Is Etsy worth it? - My experience as an Etsy seller and why they closed my shop

DISCLOSURE - This was MY experience and will not necessarily be yours. I'm NOT complaining about the situation. I truly believe that everything happens for a reason and this situation made me take my business to the next level
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Music: KZbin library
Disclosure:
This is not a sponsored video. The products were kindly sent to me for my honest opinion. Some of the links above are “affiliate links.” This means that if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no additional cost to you. This support helps me continue to be able to make videos, and take the time to link to all the art supplies & materials I use so that you guys can easily find them. I only link to products that I use personally on a regular basis, and feel comfortable recommending.

[@Janabstra]

Hey guys! I just want to thank you all for all your comments and kind words. I would love to answer to all of you individually but it’s taking me some time since there’s so many comments! Please do know I read them all 😊Thank you from the bottom of my heart ❤️ I really wish you all the best! Your support means the world to me. I love you guys 💕

[@christinewhite2414]

Sending you prayers and words of encouragement... Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 Hang in there!

[@whatsgoingon6256]

Wow this is very interesting! Ha

[@RealBradMiller]

Just because it ended in a way you didn't expect doesn't mean you shouldn't be proud of yourself! Stay healthy, stay happy. :) Your english is great, we all struggle to speak sometimes, no matter the language.

[@angelfish50]

Very good information! Just now looking to do a shop. It’s good to hear the comparison. Glad you have your business set up now .

[@Mz.Diva82]

Hello 👋 I need help with the square website!!!!

[@UYDesigns]

As business owners we MUST have our own website. We cant keep building our empires on rented land.

[@ladystephens5796]

Amen

[@MzShugr]

Facts.

[@veggielover100]

Amen to that. I am starting a website first but will have an Etsy shop to get some traffic there too. My niche market is there for minature dresses.

[@MzShugr]

@@veggielover100 how do you mean? Miniature dresses?

[@veggielover100]

@@MzShugr tiny dresses. I actually think I am not going to do an Etsy shop now. Seems like too much to go through. My website is in the works.

[@kaliakissestv]

I listened to a podcast and they said the realest thing... doesn’t matter how much you sell on Etsy or amazon... that’s not your customer, it’s theirs

[@scroogemcduckrich9705]

Thats a fact

[@sewingqueen5409]

!So true

[@cheriser9181]

Wow! That’s really great point and so true

[@lacywright891]

So true, do you remember what Podcast?

[@kaliakissestv]

Lacy Wright I honestly can’t pinpoint what epesode, I listen to so many podcast. but I want to say it was “the side Hustle Show Show” I listen to that one daily

[@margaretperry2015]

As an Etsy customer, I have noticed the change too. At first everything was handmade, it was a fabulous opportunity for artists to earn money from their art. Now it’s a marketplace for all kinds of cheap imports competing with the artists’ work. I hear there are a couple of other platforms in the works.

[@shpesus]

I agree Margaret Perry. It’s really very frustrating to compete with shops that we KNOW aren’t handmade or that you can buy a piece for $25 from (India as an example) but a piece that took you so long to make with excellent materials that one would have to charge $65 at the minimum plus free shipping!!

[@Tuskbumper]

I would like to suggest going to Shopify or something similar. But yes thank you for the story gave me much to think about

[@beblessed3770]

They have to keep their shareholders happy

[@LovinglfDesigns]

A lot of artists on Etsy had their original designs ripped off and mass produced in China which stole customers from their business. They even had their product pictures stolen. Etsy did nothing.

[@mqua4610]

So true. I’m a woodworker and everything is is hand sanded, hand oil rubbed. It’s disgusting how low quality stuff is compared to mine by buyers. People are nasty demanding discounts for quality items that are far better than the thin junk

[@brendam780]

Thank you so much for sharing and don’t apologize for your English it is fantastic. ❤️

[@euanmuir6402]

Agreed it's amazing from someone who had to learn a whole other language ♥️ I can understand every word

[@PorterCBlue]

Yes, this. Her wording is perfectly correct! She has a very pretty accent too. It's the only way I might suspect at all that English is not her primary language.

[@TheSimpleRomantic]

I love the way you speak

[@ninafairyart]

@@PorterCBlue that's what I was thinking. I actually knew native english speakers from the UK who put on a similar accent 😂

[@fairlind]

Well, that’s pretty horrifying. I would ask them to provide clear criteria for you to meet. No fair for them to ask you to outline your own, so that they can then discredit them.

