How to Make Money on Etsy in 2024: 9 Ways To Earn $1,700+/mo
Last Updated on May 2, 2024 by John Cirelly
If you want to learn how to make money on Etsy, this is for you.
Below are some of the best methods to make money on Etsy, along with a quickstart guide to help get your up and selling in no time.
How To Make Money on Etsty in 2024
Sell Etsy Printables
Etsy printables are digital files that customers can buy, download, and print at home. This can include things like planners, art prints, or worksheets.
It’s a popular way to earn money because you create the product once and sell it multiple times without handling physical inventory.
Getting Started
To start selling printables on Etsy, first, you’ll need to create your Etsy seller account and set up your shop. Next, design your printables using software like Adobe Illustrator or Canva.
Finally, list your products with attractive photos and clear descriptions, making sure to use relevant keywords to help potential buyers find your items.
What You’ll Earn
Earnings from selling Etsy printables vary widely based on factors like the uniqueness of your designs and how well you market your shop.
Generally, sellers can make anywhere from a few dollars to several thousand dollars per month. Consistent marketing and adding new designs regularly can help increase your earnings.
3D Print Unique Figures
3D printing unique figures involves creating detailed models using a 3D printer, which customers can use as collectibles, toys, or decorative items.
This business taps into the niche markets of hobbyists and collectors, especially those interested in custom or rare designs.
Finding a specific fandom or niche, like sci-fi characters or historical figures, can boost your sales by appealing to dedicated enthusiasts.
Getting Started
Begin by selecting a high-quality 3D printer and learning how to use 3D modeling software like Blender or Tinkercad.
Research popular niches or fandoms you’re interested in to find profitable market gaps.
Start designing your figures, focusing on details that make them stand out, and list them for sale on platforms like Etsy or your own website.
What You’ll Earn
The amount you can earn from 3D printing figures varies significantly. Prices typically range from $10 for simple designs to over $100 for intricate models.
Profits depend on your production costs and the uniqueness of your figures. Sellers who carve out a niche in popular fandoms often see higher returns due to dedicated fan spending.
Sell Art Prints
Selling art prints involves creating original artwork or reproductions and offering them for sale as physical or digital prints. This can cater to a wide audience, from art lovers to interior decorators.
Utilizing digital tools like Leonardo AI can help even those without traditional art skills create beautiful designs, while services like Printify manage the printing and shipping, simplifying the process.
Getting Started
To get started, decide whether you want to sell digital or physical prints. Use tools like Leonardo AI to create or enhance your artwork if you’re not an experienced artist.
Set up your online shop on platforms like Etsy or Shopify, and partner with a print-on-demand service like Printify to handle production and shipping.
What You’ll Earn
Art prints can be quite profitable, with earnings greatly varying based on your reputation, marketing, and the quality of your prints.
Artists can typically earn between $50 to $200 per print, depending on the size and exclusivity.
Regularly updating your collection and employing effective online marketing strategies can help maximize your profits.
Sell Print on Demand Clothing
Selling print on demand clothing involves designing graphics or patterns to be printed on various apparel items like t-shirts, hoodies, or hats, which are then produced and shipped by a third-party provider upon order.
This model reduces the need for inventory and simplifies the sales process. Tools like Vexels can provide quick access to trending and market-proven designs, enhancing your product appeal.
Getting Started
First, choose a print on demand provider like Printful or Teespring that aligns with your quality expectations and shipping needs.
Use design tools like Vexels to create appealing graphics or select from their pre-made designs.
Set up an online store on platforms like Shopify or integrate with an existing marketplace like Amazon to list your clothing.
What You’ll Earn
Earnings in print on demand can vary based on your product prices, design appeal, and marketing effectiveness.
Sellers can expect to make anywhere from $10 to $50 profit per item, depending on the product type and pricing strategy.
Effective social media marketing and targeting the right audience can significantly boost your sales and profits.
Offer Tarot Readings
Offering tarot readings provides personalized guidance or entertainment through the interpretation of tarot cards.
This service can be delivered in person or online, catering to clients seeking insights into various aspects of their lives, such as relationships, career, or personal growth.
