This guide covers everything you need to learn how to sell crafts. Turn your business ideas, hobby or existing business into an online venture that yields extra cash, flexible hours and the opportunity to be your own boss.
As a crafter, there's nothing more satisfying than witnessing someone admire an item that you've poured your heart and soul into making-—except maybe getting paid for it as well.
No matter what eCommerce business ideas you have in mind, the online market is ripe for craft makers of every kind. This guide will take you through the process of selling crafts, from choosing what to make and sell, to how to build an ecommerce website or online store to sell.
How to sell crafts online in 6 steps
Decide what to craft
Determine your target audience
Develop your brand
Choose your eCommerce platform
Build your eCommerce store
Drive traffic to your business
01. Decide what to craft and sell online
When deciding what to craft, you have two options: learn something new or stick with a craft you already know.
If the former applies to you and you’ve already mastered a craft, you’re off to a great start.
If the latter applies to you, no problem. Start by researching what types of handcrafted items are trending by checking best-selling items on marketplaces like Etsy or Amazon's handmade category (pro tip: when it comes to learning how to start a business, you always need to do your research).
Select a product or craft business idea that tickles your fancy, then dig more into the process for creating it, as well as the competition and the overall business opportunity. Ask questions like:
What materials and equipment are needed for your craft?
How much time do you need to produce each item?
How much does an item cost to produce?
What other business costs should you consider?
What’s the competition like online? (And, who’s already doing it well?)
Why are consumers choosing to buy these items, as reflected in their feedback, questions, and/or search histories?
What is your break-even price?
Are there special licenses, laws or regulations for your craft?
Keep in mind that when it comes to handmade items, how you feel about your work is often reflected in your craftsmanship. It’s not uncommon for makers to quickly burn out if they’re not passionate about what they’re doing (or aren’t clear about the “why” behind their work).
Keeping all this in mind, here are some popular craft categories and niches to explore:
Jewelry (Learn more: How to start a jewelry business)
Home decor
Furniture (Learn more: How to sell furniture online)
Canvas prints
Printable or digital planners
Candles (Learn more: How to start a candle business, Candle business name ideas)
Wedding accessories,
Subscription boxes (Learn more: How to start a subscription box service)
Pre-made craft kits
Pet treats or outfits
Personalized gifts
Party supplies
Toys (Learn more: How to sell toys online)
Learn more: Crafts to make and sell
02. Determine your target audience
Aside from picking a craft that interests you, it's essential to define your target customer base and what solution or value your item provides.
Who you choose to target will affect the following aspects of your business:
The type of product or features you highlight
The materials you use
Pricing strategy
Branding
Packaging
Messaging
Marketing and advertising strategy
Sales channels
For example, “groovy fashion” designer Carmen Christine sells a variety of handmade fashion accessories and pieces, all from funky textiles from the 1960s and 1970s. Christine targets young adults that love sustainable vintage fashion. Everything from her logo and product choice (e.g., headbands and tote bags), to her copywriting and site branding (which features bright colors, playful icons, and colorfully decked-out models) are all tailored towards this audience.
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