[@lorettabrail7806]

We should get together to create a site that is for sellers who are creative and not for greedy people that run Etsy and Amazon.

[@BB-fp2on]

Just what I was thinking! With less fees!

[@helenaterschegget8791]

As it does give added value, to attract buyers.. and what was so fun before it was commercialized... artisans

[@thecandlelink6412]

I'll be up for that.

[@enjoyeverysecondofit9582]

Yup, Let me know when you have it, I will greatly collaborate

[@Footballcornerworld]

Good idea

[@Liz-ic6jb]

I stopped selling on Etsy for two reasons: (1) their fees continue to increase, but their promotions decrease (2) I learned how to use Pinterest and I was bringing 80% of my customers to my shop. So why do I need Etsy if I'm bringing all the customers to my shop?

[@darleneachille491]

Oh wow, that is great!

[@darleneachille491]

How did you use Pinterest to bring customers to you?

[@Sulam2490]

@@darleneachille491 I want to know as well lol

[@ArianaBerkeley]

@@darleneachille491 pinterest marketing

[@Footballcornerworld]

No fees in printrest?

[@DulceN]

I loved Etsy when it was just for handmade, artisan items, but it has gone downhill since they have allowed mass produced merchandise. They have definiely lost the ‘magic’. Por cierto, haces cositas preciosas. Enhorabuena y que la suerte te sonría.

[@angie8725]

I was thinking of opening an Etsy shop, but after this I’m not. Thank you for the help. God bless you.

[@colors4vana293]

I was thinking about doing the same but after watching this video I'm definitely second guessing and side eyeing.

[@lorettabrail7806]

@@colors4vana293 I feel the same way. Even Shopify us too expensive.

[@colors4vana293]

@@lorettabrail7806 agreed everyone keeps saying oh just open a buisness but its expensive and I have children to think about.

[@Mamabear1138]

Same here. I'm sorry to say that hers isn't the only story.

[@Titanilla19]

I have an Etsy shop and had loads of sales but Etsy sent me a message one day saying that I had too many orders over the weekend and they don't think I can cope with it so they take me out of search results until I catch up. I employed help and we done everything within processing time so every single order was out on time. What Etsy didn't say in the email is that while you're out of the search results, their own artificial intelligence thinks that "oh this person is not selling anymore, the products are not popular, she doesn't make what people want" and the artificial intelligence scores your product and shop down! And when they put you back to search results, they don't put you back where you used to be before they hid you! My shop went from 20-40 orders a day to 0 and still didn't recover in 11 months! I'm happy if I have 10 orders a week because my products and shops score is low so I'm not shown in search results. Etsy can lift you up but it can also ruin you! I'm working on my website now..

[@NurseValentine7]

I’m sorry you had such a terrible experience with Etsy. You have inspired me to start my own site. I’m a nurse so I understand what you have gone through. I have multiple health problems that have affected my ability to work as a nurse. I am a single mom and your story gave me the courage to start my own site. Thank you so much!😊

[@Janabstra]

Im sorry about your health. Im glad my video was inspiring for you it really makes me happy that other are thinking about opening their own websites and working for themselves. I wish you all the success in the world. You can do it!

[@doodybird5766]

The hell with etsy! Thank you for sharing this, my family has been wanting me to open an etsy shop and now I know I will not.

[@Ephesians5-14]

I deleted the Etsy app and closed my shop. It used to be my first go-to for gifts and vintage decor, handmade anything. But now I can't even search for a vintage piece without thousands of fake vintage items from China popping up. It's too much work to find the genuine handmade and vintage.

[@charmc4152]

The Chinese Invasion.... It's the same with Amazon. They started out selling books, then they expanded to general merchandise. For a while that was fine, but I started noticing when I would search for toys, for example - I was looking for toys by brands I knew (Fisher Price, Playskool, Hasbro, Little Tikes, etc.), and my search results brought up difficult to pronounce Chinese names I'd never heard of before. I think Chinese companies leverage Walmart's marketplace too. :/

[@Ephesians5-14]

@@charmc4152 yep, it started with eBay. I feel like literally everything on Amazon is made in China. It was hard to even find a mattress in a box made in America. Imagine what the Chinese are putting in all the junk they send over here. Not to mention they own most of the mortgages in America too.

[@charmc4152]

@@Ephesians5-14 Do you remember the Chinese drywall incident of a few years ago? A lot of it was being sold in the US as a cheap building supply alternative, but it was inferior and off-gassed chemicals that made people's homes unliveable because the chemicals made people sick.

