Selling art on Etsy - thoughts from a full-time artist

Are you thinking about opening a shop on Etsy? In this video I share my advice on what it's like to sell on this popular platform.
✨UPDATE: Since I created this video, Etsy has changed their algorithms in order to better pair customers with items they are searching for. Therefore, my example regarding Etsy Search at 2:34 is no longer accurate in 2019. All other content will still provide useful information ☺️
For those who've asked, here is a list of the studio equipment I use to prepare and ship my prints to customers (affiliate links):
✨Printer for art prints: amzn.to/2ULaTWV
✨Carl Paper Cutter: amzn.to/2PCgzS2
✨ Canon All in One Printer for scanning your work: amzn.to/2Y15nl7
✨Rollo Thermalprinter: amzn.to/2vCvLpj
✨ rigid mailers for 8x10 prints: amzn.to/2PTOcin
✨ rigid mailers for 11x14 prints: amzn.to/2VHzLn5
See works in progress on FB at:
/ ellenbrennemanstudio
Find my prints and original work on Etsy here:
www.etsy.com/s...
All of the opinions I share in this video are based on my personal experience which may not be the same as yours. Please contribute to the conversation but let's all be respectful of one another.
☑️ Write to me here:
Ellen Brenneman
PO Box 8251
South Bend, IN 46660

[@ZiggyLu-og3zp]

*_Artists: no matter what people say, do what you're led to do and do it in faith. You never know who's going to see your work and where._*

[@sonialidder88]

This is beautiful, thanks for sharing 😊

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

ZiggyLu 2022 you have made the strongest and most inspiring point and I thank you for sharing that with others here. It's so true!

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

I love this saying; thank you for sharing it with everyone!

[@Splatterpunk_OldNewYork]

Very true. You are the first audience. Everyone else comes second.

[@selfiopath1982]

This is such a good advice! The only way to create unique art is to be yourself.

[@TheBubblypumpkin]

LOL I

[@savedby_gracethrough_faith]

I found that people you know on facebook all want the artwork for free. Like because you know them they assume you will just give it to them.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

That is certainly a problem, I agree. I attribute that simply to a lack of knowledge and understanding that what we do is a real business and not a hobby. Many people don't realize that while we love our job, we still have to pay our bills! lol.

[@alanfreeman7374]

Gypsy EX-JW A Million Miles Amen

[@jeffdrylewicz5062]

I find just being up front about not working for free is effective. I usually respond to artwork requests with something like "tell me what you're looking to have created and we'll talk pricing". Most people don't want to sound cheap after that. I now get a lot of work through friends, some of which have commissioned me multiple times.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Jeff that is GREAT advice thank you for sharing this - I'm so glad it's working for you (will try that myself!) 👌🏼

[@petmomful2260]

I do sewing and machine embroidery, and I found the same problem when I had a business. People just want you to do it for them for free. I do things for family for free, but others should pay. I am considering an Etsy shop, but I am just not sure i could keep up; it sounds like a lot of work.

[@eldrinod]

Amazing! The minute you mentioned spirit animals, a strange light anomaly floated in front of you!

[@truthbespoken333]

The orb appears passing by right when she says spirit animal!! How wonderful is the Universe!

[@duncankent1330]

Ohhh man yeh your right the orb appears right on the word spirit.. amen to the universe and yes the universe gives us these little signs from time to time but most people ignore or never notice or are just so grounded in this material world...

[@julienielsen3746]

@@duncankent1330 Probably a reflection from a passing car going past the window.

[@Tenchhunter]

Very useful to hear some of your comments, I've been selling on Etsy for a while, it was slow selling in the beginning, then things take off after a few years as you paint more and have lots more items in your shop, more choice for prospective buyers. It also made me paint in many more different styles than I would have dared to before, so many positives to be had.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Thank you for your perspective!

[@Claudia-jp4lo]

Thanks for sharing, I just opened my first Etsy shop I hope I could bring joy to people who love art ♥

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Hello, Claudia - and congratulations on opening your new Etsy shop! best of luck to you!! 💕

[@mikenino9670]

I have Harley Davidson paintings i cant even sell very well Detailed 18 by 24 on canvas. People want you to paint them something but when you give them a price they look at you like your Nuts lol.

[@JohnSmith-fw2et]

I find etsy has total and complete control over who actually views what you have posted. I usually get only 1 or 2 views a day. On the few days that I got multiple views I made a few sales. I make pottery, my shop is called crownpointpottery on etsy. The other issue is etsy has multiple fees and they aren't specific as to what they are charging you for.

