How To Earn Income by Selling Craft Items Online – A Complete Guide For Beginners

Key Strategies And Tips On How To Sell Your Handmade Items Online

how to start my handmade items online business

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Nowadays, it’s becoming more prevalent for people to be starting their own business primarily because they want to have more freedom, more independence, and more control over their work schedule. The same applies for talented crafters who are venturing into entrepreneurship by expressing their creative side.

Running a home-based craft business has lots of perks, such as lower initial investment, doing what you love, and working from the comfort of your home. However, apart from the benefits, there are challenges, too. Selling handmade products online may present an obstacle, as online marketplaces are becoming oversaturated, and it is not easy to reach targeted audience or to become bestseller on the internet in present day.
If you're one of those naturally gifted individuals that can turn supplies like hemp cord, linen thread, wood, pearls, or clay into something beautiful, you’re truly fortunate. And if you are looking for the best methods to sell your macrame, crochet, or jewlery items online, this guide is intended for you.

This article is written for crafters who have difficulties finding new customers online and making their products noticeable. We will help you learn how to sell your handicrafts online and how to make money, whether as a side hustle or a full-time job. Below, you will find advice on how to become an outstanding online merchant by identifying your niche, planning ahead, coming up with a powerful marketing strategy, and determining where to sell online (Shopify, Etsy, iCraft, Amazon handmade, etc.). Most importantly, you will learn that offering well-crafted, durable products made of premium craft supplies boosts  customer satisfaction and your brand reputation. Ready to turn your hobby into a business?

Premium Craft Supplies from Hemptique

Welcome to Hemptique, a renowned manufacturer of premium craft supplies made of high-quality materials like hemp, linen, cotton and leather. For 2 decades we have been helping talented crafters create and sell their carefully made handicrafts by supplying them with first-class, durable cords and threads which ensure customer satisfaction, repeat business, better profit margins, and online success. We are proudly helping anyone who wants to start and grow an online craft business with an assortment of products such as hemp yarn, hemp cord spool, premium linen thread, leather cords, and waxed polyester threads. Offered in various sizes, lengths and colors, they cater to all skill levels and are suitable for a wide range of crafts, including leather sewing, stitching, embroidery, jewelry making, knitting, crocheting, string art, macrame, weaving, and many others. We provide several advantages and unbeatable perks for those who decide to partner with us. You can apply for a wholesale account or send a bulk order request. For more information on our products and services, call us directly at (760) 602-4864.

The Secret To Making Money In E-Commerce: How To Sell Crafts On The Internet

Selling your handicrafts online will help you reach a wider audience and turn your passion into profit. Global platforms and social media are fantastic tools you can use to connect with the right customers. Recognizing the immense potential of virtual marketplace is crucial for any artisan looking to expand their business. But, establishing a successful craft business takes time and effort, so don’t expect to see immediate results. In order to succeed in e-commerce, you have to be patient and keep creating and promoting your work. In time, you will gain valuable clientele and drive more sales.

Here’s how to get started:

Create a portfolio

Showcase your skills and know-how by compiling your most prominent work in one place. Think of portfolio as your digital storefront where your potential clients can see your work before they place the order.

Find your niche

Before you start selling your crafts online, it is important to identify your niche. Ask yourself what distinguishes you from other sellers. What is your unique style or specialty? How can you align with your target clientele? Learning everything you can about your niche allows you to create products that meet their specific needs. You will be able to build trust more easily through targeted marketing messaging and turn them into loyal customers who appreciate your work.

Popular crafts include jewlery, candles, keychains, home décor, pottery, and artwork, but remember that some crafts are more competitive than others. The more you customize your product, the more chances you have of succeeding.