[@ArianaBerkeley]

@@Ephesians5-14 Sorry that you closed your shop. I feel that with Amazon too and ebay. Thing is Etsy is missing unique shops a lot of stuff is imported. Were you not making enough money to close it down or was there too much competition?

[@Ephesians5-14]

@@charmc4152 I remember that now! I know made in China is cheaper but we would be so much better off making everything here in America and creating jobs!

[@jennafelice5159]

I’ve been an etsy seller since 2010 and when you started talking about how etsy used to be, it made me so sad. You’re so right on everything. But you didn’t mention, in those years how much money YOU made for THEM!

[@Renewed85]

How much is a percentage do they keep?

[@jennafelice5159]

It’s currently 5% of your item price AND 5% of your shipping price

[@emilyaitch8143]

@@jennafelice5159 that doesn't take into account ads either

[@s9292]

ANd since they are evil greedy idiots, they don't appreciate it either !

[@nnekamyrie7337]

I was literally just signing up for Etsy to sell my custom resin trays and domino sets but something told me to check reviews first. Yes I’m definitely not going to do this. I’m sorry they did this to you.

[@perezmatias518]

Same

[@cjwsk12]

omg they're so mean and abusive. At first they're so nice cause they need you to make money for them and once they don't find you beneficial they throw you away to make room for another victim. I am so sorry you deserve better

[@Janabstra]

They are... Thank you

[@fashionnursekesha]

Yup so true

[@KayDejaVu]

lol..dont make this personal. Her reviews got her shop closed.

[@xXStephanieVannoyXx]

@@KayDejaVu How is it not personal when she was trying her best? Did you listen to her video? A lot of people don't realize what sellers go through when they are buying from a handmade shop that is made to order. Her reviews didn't get her shop closed, Etsy closed her shop temporality as she stated because of a bill. How about we show some compassion? She was doing something she loved, which a lot of people don't have that luxury or time for due to other obligations. Etsy IS abusive.

[@ashiplays5701]

I don't even like etsy the only think I like about them is the slime that is all

[@humptydumpty580]

Thank you for sharing your story! As an Etsy customer, I wanted to know what the sellers' experience is like. 🌻

[@Janabstra]

Thank you

[@ecouturehandmades5166]

I began selling vintage on Etsy in about 2012. The first couple of years, I did well, or well enough, as I was just selling off pieces I didn't have room for.

[@ecouturehandmades5166]

I started my handmades shop in about 2013, didn't get a sale for a year(!), then stumbled into a niche. Slowly, I began getting repeat clients, even after raising my prices. Covid has just about shut down sales to my niche, but I'm going to be advertising to them in an online national newsletter. Not giving up on Etsy; I use it as my catalogue. Update (11/23): the national newsletter didn't work so well or at all (even Etsy ads are cheaper - haha! :/ ). Guess I must stick with what I know....knock wood, folks will find me.

[@RunninUpThatHillh]

Yeah. My 11 year-old sells vintage toys. She sells pretty ok there. Better than eBay.

[@fayejohnstone]

Ive just started selling my page is called fayesartdesign on etsy

[@Bobster986]

All this social sites are heartless, soulless, companies and are only interested in making money not interested in the people that made them what they are today. Good luck and stay healthy.

[@emilyaitch8143]

that's capitalism

[@bmrs.g7108]

Thanks for contributing to not opening my Etsy shop! I heard so many bad stories but this is medical from your part unforeseen occurrences this is crazy how can they be so cruel and heartless..... que ingratos. Cuidate tu salud es mas importante!!!

[@crystallight328]

The fact that you didn’t give up shows that you are amazing. Their are ppl who have their Esty shop closed &. Gave up. You didn’t. I own two Esty shop but I will definitely look into getting my own shop asap

[@hope7959]

I can totally feel the sadness from you. I been hearing Etsy is like a bad breakup.

[@ritarosa6824]

I was on Etsy since 2010!! I was part of the translation team for free. Because of a mistake not in my part they closed my shop. They are heartless and don't deserve sellers and buyers money!! We are the ones who made it where it is now. They sold out. It is not a community anymore and their values have changed. As a seller or customer..run!!!