[@nicoler.4356]

How much do they charge you? Approximately?

[@JohnSmith-fw2et]

Nicole Rusk That’s the point, it says fees, taxes and transaction fee. There isn’t a specific percentage or an actual breakdown. It’s possible for Etsy to specifically state every fee on your financial page for each sale yet they don’t do it, how isn’t that intentional deception.

[@ehart2422]

Thank you for sharing your experience and expertise. I love your paintings. I have a question about Etsy. I paint custom portraits, but it seems that etsy only allows you to post/sell existing art, ready for sale, not art Commissions that will be done. How do I do this? I couldn't find an answer on etsy. Thank you.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Elizabeth Hart hello, and thank you for your question! Yes, you certainly can post commissioned work for sale 😊 It will require a bit of creativity, however, since you are technically posting something that you haven't created yet. My suggestion is to list the item for sale as a commissioned portrait, and then for the photographs, share examples of work you have done in the past (maybe adding that little blurb on each photo). Then, in your description, give detailed information about your commission guidelines. There are other artists who do commissioned work on Etsy. You may want to do a search for 'custom pet portraits' to use as an example so you can see how other artists are creating their listings - it will give you some great ideas on how to create your own. I really hope this helps! Good luck!

[@ehart2422]

Thank you Ellen!

[@AirEnderman13]

Wow, I'm not the only one.

[@malenaramire7349]

Elizabeth Hart how do I get Facebook followers to sell my paintings.

[@wandaloskot]

Plenty of great advice - however sorry, you are repeating some old false tales, with the tone of believable authority, therefore very harmful, although I am sure you don’t mean. Of course, it is somehow understandable, because you base it all on your own experience. But.... First - “you cannot expect to make living from etsy alone”. False. Just because you are not able to, doesn’t mean that anyone else cannot do it, as there are MANY artists on etsy making really great income. Second, saying that it is hard to sell, because art that is a luxury item - this is so far from true, that it is simply ridiculous. There are better ways to say that it is not easy, than to be so needlessly discouraging.

[@vinayyallalartworkz1777]

Your videos have helped me greatly, my abstract art finally has an online market place. keep up the good work. Thank you!

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

So great to hear! Congratulations!

[@Fairychamber]

These are all really good tips. I´ve been selling on etsy for years. I also sell on other pages but etsy is still one of my favorite places to sell.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

It's always nice to hear from a fellow Etsy seller - thanks for watching! Aside from a few tweaks I wish they'd make when it comes to editing, I really like it there as well :)

[@readec.gloeckner5923]

So I would ask you, is art a “need” or a “want?” I know you are thinking you need food but you don’t need art because you’re saying people are frugal. Yes more and more people are frugal. But we as artists must change the perception of the public. We must ourselves educate people about art. I say art is a necessity, where most believe that art is just a want. If you seek peace, harmony and beauty in your home then art is really at the top of your ‘need” list not just a want. Think how much time is spent in your home with family and how art brings beauty and peaceful emotions by hanging art in the walls if your home. Original art sets the tone for your home, so here you have walls in your home and you can hang art (the middle of you art) should hang at about 57 inches on your walls and that is about eye level for many people (but most people hang wrong, it is not hung for a 6’ 11” NBA player therefore you would see this painting each and every day giving you beauty and peace throughout your life and handed down for generations. But food gets wasted after so many hours so which is the better investment? Original art! But is a print a better option, to which I say no! Prints fade and by the time you spend money on an odd size the framing is not going to include museum glass, cost prohibitive, so expensive then how long before lighting and/or the sun fades and you end up with minimal color then those prints end up being dropped off to a thrift store and you go buy another and this is cyclical. Seven years is the average length of a print. You do this three times. So where is the savings and frugality? None! Prints do not bring warmth to your home but original art does. You can have prints or originals but if you do not have quality titles, you’re losing sales. There is so much that artists do not have in their skill set which makes it difficult for artists

[@evandegenfelder4554]

Here is my problem with Etsy. There is no screening process for fine art. Everyone who believes they can paint can have an Etsy shop. There is no minimum of quality required---that's what causes the massive numbers every professional artist must 'compete' with. It makes a huge slog for art shoppers. Not to be mean, but some of the paintings, etc. are just not very good, yet they have the same visibility as everyone else. I say good luck to anyone who gives it a try.

