Bye Etsy! Why I'm leaving Etsy :)

[@Automedon2]

I remember the days when Etsy was for artists and craftsmen to sell their work. Now it's nothing but a free for all of Chinese sellers selling the same stuff they sell on Ebay for prices that no American can compete with.

[@janet58]

That's mean!

[@stephaniehowell8981]

@@janet58 it may be "mean"... But it's the truth. Truth hurts. And he's right. How can you compete with Chinese crap that they sell for half as much as your handmade stuff when most people are looking for cheap and not quality.

[@janet58]

@@stephaniehowell8981 Wait, what did I say?

[@janet58]

@@stephaniehowell8981 Wait what? I have no idea what you mean, and who is he? I might be having a blonde moment, because I don't know who he is. I just made a comment to Media girl, please explain.

[@stephaniehowell8981]

@@janet58 my bad. Your "that's mean" comment was under Gathering No Moss comment. I thought the that's mean was directed to him. Sorry😁 etsy is mean though. I really don't think they care about the small people and age catering to overseas people who mass produce.

[@karendurham2080]

I'm so glad you exposed Etsy's practices. Someone needed to.

[@janebrownell6828]

I understand many other artists are pulling out of Etsy. Sounds like they are extorting the sellers. Kudos to you for explaining it so well!

[@icherishcrochetandknit309]

They are extorting the buyers as well.

[@RachelDresslerLove]

Can you suggest a different platform. My Idea is not quite big enough for a website, yet. :)

[@janebrownell6828]

@@RachelDresslerLove You need to reply to Mixed Media girl herself. I'm just one of her subscribers. Good luck.

[@nauy]

Which platform are they moving to? They can’t all be making their own websites.

[@beverlyfeldman3570]

No one has anything good to say about Etsy. Good luck with your new venture. Thank you for this video.

[@sewgatormomm]

I’ve noticed a lot of people leaving Etsy, and now I understand why. I had no idea Etsy was so underhanded.

[@janetpattison8474]

Etsy is now a big profit making corporation. The goal is to make the rich richer and they could care less about their customers or their members or shop owners.

[@ThrillerBarbie]

O yes

[@Wastelandman7000]

Yes, and I came here from a video where the creator was getting bogus copyright strikes too. Some of the creators on there don't want competition.

[@serenityrucker6719]

I am so happy that I found this video. I've been trying to get on Etsy for a while now. I appreciate your honesty and keeping me from suffering through that type of business dealings. I wish you luck wherever you go.

[@ThrillerBarbie]

O yes they reddiculous

[@LtRee96se]

Me, too. I'm so glad of this information. I was looking at opening a site there, but I already have a website. It makes zero sense to work with them if I'm just going to leave because of shipping. And thoughts on how to tell your customers how much shipping will be?

[@mistyscott3277]

Have you heard of lexii

[@atarbuck3452]

Tr

[@johnbubu8310]

Etsy is not what it used to be. It was born as a place for people who love crafts to get together and offer unique handmade products. It has succumbed to the hunger and greed for money and putting Etsy interests above the very same thing that made them different, their community. There is nothing unique about Etsy when you now have sellers selling Chinese shit as if it was their own. You have made the right decision! Good for you! ❤️

[@BarbrajoanOriginals]

John you are right on all points. I was an original seller on Etsy in 2008 for about a year , then rejoined again on ‘14. Big, Big difference now. I’m getting ready to hang it up. Tallahassee Florida 🌴😎🌴

[@sexyness777]

YES! This! I'm getting so frustrated when I see "handmade" items that are actually just drop-shipped from China

[@johnbubu8310]

@@karminakarminae1939 I'm sorry to disappoint you but my phone has not been made in China nor I am claiming my phone is handmade but it has been made in China 😉

[@gracejones2831]

@@karminakarminae1939 He is not trying to sell his phone on Etsy! You ding bat!

[@thetenthltr]

@@gracejones2831 🤣🤣🤣

[@thatonedisneygirl2159]

I will 100% back this up. I sold so many items over Christmas. I was working myself to the bone. But I was so confused because at the end of it, I had basically no money to show for it. I was pissed.

[@Mrs.KatsCrafting]

same thing happened to me. I was so happy I made so many sales and ended up owing etsy 2.40 what? I quit them.

[@sandrastaton19]

I thought extortion is illegal! Why does Etsy think they are so entitled to other people's hard-earned money? Shame on them!!

[@emisode]

Two words that destroy everything: Pure Greed!

[@Christine-777]

😲😟😔 Aaah! I'm so sorry!

[@Christine-777]

@@Mrs.KatsCrafting 😳😳😲😔 That is horrible!! ! I'm so sorry!

[@beverlysager3658]

I cannot tell you how glad I am to have clicked on your video! I am currently working toward setting an Etsy store, and now I know that I need to re-think going that direction. Thank you, thank you!

[@RachelDresslerLove]

Did you fond any solutions?

[@LtRee96se]

me, too

[@Tru13589]

same

[@lisamobley7173]

Same here. Im not sure why i clicked on this video but im glad I did.

[@jojo-l7431]

Just posted these exact feelings.

