Why My Etsy Shop was Permanently Banned! How to get your shop Back!

Tonight I am telling Why My Etsy Shop was Permanently Banned! My story and what you can do to get your shop back or prevent it from being banned!
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[@TamiT3]

Girl, number 1, this took my thoughts of you as a mentor to a whole nother level! The honesty you showed in this video is rare these days. Sometimes, I think my comments come across in the opposite way I mean them to lol. I'm just a little mom in rural TN, so I know I'm not much, but my respect for you is over the top! I mean this as sincere as possible. If get down & ready to give up, I turn 1 of ur videos on, no matter how old they are, & feel much better. I share your videos with everyone I know. Anyway, this happened to one of my friends. We thought as long as she tweaked it to make it hers, she would be ok. I am working on my own site, too. The way I see it, why give others a piece of your profit you have worked so hard for. Also, it's a blessing, my son had to give up Disney + because I won't give my money to a company doing some things they support now. The God Lord knew you needed away from Disney lol. I pray one day I grow my business like you have yours. 100% respect! Keep on keeping on!❤

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

First off don’t ever look at yourself as just a little nothing. You are more than you know and life and death lies in the power of the tongue. But thank you so much I will always be honest even when I’m in the wrong. It helps others

[@1dzine]

@TamTamT3 I'm sure to your child your are a giant and you are their hero. There is no "just" in being an amazing parent. Much love sweetie.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Thank you so much ❤

[@batmama4242]

TamTam… i’ve never been to rural Tennessee, BUT, i’ve met a few women from there. And you guys are nothing short, but Lions!!!! go on, and on your birthright woman! 🦋💜

[@mimicoolwhip5991]

​​@@katrinasgracefulcreations3711Hi Katrina, can you do any update about your Etsy store? I had wondered how you were & then today went to a merch site for the merch by 2 well known Creators, I saw at least 10 Etsy stores who have identical merch(shirts & hoodies)They even have the creators names in the description! If you got banned & its illegal, how can others do it? Anyways, all that to say I still feel bad about what happened to you & wish I could have bought your merch prior(this video was my 1st time to your channel) best of luck! If you reopen a Etsy or other store Id be thrilled to shop there. Will check your description after I post this to see if you do❤❤❤❤

[@DLDesignsCT]

Thanks for sharing your story and being transparent, we appreciate it💕

[@loriconley3314]

Love your honesty and that you are so willing to help others!!

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Even when I do wrong I will be honest and help others so they won’t make the same mistakes .

[@camilleyoung5571]

Really appreciate your honesty. I saw ALOT of things like that and have wondered how they do that but now I know. I"m opening a store soon and trying to learn all I can. Thank you.

[@chanalowenthal3897]

This was so helpful. I’m sorry you went through this but thanks for sharing to help others. And I know that there are some companies that do troll and go after copyright infringement so you did dodge a bullet there. But yes please share other sites and ways of selling your products. That would also be so helpful. I just stumbled on your channel and I’m so happy I did. Your energy and willingness to share is wonderful. Thank you

[@lyndabryant7390]

Thank you for your honesty, and your assistance. And you are what your name says…. Grace! ♥️

[@evefavorse5939]

Wow sorry that happened to you and glad you weren’t sued. I so appreciate you for always being real. You show us the flaws and all which is why ppl love your channel! God has something bigger in store for you😊

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Thank you truly appreciate it. Told me story so other people won’t make the same mistakes

[@kingdomtouchesbyajayrichrn6077]

Thank you for your courage and transparency! I rock with you!

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Thank you so much I appreciate it 🙏🏽

[@busyhandsveronica]

Thanks for sharing this information. Love your honesty and positive energy.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Greatly appreciated

[@NaturallyMadeBeauty]

Dang Sis! Sorry to hear that, but you are destined for greatness! Thanks for sharing your story. I’ve been contemplating going that route but this video has inspired me to finalize the website I paid for🤦🏽‍♀

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

You got this! And thank you 🙏🏽

[@chelcie3]

The bullet you dodged was pretty much an actual lawsuit. The other people you see doing it just haven’t been caught yet. True story. When I lived in Atlanta there was always a story on local news about Nike, reps shutting down some store that was selling knockoffs. They literally went in the store and took all the merchandise and trashed it. Thanks for the honesty. You should do all the research and post a video on what sellers should look out for and avoid so they don’t make the same mistakes. I think your experience will stand out

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

I just might. I posted my story so others won’t make the same mistake.