[@readec.gloeckner5923]

Facebook is mainly friends but if you want new people and people to buy your art then Instagram will bring in non friends. So do you pay for your website? Can you get a free website? Can you get canvases for free? Can you get paint for free? Artists don’t get it, you cannot control revenues but you can control expenses. So decrease expenses allows you to price your art competitively.

[@victorchristy1706]

Hi, I am currently in school as an amateur artist and I am trying to start in the level of making artwork to sell out to the market. I'm into oil painting, mixed media, sculpture, digital media, and some amount of graphic design and architecture. At the same time, I realized just recently that I am facing student debt before I could graduate. Is there any advice you can give to art students and any other artists in particular that are experiencing the same issue as I have now? Thanks.

[@billpliske]

Question for you, Ellen. You've got some original work listed on Etsy, and I'm assuming you have that SAME work listed elsewhere? If so, have you nailed down a good process to keep track of things? So that if an original piece sells on Etsy, you remember to take it off sites X, Y & Z? Thanks!

[@M.2018-b3f]

Priceless advice. Thank you. Your channel is absolutely brilliant! 👍 😘

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

M. 2018 so glad you’re finding it helpful! 😊

[@jogmas12]

I have an idea for a unique art/craft that I think I know who my target market will be. I’m not going to say what this is for obvious reasons. I am now in the process of designing and constructing a jig/template from which this craft will be made. The only thing is each piece will probably take me some time to construct after I determine what I want to use for a design theme. Thanks for the information.

[@gosiagosia5934]

I ordered things on Etsy and never received anything. This website has really BAD wrap in the world!

[@Llyrdriel]

Thank you so much for making this how-to-sell art on Etsy. It is very helpful, inspiring and much appreciated. I love you artwork! Owls are some of my fav spirit animals!

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Thank you for your kind words - and I'm so glad you found it helpful!

[@giovanniarellano2628]

Things could turn out deferent for you and might even one day be something in life but I do like what she says but still do what you love and everything will come even your dreams as well.

[@os2841]

A lot of etsy stuff is cheap crap from Alibaba now. They say they are banning users who do this but I see millions of listings like this anyway. Will go with my own website and paid ads instead.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Etsy has definitely changed since I created this video and many sellers feel exactly like you do (including myself). I don't recommend anyone use Etsy alone to bring in a stable income. It's always better to diversify whether going with another platform or like you have decided, to stick with your own website. I have had my own site for a while now and do get customers that prefer to shop there rather than Etsy. Good luck!

[@alaysiakayebutler6299]

i don't usually comment about this, but you have had two orbs go past you.. good info great points

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Thank you for your comment and lol, you're not the only one to have mentioned this so no worries :) I never even noticed it until someone pointed it out to me; now it's all I see when I watch this video! 😂

[@classicartfoundation639]

@@EllenBrennemanStudio do you paint creepy pictures? That could be attracting dark stuff!! Beware

[@classicartfoundation639]

I'm just so cynical of any web based enterprises now, save your energy and heartache and just draw for pleasure I say....

[@ollie2111]

Well yeah but it's a good way to make at least a small amount of money off of something you enjoy. It is important to do what you cant to keep the passion going and not suffer burnout or stress. Its not easy unfortunately, and no job is easy. At least it's a job that the person loves some of the time.

[@cowgirljane6976]

Good, helpful content. Not sure what a spirit animal is supposed to be though!

[@mlsdd]

I saw your art work on Etsy, they are really beautiful!

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Star Cat thank you so much! 😊

[@GoldenAstroCat]

Great advice thanks. However, Facebook in my experience was a total waste of time. The FB algorithm is rigged so unless you PAY for FB ads, NO ONE sees your FB business page. And friends and family on your personal page are not a proper customer base.

[@artyataol]

Exactly, it's too commercialized and out to suck ones blood out in $s

[@LynnePriceStudio]

The algorithms are working against us. FB put me in posting jail for sharing my art and another time for sharing someone else's art.