[@eileenjake5603]

Not only that but they then redirect YOUR customers to other Etsy shops! Thank u for sharing.

[@lalabelyaevskaya2278]

yes! I found that disgusting

[@christinesmith7838]

Etsy is only for Etsy. They do not care about their customers. I’m leaving too. It started so well but their totally opaque fees and charges are so hard to work out but the bottom line is they’re taking way too much. They then overtly point customers to other shops - pouring salt on expensively opened wounds!

[@sandnseaweedart9627]

Good point!

[@susieinthecountry4434]

I am having the same feelings about Pinterest, way too much advertising and ads. I mainly use it to organize ideas and patterns but as for anything else, just too much junk on it.

[@sandrastaton19]

I agree!

[@irenesutherland7081]

Never ever like Pinterest. It was alway a chore just accessing it 😧

[@uggggggghhhhh]

greedy companies ruining their own platforms

[@Angelaius]

I hate how they allow to upload photos of artifacts without any info. Where it is rn. When it was created. Museum data numbers. Fucking hate it. Unorganized garbage.

[@janealexander1378]

I don't trust Pinterest. On 3 occasions I've had emails from Pinterest that a friend or relative wants me to... In all cases the friend or relative knew nothing about it.

[@KanellaCiracoArt]

well done girl! I dropped out of Etsy months and months ago... their fees and rules are ridiculous.

[@cpuhalski5956]

Same here Kanella. Sadly Etsy is not looking out for the customer or shop owner, just their bottom line which is shelfish greed, like all big corporations do.

[@jennt688]

Hi Kanella! Love watching your videos. I don't really want to start a you tube channel....so I don't know how to promote my work? FB doesn't seem to work for me.... I really would like to sell some of my work!! 💞😊

[@TraumaQueen65]

@@jennt688 Try starting at markets in your local area

[@jennt688]

@@TraumaQueen65 I'm in Canada. We don't have any markets here because of Covid. And, unfortunately, I'm on Disability and I couldn't do it anyways....sigh..... But thank you for your feed back! I really appreciate it! 💞

[@lindacondray7918]

I dropped out years ago when it switched from many items truly being handmade to buy and sell posing as handmade.

[@LilianGuerrero]

Thank you. I needed to hear this. I spent a couple hours earlier today on my Etsy account and the numbers just didn't make sense. There is no transparency in the transaction account itemization. I was so confused I had to step away it literally gave me a headache. Ty!

[@susandavenport1569]

My husband is a stats guy & both of our heads were spinning over the alleged transparency. What we realized was that they were throwing in banking fees to transfer money to you, but not really calling them that. When those things take seconds these days, or are maybe automatic, why are the fees relatively high? (Rhetorical question)

[@G.G.8GG]

And while they're taking that big chunk without your agreement, they are gaslighting you about how it's such a wonderful plan for you.

[@sandrastaton19]

How true!!

[@caz4523]

Once Etsy started trading in the stock market that is when things changed.. They have to make a profit to appease their stockholders.

[@janetpattison8474]

Exactly! Greed greed and more greed for corporate America.

[@wallemon06]

Bingo.

[@user-mv9tt4st9k]

Corporate America paid me a handsome salary in exchange for hard work and talent for decades. Capitalism is what allows artists and craftspeople to go from hand to mouth to actually earning a living--it does not have to be done through corporate America, it merely needs to be done using corporate America's guidelines. Supply and demand is Econ 101. 🙄

[@octpod3923]

@@user-mv9tt4st9k dude hahha I know

[@Bob-The-Guy]

Once a company goes public, it is under pressure from the Wall Street to meet quarterly targets. Bean counters take over, not crafters and artist.

[@oliviavixx2973]

This is exactly why I'm building my own site right now. I was opted in to their paid ads and had no idea, I got a HUGE order and almost cried I was so excited. But then I saw the percent they took for the ads... plus their fees... plus I had free shipping enabled... I made pennies on hundreds of dollars after material cost They also let people abuse the report feature and the response I got was you have to have whomever submitted the report rescind it. Too many report strikes on your account means they close your shop and I've read about more than a few shops being closed because competitors did exactly this to them.

[@Flymeonthebreeze]

WOW! I’m happy I read your post. I sell on the other e-commerce sites, eBay, Mercari, Poshmark. I planned once I was in a stronger selling income position, to start selling on Etsy. I can finally afford the 20 cents listing fee. Now that I have found out how they scr** you on fees, forget it!!

[@Nope-xj4wk]

I agree with you 100% the fees are ridiculous and the “advertising” is a ripoff. This past Christmas season was my last on there. You work so hard to create things and they take advantage.

[@marlenetrainor8086]

MMG I was thinking about opening an Etsy site a few months ago. I was doing some research, and found many negatives. Thanks for bringing these problems to people's attention! On a side note, your hair looks FAB!💖 edit. Who in the world would thumb down this video! Smh

[@MixedMediaGirl]

Awww thanks. A friend did it for a photo shoot, lol.

