Are you an Indian seller who wants to showcase your creations to millions of people worldwide?
Etsy India is the world’s largest marketplace for selling your products to potential buyers. From hand-crafted jewellery to vintage goods, there’s a huge demand for unique, high-quality products that reflect Indian culture and artistry. Etsy India is the ideal platform to turn your passion into a profitable business.
In this blog guide, we’ll guide you through how to sell on Etsy India and share some tips for selling the best products to help you succeed on the platform.
Note:
“As of November 2023, new sellers in India are unable to open shops on Etsy. However, existing Etsy shops based in India can continue to work and sell as usual.”
What is Etsy India?
Etsy is a global marketplace for selling creative and kind goods such as handmade, vintage, and custom products, from unique decor items to trending fashion.
Etsy started its journey in 2018. It helps 5.9 million active sellers worldwide run their small businesses successfully.
Etsy offers low fees, powerful tools, and support for sellers to sell their products on its platform. In India, it costs Rs. 16* to start selling on Etsy.
Why sell on Etsy India?
Selling on Etsy offers Indian artisans and entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to showcase their product offerings in a global marketplace. Here, we share why selling on Etsy is the best platform for Indian sellers.
1. Low startup cost
Starting a shop on Etsy requires minimal startup costs. Once you’ve opened your shop, you’ll charge a one-time shop setup fee. You have to pay minimal listing fees of ₹17 for four months or until they sell. This low-barrier entry is an excellent option for Indian sellers.
2. Global reach
Etsy provides sellers with access to a worldwide audience. By listing your products on Etsy India, you can attract customers not just locally but also from around the globe, expanding your market significantly.
3. Off-site advertising
Etsy invests in off-site advertising to promote your products. This means your listings can appear on various platforms, driving traffic back to your shop and increasing visibility without additional effort on your part.
4. Powerful Tools
Etsy offers various tools to help you manage and promote your shop effectively. From analytics to marketing tools, you can track your performance and optimize your listings to maximize sales.
Tools offered by Etsy:
- Seller app to manage orders, edit listings and respond to buyers instantly
- Promoted listings, and free social media tools
- Analytics about store performance
- Marketing tools
5. Get tips from the specialist.
Etsy support specialists give tips on running a successful shop in their seller handbook.
By selling on Etsy India, you can showcase your creativity, reach a global audience, and grow your business in a supportive environment.
Can I sell on Etsy from India?
According to Etsy, new sellers located in India will not be able to open shops on Etsy. Shops located in India that are already open can continue selling.
In most locations where Etsy Payments is not currently available, new shops are temporarily unable to onboard to Etsy.
If your shop opened before 26 April 2021 without enrolling in Etsy Payments, your shop is not affected. You can continue accepting payments into your own PayPal account.
Is selling on Etsy worth it?
Selling on Etsy can definitely be worth it. The marketplace gives you access to thousands of customers as soon as you set up your Etsy store. It is known for its community of buyers who are looking for unique, handmade, vintage, and craft-related products, and it offers excellent visibility for niche and creative items. Here are several factors we share to determine whether selling on Etsy is worth it.
1. Customized storefront
One of the best features of Etsy is the ability to create a storefront that reflects your brand and personality.
You can upload a shop banner, choose your shop’s name, and add a personal story to make your brand stand out. A unique and engaging storefront can help build trust and loyalty among your customers.
2. Engage customers
As a seller, you can communicate directly with customers via Etsy’s messaging system, respond to inquiries, and even send custom messages for orders. Engaging with your audience and providing excellent customer service can lead to repeat business and glowing reviews.
3. Large audience
With 96+ million active users, Etsy offers immediate access to a vast audience of people looking for unique, handmade, vintage, and craft-related items. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your customer base, Etsy’s built-in traffic makes it easier to get your products in front of potential customers.
4. Mobile-commerce presence
According to October 2024 analytics, 56.82% of visitors come from mobile devices. Etsy is fully optimized for mobile shopping. The Etsy app allows customers to browse, shop, and purchase directly from their phones, providing an opportunity for improve buys and easy access to your store.
5. Choose your shipping policies
Etsy offers various services to help sellers quickly and securely get their items into the hands of buyers. You can set your own shipping policies, choose whether to provide free shipping or charge for it, and even set shipping rates for international customers.
6. ETSY’s offsite Ad
Etsy also offers an optional advertising program called Offsite Ads. For a fee, Etsy promotes your listings across external platforms like Google, Facebook, Instagram, and more.
You only pay a fee when you make a sale from one of those ads, it’s a great way to gain extra exposure to a larger audience without needing to manage your ads.
How to sell on Etsy India?
Selling on Etsy from India is an exciting opportunity, especially if you have unique products to offer. If you’re considering starting an Etsy shop, especially with Print on Demand services, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get started.
