Top Online Marketplaces For Handmade Sellers

Creating artwork or handcrafted items is a passionate hobby for some. For others, this hobby may grow into a side hustle or full blown business. If you have dreams of selling your unique pieces, then an online marketplace may be a great place to explore the world of e-commerce. It is important to take into consideration the demographics the site caters to, any fees associated with selling on the site, internet traffic, shipping costs, and potential competition. Check out this list of the top online marketplaces for handmade sellers.

1. Etsy

Etsy is one of the most well-known online marketplaces for vintage and handmade items. Their mission is to maintain a human connection when it comes to commerce and help sellers find success by connecting them to millions of potential buyers.

Pros

• Possibility to reach new customers around the world from the 81.9 million active buyers.
• Better understand your audience by tracking stats.
• Setting up shop is relatively simple.
• Low start up costs
• Powered by 100% renewable electricity

Cons

• Listing, shipping, transaction, and advertising fees.
• There is a lot of competition.
• Sellers must abide by Etsy’s rules and platform changes.

2. Folksy

As their website says, Folksy, which started in 2008, is “The Home of British Craft.” From knitting to painting to carving to sketching, this online marketplace features artists from across the United Kingdom.

Pros

• Folksy sends your sales dollars directly into your account immediately after each sale.
• Offer a free “Make It Sell” e-course which is full of tips for sellers.
• Two plan options depending on your needs (ie. pay a fee per month or per item).

Cons

• PayPal is their main form of accepting payment, though you can now set up card payments through Stripe.
• Though you can sell internationally, Folksy is for British designers living in the UK only.
• If you like reselling or selling vintage items, this site is not for you as it is not allowed.

3. Cratejoy

Cratejoy is an online marketplace devoted to only subscription boxes and they can be created literally for any niche! These subscription boxes are often made up of similar items that are delivered on a regular basis to a customer.

Pros

• Helps sellers predict future revenue and inventory needs.
• Three selling plans including no monthly cost to list on their marketplace.
• Opportunity to scale your business, referral program and allows you to create coupons.

Cons

• Lack of customization features.
• Fees and transaction costs are on the high side.
• No app available to manage orders on the go.

4. Bonanza

Bonanza is a global marketplace whose mission is to empower entrepreneurs to create their dream business.

Pros

• No listing fees and low transaction fees.
• Easy to import items from other marketplaces.
• Sell in the marketplace and on your own webstore.

Cons

• Issues with UI including search functionality.
• Limited to no advertising.
• Is a general merchandise marketplace which could make selling art and handmade items more difficult.

5. Amazon Handmade

It would be difficult to find anyone who hasn’t heard of Amazon. Amazon is the top online marketplace in the world and has now started to sell handmade items through Amazon Handmade. This is an artisan-only site for sellers and an excellent way to reach many potential customers.

Pros

• The opportunity to reach millions of customers around the globe.
• Choose between individual and professional selling plans depending on your needs. If you are approved for Amazon Handmade, the professional monthly fee is waived.
• Don’t have to worry about storing and shipping if using Amazon FBA.

Cons

• Lots of competition, including with Amazon’s own products.
• Always pay a referral fee on each item sold.
• Amazon controls your inventory if using Amazon FBA.

Marketplaces can be a great way to attract new customers and learn about e-commerce. However, selling on only a single or even a couple marketplaces may not be the best long-term business growth strategy. It is essential to also have your own website to maintain control of your sales funnels and overall customer experience.