[@vanessacee4154]

Same here, Marlene. I get the impression that Etsy’s clinging to an antiquated business model that relies on the flawed assumption that artists need them to provide a business & (sort of) marketing platform. They underestimate how creative and business savvy artists and sellers have become in recent years. MMG - looking forward to your website launch! And, definitely smashing hair! 😀

[@BarnQuiltsbyMountainVisions]

The people at Esty. 🥴

[@amethyst1826]

@@BarnQuiltsbyMountainVisions You got that right!!! And fervent Etsy fans!

[@cherieallen9508]

Who? Lol..someone that works for Etsy .🤣

[@carmenmendiola5163]

This explains why I pay $5 shipping on something that cost $4 and weighs less than 1lb

[@janetpattison8474]

Shipping is incredibly expensive no matter who the shipper is. I was going to mail a pair of sandals to a family member and the weight was slightly over a pound and the fee was $17. So I said no thanks I’ll return the shoes and send her cash.

[@brokefun7545]

Shipping is 3.50$ don’t believe the lies LOL

[@shersartwork]

Don't forget handling charges! If it costs $4 to ship there is a handling charge too! I charge $1 on small things but if it costs $10 and $up for all packaging and the cost of gas to the ups, fed-ex where ever. Yes I could add that to the price of the product, but for tax purposes I add it to the shipping and handling.

[@fattoria_di_bastoni]

The PO is to blame as well.

[@mclark2288]

A seller, especially a small shop, has to factor in their other costs like boxes, tape, filler, labels, etc. If you don't, you end up with no profit.

[@TheeOwlQueen]

Thank you so much for this review. I'm glad to see someone shed some light on the truth of how Etsy truly treats their shop owners. I sold long ago on Etsy and started back up. I was selling digital downloads for $32 and when I seen how much I was paid in the end $23 I was like what? It's a digital download it takes one second and it's my hard work and you took $9? It's absolutely ridiculous.

[@brendamorales3366]

Yes but they have the traffic. Me too I'm building my store outside etsy. And selling digital allow me to afford more projects outside

[@tamarapeeples8984]

This explains why everything on Etsy is SO expensive.

[@shersartwork]

It's crazy I sell on Etsy and do ok in one of my shops. I most of the time do not shop on etsy because the prices are toooo high. I do not jack my prices myself, but some sellers go way over board

[@paulinehunt4069]

Agree. Too expensive. I rarely shop etsy for this reason. I respect the artist's.

[@susandavenport1569]

@@paulinehunt4069 I am curious what you think is too expensive? At Peacock Proud Design, I don't even ask the hourly payment that it would take to design an item. If you compare prices in some catalogs, mine are way more affordable as they are each one-of-a -kind, or no more expensive than others mass produced in other catalogs. Help me understand. Also in my curiosity, you respect the artist's what?

[@sashamoore9691]

Yeah. Too DAMN expensive!!!

[@kelliquinn1342]

That's one heck of a story I'll tell you what a shame. Love for money truly is the root of all evil. Shame on Etsy

[@blbl4685]

All those practices are just wrong!! They should be ashamed....... We got you! I hope everything goes really smooth for you. You have earned some serious smooth!

[@kaybrown8493]

Thank you for this information. I won't be using them now

[@kaistockman6443]

I think it’s because they now have shareholders so they are not going to care what sellers think. They need to make more money every year for the shareholders so they keep finding ways to get more money from sellers. 😢

[@icherishcrochetandknit309]

@@kaistockman6443 it is like all big corps, they start out as a small mom and pop and then greed takes over.

[@rynkydynk7362]

Finally reached a point where I believe my pieces are good enough to sell. Trying to figure out which way to begin this chapter. This video was perfectly informative and helpful, thank you so much!!

[@LoveBugCassidy]

I’m so grateful for your willingness to share your decision and why. As a recent (within the last few years) buying customer to Etsy, I feel like the pricing (shipping to be exact) is too expensive, and that alone drove me away from more than one purchase thru their site. Because of that, as an artist, it has kept me from selling on their platform, and I didn’t even realize all of the underhanded business practices until your video. You just saved me a lot of time and any further thoughts about listing my creations with them. Thank you again for the information and sharing your thoughts. I look forward to seeing you new website, and I wish you nothing but great success!

[@vagabond87]

I left for the same reasons. My last sold item was priced at 120$, after fees and shipping (I live in a small country + plus it shipped to literally the other side of the world) I had not quite 59$. That barely covered my materials and my many hours of work were basically free. Not worth it. You explained the issues with Etsy very well! Great video!

[@ellinmariee]

Thanks for sharing. I have been dragging my feet on setting up an Etsy store, now I see why. Good luck on your website.

[@janmoline]

I don't yet have an Etsy shop, so yay, cross that off my list. Honestly, as a customer, I'm leaving Etsy!!! I have no need to support a company like that. I'll use skill share to create my website!!

[@20karisan]

there are many small shops and family businesses that live on Etsy. Look on Etsy and contact them through other platforms

[@angiep5216]

You can send an email to the seller and buy the product privately.

[@goldenstar9379]

Am planning to do a business and don’t have a platform to sell when eventually starting .I was thinking of getting myself a website but have no idea how to go about it and don’t even know to sell on there .

[@MrsMoore1]

Golden Star, I LOVE Shopify! Give them a try! Very user-friendly.