1. Decide whether Etsy print on demand is a good fit for you
POD can be a great option if you don’t want to invest in inventory or deal with the complexities of fulfillment.
Is POD suitable for you?
- If you are a graphic designer or illustrator, POD can be a great way to monetize your designs without the upfront costs.
- Popular POD products include t-shirts, mugs, tote bags, phone cases, posters, and more.
- Consider whether your designs will appeal to Etsy’s audience, which is typically interested in unique, artistic, and personalized items.
2. If Etsy is perfect for your small business, open an account
To start selling on Etsy, you’ll need to set up an account. Visit Etsy.com and create an account. You’ll need an email address, a password, and your basic information.
After creating your account, go to your account settings and select “Open a Shop” to start the selling process.
Select a unique shop name. Make sure it’s catchy, easy to remember, and represents your products.
3. Create an Etsy storefront
Your storefront is your business’s first impression on customers. On Etsy, you can fully customize your shop to match your branding. Begin by entering your shop options, such as the language to describe your items, the country you’re selling from, and the currency you’ll charge buyers.
Next, enter your business’s name. It can be a series of letters and numbers without spaces.
Need to know what to call yours? Use a company name generator to generate ideas. Pick one that is appropriate for your items that another Etsy store owner does not currently use.
4. Add products
Once your storefront is ready, it’s time to start adding products .Make a fresh listing for each commodity you offer on the marketplace: vintage stuff, handcrafted products, or arts and crafts materials.
How to Add Products:
- Product Photos: Upload clear, high-quality photos of your products. Etsy allows up to 10 pictures per product listing, so use them to showcase different angles, details, and usage scenarios.
- Product Titles and Descriptions: Make sure your titles are SEO-friendly, meaning they include keywords that potential buyers might search for. Write detailed, engaging descriptions that highlight the materials, size, customization options, and unique features of the product.
- Set Pricing: For POD, pricing is typically set by the print-on-demand supplier, but you can mark up the price to cover your costs and make a profit.
- Tags and Categories: Add relevant tags that describe your product for example custom t-shirt, print on demand. Choosing the right category helps Etsy’s search algorithm surface your products to the right audience.
5. Determine how you will be paid
Etsy requires sellers to use Etsy Payments, which is the platform’s payment processing system. Etsy Payments accepts a wide variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, PayPal (for some countries), and Etsy gift cards. You’ll need to provide your bank account details so that Etsy can deposit earnings from sales.
Note:
The fees for Etsy payment in India are 5% of the total sale price + 25 INR flat fee per order.
6. Configure billing
Once your shop is set up and ready to go, you’ll need to configure billing for Etsy’s fees, which include listing fees, transaction fees, and payment processing fees. . You’ll be prompted to select a payment option after providing information about how you’d want to receive payments. It is how you’ll pay to publish your listing and open your business.
7. Make your Etsy print on demand storefront unique
To stand out from the competition, your Etsy shop must truly reflect your personal style and business brand.
Create a Consistent Brand Identity:
Create a profile and a banner image. Place yourself, your items, or your company’s logo in the spotlight of your Etsy store. Use a color scheme, fonts, and imagery across your storefront and product listings. This helps build brand recognition.
Engage with Customers:
Inform people about your new business. What do you offer? Why? How did your business come to be?
Respond quickly to customer inquiries, provide excellent customer service, and encourage reviews. Positive reviews help your shop gain credibility and visibility on Etsy.
Market Your Shop:
Use social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to drive traffic to your Etsy store. Visual platforms are beneficial for showcasing creative products, like print-on-demand merchandise.
Tax Considerations:
Make sure to understand the GST implications for your business in India. Etsy’s help center and India’s GST portal can provide more specific guidelines.
Best selling items on Etsy
If you’re considering selling on Etsy, it’s helpful to know what kinds of products tend to do well on the platform.
Etsy shoppers love unique, creative, and personalized items, so if your product fits these qualities, it has excellent potential. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best-selling items on Etsy.
1. Journal and Notepad
Notepad and journals are the best products to sell on the Etsy list.
They are essential to daily life, which is why they have become Etsy’s best sellers. Many individuals use them, including students, employees, and those who enjoy taking notes and bullet journaling. To attract eco-conscious buyers, offer customized cover designs and environmentally friendly materials.
2. Stickers
Stickers are trendy for personalizing items like laptops, water bottles, notebooks, and phone cases. They are also easy to ship, low-cost, and have a high profit margin, making this low-cost business idea among the most popular on Etsy. Offer custom sticker designs based on customer preferences.
3. Jewellery
According to an Etsy report, Personal jewelry and accessories ranked second, with a GMS of 1.6 billion dollars, followed by craft supplies in third place.
Handmade and unique jewelry is one of the top sellers on Etsy. Buyers are looking for specific pieces they can’t find at physical stores.