[@SuziSpooks]

I have just opened my Etsy shop with my artwork and this knowledge you shared is much appreciated, thank you.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Suzi, you are most welcome - and good luck with your new shop! :)

[@SuziSpooks]

Ellen Brenneman Studio Thank you 😊

[@philrichmond7567]

Suzi Spooks What is your shop called? Mine is ArtbymeGB

[@smooth111012]

Suzi Spooks good luck Suzi 👍

[@philrichmond7567]

Suzi Spooks Good luck too

[@DennisCNolasco]

Thanks Ellen, I will take this to heart ❤️

[@kungtony]

I love drawing and feel I've improved a lot watching KZbin tutorials. Never really got the hang of using Etsy or other art selling websites. I have a full time job but it would be nice to make money on the side selling my art. I do mostly portraits I take from the Internet. I had a weekend job but quit that to get my weekends back. But the extra income, even £100 a month from selling art would be awesome!

[@dessisart1461]

I love how you talk about Art🎨 I adore Art.Yor videos are so helpful.Thank you 🙏

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

thank you for your kind comment; I'm glad you're enjoying my videos! :)

[@madArt1981]

But Facebook just shows your work to a small group of family & people. Right? Plus they’re comercial posts can add up quickly and become expensive for little exposure

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

With the new algorithm it's really all about engagement now. If you set posts to public, everyone/anyone has a chance to see them/share them which builds your audience. And the more people that comment, the more FB shows that post to others. It can be tricky but like all of these social media platforms, if certain requirements are met, there is more reach 😊

[@JD-xg5jx]

I don't have credit card .. can you help me register

[@youssefouasmi7296]

i love your vidéo and i like it and i like your work im also artiste but im not yet pro i wanna start selling my work online ❤️

[@willdixon9525]

Good info. Nice show. Watched and Thanks for sharing your wonderful videos. new subscriber #519 like #74

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

You are most welcome! So glad you found it helpful! :)

[@sartorisart4835]

Hi Ellen, I want to sell my original paintings on Etsy but I have no clue about how to ship my artworks. They will be 8x10 acrylic paintings on paper. Should I mail them as registered mail requesting a signature or just regular mail. Thank you in advance.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

If I am shipping a flat piece of original art, I will send it insured with a signature required. If you'd like to see how I ship my art, I have a video on how I ship my prints, but I ship originals the same way - hopefully you'll find it helpful: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hXi4h4R4hNurbKc

[@LilyDuVeauLilysMix]

This video was Sponsored! by Etsy?

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

LilysMix Acrylic Pouring I’m afraid not. If it were I’d have way more money in the bank! 😂

[@shaki_aly2049]

i am getting sick i wanna help my parents to pay oru depths urgh

[@AddToCartEtsySuccess]

cool owl in the background!

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

thank you! One of my favorites, too! :)

[@devalillaheart3320]

My question is: is it really necessary to have multiple things up at once when I get started-like will it negatively impact my profitability long term? I have just one or two things I'm ready to put up now... but as prints, so I will have a high volume, just not lots of Options yet

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Having multiple items will better your chances of being seen in Search. Also, consistently adding items to your shop shows Etsy that you are tending to your shop and that increases you being seen in search as well. If you decided not to have any more items than one or two things, an option is to promote them through Etsy ads.

[@classicartfoundation639]

I put some work on there but it seems like a bad place to sell, a lot of rubbish on thete

[@dennybreese]

I liked the tips in the video. I was going to start an Etsy page but think I'll just go with what you recommended, Facebook. What camera do you use to take photos of your paintings? I have an iPhone 13 pro but wondering if I should invest in a nice DLSR like Cannon or Nikon. I do have nice studio lighting but outside lighting seems to be great too. Lastly, for prints, do you do on demand printing? Drop ship printing? Or do you just use a local print shop? Thanks so much for the video.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

I have several videos where I break down my printing process; I'll include links here to two of them that I hope you find useful! kzbin.info/www/bejne/bnWsh6OYj62Sgdk kzbin.info/www/bejne/jXuQmJyQnLuVZpI

[@dennybreese]

@@EllenBrennemanStudio thanks

[@mitutoyo34]

Thanks for the advice I don't think Etsy is for me I like the gallery environment and interaction and I make very large paintings. Also I'm a professional and I make my income in a very different way so that sets me free to do whatever art I feel like. Thanks for your advice.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

New Moon Awakening knowing where we don’t want to be is half the battle! Best of luck to you in working with the galleries! 😊

[@toblerusseta]

New Moon Awakening can I ask, how do you promote and sell your large paintings?