[@andrewturnbull4842]

Thumbs Downs are from Etsy employees because you spilled there rude plan

[@MixedMediaGirl]

🤣🤣🤣

[@HollyFischerArt]

Really. Whom else would really not appreciate this message? Anyone else would benefit from it.

[@helenarjad1006]

Andrew Turnbull...SIT ON YOUR THUMBS .. Never DISHONESTY stay hidden for long. ENJOY YOUR THUMBS..

[@herrweiss2580]

their*

[@loligney1976]

@@helenarjad1006 Andrew Turnbull was being facetious! He was simply saying that the @$$holes that gave a thumbs down were probably the employees at Etsy!

[@reneelouviere3310]

I signed up and as I went through their rules and fees I decided I work too hard to pay them all the different fees.

[@TheSwissChalet]

The “free shipping” is a psychological ploy to get people to shop online more. If they think there are no shipping charges, then it causes the customer to perceive it’s the same as “real life, non-online” shopping, which of course it isn’t.

[@bonniegentry4306]

I see a class action lawsuit coming against Etsy.. My daughter quit selling quite awhile ago due to their shenanigans.

[@icherishcrochetandknit309]

The way they add shipping into the ptmrice is illegal when it comes to acconting audits. Who is going to hild Etsy accountable for this?

[@elizabethm4618]

@@icherishcrochetandknit309 Ebay has been doing it for years and years with no repercussions.

[@graceamerican3558]

@@icherishcrochetandknit309 Free shipping is not free really. It's ONLY free til the post Office has to pick it up. Whoever negotiated THAT deal should be held liable as the post office is OUR money they are dealing with. Ain't nothing FREE.

[@barbrawhite1239]

@@icherishcrochetandknit309 What FASB or accounting rule does that violate. I would like to know. The shipping is through Shipsaver who uses USPS but the international orders are repackaged in several postal districts.

[@icherishcrochetandknit309]

@@barbrawhite1239 sometimes shipping is taxable in some states and isn't in others. It needs to be separated out. And if you add shipping costs into the price of the item it isn't really free.

[@marsharn53]

I left Etsy 2019 for the exact same reasons. The free shipping was a disaster. Etsy cares nothing about their sellers. Thanks for sharing.

[@lyndaholloway5469]

Are not their sellers the ones who they make money from? I would think that they would want to take care of them. Hum!

[@susandavenport1569]

@@lyndaholloway5469 You'd think so.

[@eleanorrouxel122]

I have heard this before when ETSY was passing the shipping costs to the customer. That's when I stopped buying from ETSY. You go girl for taking a stand.

[@lalune59]

Customers should be charged postage. if not go to shops

[@carolhearn8157]

In fairness, the "free shipping" frenzy started with Amazon and spread to virtually every online site. Ebay also pushes "free" shipping and charges commission on shipping. Sellers hate it, but have no choice if they want to sell on the platform.

[@lalune59]

@@carolhearn8157 that’s not so. Sellers incorporate shipping in sales when offer free posting. Maybe not as much as fully. Look at the ones selling stuff and their prices. They aren’t cheaper than shops and sometimes more. I actually offer free posting without putting on my sales. It’s a selling point. eBay dont make us. Before eBay charged fees on postage sellers used to put all it was worth on postage. It was a way of not paying fees. I didn’t agree so eBay eventually had enough as other sellers kept reporting it as well

[@carolhearn8157]

@@lalune59 Not sure what you disagree with about my post. What you said is just about identical to what I said ????

[@carolhearn8157]

@@lalune59 When you start a comment with "That's not so", it sounds like disagreement to me! That's why I responded that I couldn't tell what you disagreed with.

[@caz4523]

When they forced the ad fees I shut my store..Good for you..

[@ThrillerBarbie]

I did well reall well until people got jealous of the amount of sale in a few weeks tons of customers other shops owners started to hate

[@MrsMoore1]

Say more about this... trying to figure out if another shop really had the power to complain and shut down my shop? They NEVER gave me a reason why my shop was closed! At least tell me what went wrong. I didn’t use copyrighted material. Some stores actually stole MY designs!

[@MrsMoore1]

@adorable sweetie

[@ancienttech4603]

The reason that Etsy takes a cut from shipping is that people will list an item for 1 cent and then put the cost into the shipping. This should be considered unethical and grounds for closing the account, but instead they play games with ethical accounts. The whole advertising thing is just ridiculous. I applaud you for closing your account!

[@user-mv9tt4st9k]

Ebay sellers do exactly the same thing so that they can offer free shipping, cover the shipping, or guarantee they will get what they believe an item is worth. The trouble is these sales platforms are so large that it is impossible to catch everyone.

[@PrairiePrimitives]

Etsy also does it because their 2 major competitors, eBay & Amazon, do the same thing. And yes, that's why eBay started the trend. $.01 items and $4.99 shipping (back in the day).

[@Natalia-bg8do]

@@PrairiePrimitives which again is basically a Chinese thing. Chinese mass production of cheap products is behind all of this.

[@PrairiePrimitives]

@@Natalia-bg8do It's not always a "Chinese" thing. U S.-based sellers did it too in the early days of eBay.