[@gaylescoolcraftsandsewing4372]

I left Etsy because it is no longer a forum for quality handmade items only. There are too many companies based in India, and other places where the labor is cheap. Items are made in mass quantities , and sold for prices that "cottage crafts" sellers cannot compete with. I considered setting up a KZbin channel, but I, too, have had health problems that have stopped that hope altogether. My husband is trying to get me to set up a website, but the pressure is just too much. I wish you the best of luck in your next endeavor.

[@PlinniBundaCake]

One step at a time; take care of what you need little by little. Take care of what you need to in little chunks. Most importantly, take the time you need. As a fellow creative, I get overwhelmed when I stay zoomed out for too long, instead of taking time to zoom in. Even if it's a little bit, it helps versus getting overwhelmed and not being able to do anything. I believe in you. ♡

[@Janabstra]

I know how it feels my love but don't give up please. Im now facing new obstacles health wise. The endometriosis is spreading again, I now have a heart condition and Im having thyroid problems... I swear sometimes it's too much to handle and I often feel like giving up but being able to create and share my art with others makes me feel so happy that I will feel worst If I ever decide to quit. Art makes creative souls free. Don't stop believing in yourself. You got this!

[@lupepeters3255]

Etsy DOES NOT IMPRESS ME ANYMORE! I want REAL ART, not duplicate/China made reproductions!

[@debl.871]

I had a similar experience with Etsy and know exactly what you mean. Thank you so much for the helpful information about starting your own website and store!

[@Janabstra]

I'm sorry to hear that. Hope you are still creating :) Thanks for watching!

[@happyone444able]

I am so sorry this was done to you. I am not a seller on Etsy, but had considered it. Your video was very informative and I thank you! Wishing you good health!!

[@Superduper666]

I remember the days when everyone had their own websites and joined together via guestbooks and webrings.

[@MzShugr]

Omg. I remember your shop. It’s one of the ones that inspired me to do polymer clay.

[@letsgrowtogether7015]

Wow,great

[@vanna13v]

By the way your English is perfect I completely can understand you, no issues at all don't even worry about it. 😊

[@fireinateacup89]

I too suffer from health issues, which is part of the reason I want to have a second means of income. I feel your pain and the betrayal...oh my god...how horrible. I'm so glad you're finding autonomy and success on your own website! Thank you SO much for taking the time to protect others from potential suffering! You didn't talk too much. Thank you, thank you, thank you....

[@justtryme2020]

Shame on Etsy!! They have gone downhill since they quit only selling handmade items

[@sharonwinkormando6909]

Money talks.

[@taciasoares2022]

Thank you for sharing your story, I’m sorry to hear that happened to you. I’m proud of you for not giving up and starting your own website.

[@AudreyDesigns]

You are so right, own your own platform. I hope your health is good. Blessings 🙏🏾

[@cherryroundtree4866]

That you, this information is Priceless, especially the advice about having your own website. I am researching and will start my online businesses soon. I was considering Etsy... but now... not so much.

[@ptumpkintumpkin4189]

Thank you so much for sharing! I am/was 1 step from applying for an Etsy acct. I just happened to run across your channel... for a reason I guess! I'm so sorry that happened to you! So happy you're doing better! Your story motivates me! Please keep sharing!

[@Black_beauty]

Wow. They were only concerned about getting paid. Your english is perfectly fine. No apologies.

[@Ponka25]

Thank you so much for your transparency and vulnerability about your experience. It is amazing that you haven’t held onto any bitterness towards Etsy, but rather shared your experience in order to allow others to get a sense of how they handle these incidents. I hope you’re feeling much better! 💜 Your creations are adorable!!!

[@Janabstra]

Thank you for these words I really appreciate your kindness. I dont want to people to think I'm complaining because Im not I just want others to be ready and be successful either on Etsy or some other platform. If what happened to me was meant to happen to help others then Im happy that Im able to share it with others :)

[@pomcloset2871]

I have been on etsy since 2014 and the fees are getting higher. At the end I have only a bit left. I need to do my own website in this case. Thanks for sharing 🌹

[@ItalianHomeChef]

SkillShare and Wix are good platforms

[@mjstarart]

Hey, fellow endo warrior and artist. I'm so glad you told your Etsy story. I hope you doing well. Congrats on your store being successful while it lasted. 💛

[@MelbournesEast]

Never apologise for your English. You are perfect.

[@Janabstra]

Thank you for your kind words

[@s9292]

Yes she, is and a wonderful person !

[@dragonfly3341]

Etsy does t care! They have sold their soul to the devil called PROFITS their profits! They are no longer truly a handmade entity! The true handmade creator gets lost within Etsy! I thank you for your honesty and sincerity! I have been contemplating leaving Etsy also and your info is giving me more incentive to leave Etsy! Thank you and good luck with your website!