[@mitutoyo34]

Toblerusse . It's a lot of work I go around downtown and around all the small galleries I show them my profolio. I am not looking for money at this time just want to meet people on the art environment. So I have no expectations. If I sell that's great but if I don't that's fine. I hope that answer your question:)

[@orls9068]

@@mitutoyo34 Another option in Etsy is selling digital downloads, if you photographed your work you could sell the image and the customer pays and downloads, just an option if you ever did need a few quid.

[@STICKYArt]

Great info! Cool work! I love the idea of spirit animals! Liked and subbed! :)

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Hey, thanks for watching - and likewise!! :)

[@jessewaughcom]

Are you still getting traffic on your Facebook Page? I get plenty of comments likes on my personal Facebook profile, but this year the Facebook Page has completely dried up after I paid for a few ads and now I only get traffic on the Page if I pay to promote a post.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Hi, Jesse - Yes, I'm still gaining traffic on FB, but I do understand your frustration. I have a second art page where I share/sell my fan art and gaining followers there has been a near impossibility even WITH promoting through ads (which I did a couple of times then quit, because I found it not to be worth the effort). My main art page has over 4000 followers currently, and I've found that the most effective way to encourage shares/likes/comments is to engage. I comment back on nearly every single comment I receive which encourages more dialogue, and I post videos that I've taken that will appeal to my followers. My time-lapse videos have helped considerably - people really love to see how work comes together or videos of what is currently inspiring me. Best of luck to you, and keep up the good fight and keep thinking outside the box.

[@jessewaughcom]

Thanks Ellen! That makes sense, and from what you wrote it sounds like you had built up a good following for your first Facebook page before they made it pay-to-play. I actually think Facebook may have shot itself in the foot with this ad-dependency because even though they have amazing targeting ability, doing away with organic reach could eventually make the platform useless.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Jesse, I had close to 1000 followers by the time the algorithms began drastically changing things. You are so right about ad-dependency. Even now, I have posts that will, at times, reach only 60 people or so unless I pay. I've created posts instructing followers to make sure they have their settings so that they see my posts first in their newsfeed, which has helped, I believe. Also, I've noticed that any post with a link (say, to a piece for sale on Etsy) tends to stall out - BUT, if I put links in parenthesis they do better and/or put a link in the comments section. Things like this can get a bit maddening at times, though - I'd rather be putting all this effort into my paintings. lol

[@izzatvaid2733]

Hi Ellen I am ready to sell some of my art how do I sell on Facebook can you please guide me I am 62 and not much aware of all this technical stuff Thank you for you time

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

I have a video on this very subject; hopefully you will find it helpful: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJfHXpqkab-Unbc

[@DiamondGazer]

I just wanted to say that your hair is SO PRETTY! (and thank you for the helpful video!!)

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Wow, thank you so much! xo

[@dwaynegraham7591]

What POD if any service would you recommend

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Hi, Dwayne :) Printful is a good company to use, but there are several others such as Art of Where and Gooten - if you're looking solely for print on demand art prints I suggest Finerworks

[@RecentFriend]

Just getting into etsy. Thank you so much!

[@RecentFriend]

i subbed

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Best of luck to you on your new Etsy shop! 😃

[@agiusbennett]

Thank you for this great video. It is overwhelming information, but it is a start! Thank you!!!!

[@pamelacass8703]

Hello. So I am getting familiar with Etsy. Looking at the policies and all the fees etc. I found the area where I can choose digital when I list my products. I guess when I put the photo up and choose digital that is all I need to do so when my product is seen it will be ready for the customer to print off? Thank you for all of your videos and advice! Very helpful!

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

From my understanding, you'll upload a file and when the customer purchases it he/she will gain immediate access to the file for download. Nothing for you to mail. The one thing you might want to prepare yourself for is those who've never done it before; be available for customer assistance (or put clear directions on how to download in your listing description). Also, I'd use every opportunity to make it clear that they will not be receiving a physical product; many people simply don't read and may assume you're sending something in the mail (you likely already know these things but these are the two major issues I see digital sellers having) 😊

[@pamelacass8703]

Thank you! I love your videos!

[@susank8257]

Thank you for sharing your tips, am currently working on opening an etsy shop and it seems a bit overwhelming right now, but your advice really helped!

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

I'm so glad it helped, Susan - and I wish you much success on your opening!

[@haqeeqatkiarzoo358]

Your are very beautiful woman

[@killsforthrills]

I mostly paint abstract and forest is that popular on etsy

[@marinaann9653]

great information... Thank you for helping others!