[@CjJohns1776]

@@Natalia-bg8do to add insult to injury, America's small sellers are funding Chinese shipping. Ever wonder why it costs US $10-$15 to ship or return a package to China, when the exact shipping route reversed costs then $2 ? It's in a "trade" agreement President Obama & USPS made with China. Our exorbitant fees fund their deficit. No, they won't admit it directly, it's buried in the word salad, but that's EXACTLY what happened. People think Democrats & unions are for "workers" when in reality they're pathological LIARS who USE EVERY Demographic THEY CLAIM TO CARE ABOUT, FOR MONEY in THEIR POCKET, VOTES & POWER.

[@loriap]

I can't tell you how thankful I am to you for making this video! My husband has been bugging me to start selling on there. I did look into it but wasn't willing to pay what they wanted. So glad I waited.. I totally agree with you on this! What I don't get is how, legally, they can make it so you are tied to them with no way out. That is crazy. They need to be shut down! I look forward to seeing your new website!! Thank you again! So much!!

[@claudiamann7111]

Thank you so much for letting everyone know this information. It sure sounds criminal. I'm so glad you are doing your own website and I hope lots of other people leave Etsy. Great job!!!

[@maddieadams75]

I was an original OG on Etsy, never had any success with my art, I tried for 4 yrs, off and on, only sales were good at holidays, I’ve been selling really well on eBay for 16 yrs. Good to hear Etsy hasn’t changed, they cater to their elite sellers. Good luck to you, your followers will purchase where you ask them too.

[@just_call_me_desi]

how do you sell on ebay though? Isn't ebay more like a yardsale type thing? Don't people want everything at the lowest prices possible?

[@maddieadams75]

@@just_call_me_desi eBay is easier to search, do some reach on there, like using ...... artist, ooak, painting, sculptures etc. whatever medium you use. I starting selling art on eBay 2004, I also want to sell none art items, I created a second account just for that. I didn’t want to cheapen my art with “ garage sale” . If people want your art they’ll pay for it. I always choose the bid option. Ask for what you are willing to except and if it goes higher it’s a win. I’ve sold sculptures almost every country. Right now I’m on a hiatus for a bit. Tragedy hit and I needed time away.

[@serieelisedanielle9958]

they cater to black owned shops only!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@invisiblue3212]

I never thought to try ebay. Thanks for the heads up, stay crafty 💖

[@PrairiePrimitives]

@@maddieadams75 I totally agree with what you said about people being willing to pay for art they want! I make primitive dolls (maybe not art to everyone, but whatever!). I've sold several $100+ dolls on eBay in recent weeks. Can't remember the last time I sold a doll for that much on Etsy (I have, but it's been several YEARS!). eBay's fees are higher but I take that into account when I set my prices.

[@cindybrook0520]

I had an Etsy and found the whole process joyless, so I closed my shop. Thanks for sharing.

[@hedvigjenson4902]

As an Etsy shopper, I truly appreciate your explanation. Around 2019, I started seeing many of my favorite shops going away and I had no idea why. Thank you for your honesty and transparency of what this experience was like for you. No wonder I’ve been seeing prices get so high! 🙁

[@RC-hg9dw]

That sounds terrible that they get away with that!😞 Good for you for moving on to share your art with others!💜 Thanks for making us aware of this for us people that have not yet tried Etsy!

[@debbydragich2636]

They have no shame...Have to stand up not down...Thank You for putting it out there!!!!

[@jenleavey]

Good for you for standing up for yourself, your artwork and all other artists! 👏👏👏

[@matriarchfacilitator]

I am so sorry to hear this happened to you..Thank you for helping to spare others. Also blessings on your new shop!!🙏💛💛

[@nishicree9910]

Thank you for your transparency and overall integrity. I was turned off from Etsy when I obtained info that suggested Etsy requires vendors to pay a fee if the vendor doesn't sell a specified amount in a year or so. But, your video has definitely affirmed the rightness of my decision to not sell there.

[@ArtByJulieE]

Wow! Thank you for bringing this to our attention! I'm going to look into building my own website today! Thanks again Marcy🥰💕

[@mdipeace]

I was so excited about Etsy when it first started, but was over it years ago when the whole thing about re-sellers came to light and Etsy was totally fine with it. I haven't visited Etsy in years, I would rather buy direct from the artist.

[@prosperity.]

Yup. I remember it was for all handmade Items only! I should have stayed that way.

[@starrlara2599]

This was EBay too. It used to be small and friendly with people selling stuff when they would normally have a garage sale instead. Now they have huge sellers that can buy vintage and new things at wholesale prices, because they can buy shipping containers whether of stuff. I don’t like this if Etsy is doing it too.

[@starrlara2599]

It is really a shady thing to do.

[@ASMRyouVEGANyet]

But you can still ask if they made it themselves

[@lindsayslovelycreations320]

I appreciate you making this video and informing others because I had no clue about half of what you said!

[@TheScarletSorceress]

I hear you! Anything I sold there put me at a loss, so I designed my own website. Thank you for sharing your experience and good luck on your brave new journey; I am happy for you!

[@joaniedorsey6116]

Thank you for sharing my exact feelings! When my listings expired during the pandemic, I had no desire to continue with Etsy. It had become less and less about the artist and only for the benefit of Etsy.

