. This can help manage expectations and prevent misunderstandings.
Be prepared for unexpected delays: Despite your best efforts, unexpected delays can occur. Be prepared for these by having a plan in place for handling them, such as offering expedited production or shipping options.

Handling Customer Inquiries

Handling customer inquiries, requests for customization, and any issues that may arise during the order process is a critical part of selling made-to-order items on Etsy. Here are some tips for managing customer communications effectively:

Respond promptly: Respond to customer inquiries and requests as quickly as possible, ideally within 24 hours. This can help prevent misunderstandings and build trust with your customers.
Be professional and courteous: Always be professional and courteous in your communications with customers, even if they are unhappy with the product or the service you’ve provided. Remember that your reputation is on the line.
Provide clear and concise information: Provide clear and concise information to customers about your products, the production process, and shipping. This can help manage expectations and prevent misunderstandings.
Be flexible with customization requests: Consider being flexible with customization requests, where possible. This can help build customer loyalty and increase the likelihood of positive reviews.
Offer solutions to issues: If a customer experiences an issue with an order, offer solutions to resolve the problem, such as a replacement or a refund. Be proactive in addressing the issue and keep the customer informed of your progress.
Follow up: Follow up with customers after an issue has been resolved to ensure that they are satisfied with the outcome. This can help build trust and foster positive relationships with your customers.

Marketing your products

Optimize Your Products And Shop

Optimizing your Etsy shop and product listings for search engine optimization (SEO) is critical for improving visibility and driving traffic to your shop. Here are some tips for optimizing your Etsy shop for SEO:

Use relevant keywords: Research relevant keywords and include them in your product titles, descriptions, and tags. This can help your products appear in search results when customers search for those keywords.
Write compelling product descriptions: Write detailed and compelling product descriptions that include relevant keywords. This can help improve the relevance of your product listings in search results.
Use high-quality product photos: Use high-quality product photos that showcase your products in the best possible light. This can help improve the click-through rate of your listings, which is a factor in Etsy’s search algorithm.
Complete your shop policies: Complete your shop policies, including shipping and return policies. This can help improve the trustworthiness of your shop and increase your visibility in search results.
Optimize your shop sections: Use clear and concise titles for your shop sections and organize your products into relevant categories. This can help improve the user experience and make it easier for customers to find what they are looking for.
Use social media: Use social media to promote your shop and your products. This can help increase the visibility of your shop and drive traffic to your Etsy listings.

Promote Your Shop

Marketing your made-to-order items is an important part of growing your Etsy business. Here are some marketing tactics you can use to promote your products:

Social media marketing: Use social media platforms, such as Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest, to promote your products and drive traffic to your Etsy shop. Share high-quality photos of your products, and include a link to your Etsy shop in your bio.
Paid advertising: Consider using Etsy’s Promoted Listings feature to promote your products within Etsy’s search results. This feature allows you to pay for increased visibility in search results for specific keywords.
Participating in Etsy teams or forums: Join Etsy teams or forums that are relevant to your niche or products. This can help you connect with other sellers, share tips and ideas, and promote your products.
Customer reviews: Encourage your customers to leave reviews on your Etsy shop. Positive reviews can help improve your visibility in search results and increase your credibility with potential customers.
Discounts and promotions: Offer discounts and promotions to incentivize customers to purchase. You can also offer discounts for repeat customers to encourage loyalty.
Email marketing: Build an email list of customers and potential customers, and send regular emails with updates on new products, promotions, and other news related to your business.

Example Of a Made-To-Order Shop

A great example of a made-to-order shop is Just Loopy Co. Based in the UK they started their shop selling personalized socks. They designed 100s of socks in all niches from hobbies to jobs. They then create good pictures that are clear to read from a mobile device in the Etsy product listings.

When the order comes in they just make them to the customers’ requirements e.g. add the name of the recipient to the design and print the socks.

Using this method and product they don’t need to hold a lot of expensive stock yet can cover a wide range of interests in their designs.

Conclusion

Selling made-to-order items on Etsy can be a rewarding and profitable business opportunity. By taking the time to research your niche, create compelling product descriptions and titles, optimize your listings for SEO, and market your products effectively, you can attract customers and build a loyal following.

One of the key benefits of selling made-to-order items on Etsy is the ability to offer customization options and reduce the need for inventory management. This can also help you stand out from the competition and offer a unique product that customers can’t find elsewhere.

To set yourself up for success, it’s important to choose a niche or focus for your made-to-order items, set pricing that covers your costs and allows for a profit, and manage your production process to ensure that you can fulfill orders within the promised timeframe. It’s also important to communicate effectively with customers throughout the order process, handle any inquiries or issues that arise, and use social media and other marketing tactics to promote your products and drive traffic to your Etsy shop.

Overall, selling made-to-order items on Etsy requires effort and dedication, but with the right strategies and approach, it can be a fulfilling and profitable business venture.

Another way to sell on Etsy with made-to-order is to use a print-on-demand company to fulfill your orders. We go into depth on this here.