[@judeyyudkin3183]

Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@KiShakeAndBake]

I opened my shop and It's wasnt open 24 hours and they closed it and you know they didn't even explain or tell me anything. How you not going to explain to me why you said 8m suspended. I don't like that. So I'm just going to start my own website

[@Valleygirl4lifeCreations]

@@KiShakeAndBakethey did the same thing to me and I didn’t do anything like copyright or break their rules

[@miathompson7132]

Thank you! You are a breath of fresh air!

[@moradeyoosisanya3859]

Thanks for sharing. I've just opened an Etsy shop. So I know not to make those mistakes. God bless all your endeavours

[@russellrobert6084]

This in-depth video on how not to get banned from Etsy was very helpful, thank you. Really enjoyed the way it was presented!

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Please be careful. Thanks for watching.

[@deirdrejones1734]

Thanks for your transparency. It speaks volumes about your character. Yes, please share alternative options/ platforms.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Coming out tomorrow 🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@lynnebizlyne436]

I’ve always known the info was inaccurate on the ‘alter the pics and your ok’ not so with Disney and big organizations. They paid their dues to get where they’re at. They go after any size shop. Anyway, making a video on alternative sites/ platforms would be awesome! I’ll watch for your tutorial. Glad you weren’t sued ❤❤

[@sandrafrancis8577]

Thanks for the information and your honesty. You are going to be successful with your own site.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Thank you 🙏🏽

[@ieashadesignedit8]

Great video. That is one reason why I make them for the family and not to sell. Trademarks are serious and they will come after you. Like you said they should of at least warned you before taking your shop down...this just show you that you are leveling up to bigger and better things...this is why I think so many people are going to shopify because of being shut down for any little reason on etsy. I have not opened my etsy shop yet because I am really looking at doing shopify. Yes, do a video because I had wix and did not really like it I had it for my event business website and would love to know about other sites. Have a blessed day.

[@prettyrichgirl2007]

Soo sorry to hear about your shop, Lots of luck with your other shop.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Thank you

[@allainat666]

Thanks for sharing❣️ Transparency is key.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Always I was in my feelings that’s why it took me a minute to share

[@allainat666]

@@katrinasgracefulcreations3711 I understand. That is tough. But look at you now! Thriving, Prospering, and Edifying❣️ That was merely a BLESSON🥰 The stepping stone to elevate you to the next level. You’ve learned and my how you’ve grown!

[@marmurr4675]

Thank you for the information and transparency.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Any time! Don’t want others to make the same mistake I did.

[@RMEDM]

Sorry about your experience, thank you for your video. May God bless you .

[@raed1888]

Hey lady sorry to hear what happened, and appreciate you doing this video. Yes please do a video on other websites we can use. Praying for you 🙏🏽😊

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Thank you

[@likitarucker6589]

Thank you, Katrina, for sharing.

[@sj2902]

You have very helpful content! And I definitely appreciate you!

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

I appreciate all of you as well. 🙏🏽

[@bernicetyms5391]

I was just in KZbin, and an Etsy seminar came on. of cause they didn’t talk about how to re-open your shop if permanently closed or suspended. But they did mention they have an office in Brooklyn, NY. I remember while watching you clip that you couldn’t fine their number. Maybe this can help. I’m sorry they closed your shop. But when one door closes another open with better opportunities. So don’t worry, you have a true base of clients who will follow you. As alway, stay positive and a “Boss Lady”.

[@lucyaliat8780]

Same thing happened to me, someone copied me and so Etsy shut us both down. I had been in Etsy for years making and selling my stuff. The lady that copied me had been on Etsy 2 months and Etsy still shut us both down. Even though I had years making my designs and sent them a video showing how I made the tops, they said they could not pick who was violating who. SMH, Right before Christmas, they messed me up. Now I am just uncomfortable to sell my work there.

[@kimscott7986]

Things happen sometimes but we live n learn ETSY picks and choose people too . Thank You Sister

[@ZariahsCreations]

My Etsy was shut down as well. I appreciate you doing this video. I need to download the CSV for my stuff.

[@barbarawinston4140]

Zariah, I am so new to this and had dreams God gave me to continue on, there is so much to learn that many days i don't have time to do my crafts!!! But, what is CSV? if you could email me at [e-mail] I would so appreciate any assistance you can give me. thank you

[@ashlinychole]

I started a brand new shop after doing a bunch of research. I was finally ready to sell custom tees. I posted my first listings (t shirts with designs I created), I came back the next day to a red banner that I was suspended, no email no letter no information. I appealed it to ask what I violated and how to fix it and they said we can't give any more information at this time, you're now permanently suspended😢 I still don't know what I did, I tried a new shop it was suspended before even finishing set up. I spent so much time setting it up I was so hurt! I will try these steps and see how it goes, fingers crossed ! I'm with you though, this gave me a bit of a bad taste in my mouth about Etsy, I'm looking to other platforms now because of how poorly this was handled.