[@sherryl2005]

Wow. That is unbelievable. I bet there will be a class action suit soon. Thank you for explaining all this.

[@Stephanie_Hancock]

From what I've heard, you are not the only shop owner that feels that way. Good for you!

[@elizabethcrane7639]

Good for you! A lot of people don’t read the fine print. I’m glad you’re going out on your own. Bet of luck.

[@maramakesjournals2319]

Sure enough, there are Mixed Media Girl ads right here right now. Who knew? Thanks for letting us know about this.

[@Ryn1]

Good for you! I left them shortly after they started the forced free shipping. I believed it was going to get worse, and it has. Congratulations!

[@VickiJo64]

I’ve been thinking of leaving for awhile now..thanks for the info. I also went and looked at your art work and all I can say is WOW!

[@katelynwoodworth9989]

That's so good to know. You popped up on my KZbin feed with this video. I'll never use etsy now. Thank you!

[@jesuisbanan]

Honestly, I am very glad to have found this. Thanks for the advice.

[@lesliebooth2833]

I just stumbled across this video, never seen your stuff before, but good for you!! I am so glad to hear you are standing up to Etsy for impinging! You go girl!!!

[@d.aardent9382]

Glad i caught this suggested to watch, i had thought on working with etsy years ago when i was thinking on where i was going to sell crafted stuff but i never get time to work on my art projects, so i never really investigated it seriously, but good to know all this info! Thanks! I will find a different way of selling my creations. I went looking around in Carmel,IN. arts district to see about who or what or where there was art shops or galleries that was interested in selling all sorts of things but so far havent seen too much places. Only the fact that a lot of interior decor places are around there would probably help me in that a lot of my ideas/stuff is sort of like artistic furniture that have sort of dual purpose.

[@amyspencer5431]

Thank you for letting us know. I’ve been considering it...I’m glad that you shared your experience. Hang in there. You are loved!💕

[@redballoonie]

Totally respect your decision to leave Etsy! And great that you are speaking out regarding your experience with Etsy and your decision. BTW, as a new Acrylic Pour Artist..I subscribe to your channel and have learned so much from your creativity! Thank you.

[@TheLeonDarko]

I'm so glad you made this because I JUST started learning about places to sell some of my art and whatnots... I've been doing research about Etsy as well.. it seems more and more like it's shady and more taking than supportive

[@susan1098]

I’m so happy I found this video. I was contemplating about opening a store on Etsy. It’s like Etsy wants more than 1/2 of what your selling. No so cool. It sounds like a ripoff from Etsy. I will find another avenue to sell my products. Thank you so much on covering all these ridiculous fees by Etsy. Loved this content.

[@RachelDresslerLove]

Soo Grateful for this knowledge!! I was just about to jump in, feet first! Any viable solutions without a website?

[@64Bogota]

It's been a nightmare for me and my jewelry design, they have taken more money than the cost of my pieces. I thought I was doing something wrong, thank you for confirming what I thought is going on. Now that I'll be doing more artwork I will work on a website as well. Done with Etsy by tomorrow.

[@irishtinker6867]

So glad to hear this about Etsy. Was planning on putting things on there but not now. It will be the last place that I by from also. This world is heading the wrong way. Good luck!

[@christinaharmon8778]

I left Etsy completely in 2019 for a lot of reasons. I had been on the platform from the very beginning. I felt the same way about the Free Shipping. The paid advertising really ticked me off! When I did the numbers...it didn't make sense to stay. My sales were never huge, but if I had been a big seller...it would have really taken a huge bite. I agree with you on every point where Etsy is concerned. Best of luck with your new website! I've never been happier having my own website. I've learned a ton...and I'm happy knowing that all the work I put in, pays off and I get to keep my profits!

[@angiek841]

This is soooooo helpful as I was considering Etsy.

[@SL-nv6zv]

I left Etsy a while ago for all the same reasons. Also, companies and their insane greed while touting social justice is hilarious.

[@FreeSpokenOne]

Go for it, send a message that creative people don't need parasitic users feeding off of them. Proud of you for standing up to this and for other sellers. It also benefits us buyers to know about this.

[@midorialexandros]

That is not fair to the *HUNDREDS OF SMALL BUSINESSES* that ARE on Etsy trying to earn your business. They all still have families to support, mouths to feed, bills to pay and they need buyers to do that. Wonderful creations that are just waiting for a home. When you're a large enough business, it's absolutely no brainer to cut ties with a platform. But for some of us on Etsy, WE KNOW what the fees are, and we understand the tools that are being provided at that cost. We don't have a large enough social media presence to warrant the RISK of starting your own website. This seller has the fanbase to make that move. If she wasn't confident enough to make that transition, she wouldn't be doing it. *Please stop and think about this.* She built her business on their platform, *and then she outgrew it*

[@FreeSpokenOne]