Build your website

When setting up your online store, it is important to create a well-designed website with engaging content which will attract buyers and be user-friendly. To create your virtual web shop, you can either use a website builder (drag and drop) or hire professionals to design it for you. Website builders offer free and paid plans, with paid plans offering advanced features and customization.
Ensure you optimize the website to appeal to your niche. Pay special attention to:

  • Title & description – Title should be short and clear. When writing about the product, use relevant keywords and captivating descriptions to provide information about your products. Highlight product benefits and unique features and write with audience in mind. Ensure you use correct spelling and grammar.

  • Photography – Photographs (and videos) are essential component of your online store because they are the only way for the consumers to examine and visually inspect the product item are offering. Quality visuals entice customers and increase customer’s interest in your handicrafts.

Encourage feedback and respond to inquiries in a timely fashion. This will help you build trust.

Price your products

The goal of your business is to earn profit. That’s why establishing a fair price is critical step that can determine the success of your business. It impacts your revenue, brand positioning, marketability, and customer impression. To set the correct price, you have to analyze your costs (material, labor, ongoing expenses), but also take into consideration things like competitor pricing, market demand, and desired profit margins. Your next move is to establish pricing strategy which will allow you to make a decent income, sustain your business, and allow it to grow. Testing different prices will help you find the right price point which generates sufficient profit but is still appealing to buyers.

Market your crafts

Good marketing is key to reaching and retaining customers. It’s an absolute must if you want to generate enough sales in digital world. Advertising serves several purposes, such as better reach, building brand identity, engagement with potential clients, arising curiosity and boosting sales.

  • Use social media – Even though social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube or TikTok are free, they are powerful marketing tools because they have an enormous user base. Select the platform that best aligns with your brand and use it to promote your work and connect with prospective clients. Your social media profile is the face of your online store. Remember to regularly update the content on your accounts to remain visible. You can prepare content in advance and use scheduling tools for posting. You can also choose paid advertising to target your ideal clients based on their age, location, and interests. Connecting with other craft professionals on social media can lead to collaboration.

  • Email marketing – This marketing strategy serves to promote new products and communicate with clients directly. To build a subscriber list, offer incentives, exclusive content, coupons, and other perks. Once you have a mailing list, send personalized emails tailored to your clients’ interests, which will make them more likely to read and act upon your messages.

  • Hire marketing agency – If it corresponds with your budget allocations, utilize experts with advanced tools to promote your work and drive sales. 

Start selling & managing inventory

Apart from selling through your website, you can also sell on online marketplaces like Etsy, eBay, or Amazon handmade. Remember to use high-quality photos and descriptions with relevant information that highlight special features and selling points. With client base so big your hobby or side hustle can eventually become a full-time gig. This is a full-time job and you must manage your inventory and keep track of stock to avoid missing sales opportunities. This way, if you’re low on certain items like knitted scarves, macrame coasters, or plant hangers, you’ll have enough time to make them before they are out of stock.
selling crafts from home

Leveraging Internet To Develop A Successful Business

It’s a known fact that utilizing internet to sell your handmade goods offers multiple conveniences and is the best tool you can use to grow your business, and here’s why. There is a large number of websites that can help you sell your goods with ease, so you should not pass up the opportunity to leverage the power of internet to develop a successful business.

According to recent e-commerce study, online sales in 2024 alone will surpass $6.3 trillion, and are expected to reach $8 trillion mark in 2027. With almost $3 billion people making online purchases around the globe, the growing trend of online shopping will only continue to rise.

Selling on internet offers multiple benefits:
  • access to international market,
  • low initial cost,
  • 24/7 availability,
  • flexibility,
  • •    excellent customer reach,
  • ability to run the store from anywhere 
But don’t forget that there are some drawbacks, too, like strong competition, shipping laws and shipping costs, virtual security issues, and complex return process. When you take everything into account you should have better understanding of how leveraging internet can benefit your craft business.

Where Can I Sell My Crafts Online For Free

If you are looking for an online marketplace to sell your crafts, you’ll be happy to know that there are many websites that help small businesses like yours sell their products. From famous digital platforms to small, specialized websites, we have a compilation of several great places to sell your handmade items online.