[@Janabstra]

I'ts sad but true. Having your own website is great, it gives you peace of mind. The only problem is the marketing. It's a lot of work. I wish you the best and thank you so much for watching :) It means the world to me. Good luck :)

[@dragonfly3341]

Janabstra thank you kindly!

[@LuhhLightSkined]

I'm so happy I'm watching this. Was thinking about starting a shop but I have back problems. I have been seeing a back surgeon and this just reminded me that i shouldnt jump into it. People dont realize you are not a factory machine. That's so unfair to you!

[@willowlane9236]

@Dragonfly33, everyone who owns a business isn't necessarily a capitalist. Many anti-capitalists do so in order to manipulate people into believing capitalism is bad. We've known for decades one of the stated goals of the Marxists was to infiltrate business (and unions, schools, churches, etc). They are master manipulators. My people suffered greatly under them. Many people mistakenly believe that just because the USSR "fell" that the ideology fell too. Not so. It is very much alive worldwide. It's evil.

[@sandranorum6125]

Oh my God, this is horrible! I’m so sorry you had to deal with their bs while you we’re struggling with your health. Emergencies are emergencies and you have them all the answers. I’m so sorry that happened to you. You are obviously a strong person! This is the first video I’ve seen of yours and I’m subscribing instantly 💕 Thank you so much for sharing! 🙏🏻 Take care!

[@briannabarberio]

So proud that you came out stronger on the other side. Keep doing what you love, don’t let anybody or anything stop you ❤️

[@livingmy2ndchance]

It is terrible the way Etsy treated you!! So glad you shared your story.

[@alejandrapikulski6940]

Thank you for sharing ❤️ I’ve heard so many stories like this one.

[@vanna13v]

It sounds like they're very unpersonable anymore it sounds like that's what you're saying so that's very eye-opening thank you for sharing.

[@terrijane63]

Oh my goodness!!! So sorry about your health issues that caused you so many difficulties but you know so well that sometimes things happen for a very good reason!!! Looks like your shop will do very well and maybe you should keep building your clients and show us some more samples of your beautiful work!!! I LOVE all those sweet goodies!! Keep your head up and continue to move forward. Put that ETSY behind you and learn from that experience. It doesn't define YOU!!!

[@drimer4613]

You are so : beautiful, charming, talented, warm, big heart, one word - brilliant person. There is no obstacles for you. You will succeed where ever you sell. God Bless You!

[@Stylistaaaa]

Congrats on the new shop! I am glad you didn't give up and thank you for the information.

[@thecalmingspace6445]

I really feel your pain. The way you held back the tears must have taken a lot of will power. Thank you so much for doing this video, it helped me a lot to narrow down my options. I do not have an Etsy shop but I was almost about to open one. I understand that many Etsy shop owners have only had good things to say about Etsy while the ones who have had a bad experience are seldom heard. I will look into the Square website you mentioned. Thank you again and I am so glad that you are feeling much better and you have found your passion again. Just looked at your website. You do marvellous work. You might want to edit your FAQ page, shipping, 3rd paragraph, 1st sentence, and put an "h" between the "t" and "r" so you get "through" and not "trough". Hope this helps.

[@OracleMoon]

Etsy changed when they went public. It's a whole new ballgame once the stock market enters. You must have your own site.

[@ShacreamArt]

I closed my shop with etsy..fees were wayyyyyy to high.

[@shomau]

That's true. Etsy ads took a huge amount on my profit it became negative.

[@ShacreamArt]

@@shomau so i just market my personal website......whats ur website?

[@shomau]

I don't have one yet as i am just starting

[@dg-1980]

@@ShacreamArt what website do u use? Company ?

[@ShacreamArt]

@@dg-1980 shopify

[@sexynena1028]

Thank you for sharing your Experience. Glad your doing better in health and in your business. I've been wanting to open my shop on Etsy for a month now but I've been hesitate about it. I've been doing a lot of research on it.Your video really helped. Im gonna check out the website you said. Thank You girl!

[@l.v.d.r6640]

Never give up. You go girl. You are absolutely correct. Thank you for sharing your story and important information about selling handmade goods online. 😊❤️

[@Janabstra]

Give up? whats that?

[@kurehaashiya30]

I really sorry about what happened to you, but through hard times too. But, happy you are able to rebuild a new site. It really good info too. I just started selling on Etsy and it important to stay informed.