[@voNashemaalo]

Etsy requires SSN..nope

[@KrazyK314]

This video is extremely helpful thank you. By chance who do you use to copy your original prints because that's where I'm stuck

[@avicennitegh1377]

Thanks Ellen - very helpful, friendly and clear communication about selling art.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Avicennite GH thank you for your comment; so glad you found it helpful! 😊

[@justkeephiking6525]

You are my new favorite be youtube channel. I'm just beginning to sell my art and your videos are super informative!

[@valerievaljean8948]

I saw the orb too at the 3:33 mark :)

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

It is the strangest thing, Valerie! I never even noticed it until others began pointing it out to me. I find it pretty magical, really :)

[@ulysse21]

Proof that Daemons do exist ! BTW, your work is just amazing

[@dawnvankleeck1497]

I noticed that orb right away, when she was first talking about spirit animals... how awesome!!

[@shersartwork]

Thank you for your video! I love listening to other artist talking about their experiences. Thank you for not adding a lot of ads and banners! So many artist with "how to videos" are adding ads and banners to make more money. I refuse to watch them. Love your work!

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Thank you for watching! I have a difficult time watching videos that break every few minutes for another ad :/ While I am always looking for ways to further support myself, my main objective is to give back to this overlooked community so it's nice to know my attempts are proving to be helpful. :)

[@Nina12534]

Ellen-that was lovely,and thanks for your generosity in sharing your experience!

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

David, you are most welcome - so glad you found it helpful! :)

[@lucienebrown6056]

Can you tell me what kind of artist l am? I start Instagram... I don't know my nech.... Luciene Brown (Instagram). Please .thanks I am here learning with you..thanks ♥️😘

[@antoniovargas225]

really insightful, the market is saturated, thanks for the help:)

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

You're very welcome. It is a saturated market for sure. And overwhelming for those just getting started. But there is a place for everyone, I really believe that. Good luck!

[@Baldoxxx4000]

my etsy digitals stuff isnt selling well unless i promote which a loss in profit, perhaps i need to post more? I only have 10 digital products atm

[@mrj8521]

On average how many pieces do you sell on Etsy per month?

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

That is truly a difficult question to answer. It widely varies, and I'm not exaggerating. As the economy changes, art isn't purchased as much. When school is out, sales are low because people are on vacation and spending money on extra curricular activities. When school starts again, parents are buying clothes/books. In January and Feb, people are paying off debt from the holidays. This is why I recommend not solely relying on one business/platform but rather, several.

[@peiyilin09]

Thank you Ellen! I just started my Etsy store and I am so frustrated that my art is not turning up in search at all. I will try a few things like you mentioned. Thank you for sharing!

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

You are so welcome! GOOD LUCK with your new Etsy shop!! :)

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

I wanted to let you know that I am working on a video to help with that! I should have it up in a few days! :)

[@Tracy559]

Did you creat a business page on FB? How does that part work?

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Tracy Barker Yes, I do have a business page on Facebook and I highly recommend it if for no other purpose than to improve your SEO. If you go to the help section on Facebook, just do a simple search for creating a business page and they will walk you through it. 😊

[@paulettereid9894]

Hi Ellen, How many pieces of work would you say is a good number to start an Etsy shop with? How do you create a "watermark" to protect your artwork? Thanks for all the info you provide.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Hi, Paulette! :) I recommend having around 10 or so, simply because when you have a potential customer come to your shop you will want them to see that you are showing you're an established shop with multiple options to choose from. You can use a free app called Snapseed and create a watermark right from your phone or any editing software that has the option to add text to a photo. Simply upload your image, type your info onto the image, move it to where you want it and save. Hope this helps! 😊

[@rebecca5279]

I just came across your KZbin videos and they are so informative and helpful about the very art topics (ie selling online, having my own website, how to best use my Facebook page & Etsy and how to troubleshoot problems) I need to research a lot more and find out what works and what doesn't! I'm an extreme introvert (also autistic with OCD) and terrible with any social stuff let alone promoting myself effectively. I'm a wildlife artist primarily in watercolor, gouache, pen & ink, and colored pencil. Yet, it's more fantasy-based with the main theme being "animal odd couples" (different species interacting from all over the world that would never be together in real life!). Been drawing and then painting all my life and is my biggest passion! (however it never got past the hobby stage). I'm very low income and this is a big reason I just started a Shop with Etsy and a separate Facebook page for my artwork, but then didn't do anything with them much, even though they are both inexpensive options. I'm not computer saavy at all, and therefore turned solely to sell art in person and locally, but not much there, either, as Montana (where I live), seems a very limited audience for the kind of work I do. (ie subjects such as a binturong hanging out with a tiger, playing bagpipes. Not just native Montana wildlife). I tried to "boost' my facebook page created for my shop to get more people to see and find a good target audience. Yet I saw you have to pay with the lowest price option of "paying a dollar a day for 10 days." I feel really stuck and so much time wasted with all this online stuff! Truth is , I sense it's mainly online where I'll find my true target audiences! Love your site, artwork, and your videos! Thank you so much for what you do!!