4. Selling T-Shirts on Etsy
T-shirts are the best products on Etsy, mainly because they feature creative designs and personalized elements. With Print on Demand services, it’s easy to start selling T-shirts without inventory. Focus on niche markets, such as fandom-inspired graphics, artistic designs, and anime designs.
5. Sell Mugs on Etsy and Home Decor
The home decor market is projected to grow 8.78% (CAGR 2024-2029) in India. Mugs are a popular gift item and often an excellent match for personalization. Similarly, home decor is always in demand. In India, many buyers are looking for pieces that reflect their style and make their homes more inviting.
6. Collectibles & art
Collectibles and original artwork are especially popular on Etsy, where buyers appreciate the uniqueness and the personal connection to the artist. Whether it’s vintage finds or original paintings, there’s a market for rare or one-of-a-kind pieces.
7. Vintage
Besides homemade things, Etsy is an excellent treasure for individuals looking to trade antique finds. Etsy is known for its vintage marketplace, where buyers search for unique, hard-to-find items with a sense of history. These could be anything from vintage clothing to antique furniture or collectible items. Offer vintage items that fit a certain style, such as 80s nostalgia, mid-century modern furniture, or vintage jewelry.
8. Phone cases
Phone cases are highly customizable and can be made to fit specific models, offering a wide range of design possibilities. Highlight the quality of the phone cases you offer, such as cases with extra protection and eco-friendly materials. Offer personalized phone cases with names, initials, and custom artwork.
9. Personalised gifts
Personalized gifts are always in demand, especially for occasions like birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, Festivals, and holidays. Items like engraved jewelry, custom home decor, and personalized stationery are popular.
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10. Posters
Selling print on Etsy is a great way to bring your artwork in front of millions of people. Posters are an affordable way to decorate any space, making them a popular item on Etsy. Whether it’s art prints or motivational fan art, posters can cater to a wide range of tastes. Sell posters in niche categories, such as pop culture, motivational, and travel, to reach a wider audience
Conclusion
Selling on Etsy from India offers a fantastic opportunity to reach a global audience. As the platform continues to grow and evolve, 2025 presents even more opportunities for Indian sellers to work in Etsy’s extensive marketplace of buyers looking for unique, handmade, and personalized products.
From setting up your Etsy shop to adding products and managing payments, the process has become easier and more accessible than ever.
Whether you’re starting with Print on Demand or selling handmade crafts and vintage items, the key to success lies in offering high-quality products, understanding Etsy’s platform and tools, and engaging with your customers in a meaningful way. If you want to sell or purchase something one-of-a-kind and precious products, Etsy may be a game changer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can we sell on Etsy from India?
As of November 2023, new sellers in India are unable to open shops on Etsy. However, existing Etsy shops based in India can continue to work and sell as usual.
Is GST mandatory to sell on Etsy?
Yes, GST is mandatory to sell on Etsy. You cannot get started without adding a GSTin.
Is it profitable to use Etsy?
Etsy is constantly improving as a platform for both vendors and customers. It is one of the easiest and fastest methods to sell your handcrafted stuff online. It is well worth using because it poses a little financial risk.
Does Etsy ship to India?
Yes, Etsy does ship to India. It has direct integration with the shipping carrier Shiprocket which takes 3-7 days to deliver products to India.
Can anyone in India open an Etsy shop, or are there any specific requirements?
Yes, anyone in India can open an Etsy shop. However, one must have a GSTin to sell on Etsy. Once your company is registered, you can sign up and start listing your products on Etsy India.
What types of products can I sell on Etsy India?
You can sell anything you own or print-on-demand products on Etsy India. The best-selling products on Etsy are
- Journals and notebooks
- Stickers
- Jewellery
- T-shirts
- Mugs
- Art
- Vintage collections
- Phone cases
- Posters
How do I register as a seller on Etsy India, and what information is required?
You can register and set up your account in just a few steps
Step 1: Register for an Etsy seller account
Step 2: Configure your Etsy shop settings
Step 3: Give your shop a name
Step 4: Make listings and go live
Step 5: Include your payment and personal information.
Step 6: Set up billing and verify your bank account.
Step 7: Promote your store
Is it necessary to have a business license or tax registration to sell on Etsy in India?
Yes, you must register your business to sell on Etsy in India. Without a GSTin, you may be unable to create your account with Etsy in India.
How can I set up my Etsy shop to attract more customers and stand out from competitors?
There are 5 simple tips to set up your Etsy India shop to attract more customers
- Include high-resolution images that are crisp and attractive.
- Add all the product details in the description for the customers to make an informed purchase decision.
- Add product reviews from customers on your product pages.
- Keep your product titles optimised for SEO to rank on search engines.
- Sell unique products to create demand.
Content Writer, Blog Editor at Qikink