[@mistyholding4565]

I cannot even begin to thank you for this alert coming up for me to read. I also in the past 3 weeks have been dealing with people reporting my at T shop getting copyright notifications on some listings that are not even copyrighted and they took my badges away my star seller you can't talk to a live person you get a automated respond email from them And you work so hard and I literally have felt so defeated this entire week over nonsense because I'm trying So hard myself to have a small shop since I lost my teenage son a year ago and this is a new adventure for me and you're right the haters hate and then it makes you terrified of what to put on your shop because even if it's not an exact replica or saying or logo you're terrified because you've worked so hard and invested so much money time effort and dedication that you feel attacked By this platform. I'm so glad to see that I'm not the only one and currently I'm going through my entire shop looking at every listing trying to pull down anything because you're terrified to go forward so thank you so much for all your information and help.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

So sorry for your loss. 🙏🏽 But Don’t move in complete fear just be cautious and know what you can list and what you can’t. It’s a lot I get it.

[@mistyholding4565]

@@katrinasgracefulcreations3711 ty I really appreciate that and I've learned alot from your content. Grateful 🙏

[@user-gv5sh5kr1j]

You will rebound from this. Love all your videos.👏👏👏👏👏👏Keep going

[@gloriaangel6487]

Katrina I'm sorry what happen to you, I honestly pass like a month reading about copy right and trademark, just to make sure i won't in trouble but yes Etsy have a lot rule. But you are a great mentor you will be alright. God bless you.

[@lynettemartin9555]

Thank you for sharing. The Lord works in mysterious ways. Maybe this was a blessing, maybe the route you’re about to take is the path to propel your success. I am working on photos to start my shop and was on the fence about starting with Etsy. My main concern are fees and how they direct other shops to the consumer with similar goods. Keep educating and inspiring us Katrina. Im on the ride with you!!!

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

God definitely has a plan for us all and perhaps that wasn’t my path. But the fees are a lot and they keep increasing.

[@leviteapparel]

Amazing information 👌🏿 👏🏿

[@PSnell-eq4vk]

Sorry to hear this happened. And YES, wld u plz do a video telling us of the other sites people can sell on? Thanku! STILL SMILING....

[@ramonashear4351]

So sorry gor all you went through also would love video on different websites

[@marciamichelle6448]

Its ok, no one should come for you. We all tried it. I did too and they sent a message and I took it down. Its crazyvthat they won't even let you purchase anything either, I owed that .40 and didn't k ow and couldn't buy a svg file. Glad you bounced back, Gods Grace and Mercy right? You rock, keep pushing. I love what you do, and you've come a long way. GO GIRL!!! I had just ate so I chubby eat my Nutter Butters 😂😂😂

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Lol I’m all out of Nutter Butter. Gotta get some more. But I’m just glad I wasn’t sued. I live and learn

[@marciamichelle6448]

@@katrinasgracefulcreations3711 yes, absolutely. I still see plenty of shops selling those "types" of products but aye..it is what it is..

[@scaasiyburllc]

Wow, sorry to hear. I stay away from any and all of those designs completely. I've had a request for me to do a USPS BAG, and I said absolutely NOT. I will NOT, even if I don't intend on listing it. I recently had a new Etsy shop suspended within minutes, for no reason. It was suspended as I was there working on my listings. I knew I did nothing wrong so I just emailed them with an explanation and forgot about it. You reminded me, so I just check and it's back up. Now am not even sure if I care but I do have 39 free listings so might as well. Wishing you much success with your new website.

[@VeeRhhGee]

Great information. Thank you for sharing.

[@mrslwise1]

Yes, please do a video on other platforms. I was actually looking to start an Etsy shop but not so sure now. I am sorry for what happened to you. I hope all is well in your next shop. Please let us know where you are so we can follow and support you.

[@missychan63]

If you have to ask yourself, "how can I work my way around this", stop. That is not what you should be asking yourself... And you know it. Thank you for your honesty, I know this had to be hard for you to do and I'm sorry I'm so heated but I've had my small business for about 12 years and once everyone and their sister started buying their own cutting machines, it all went to hell in a hand basket. Everybody thinks they know everything about everything and if they read it online it must be true and if somebody else is doing it then it's okay if we do it and on and on and on - you know what I'm talking about girl cuz you did it and it got you - Just sell your own work, it's as simple as that! People want to take the easy way out and make the easy buck and as you learned the hard way, there is no easy buck. Stealing from others is not the way to shine.