[@rrswitch48]

Such a sweet lady! I wish I'd watched this first before opening my etsy account. As a small maufacturer it is wisest to have plenty of inventory on hand to become less vulnerable to the unthinkable and product malfunctions. Thanks for sharing your experience! Who's glue failed?

[@Jeriece101]

Thank you so much for sharing. You’re amazing and I love to see that you came back strong and you’re doing even better. You deserve the best!!!

[@Janabstra]

Thank you for the kind words and thank you so much for watching!

[@stephf]

i’m so sorry this happened to you! i just started an etsy shop so it’s really nice to hear your perspective.

[@mqua4610]

So sorry about the glue problems. As a woodworker I truly sympathize as that has happened to me once. Since I don’t make lots of sales, I caught that this one time. It’s terrible that your beautiful work is not recognized by this terrible Etsy. You are Etsy’s good customer. It’s terrible how they treated you.

[@jtnowakowski]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience, Jany. I felt your sincerity, your frustration with etsy and the hurt you experienced. I have had a poor start with etsy, i.e. poor communication. In fact, no responses to my customer service queries. This has caused me to realise this is not a business partnership for me. Love you website by the way. Very cool. Your jewellery are truly gorgeous. I wish you all the very best, Jany. Regards, Yaja

[@chandrazink4830]

I have been wondering about this. I will now choose Square. So glad to hear your success story! Merry Christmas

[@dorizcollado7037]

I have been researching different platforms and way to build my lil empire and came across your video! Thank you for being so candid and sharing your personal story. Thanks for also being Inspiring! La lucha sigue!

[@vonniescrafts1]

I feel for you I left Etsy last year after 10 years I always thought it was for hand made crafts etc and then discovered a woman selling fox fur coats masses of them. I was horrified!! I also decided to leave because they were getting greedy. Plus all the stuff that wasn’t hand made appeared in their thousands. I make my own glass beads (lampwork) I also design greeting cards make polymer jewellery and more. I’m glad you’re sorted now and hope your health is better you did good for leaving them.

[@cheriser9181]

Bless your heart. I love your little things you make! So creative and beautiful. Oh and I could understand your English perfectly 💖

[@sofias.2904]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I am sure it wasnt easy and sharing intimate and personal information to the whole world takes a lot of strength. We hear a lot of people talk only good things about Etsy and hearing the other side of things helps us to make a good plan for our business and for our customers. Thanks again! Praying many sales for ya!

[@trishsiboczy6469]

Thank you so much for sharing your story! I hope you are feeling better and become much more successful with your own website! Many blessings to you!

[@kayleighkingsley6932]

I found this really helpful and it has given me the push I needed to set up my own website!

[@naptimecreations]

That's so crazy they did that to you , its probably better to have your own site as you do right now. That way you don't have all the fees that come with etsy. And now with etsy it's so saturated with sellers it's so hard to get your name out there on their site unless you have a big following or pay etsy to advertise your shop. Like you said everything happens for a reason. It was a blessing in disguise 💖

[@Janabstra]

Its very saturated for sure and I see a lot of people with hope waiting for their first sale. It breaks my heart that people sometimes get discourage thinking that their work is not good enough just because they're not having sales. It definitely has been a blessing in disguise for me. Thank you for watching!

[@naptimecreations]

@@Janabstra 🤗🤗🤗💖💖

[@ruby71975]

Thank you for sharing your experience. I a so happy for you and your online business!

[@geralyn-mm]

Thank you for all the information! You are a generous woman for sharing this. I am going to share your video with other makers. Good for you to have found a new way to grow your business! I wish you all the best in your venture!

[@cinnamonrodrigues-brown969]

Thank you for sharing your story ❤ and as for the situation on endometriosis I had a similar situation 3 yr ago I know how painful that is.i lost a child because of it and have not had any children since im almost 30 doctors said that I might not be able to have anymore children 😢 but its ok I have excepted it...YOUR HEALTH IS #1 people can go on and purchase other things your family can't replace or purchase a new you

[@dove5729]

Thank you so much for the information, you are the Boss lady now, good for you keep up the good work!

[@sumarahpalermo9030]

Thanks for being so honest. I'm looking into this arena and you had some really good advise!

[@laurielodge5652]

Thank you for taking the time to describe your experience. I learned a lot from you. Wishing you continued good health and success.

