How to Choose Between Etsy and Amazon Homemade

Virginia Miller

September 15, 2024

In this article

Are you considering selling your handmade creations online, but don't know where to start? You might be wondering if you should use Etsy or Amazon. Both platforms have their pros and cons, so it can be tough to decide which is the best for you. In this article, we'll break down the differences between Etsy and Amazon so you can make an informed decision. Let's get started!

Selling Handmade Goods: Etsy vs Amazon Handmade

Etsy and Amazon Handmade are two popular marketplaces for selling handmade and vintage items online. This article compares the key features of each platform to help sellers decide which is the better fit.

Overview of Etsy and Amazon Handmade

Etsy is an online marketplace focused on handmade, vintage, and craft supplies. Buyers go to Etsy searching specifically for these types of items. Amazon Handmade is Amazon's section for artisans to sell handmade products directly to Amazon customers.

Factors to Consider

When choosing between Etsy and Amazon Handmade, sellers should consider:

Types of Products

Etsy specializes in handmade and vintage items. Amazon Handmade allows some factory-manufactured and mass-produced items in addition to handmade goods.

Business Model

Etsy operates as a marketplace where buyers browse listings from multiple sellers. Amazon Handmade sellers list items directly on Amazon and handle order fulfillment themselves.

Fees

Etsy charges a $0.20 listing fee plus 3.5% of the final sale price. Amazon Handmade takes 15% of the sale price.

Audience Reach

Etsy attracts buyers specifically seeking handmade goods. Amazon Handmade reaches Amazon's wider customer base but handmade items compete with mass-produced listings.

Getting Started on Each Platform

To sell on Etsy, sellers can create an Etsy shop in a few steps. Amazon Handmade has an application process and sellers must be approved to join.

The Final Decision

The choice between Etsy and Amazon Handmade depends largely on the seller's business goals, target audience, and product types. Sellers need to weigh factors like fees, exposure, ease of use, and fulfillment requirements.

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FAQs

What types of handmade products can you sell on Etsy vs Amazon?

Etsy specializes in vintage and handmade items like art, jewelry, clothing, home goods, and craft supplies. Amazon Handmade allows handmade products but also accepts some manufactured and mass-produced goods.

How do the fees compare between Etsy and Amazon Handmade?

Etsy charges a $0.20 listing fee plus 3.5% of the final sale price. Amazon Handmade takes a 15% cut of the sale price plus any applicable referral and variable closing fees.

Which site has better visibility for my handmade products?

Etsy attracts buyers specifically looking for vintage and handmade items. But Amazon Handmade reaches Amazon's much wider customer base. However, handmade items have to compete with mass-produced listings.

Is it easier to set up a shop on Etsy or Amazon?

Etsy has a simpler onboarding process. You can quickly set up a shop in just a few steps. Amazon Handmade requires sellers to submit an application and be approved before selling.

Can I sell wholesale or customized orders on these platforms?

Etsy allows sellers to work with wholesale buyers and take custom orders. Amazon Handmade currently does not offer options for wholesale or custom orders - all items listed must be ready to ship.

How do Etsy and Amazon handle order fulfillment?

On Etsy, sellers handle their own shipping and fulfillment. Amazon Handmade is only for sellers fulfilling orders themselves. Amazon does offer FBA for mass-produced goods.

What seller policies should I review before choosing a site?

Review Etsy's seller policy and Amazon Handmade's artisan agreement. Pay close attention to policies around production methods, materials sourcing, allowed product categories, and order fulfillment.