[@yurivalent161]

Wow! Thank you for sharing.

[@shugg881]

I love your channel! I started watching you awhile ago before you moved and have seen how far you have come. My dream is to become my own boss. I started a business in 2021 but still have a long way to go. It’s definitely a lot of work just putting listings, and descriptions, plus creating my merchandise. I had two listings on Etsy so far but I use Wix and it’s so expensive I need help and other options.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

I have a video with other cheaper website options

[@shugg881]

@@katrinasgracefulcreations3711 thank you, I’m going to go back and watch some of your other videos

[@l.douglas9251]

Wow😢 good info, and thank you for your honesty. I am considering etsy only because I don't know about other platforms. An information video would be great. Consider this; it was a blessing in disguise, you don't know who/when someone was prepared to sue you... God bless you 🙏

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Everything is for a reason!

[@unityofconsciousness475]

After I did research about Etsy, how to sell on Etsy, how to produce what to sell, and I designed everything and started to list them, I got suspended with no explanation, unsuccessfully to try to get it back. I spend so much time and nothing yet. Careful.

[@moniquecherice1758]

Lol. I would be banned too because I have seen stuff and STILL see stuff I would love to list but have to talk myself down. I totally get it! Thanks for sharing this story.

[@NelsonInteriorSoapery]

Its good that you have let everyone know. i have never used a trademark image and wont as its a gamble . i have known of people that had their websites also closed down due to copyright. shopify, etsy and more are always watching. also even if you use a tag that has a Disney name its still copyright as you are getting clicks or interest by using interlectual property.

[@kimburgy9687]

I'm so sorry that happened to you. In the last several years copyright owners have been busy going after sellers, but especially the last 2 years. I know how devastating it can be with no explanation. Not from etsy, for me my facebook account was permanently closed without an explanation at all. I had lost my Dad not long before, but I had soo many precious pictures and albums on there. so I was just hear broken. I opened my account about the time fb started, they closed my account in early 2022, so my account was about 13-15 years old. It still bothers me, why?? I never did get a reason or response from them, and I post positive sayings and always friendly .. anyway again I'm sorry you lost your hard work and hope it works out for the very best for you. 🥰

[@piximom9986]

I lost my twitter for defending womens rights, they dont even let you see your messages . I had very special messages from famous actors. I even appealed to Elon and nothing .

[@widowscafe7056]

Thanks for your honesty! I would think they could still track you by your name, address and bank account info, unless you are going in under someone else's name etc.

[@persephonebailey7292]

Thanks for posting this. Earlier today I was on Etsy looking for SVGs to make a T-shirt for my 50th birthday and saw some Hello Kitty svgs being sold. I was wondering how these sellers are able to sell these and it kind of made me scared to buy them. I purchased all of the Minnie Mouse SVGs for my granddaughters first birthday party last year this time and even wondered then how I was able to buy them and at such a cheap price. I was thinking about selling on Etsy but I am scared now lol. I love your content and know that one day...one day I will have the courage to just do it. Thanks for sharing your process with us♥♥♥

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Yeah I truly don’t know of see the different in selling the svg’s vs making the shirts. Beats me. But you got this. Go for yours just don’t sell anything copyrighted or trademarked.

[@1dzine]

Thank you for your honesty and loyalty to all your followers. I would absolutely love for you to do a video on more websites and avenues outside of Etsy, Printify and the usual.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Thank you I posted the video the other day on other websites to use. Check it

[@msdeedee1808]

20+ yrs ago, I knew not to use copyright images no matter who I knew was doing it. Even today, I tell folks I know, before you use fabric, stamps, dies, papers, sewing patterns, Cricut images, etc. anything you did not create yourself contact the company, manufacturer whomever created what you want to use. People say 'I just want to make a little cash'..NOPE. Most companies have an Angel Policy. If it is not visible, contact them. If you're not allowed to use the product to sell and make money, respect that decision. I know you'll get back on track Katrina Gurl.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Yeah I definitely knew better as well but still tried it and while others get away Scott free I’m the one who always get caught. Won’t risk it anymore. It’s because I knew better. Not worth it.

[@cjdragonsplanet3509]

It does not matter if a thousand people report your shop, it is only the person or company who owns the rights who can put in a claim against. If it was the only item in your shop, they would have warned you. But you said you also have Disney. Disney will wait until you hit 5 to 6 figures and then sue you. Bottom line everyone, don't mess with the mouse. Also if you created a cartoon character and everyone started to use your character to make money, would you be happy. Thanks for your honesty.