[@estherrodriguez8693]

Thank you for sharing your experience, I’m currently searching platforms when I open my online business and this is extremely helpful!

[@Scraparella]

Did you find a platform?

[@quinnhayes3046]

@@Thankful.kind797 does mercari have third party shipping done for you if I wanted to do print on demand?

[@franswey2]

Thank you for sharing this heartbreaking experience you had with Etsy. I’m so glad you had such a supportive husband to give you the emotional and physical support you needed. I have only purchased two items from Etsy in the past year. I was on Ebay and thought the seller was also. I was very surprised and not very happy. I don’t like the changes Etsy has made and decided sometime ago I would not open a store “For them” under my name. Thank you, I did make the correct decision. You might want to audit your Etsy account and see if you were paid what you earned. I wish you continued success in Your store! Stay happy, healthy and blessed. Fran

[@gaylevincent2397]

Thanks for sharing and happy to see that you made a complete turnaround for your business 😊😊

[@s9292]

Thank you for this ! This was so good to hear! Very helpful. Also, hope you are feeling better now.

[@Janabstra]

Thanks for watching and commenting it really means a lot to me

[@beauteoussounds1156]

Be aware that - depending on your state rules - on sites like Square, sales tax will need to be addressed. Some states don’t require folks to pay sales tax, while others may only require it if you sell a certain amount over the year. If required, you’ll need to either choose Square to collect tax on the sale, or front-load tax in the item’s price. Either way, you’ll need to file and pay the tax collected when tax time rolls around! Sites like Etsy and eBay perform that service for their sellers, hence their larger fees. There’s more info about it on the Square site here: www.sellercommunity.com/t5/Questions-How-To/Does-square-take-out-the-taxes-and-pay-them-for-you-on/td-p/66132 squareup.com/us/en/townsquare/9-crucial-things-to-know-about-sales-tax squareup.com/help/us/en/article/5061-create-and-manage-your-tax-settings Maybe the savings from the lower fee would make it possible to hire a tax professional(?) I dunno, but you’ll be sent a 1099 so there’s no avoiding it unless your state has the aforementioned exemptions. Not a dealbreaker, but something to consider!

[@mjsavard1676]

Just came across your video, I can tell you are sincere and I feel your pain and struggle. I was about to open an Etsy shop too but after seeing your video, it really open my eyes on how bad they are. Thank you so much for sharing your experience with Etsy and good luck with your website and your health!

[@Janabstra]

Hi MJ. Thank you for taking the time to comment. You can still open your Etsy shop but just have a backup plan. Etsy is good to start selling and that way you can drive traffic to your own website and hopefully you don't have the same experience as me.

[@mjsavard1676]

@@Janabstra Thank you so much!

[@kathyberven5556]

Wow thank you for sharing. Will not use Etsy.

[@cherylmusgrove7]

Your website is awesome!! May your business be forever successful! I’ll be shopping with you ❤️

[@a59028]

Thank you for sharing and I’m sorry this happened to you. Hope you are feeling better and God bless

[@stacylitzable]

My boyfriend came back from vacation and they closed his shop! 1,000 decal sales in 5 months. No complaints from buyers. And no explanation from Etsy. He reported to the BBB. Huge hit considering he was laid off from both Covid and tearing his Achille’s tendon. This was main revenue. Grr!

[@SableSunsets]

What the hell !! How can they just close shops like that !!

[@batty3897]

It is in the fine print

[@OracleMoon]

He must have some complaints. Weird they're closing shops, so mean of them.

[@ravenbelote1801]

Thank you for sharing your experience with Etsy. It helps those of us shopping around for a site to sell our wares. 💜

[@crwil2011]

Aww, you are so sweet. I am glad you are better now. Things happen for a reason, you will do amazing things. Thanks for all your information. I needed this information about other website portions because I am unable to continue to pay for my website. Thank you again!!!! We appreciate you, and cute cute jewelry.

[@missone43]

Totally enjoyed your video- My first time here and just happened to see it by chance. New Sub. Thank you so much. I loved that you didn't give up! Congratulations on your new site!

[@Janabstra]

Thank you for being here

[@WeSelfCare]

Just came across this video because I'm thinking about starting an Etsy shop. I can't believe you are from Puerto Rico! I'm from The virgin islands St. Croix! The hurricane really changed everyone's lives. But this video made my day and gave me the push I needed. Thank you for this video!