It’s a service that combines skill in card reading with a deep understanding of human emotions and situations.
Getting Started
To start offering tarot readings, first, learn about tarot cards and their meanings through books or courses. Practice by giving free readings to friends or family to refine your skills.
Then, set up a dedicated space or website where you can offer readings, ensuring you create a peaceful and respectful environment for your clients.
What You’ll Earn
The income from tarot readings can vary greatly depending on your skill level, reputation, and how you market your services.
Typically, tarot readers can charge anywhere from $10 to $100 per session, with experienced readers often earning more.
Building a strong online presence and getting positive reviews can significantly increase your earning potential.
Sell Personalized Clothing and Accessories
Selling personalized clothing and accessories involves customizing products like t-shirts, hats, or bags with unique designs, names, or messages tailored to individual preferences.
This niche is particularly popular for gifts and special occasions, allowing customers to express their style or celebrate special moments with one-of-a-kind items.
Getting Started
To begin, select a niche for your personalized items and determine what products you want to offer.
Use online platforms like Etsy or your own e-commerce website to reach potential customers.
Invest in a good quality printer for apparel and accessories, or partner with a fulfillment service that can handle customization and shipping for you.
What You’ll Earn
Personalized clothing and accessories can be highly profitable, depending on the uniqueness of your products and your pricing strategy.
Sellers can expect to earn a markup of 50% to 100% over the cost of production.
Effective marketing and customer engagement can further increase your earnings by encouraging repeat business and referrals.
Build Unique Furniture
Building unique furniture allows you to create custom, one-of-a-kind pieces tailored to specific customer needs or aesthetic preferences.
This market appeals particularly to those looking for something special that can’t be found in regular stores.
It’s especially suitable for individuals who are skilled in carpentry and enjoy crafting functional yet artistic pieces.
Getting Started
Begin by assessing your skill level and setting up a workspace equipped with the necessary tools.
Focus on a style or type of furniture that showcases your strengths, such as rustic, modern, or reclaimed materials.
Market your services locally at first, perhaps through craft shows or local online marketplaces, to build a portfolio and gain customer feedback.
What You’ll Earn
Earnings from building furniture vary widely based on the materials used, the complexity of the projects, and your pricing.
Generally, furniture makers can earn between $200 to $2000 per piece, depending on the size and intricacy.
High-quality, unique designs often command higher prices, particularly if they meet a current trend or niche demand.
Sell Unique Party Games
Selling unique party games involves creating and marketing games that offer fresh, engaging experiences for various social gatherings.
This can range from board games to interactive mobile apps, targeting audiences looking for new ways to enjoy time with friends and family.
Innovating within this space can set your products apart in a crowded market.
Getting Started
To start, brainstorm game ideas that incorporate fun, easy-to-learn mechanics, and themes that appeal to a broad audience.
Develop a prototype and test it thoroughly to ensure it is enjoyable and functional.
Use platforms like Kickstarter to fund your initial production, or consider digital sales if your game can be delivered in app form.
What You’ll Earn
The potential earnings from selling party games can vary significantly based on the game’s popularity and distribution scale.
Generally, creators can expect to earn anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per game, especially if the game catches on with a larger audience.
Effective marketing and community engagement are key to driving sales.
Resell Items From Bulk Wholesalers
Reselling items from bulk wholesalers involves purchasing products in large quantities at a discounted rate and selling them individually for a profit.
This method is popular in many categories, from clothing to electronics, allowing resellers to capitalize on lower prices and a wide array of products.
Platforms like Alibaba are crucial for finding products that can yield a good return on investment.
Getting Started
Begin by researching profitable niches and products with high demand and low competition. Set up an account on a platform like Alibaba to source your products.
Make sure to order samples first to check the quality before committing to larger orders. Then, set up your online store or use platforms like eBay or Amazon to reach a wider audience.
What You’ll Earn
The earnings from reselling can vary greatly depending on the products you choose and your pricing strategy. Typically, resellers can expect to earn a profit margin of 10% to 50% per item.
Successful resellers often focus on specific niches and build a loyal customer base to maximize their earnings over time.