[@TheCraftyPuertoRican]

Thank you for sharing your experience. I placed my shop on vacation a couple of months ago and have not re-opened yet. I'm would love for you to do a video on how to open your own website. I am clueless.

[@rebecavalbuenadesign]

im Dying with video now, Thanks for all this information, I don't know how I didn't see this before. I do invitation e cards and at the beginning I was doing generic designs but I saw other accounts doing famous characters and that was my mistake :( Im so frustrating bc Etsy banned you like a seller and like a buyer, and I feel that's no fair. Thanks Katrina!this situation makes me strong and don't gonna stop me, I just gonna follow the rules of copyrights next time.

[@busratz]

Could you start a brand new shop with your name?

[@missychan63]

Rule of thumb - if someone looks at your item and they immediately think of someone else's item... Don't sell it. You can't "change a little bit" or "buy it from a designer" or any of that, and most of us know that. Don't believe what you read online - I don't know how many times I have to scream that from the rooftops before people start listening. Unless you design it yourself or you know for a fact the person selling it to you was the original designer, and they also sell you a commercial license, you can't sell it... Easy peasy. Don't steal other people's work and call it yours and then throw a fit when people call you out on it. This is why those of us that do it right have such a hard time - because there are so many people screwing the system. Etsy doesn't care - They say they do but they don't - as long as they're getting a good chunk of money from your sales, they'll leave you alone. They go after the small shops - go do a search for Disney right now and you'll be shocked at how many shops are selling Disney items when you know they don't have a license to do it. Then look at their sales amounts - that's the reason Etsy lets them stay. Etsy is trash and I shut my shop and ran about a year ago. I don't want anything to do with a platform that supports selling other people's stolen work and that's exactly what they're doing by allowing all of those shops to remain.

[@bluejr86]

Not true big shops with 300k sales were also shut down. But what gets me is why etsy took so long to shut it down very shady to me...They make some money even if they know you are using trademark material and then take you down when corporations like Disney come after the shop not etsy..

[@JustGiftIt]

Sorry to hear that. Please do video on those other platforms for selling

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

I already did. It was posted a few days ago

[@angiekoehne7201]

Thanx for your story I just got the warning from them (opened my store in 2011)so I have changed everything in my store so I still have my store but now there is hardly anything in it. I would love to see how you make a new site.

[@pattyheinemann4129]

wow, this video popped up after I was watching the other video about the gentleman who got his Etsy account account all of them suspended because he forgot he had opened a shop two years prior that he had closed and there was a seven dollar balance I don’t know if you’ve heard of it. It’s all over but he was making over $100,000 a month and they Suspended him right in the middle of the holiday season last year. thank you for your honesty. I used to be in the print world so I know how the whole copyright and trademarks infringement works and how serious it can be. i’ve just been hearing so many things about Etsy these last few months about shops being closed down or the customer service and not being able to get to someone I’m still brand new to Etsy, but after watching one of your videos when I first started my journey that was one thing you had said not to keep all of your eggs in one platform and that’s what I plan on doing. I’m gonna start with Etsy to get the momentum going , but I will be looking into other platforms as well like my own website.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Wow that’s crazy. I definitely didn’t hear. There are so many stories. It’s like they don’t want people to be successful but at the same time they need people to keep the site going. I don’t know. I had to leave. Wish you all the best.

[@marilynhenley7815]

Forgot, thanks for sharing ❤❤

[@GlendasCreativePlace]

Yes please do that video about other sites!!! BTW, I live very close to Disney here in southern CA & they are brutal. They send people to craft shows, the fair, anywhere where crafters are selling direct to public. I was warned about this very early on, after having someone I know actually get sued (she also had a website that was doing really well!). So I made the decision from the beginning to only do any Disney for friends & family. It’s so tempting, but it’s just sooooo not worth it!! I’m really sorry this happened to you, but I appreciate your honesty so much!! You will certainly save someone else from the same fate you suffered. I love that you’re willing to do that for your community❤️!! Again, I really hope you do that other video you talked about, where you’ll show us other good, but more inexpensive sites that we can set up for ourselves!!! Thanks Katrina!!

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

The video on other sites was posted today. Turn on.l notifications.

[@elevated-apparel]

Disney is stopping people with custom shirt on at disneyland and asking where they got the shirts from. then they send there lawyers to shut it down. My friend that works there said that they are thinking of stopping anyone with custom disney shirts on and not letting them in to the parks.disneyland is now doing custom embroidery on different items. the run the best embroidery machine like the barudans and swf in they shops. I stay 20 minutes from there and 10 from knotts.

[@johndoeee888]

@@elevated-apparel its crazy disney does all that. When people already paid couple hundreds of dollars to get tickets to get in.