[@sharonb5812]

Thank you! very helpful. you mentioned apps for photos. can you name those apps?

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Sharon, you are most welcome! I'm glad you found it helpful! :) The main app I use to alter photos on my phone is Snapseed, and for more detailed work on the computer I use PicMonkey. Both of these are free and very user friendly.

[@sharonb5812]

Ellen Brenneman Studio thank you!!

[@caesarkakuru5455]

Thanks a lot for for this. How do you make your prints?

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

I create my own prints, however when I was first starting out I used an online printer who offered drop shipping services.

[@elliotd7876]

How do you think people find your shop on facebook? Do you do paid advertising or do you find people just stumble across your page randomly, or is it more a case of people who have shared you work that has drawn people to your page? Thanks!

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Elliot L I actually created a video about this - you can find it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nGXOhX-FYr-sm8U I hope it’s helpful 😊

[@elliotd7876]

Great, thanks!

[@deannadeal176]

I meant to ask about prints as well. So you make your own prints? Do you have a professional photograph photograph your prints first?

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Hi, Deanna 😊 I scan my work, then edit the image using Photoshop Elements and PicMonkey (though there are free programs you could also use). If my work is too large to scan, I take it to Kinkos and have them scan it for me. If you are interested, I have several videos regarding prints on my channel which might be helpful. Thanks for your question!

[@latecia1]

@@EllenBrennemanStudio Hello Ellen, i am struggling with scanning my drawings. They have not enough large scanners in London and i cant afford a professional camera. How do you make sure its enough big size please? Does the Picmonkey increase pixels?

[@teswilliams206]

How to find artist on rtdy

[@sweetcrimson144]

Hi, when you set up your shop on Etsy. How many items should you have displayed? I've been thinking of selling drawings and crafts like crochet toys but I'm not sure how to get started.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Hi, Lois :) I'd recommend a minimum of 15-25 items in your shop. If you have too few items, it will be a clear indication that your shop is new - especially so if you have had no sales so you want to give a potential customer as many reasons as possible to consider purchasing something from you. Also, it's very important to have a cohesive looking shop, meaning that you want your shop to be remembered for selling something specific. If your shop doesn't look cohesive, that can hinder sales as well. Good luck! :)

[@lizbetz]

Thank you for info

[@stevejorde]

Ellen your advice has been so helpful. I have Etsy but have never considered selling on thta platform. I will definately do some serious research on this.

[@kaystill3843]

Thank you for the 411 on selling art online..

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

You're most welcome, Kay! :)

[@HanieBCreations]

RedBubble works if you join the variety of art groups. We are entering a digital age. It helps to make products with your art and this can be much more profitable once you get it going. I sell items with my photography-- mostly.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Many thanks for contributing to this conversation and for sharing your experience with RedBubble. You are so right - this digital age proves to be the perfect time to sell for artists. I'm so glad to see you're doing well using that platform! :)

[@shannonkelley9150]

Thank you so much I appreciate you making time to help us.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

You are most welcome, Shannon! :)

[@stephaniepotterart]

Those were very good tips. I have an Etsy store and haven’t had any real luck with it. I heard another artist say Etsy doesn’t protect your rights. That your images can be stolen and used elsewhere. What is your experience with this issue? Thanks 🌺

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Stephanie, hello! I will be doing another Etsy video soon as they've yet again changed their algorithm methods so there is new information that will require some further changes with listings. I hope to upload that video next week :). As for your question, I have had my artwork stolen more times than I can count (and have at least two videos on my channel if you're interested in watching them). Any time we as artists upload our images onto the Internet there is a risk of someone stealing it. It is our job therefore, to upload low resolution images so that if it DOES get stolen, the image will be so pixelated and fuzzy, it won't serve much good in the way of prints or merchandise. I hope this helps! :)

[@therealvsfake]

I recommend using watermarks all over your image! Like "shuttershock" or lower the opacity.