[@Janabstra]

Hey! Thanks for watching! I'm sorry about the hurricane I know its not easy :( your island is beautiful

[@mamamiablambia]

Thank you for sharing your story, and I'm truly going to take your suggestions to heart. I am a single grandma raising 3 little's all of a sudden and I WANT and NEED to be home with them, so I HAVE to make this work! God Bless you!!

[@morningsong8077]

May God grant you great success! You can do it! 👍

[@marionwoodard2418]

Sad to hear what happened to you but you have shown how strong you are by moving and not giving up. So very graceful. May you have an abundance of success.

[@nixiediycrafts5143]

This was so helpful. Thank you for sharing. Congratulations on your new success.

[@JdTbby]

I'm disappointed in Etsy for doing this to their basically employees and for them to show such disrespect for the fact that she was a long time creator for them its a shame. I don't know why I expected them to not grow into a giant selfish corp but that just shows u they will fall one day there will be more platforms and they will die off bc of their business practices they will loose it in the end to ppl like us who decide to not be apart of their multi level marketing. Its up to the new generation of creators to expect more and give rise to a new world of online honest selling and marketing.

[@wordscrafter]

Wow. First, I'm so sorry this happened to you. I do remember those pages. I've seen several videos about similar issues. Etsy isn't what it used to be, for creators anyway. And I don't see how they can have so much control over YOUR business. That's exploitation. I wish you the very best!

[@fullermoments]

I am glad your video came in my feed. Your sharing your experience will be eye opening and very beneficial to people who are just starting out.

[@chlowe_]

Sending you a big hug ❤️❤️ Thank you so much for sharing I hope your situation gets better!

[@AerielFerguson]

I wonder if the reason Etsy has gone from humble and considerate to stuck up and heartless is because management changed😕

[@eleanor.shadow]

They went public. When you have shareholders, you stop working for yourself and start having to do everything to make shareholders money. That means sellers stop being important, only buyers matter... I’m still an Etsy seller but I use it to funnel buyers into my own website and shop. Etsy isn’t worth it anymore...

[@GabrielleTollerson]

I wouldn't doubt it

[@jenniferm1253]

@@eleanor.shadow Exactly. Same thing has happened with so many great sites. My friend and I were just talking the other day about how great Snapchat used to be before they went public.

[@scroogemcduckrich9705]

Yup they are a public company so it’s all about shareholders

[@scroogemcduckrich9705]

@@eleanor.shadow same.. I siphon customers

[@Miauwies]

I don't know why this video is scrolling by. But I deside to watch. I'm so sorry what happend on etsy. Wish you all the best.

[@Janabstra]

Thank you for taking the time to comment such kind words

[@shelbyc5979]

Literally bought all my start up supplies tonight. Got recommended your video. Thank you so much for the inspiration to start out on my own.

[@KirstenEdwards]

Thank you so much for sharing. This is very helpful and I’m glad your doing well on your own.

[@JacobPeterzon]

As a business owner in a completely separate feild. Diversifying your platforms is the most important thing. If you stay on etsy alone you lose everything if you lose etsy. By using multiple platforms is the best strategy. Having a shopify page, Etsy store front, and an eBay account for example will not just protect you if you lose one. It will help you be more discoverable and marketable. Edit: I should mention, it's okay to just start with one and probably smart. Make income before expanding your business.

[@gaylescoolcraftsandsewing4372]

Running more than one platform would be waaay too much stress for me, but I can see that it would be best for those who can handle it.

[@EmmaLangdon]

I hope Etsy watches this and gives your account back.

[@MyBelgianAzzy]

I wouldn't- and won't!- sell on Etsy after hearing this account. She paid their bills by selling on their platform... they should be groveling for her business, not asking her to explain her personal health history for the "privilege" (😒) of selling on their site.

[@scroogemcduckrich9705]

Etsy is a public company they don’t care

[@EmmaLangdon]

@@scroogemcduckrich9705 exactly

[@EDBLUESTEIN]

This is nothing compared to selling on Amazon. I had to explain how to make my shipping cost cheaper when all of my shipping labels were purchased through Amazon.

[@lorettabrail7806]

I will not sell on those greedy sites. Ever.

[@angelajiron-mendoza2170]

Thank you for all your information. It's very helpful. Wishing you much success!

[@Janabstra]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for taking the time to comment. I wish you the best!

[@pamschonfarber1041]

Thank you for this information. I have square from years ago. But thinking of starting a online business, have been listening to a lot of information, so I do appreciate your time. I truly hope your life is more settled for you, and continues through 2021 & so on.