[@Ziplinz]

Some shops may get away with selling items that are copyrighted/trademarked for years, but sooner or later the hammer will fall on them as well. I got a few of my postal shirts taken down off Etsy for this and I had no idea because merch informer even said my phrases were safe to use. Now I only upload generic designs that have no specific relation to any company or business that I know aren't trademarked.

[@mindsetcoachingwithgenelle]

Thank you for the honesty and vulnerability in this video. I have contemplated posting listings on my shop but have been scared 😳 week consider your recommendations and do diligent research. ❤ much love to you 😊

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Yes do not risk it be careful!

[@tenisehays9920]

😊😊 yes video! Thank you..

[@kozyknotcreationsandmoreby9427]

This just happened to me a week ago. I had 2 shops, the first one since 2015 and the second since 2019. I’m absolutely devastated.

[@user-wh5rh4yl7c]

did you try to reopen with a VPN

[@ambduff1]

This exact Same thing happened to me. To the T. I googled where to sell a certain product and etsy was the first one to be suggested. I got on and looked at hundreds of other sellers selling the same dang thing. So I decided to go with them. Not long after I made a few sells I had this idiot who thought the item was coming same day and called in and they didn't like what I was selling..and they shut my everything down saying I was selling items they didn't allow..I was so upset! 3 years have passed . And I have tried to open a new shop under new names.and emails. Instantly shut down..I have call and email tons of times. Just to get generic emails stating they. Don't Have to disclose why they banned me. Stating I'm. Banned for life. They wasn't playing. Jessh. Ridiculous. I truly appreciate you taking the time out to make this video. I'm going to try that tonight. I'm also glad to know that I'm not the only one that is going through this. Not that I would want anybody to go through this but it feels good to not be alone in this cuz it has been really crazy thank you so much ❤

[@iambutterfly74]

I opened my shop recently and later that day got suspension notice for my postings. I had heard horror stories but thought I was doing right thing but apparently not. So I am going to do my own website as well… just will take longer but that’s ok. Thanks for transparency and sharing your story. It was comforting to know it happens to the best of us.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

So sorry that happened to you. Same day. Wow. Etsy is getting harder for everyone.

[@SandraEvans-sr1rh]

Are you a new seller

[@iambutterfly74]

@@SandraEvans-sr1rh Yes. Currently not selling on there now because after watching this video and others I think I am going to do my own site. Too many nuances with Etsy.

[@SandraEvans-sr1rh]

@@iambutterfly74 How many times have your account being suspended

[@iambutterfly74]

@@SandraEvans-sr1rh only the one time when I opened the shop. They reinstated me though the same day after I removed the products and explained to them I was new to selling on Etsy

[@chariots8x230]

19:30 Yes, I’d definitely love to see a video on other website options, so I won’t have to rely entirely on Etsy. 👍🌺♥️🙏🏻

[@jessiegibson9023]

Good video thanks I have never put copyright stuff on Etsy ❤

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

That’s the best way to do it!

[@gaming4K]

I always tried to avoid trademarked stuff, the only exception was car brands, like VolksWagen decals etc. . It sure would be way easier to start with stuff that people know but there is a risk of getting sued.. I turned down an Avatar shirt as well even tho i would have loved to make it. I always had trademark and copyright in my mind. Maybe if i made that risky business my shop would have been successful because it would have been easier to get it going in half a year. Now it's on pause because i need a job as id didn't made enough money yet..

[@Karenm1969]

Would love to hear about other selling options…

[@AEvans36977]

I recently advised a cash budgeter who has some Disney-themed products in her shop to be very careful and not be surprised if she receives a notification from Etsy about a possible infringement issue. I hope she takes that under advisement because she just had a baby boy less than a month ago and needs her income.

[@JustWatchMeDoThis]

I plan to use an Etsy shop as a way of list building. I will also have my own personal shop and email list. If you don't build your own email list then you run the risk of losing your contacts at anytime.

[@PODstudent438]

One thing to note aswell, there's a huge forum place for banned users who learn how to open up "stealth shops" so i'd imagine a lot of people just remake shops using "established brands" with different info which is why you see so many new shops pop up without fear. But I fully agree with doing things legit and just never riding of brands names. And also just build outside of etsy whilst etsy shop is growing.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

So true

[@mickeyxoxo5363]

Whats the name of this "place" where these banned users go? Asking for myself.