@@midorialexandros Give us more credit as buyers. We are intelligent enough to buy what we want where we want, if we want. One of the reasons I don’t buy much from Etsy is due to pricing. I realize it’s expensive for sellers and don’t assume it’s greed dictating costs and know art is arbitrary in value which factors into this. I’m also an artist! We need a platform for selling but this has evidently gone the way of so many before them. I’m also a vintage computer geek and know some about this. People don’t start businesses for the long haul anymore, they start and build value so they can make huge profits on the eventual sale of that business. Don’t be shocked when Etsy sells to the next deep pocket who will continue to exploit your hard work so they can start another platform, potentially to compete. This is business and that’s the end game. Making money. So how much of yours are you willing to hand over to the growing Etsy business instead of banking it for yourself so you can ‘outgrow’ them? This starts small, a fee here, a fee there, then next thing you know they are cutting into profit margins. Best of luck to you with your business and I do mean this sincerely. I’m on the side of artists everywhere. What I know is that when people are pushed far enough they become even more creative and inventive, find better solutions. It’s that or let someone else feed off of you. I’m not disagreeing, I’m supporting this woman’s decision to say enough is enough. She has that right as you have to remain and discover creative ways to outgrow this platform you choose to build your business on and I hope you do this rapidly so you can afford your own web presence. You are protecting your best interests as she is hers. Be glad you don’t work for Amazon.

[@kathythompson5800]

I admire you for both sticking with Etsy for so long and publicly exposing their shady practices. I had an Etsy shop way before they started letting manufacturing plants in China sell on the site. I never sold a thing through them, so I went somewhere else and started actually selling my items. Congratulations on your new website!

[@ajennyforyourthoughtscincy]

I just opened my store 3 days ago and they closed it the same day. The more I learn about them the less I want to fight to work with them. Can I ask you where you went to sell your items? I worked so hard and don’t want to just give it up altogether!

[@RachelDresslerLove]

I am following and All Ears as to where you took your Business? Very Interested!! :)

[@marybrookshire8924]

@@ajennyforyourthoughtscincy did they give you a reason for closing? /

[@christines2451]

Thank you so much for providing this video. There are many new artists that feel it is their only option. I am new to this as well but not in a hurry to sell. But I have talked to many on fb that think there is only the listing fee cost. They did not look into the percentages on sales etc. I have looked at purchasing on Etsy before and have found some of the shipping costs quite expensive so I choose not to buy. I think them forcing you to allow them to market (to your customers) I so wrong. You rock for standing up for what u deserve and sharing it with others. Wishing you all the best with your new website.

[@sandyramsthaler4924]

Good for you MMG! I will be watching for the new link to your products on the description page of your wonderful videos.

[@shiningmylight1969]

That is very shady business. Thank you for making it known to all of us who have thought of using etsy but didn't know their underlying motives.

[@SoulsJourney]

Whoa, I didn't realize that about the off-site ads! Thank you for mentioning that, I just opted out. I guess I didn't read the notice they sent out carefully enough.

[@carolburnett8372]

Until today I never knew anything about off-site ads (Etsy) ....wow

[@christinemcgovern2849]

I am so glad I watched your video. A lot of people I know have been pushing me to sell my paintings on Etsy and I had a bad feeling about it, so I never joined. You have reinforced my feeling. I knew there were fees that I really wasn't willing to pay, but I had no idea how "criminal" they were. Now they remind me of a used car dealer! Thank you so much for making this video MMG!! xoxo

[@kathybaffone7851]

Thank you for the information. You have just saved me a lot of grief! I appreciate your calm demeanor and explanations. I'm off to see your work.

[@DistractedDaisy]

that is why i gave up EBAY! They give you a shipping discount and then they ask for a percentage of the total shipping cost.. FRICKEN RIDICTULOUS!

[@halfpiint]

What is the alternative?

[@wildflower868]

Same here. I thought I was crazy when I saw they were taking a percentage of the postage. No, they were just greedy.

[@DistractedDaisy]

@Carla Craig well death and taxes are forever and inescapable.. and they only report over a certain amount.. which is correct.. but as long as they don't charge fee's on top of that too-it's okay..

[@BigHenFor]

@@halfpiint Don't use them. Etsy is only one platform. Go elsewhere.

[@halfpiint]

@@BigHenFor Like where?

[@kerrylynnwyszynski3251]

Thank you for this… I was just going to look into starting an Etsy store!! Not anymore!!

[@patriciahogg5763]

Me, too!! 😢

[@gabwalker9273]

You hit it on the nail. Been on Etsy since 2015. When I did my taxes this year, I saw Etsy's shipping costs I had paid for 2020, I nearly died. I created a 2nd company on Etsy earlier this year and haven't had a sell yet but I've paid $18 in advertising fees for months for those clicks that I can't see, nor back-up as legitimate so I can't pursue those so-called interested customers. But I have noticed my steady sells on the first shop have gone down to nothing since the end of last year. Not sure what's going on with that. That's the only reason I've stayed on Etsy; now I'm questioning it. I paid $2700 for a web page plus monthly hosting back in 2016 but if I didn't know what to ask them to do then my web page didn't get the maximum attention to drive customers plus their shipping always shorted me. They just didn't know how to set up what I needed. Go for it, girl!!!! Good luck.

[@HeatherRenee619]

*sigh* I have been considering dropping Etsy, too. I'm so glad you put this video out there - very helpful. ♥

[@shirleynunya1093]

Thank you for the lowdown on Etsy. I'm new and just beginning so now I know to cross Etsy off my to do list. Your Info is much appreciated and so well presented.