Sell Your Crafts
Selling your crafts involves creating handmade items like jewelry, home decor, or clothing and offering them to customers who appreciate the unique touch of handcrafted goods.
This venture allows artisans to express their creativity and connect with customers looking for unique, personal items that mass-produced products cannot replicate.
Getting Started
First, hone your craft to ensure your products stand out for their quality and creativity. Establish an online presence using platforms like Etsy, which cater specifically to handmade goods.
Take high-quality photos of your crafts and write compelling product descriptions to attract buyers. Participate in local craft fairs and markets to gain visibility and build a customer base.
What You’ll Earn
Craft sellers can make a variable amount depending on the type of products sold, the materials used, and the time invested. Typically, crafters can earn anywhere from $100 to thousands of dollars per month.
The key to maximizing earnings is to consistently produce high-quality work and engage effectively with your customer base through social media and other marketing strategies.
How To Get Started Making Money on Etsy
Choose What to Sell
First, think about your skills and what you love to create. It could be anything from knitting scarves to making handmade soaps.
Look at popular categories on Etsy to understand what customers are buying, but try to offer something unique that makes your products stand out. EtsyHunt is a great tool for this.
Consider your unique style or a special method that makes your products different from others.
Create Quality Listings
Take high-quality photos from multiple angles to show off your products in the best light. Write clear, detailed descriptions that explain the benefits and features of your items, and use keywords that potential buyers might use to find products like yours. Ensure your listings are easy to read and informative, which can help convince shoppers to make a purchase.
Set the Right Prices
Calculate the cost of materials and the time you spend making each item to ensure you’re covering your costs.
Look at similar products on Etsy to gauge what price range customers are willing to pay. Consider offering different price points, such as discounts for bulk orders, to attract different types of buyers.
Provide Great Customer Service
Respond to customer inquiries quickly and professionally to build trust and confidence in your shop.
Handle any issues or complaints with a positive attitude and offer solutions to keep customers happy. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews, which can attract more buyers to your shop.
Promote Your Shop
Use social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, or Facebook to showcase your products and share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your process.
Consider creating promotions or sales to draw attention to your shop during holidays or special events. You might also want to invest in Etsy advertising to reach a broader audience.
Keep Improving
Regularly review customer feedback and use it to improve your products and customer service. Keep updating your product range to keep your shop fresh and engaging for repeat customers. Stay updated with trends on Etsy and in your product category to ensure your shop remains relevant and appealing.
How Much Does The Average Etsy Seller Make?
According to Etsy data, the average seller on Etsy earns $1,080 per month. However, those who strategically optimize their listings and use effective marketing techniques can earn significantly more.
Keep in mind, the average income for an Etsy seller varies widely based on factors like product type, pricing, and how actively they manage their shop. Many sellers treat their shop as an Etsy side hustle, while others run it as a full-time business.
What Sells Best on Etsy?
On Etsy, the best-selling items include handmade crafts, personalized gifts, and vintage goods.
Tip: If you’re serious about starting an Etsy business, I highly recommend EtsyHunt. It’s a research tool that uses real data to find the most popular and profitable products in your niche.
Products like custom jewelry, wedding accessories, and home decor are particularly popular due to their uniqueness and the personal touch they add.
Digital products such as printables or patterns for crafts are also top sellers because they offer high-profit margins with low overhead costs. However, these categories are much more competitive.
Do I Need an LLC To Sell on Etsy?
Having an LLC is not required to sell on Etsy, but it can be beneficial for sellers looking to protect their personal assets from business liabilities.
An LLC can help you establish credibility and might make handling business finances easier, such as when opening a bank account or handling taxes.
However, for many small sellers just starting out, an LLC isn’t as important as getting started and generating more sales.
My Final Thoughts
If you’re hunting for the best ways to make money on Etsy, a few options really stand out to me.
Etsy printables, art prints, and 3D printing are some of the best methods, with one of my friends earning over $2,000 monthly doing this.
Starting small, being unique, and adapting to feedback are crucial for success.
With commitment and smart strategies, you can turn your passion into a thriving business that not only sells but also builds lasting relationships and a solid reputation.