[@Spartins1988]

I'd like to know that too. 👀

[@agnes-positivethinker8188]

sorry to hear that trail and error

[@rollingwithbrinaboone]

This happened to us as well, so SAD. So much work down the drain. It is our fault as well for it getting shutdown.... but dangggg this sucks!!! We opened up our website but wow its like literally starting all over again, trying to get traffic to your site as well gaining the strength of your site! Power to you girl, this ish aint easy!

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

It is like starting all over again. Praying for much success for you!

[@moonlightxyz8728]

I just found out one of my competitor's shop is gone. Well, they sold items related to Taylor Swift and sport brands. And they had over 10k sales record. They have a website and it is gone too. That's so scary. I heard only copyright owners can report your listings or shops.

[@LouHartyLive]

great video. I just had my Craft supplies store shut down, 1300 sales, 500 reviews, 12 months old. Etsy generic vague response is disgusting. They expect Etsy Seller to have good customer service, however their CS is crap!. So looks like I have to start all over again.. Your tips will help me a lot. Thanks

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Not sure how much longer they can keep going and stay in business if they shut everyone down. It’s crazy. So sorry

[@jenniferwilson2097]

I really like your new hairstyle

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Thank you so much

[@barbra429]

Katrina, can you please make a video about other website options that would be great. Thank you.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Will do

[@barbra429]

@@katrinasgracefulcreations3711 Yaay!

[@Jeniveve]

I will caveat that if you’re following all the rules and TOS, there’s no reason for your shop getting shut down. I will argue when people say they “don’t know why.” They kiiiiiinda know why. But I also understand that’s it’s frustrating being penalized when you see other people doing it. With gambling comes risks. Etsy is a weird one and they’re going through the ringer right now with luxury brands and essentially selling advertisement space to counterfeit shops making counterfeit items. Their stock prices tanked earlier this year… Oh well. You’re doing great without Etsy! 🎉

[@TheJavonplayer]

Nah, Esty algorithm is known to shut down shops abruptly for no legitimate reason. Someone I know just lost their shop because because they shorten the titles on their listings.

[@SophiaRoseApothecary]

I definitely prefer my own website. It does take work to generate your own customers, but it’s worth it.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Definitely worth it to have your own

[@wesupportblackbusinesses6120]

Thank you, that was very helpful. #WSBB

[@deeclutter1123]

Just an FYI, competitors can’t get you shut down for copyright and trademark infringements. The intellectual property holder is the only one that can file a claim with Etsy. You’re very lucky they only shut your shop down. I know plenty of people who received cease and desist letters and others were sued. For every 1 shop they shut down another 25 pops up. They’ll eventually get caught. Wiping your computer and changing your IP won’t help either. A VPN is against Etsy TOS. Once Etsy permanently shuts a store down it is permanent and if another one can be set up it’ll come back to bite ya. Best to cut your losses and work on your own site without any infringing items.

[@Angie33084]

This is actually false. Etsy themselves can take down a listing with infringing items. Etsy bots pick up on terms like “disney” and it will get flagged and you’ll get a notice saying you’ve gone against their terms of service. This piece of information where only the IP holder can flag you is 100% false. Another person can also flag and report your listing and etsy will pull it down and review it. If it’s infringing material, they’ll keep it down.

[@MKH11605]

100% untrue. My competitor made a fake patent number, filed erroneous reports, 18 in total and because Etsy does NOT validate the claims, does NOT check the patent numbers as valid, ect… they just delete. My account disappeared forever. TakeMeToMainStreet was my shop and my competitor Market33co is still selling my stolen design with ease to this day. So don’t believe for a second that a liar cannot work the system to benefit themselves and f**k your business for life!

[@d.t.5239]

Great advice, thank you.. What about name. ss. bank accounts? I think they track that too, and the metad date in the images..?

[@teresasanders8150]

I wonder how to get around the social security part?

[@winndellericjohnson02]

Your videos are so encouraging.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Thank you

[@kymberly2460]

Sorry to hear that UGH- Im trying to make a website in (word press) not user-friendly UGH- yes please let us know about an alternative site. Etsy can't keep a Good Woman down,, Shuxs Thank you for your transparency!

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Sure can’t. I know that’s right. Your comeback will be strong!

[@amalone1]

This happened to my shop on Etsy when I was selling the bling crocs w/ the luxury brand bling croc charms

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

It’s happened IG to so many.

[@bellacosy]

Copyright is harsh and Disney or certain companies have a long list of whom to go after next. Etsy is fine with you selling stuff and them making money off of it till they get notification of infringement by the owner of the graphics etc. Selling items of the popular things is the easy way to go, I do it at times in private sales but I would try and keep that off platforms like Etsy and even my own website. They can still go after private websites and have been known to send official emails with the removal of certain content and possibly a statement of intent to sue.