[@travishinshaw7404]

anywhere yr art is online, it can be stolen, none of the platforms really go to bat to protect it to an effective degree.

[@carolinej3661]

A lot of words, but not a lot of information...

[@elsagrace3893]

Patricia J Winn don’t know what you are looking for......I think it’s a good overall start on general info to help one decide if it’s right for you.

[@suzan-x3i]

Thank you

[@israelgeddes6045]

awesome advice, thank you very much.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Israel Geddes you are so welcome!

[@joycemaureroriginal8563]

Very helpful information! Two years later do you still find this to be true? Has anything changed in the market place? Thank you!

[@kristinepollock6502]

Thanks so much for sharing the information and your experiences, I really appreciate your input. This gives me some things to think about. I'm still on the fence about Etsy, but my reluctance is due more to personal/health reasons than anything else. The Art Facebook page maybe the best option for starting out and will not take as much energy and time away from creating as I'm driven to create as much as I can while I can. Blessings and Thank you, Kristine

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Yes, Kristine - I completely agree with you. Facebook is an excellent way to begin and I highly recommend starting there if you aren't quite ready to jump into Etsy, for all the reasons you mentioned. I know some artists who sell soley on Facebook and do quite well, actually! Best of luck to you! :)

[@FC-bh5qb]

HI Ellen, thank you for your wonderful video, your art is beautiful and your success story is very inspiring. How do you sell original art on Facebook, do your customers just message you to say they want it?

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

I created a video on this very subject based on your question! Just uploaded, you can find it here (and I hope it answers your question) :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJfHXpqkab-Unbc

[@benben-ari4830]

Other than Ebay and Amazon, which websites would you STRONGLY recommend [is Etsy one of them] for selling a variety fine art collection of high quality [all one of a king of very fine artists] , I have been collecting, and at times selling , of my own collection [am NOT a painter, however am a very sharp-eye collector, located in NYC for many years.] Many thanks !

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

I don't have enough information to give a good answer to your question, I'm sorry.

[@papercotton]

does etsy print the art of the artist onto the type of products they want to sell?

[@Kaylie465]

papercotton no...but red bubble does ⭕️☺️

[@papercotton]

@@Kaylie465 thanks a lot

[@Jordanroypiece]

Informative video. Well done 🤙

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Glad you liked it!

[@gtebgf]

When u mentioned spirit. I seen something strange. Or were you burning incense?

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

No, that was definitely something floating on screen. I didn't notice it until another viewer pointed it out to me.

[@gtebgf]

@@EllenBrennemanStudio guardian angel

[@Reconciliation777]

If you get an order for artwork on etsy how to you ship it in the US and do they order from other parts of the world - do you add shipping costs? Thank you.

[@JehRoniMo11]

Lol at the spirit animal dust blowing by people 😝😝

[@funfamily7049]

I posted my drawings and sculpturing on Etsy. Spend time. It all disappeared. A lot of emails with requests to add and update. All disappear. I did try by email. Only for shopping I see my account. I work on the sale.... If someone could help me?

[@macaroon147]

What?

[@PoochAndBoo]

Etsy doesn't make prints for you, the way Fine Art America does, right? They simply display your art to the world (which is good of course) but you have to take care of all of that. Correct?

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Jnl B yes, you are correct. Etsy provides the traffic, and it is up to the seller to provide the tools he or she needs to succeed. Fine Art America is a good alternative for those who want to offer their art to the world but do not want to be involved in any hands on work. 🙂

[@kc4091]

Informative video. Checked out your shop and especially love the bright colored animals like the cow and koala! 😊👍💝

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Thank you, KC! :)

[@stevekobb3850]

Very helpful. Thank you.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

Steve, thank you for your feedback, I'm glad to know you found this video useful! :)

[@pat.iamanartistwitquinn9157]

Enjoyed ur video, found some I teresting. Facts thank

[@danielclaeys7598]

I wish that I could use Etsy. I have a storefront, but when I try to add a painting, ith form does ok until I fill out the shipping information. Everything comes to a halt. I went as far to open another storefront. Before I even got to start filling it, Etsy notified me that my password had been stolen. I think that I might just stay with Facebook and Instagram, unless, of course, there is there a spirit animal you might can whip up for me.

[@EllenBrennemanStudio]

I'm so sorry you're having so much trouble, Daniel. 😞