Etsy

Etsy is by far the most popular online platform used by millions of buyers around the world. It’s the largest platform in digital world, specializing in handmade and vintage goods. The company’s revenue on 2023 was over $2.5 billion, and it serves both small a large businesses and creators. Choose this platform even if you don’t have your own website. It’s easy to enter, has low fees, and gives you full control over sales. A small fee is charged for listing, so it’s great for beginner online craft sellers who do not want to invest more until they earn more.

Amazon handmade

Although it’s relatively new, this e-commerce platform is a fantastic option, especially if you want to expand beyond Etsy or social media. You can also use the FBA program which takes care of shipping. Although it has a fantastic client base, the application process is stricter than with other channels, and it also charges a high referral fee (15%).

Bigcartel

This online marketplace s designed to help artists like you open an online store for your small business and sell your handicrafts. It has a wide range of tools for easier store management including custom storefront, discount codes, free templates, and bulk editing. Here you can create a store that looks professional and will appeal to buyers who are looking for trustworthy companies.

Facebook marketplace

Facebook marketplace is virtual platform that allows crafters and artisans to sell anything, from furniture and pet toys to laptop bags and kitchen aprons. It has simple interface and targets local clientele. Plus, if you already own a personal profile, you are able to share the listing among friends or in local Facebook groups.

eBay

Here’s another popular channel that lets you sell arts and crafts. This is one of the oldest selling marketplaces, but it’s not exclusive to handmade products. You can create your account for free, but bear in mind that when you use eBay you have to pay different fees, although there is no listing fee. On eBay you have the potential to reach more than 135 million users globally.

Cratejoy

Cratejoy is intended for artists who are looking to find subscribers and earn recurring revenue. You have the opportunity to build community through subscription boxes. This platform has over 500,000 subscribers every month and for a monthly fee you can sell your designs on website with over 4 million views a month.

iCraft

iCraft has an international customer base of more than $1.3 million people. It is open to skilled crafters and small businesses who are looking to open their online shop. This platform promotes gift categories for various occasions and bans mass produced items sale. To register, you need to pay a fee and a monthly subscription fee.

Craft Businesses That Make The Most Money

The handmade industry is thriving, with certain crafts and trades making the highest profit margins. If you are part of those industries it will be easier for you, however it does not necessarily mean that you will instantly start making money.

The  most profitable crafts include creation of: 
  • Wedding-related items (decorations, accessories, invitations, etc.)
  • Jewlery
  • Art
  • Home décor pieces (wall décor, home textiles, furniture)
  • Candles
  • Pet-related handicrafts (cat toys, bird toys, dog toys, etc.)
  • Kids & babies products
  • Sewing
  • Specialty (holiday) products
  • Bath & body care (skincare, haircare, makeup, etc.)
  • Apparel

Earn More Profit With Affiliate Marketing

If you are seeking to increase your profit, you may want to consider affiliate marketing business model. Regardless of which craft you’re selling, you can always partner with brands and suppliers and promote their products on your website through affiliate links.
Here’s how it works.

When a visitor on your website opens the affiliate link and makes a purchase, or uses your coupon code, you get commission. For example, Hemptique, a supplier of premium craft cordage and threads, has commission-based affiliate program. Partner with Hemptique to increase your income through content that is relevant to your audience and brings more money to you.  

Build A Craft Business Online & Enjoy The Freedom You’ve Always Dreamed Of

Various studies show that hobbies help reduce stress, boost self-worth, and foster healthy ageing. But beyond health benefits, crafting gives you a chance to earn income. If you have decided to turn your creativity into business, start with assessing your goals and creating a good business plan. Whether you plan to start your own website or not, there are a lot of places online where you can sell your products. The possibilities are endless, you just need to find the one that suits your needs best and which will help you reach your goals and preserve your business.