[@katrinasgracefulcreations3711]

Oh yeah I won’t have none of that on my website. I have heard too many stories.

[@teshurathompson243]

Etsy also tracks MAC ID in addition IP address so you can do all the above steps but if you use the same devices they will shut the shop down. Happened to me in 2020 I lost 65% of my income. I’d been on ETSY since 2017. And I agree yiu can do the right things and be shut down. I had a glitter competitor report mine because we were selling the same item from the same vendor smh

[@kimbaloo1163]

Just some words of hope for anyone who had their shop spontaneously deactivated by Etsy- my brand new shop was shut down in January with no warning or reason. After reaching out to Etsy multiple times and multiple ways without getting a response gigshield was able to get my shop re-activated. If your shop was deactivated for no reason at all...pay to get reactivated.

[@spelahorjak4595]

Thank you for sharing your experience! Etsy suspended my shop before making my first listing, without reason. I think if you use an incognito window, you may be able do it. I opened another account with a different address normally and it didn't let me make a purchase, but when I opened a 3rd account with yet another different email address, I could make a purchase. I haven't tried to set up a store incognito yet though, and not sure I will as I don't want to put in all that effort just to get suspended for no reason again. But I wonder if it would work.

[@Mimi-yp2vi]

I have made 2 with different emails and have been shut down immediately with no explanations and it is so frustrating because how am I going against the policy and I don't even have a listing up yet. I am going to try the incognito approach and see what comes of it.

[@dianejohnson9904]

Thank you for your honesty. Just be happy that you didn’t get sued by any of these companies. I watched another video from a KZbinr who had to pay money to a company for using their trademarked or copyrighted phrase in the description of their product. So many rules to follow!

[@JustWatchMeDoThis]

Not coming at you, but I wondered about this when you made the video of the Disney t-shirt and said it was your own design that you sell. I thought "dang, the copyright expired on that and I didn't realize" so I checked it out and it is getting close but not yet on the mouse and his gloved hands or something are also on a different timeline too. Anyway, also all these people doing all sorts of characters on party decor and I was wondering what I was missing. I have NEVER reported anyone and don't feel the need to do that either. But I figured if I ever have a question, I would consult a lawyer on my prepaid legal plan that I have.

[@kathybankston1825]

Yes, please do a video on other platforms to use. I have been looking at starting an Etsyvshop. But the horror stories are real. I really think I'd rather do my own SEO and social media.😢

[@sflawchild1]

I thought they can still trace and ban you if you are using same social security, credit card & bank account #, even if you change IP & email address? And I heard they will ban you if you use VPN. We’re you able to reopen your Etsy account or know someone by the changes you mentioned?

[@kozyknotcreationsandmoreby9427]

How do I back up my listings? What platform should I use now? I’m so upset about my shops being permanently suspended/shutdown, I’m thinking about all the time and effort I have invested just to have it all gone.

[@StarChild.no1]

Well, you never mentioned one other important thing that needs to be removed from your computer and that’s cookies in some hidden temp directory or another. Cookies is similar to a session but instead of saving the individual’s site usage on the site’s server, (ip, personal info, shopping cart content, pages browsed) it’s saved on the persons computer and hold a lot more info about the user (user name and password, or a banned code for example) than sessions do. Sessions expire after closing your browser or a certain time of inactivity but cookies last for as long as you don’t get rid of them. There can be just a couple of cookies from a site or hundreds in a hidden temp directory. If you’re using their app then they get access to your registry as well during installation of the app and can hide usage info there as well.. So you’ll have to work as administrator, to set directory preferences to show hidden files (it will look like ghost files in your explorer window) and do a search for Etsy to locate all directories and files that contain the keyword and delete them. You’ll also have to open your registry and do the same.. However, a competent developer wouldn’t give their important cookies and registry, the literal name of their site - Like, I’m top secret Etsy file used to track if you’ve been banned or not 😊. So really you’ll have to reinstall your operating system.. People that make money off of selling bootleg merch seriously, use a computer dedicated only to doing that so they can always wipe the drive and to a fresh operating system install and won’t loose everything else important to them like apps and software.. So no, the basic change info and ip won’t work..

[@DM-vh4nb]

I have friends who wanted me to make her a lot of mugs using a carton character on them and add her relatives names or sports team and I had to say no for this very reason. I did make a couple for FREE because I was still learning how to do mugs. But I see a lot of Starbucks all over the place. All I can say is sooner or later, they come after you.

[@tishawhite7353]

Hey I’m curious you see my picture is that a copy and would they close my store I sale pillow case and they are characters on some will I get in trouble for it