Selling handmade goods has never been more accessible, or competitive. Thanks to the rise of digital marketplaces and website creation sites, budding craft makers have endless opportunities to share their creations with the world. According to AXA’s research on trends in UK craft businesses, online sales have become a vital route to market for craft entrepreneurs, especially those juggling their business alongside other commitments. 

But standing out online takes more than just uploading a few product photos and hoping for the best. If you’re ready to take your craft business online, here’s how to navigate the digital marketplace and turn passion into profit. 

Best Platforms for Craft Businesses 

Selecting the best online marketplace can be confusing with so many options available. However, choosing the right one can lay the foundation for your business’s success. If you’re seeking a marketplace to sell handmade, vintage, or craft supplies, Etsy is your go-to. With a global audience of nearly 100 million buyers, the right strategy will help you find your customers. 

While eBay is most famous for selling second-hand goods, it now also serves as a marketplace for handmade items. It can work well for niche or functional handmade goods, especially those that are quirky, practical, or collectable. However, as eBay’s audience is broader and more price-conscious than Etsy’s, pricing may need to be more competitive with clear product positioning.  

Finally, there is Folksy, a lesser-known, UK-only marketplace focused on British handmade items. This less saturated platform would be an excellent choice for makers who value community and want to be part of a ‘buy local’ ethos. While the audience is smaller than on Etsy and eBay, it does offer sellers a platform of supportive and active buyers looking for authentic handmade items. 

Stand Out in the Handmade Market 

Since the pandemic, the craft market has become increasingly popular, making it a top priority to stand out. First impressions matter, and not only will a high-quality image be one of the first things a potential buyer notices, but it can also enhance perceived value, which is crucial in a crowded market. Additionally, the product description and price can influence many buyers, so a compelling written piece about the product is essential. 

How to Price Handmade Products 

As pricing is one of the first things buyers notice, setting the right point is key. Although everyone will have a different opinion regarding the value of handcrafted products, the most important aspect is that it reflects the value of your work. Factor in all creation costs, including materials, time, platform fees, and other overheads. Researching similar products to gauge a price point can also be helpful. However, remember to be prepared to modify the price and determine which option works best for you. 

Build Trust with Online Customers 

Establishing a credible reputation is paramount for a new business. This will encourage repeat sales and positive word-of-mouth, which is all beneficial. To help with trust building, having clear policies about shipping, returns, and privacy will all help create that trust with new customers. Promptly replying to queries can also enhance customer satisfaction, giving confidence in you as a seller. When sales start coming through, reviews are a great way to share trust with new customers, so be sure to encourage satisfied buyers to leave positive feedback. 

Marketing Your Handmade Crafts 

Driving traffic to your listings on any digital marketplace requires proactive marketing. Platforms such as Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok are instrumental for visual products; leveraging these sites’ users is just another way to find your customers. Building an email list of loyal buyers is also a great way to encourage repeat purchases. Email marketing is excellent for direct communication to share promotions, new products or exclusive first looks. 

Insurance for Craft Sellers 

These may be some of the more mundane tasks of running a craft business, but protecting your venture is essential. If you’re heading out to craft fairs and shows, having public liability insurance will keep you covered. If you have a lot of tools and materials, it may also be worth looking at contents cover. This will protect tools and materials at home, in a workspace, or in a studio. 

Ready to Turn Passion into Profit? 

Selling handmade products online offers immense opportunities but requires strategic planning; staying open-minded and informed is crucial. However, with hard work, understanding the market, and effectively presenting products, artisans like you can carve out a successful niche in the digital marketplace.