[@emmanuellegrosjean4847]

Thank you very much for sharing your experience with Etsy. It’s unacceptable the way they do business. Your video is for sure going to be helpful to many of us pouring artists!

[@lostinwonderart]

I left Etsy like 10 years ago, because I didn’t like how they “featured” things. Everything had the same colorless aesthetic, and if you had anything colorful and vibrant, you had no shot, even if you paid to be featured. Realized how bad they were back then.

[@mikebernard1385]

Wow. THANK YOU so much for this video. In 2017 I lost my home in the Northern California fires. My studio and all it’s contents gone. I’ve been building up inventory in my new home studio so that I felt I had a good number of items to set up a sizable and profitable store on Etsy. I’m happy to say I now have over 3200 items of mid to high end jewelry that I planned to sell via Etsy. Your video is definitely a wake up call. I now know that other platforms are where I’ll be listing the results of my passion.

[@amethyst1826]

It's like they have 2 managers, each making decisions but not telling each other but just going ahead and doing what they want!!!

[@skeletalremains3860]

You are not the first person to go and I'm sure you're not the last! Thank you for exposing their dishonest practices! I will not so there anymore.

[@annielaperriere4572]

Don’t know if it’s the same in Canada but it’s good to know. Thanks and good luck with the new sale platform👍🏻

[@DachiaTheDogMom]

I'm so glad I saw this video before I pulled the trigger on starting an etsy shop. I was so close... Thank you! I'll just stick with my own site. :)

[@tiakitchens804]

I am so glad you done this video! I was thinking of joining to list my items. I was just talking to my sister about this last night. I am so thankful this came up in my recommendations to watch and actually surprised with the way I have binge watched your videos I had not yet seen this video. Thank you for not only explaining the reasons but you were also very professional.

[@michellehrivnak8909]

Good for you. I was planning to open an Etsy store a couple of years ago & didn't like their set up so I never went through with it..glad I decided not to now.. wishing you huge success with your new launch ☘️😁

[@invisiblue3212]

Good for you lady! I make (made, lost my joy) jewelry and couldn't get any views, I got buried by people paying for advertising. I couldn't afford to do that. I now have HUNDREDS of pieces of original, handmade jewelry that are occupying a drawer. It really affected me. 🙁

[@mysticaltheiah8471]

I have so many things just occupying space, and now we have to get back up.

[@Kimberly-wd2wx]

Same, I made Jewelry as well and I tried so hard with Etsy, tried to jump through every new hoop they're constantly throwing your way and lost so much time and money for nothing in return. So discouraging to put so much hard work in for Etsy to just completely bury you.

[@loriesperanza9700]

I just came across a beautiful platform called ArtFire, it caught my eye as an alternative to Etsy. I don't have time to check it out, but maybe worth a mention. Bless all your creative hearts.

[@littlevicky9861]

Im leaving Etsy too.I was having to bring traffic to it too.

[@shanecoursen]

As a website developer this is good information to know. I recently took on a client for exactly the same reasons that you describe in your video. Just like you, she'll be running her own e-commerce website very soon! Congrats to you for taking back your power!

[@msplayful4209]

Thank you so much for sharing this. I had already almost decided to leave etsy after a year and a half of no sales...and you just sealed the deal. Going to leave for sure now. I don't agree with their tactics and I don't care if I never sell another piece, as long as I don't give them anything. Good luck in the future, I think you're awesome!

[@mauikarenann2727]

Thank you thank you for the info. I have been thinking about leaving Esty too. This confirms my thoughts. Thank you again

[@heatheralbin5142]

Ive had my etsy shop for almost 2 years and Ive had 1 sale the entire time. Im constantly adding stuff and spending hours on end adding things to my store. The one sale I made, I gave more than half of my profits to etsy. I need a different platform and have been contemplating it for some time

[@KCCAT5]

Yeah I had similar problems when I sold on Etsy. It's really hard to compete on there you've got thousands of creators and artists all selling basically stuff they made and you competing with each other under 1 tent. And then you have the fees!

[@jennt688]

So what does a person do to get sales? I was going to go on Etsy.....but I'm thinking twice now! I guess I should just make my own website?

[@simplylydia]

@@jennt688 I'm just starting my business & was going to start selling on Etsy but now I'm afraid to and don't know what to do now...other than Facebook. I feel like I don't have enough customers or sales period to just start a website..

[@nunyabiznes3901]

I am just starting out, too, and had thought I would start on Etsy, but I keep seeing more and more of these and am really feeling like going with Etsy would be a mistake. Ugh!

[@pamelafernandez8952]

If you do your own website, put stuff on Pintrest and Instagram too. You can link shopify to Instagram and people can buy right from there. I'm looking into that too.

[@kellielister8175]

Everything I’ve been thinking since the changes but couldn’t put it so gracefully!! Well done girl👍👍👍

[@McJc09]

Thank you for posting this.. I just started with etsy, so great info, i will definitely keep my eyes wide open!

[@biker6255]

I would like to say well done, I was in a similar position as your self and decided to get out, what they take from store owners is greed