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16 Best things to sell on Etsy (plus tips on research)

June 14, 2024 11 minutes

Etsy is one of the most popular online marketplaces, with over 90 million active buyers worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a new entrepreneur, understanding how to sell products on Etsy can significantly impact your success.

This guide explores the 16 best things to sell on Etsy and provides practical tips to optimize your Etsy strategy.

Key takeaways

  • Popular products and categories on Etsy include handmade items, t-shirts, artwork, craft supplies, custom mugs, and eco-friendly products, catering to different customer interests.
  • Your products’ appeal heavily depends on their quality and how you present them online.
  • Etsy sellers should use the Etsy search bar to stay on top of best-selling products.
  • Optimize listings to improve your product visibility on Etsy.
  • Use print-on-demand services like Printify to streamline production and minimize overhead costs.

16 Things to sell on Etsy in 2024

1. Custom t-shirts

Custom t-shirts hanging on a clothing rack.

Seasons change, but the love for custom t-shirts never does. They’re a wardrobe staple that wears out and needs refreshing, making them a consistent bestseller on Etsy.

And with the global apparel market projected to reach a whopping $1.79 trillion in 2024, there’s no sign of this demand slowing down.

No matter your niche, tees speak to people of all ages, interests, and walks of life. Whether it’s a witty slogan, a bold graphic, or a design that celebrates a shared passion, a well-designed tee can connect with your audience on a personal level.

Quick tip

Consider adding custom-printed hoodies to your collection – they’re year-round bestsellers worldwide.

2. Artwork and prints

A woman reading a book by the window with a custom poster standing behind her.

The global wall art market is exploding, with a staggering value of $63.61 billion in 2024 alone. That’s a whole lot of potential for your Etsy shop! From digital art pieces and classic posters to framed prints, edgy acrylics, and textured canvas. Wall art is a proven winner for online sellers.

It is one of the most hassle-free products you can sell on Etsy, especially when you partner with Printify. We handle all the printing, fulfillment, and shipping, leaving you to focus on creating awesome art and raking in the profits.

3. Handmade jewelry

A piece of handmade jewelry.

Handmade jewelry holds a special place in our hearts. It marks milestones, expresses love, and adds a touch of sparkle to our everyday lives. That’s why it’s no surprise that it’s a recurring bestseller on the Etsy marketplace, especially during peak gifting times like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day. 

With the global jewelry market shimmering its way to $332 billion by 2026, it’s clear that selling handmade jewelry (and craft supply items) is profitable. Top Etsy seller Caitlyn Minimalist has earned over $68 million in revenue from her product listings. And so can you.

4. Home decor

Two posters hang above a counter with a record player, a vinyl record, a candle, and a flower on top.

Home decor is hands down one of the hottest niches on Etsy. Just look at the numbers: in April 2024, “wall art” and “home decor” were among the top 20 most searched keywords on the Etsy marketplace.

Customers love putting their own spin on their homes, so offering customizable products can be a major sales booster.

Think personalized throw pillows, unique wall clocks, and custom candles – these are the kinds of items that people cherish and come back for again and again.

5. Digital downloads

Digital downloads have become a hot commodity. Think about it – no shipping hassles, no inventory headaches, and instant gratification for your customers. Besides, on the most successful Etsy shops list, PlannerKate is among the top Etsy sellers with digital planners – her lifetime revenue is estimated to be above $8 million.

Etsy is a fantastic platform for showcasing your digital creations, whether it’s printable wall art, handy planners, or eye-catching social media templates. With no physical production costs, your profit margins can soar, giving you more freedom to experiment and expand your product listings.

6. Wedding supplies and accessories

Etsy is the go-to destination for couples seeking unique and personalized touches for their big celebration. Its wedding section caters to every detail of your special day, from charming bridesmaid gifts to wedding invitations and one-of-a-kind party supplies. It’s a haven for all things matrimonial.

The wedding industry is booming, with the global market projected to reach a staggering $647.39 billion by 2032. Etsy is at the heart of this trend, offering couples a unique platform to discover and purchase handcrafted, personalized items that reflect their love story.

7. Personalized candles

Personalised candles standing on a table.

The global candle market is a glowing opportunity, projected to reach $13.15 billion by 2029. And on Etsy, personalized candles are especially hot, adding a warm touch of individuality to any space.

Customers love candles that feel unique and special, which is why they’re among the best things to sell on Etsy to make money. By offering custom scents, labels, or messages, you can create one-of-a-kind gifts perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, or just because.

8. Vintage items

Etsy is one of the few online marketplaces that truly embraces vintage. Your pre-loved clothes or forgotten knick-knacks could be someone else’s treasure. That’s the beauty of Etsy’s top-selling category. It’s a goldmine for shoppers seeking unique finds and a chance for sellers to give new life to old items.

Etsy’s vintage collection is vast, spanning home decor, craft supplies, clothing, jewelry, and collectibles. If you’re looking for a way to monetize your passion for vintage, this could be the perfect avenue for your Etsy store.

Remember, quality matters. Buyers are looking for well-preserved items made from high-quality materials. So, if you love all things vintage, Etsy is your spot.

Make it happen today!

9. Handmade soaps

A couple of handmade soup bars on a tray.

The demand for handmade crafts is on the rise. The global handmade soap market reached a bubbly $158.79 million in 2023, and the numbers are still growing. People are drawn to the unique scents, natural ingredients, and artisanal craftsmanship of handmade soaps, making them a popular choice in the handmade category.

With endless customization possibilities and a focus on high-quality ingredients, handmade soaps are perfect for selling online. Just remember – you need to convey their properties and scent through your words, so add “write beautiful descriptions” to your to-do list.

Quick tip

Add print-on-demand beauty products to your store to appeal to a range of niches and categories.

10. Pet accessories

A dog wearing a custom bandana.

It’s no secret that people love their pets, and Etsy is the perfect place to sell products for their furry friends’ needs. Handmade bandanas, custom clothes, custom-engraved tags, and other unique accessories are all the rage with pet parents on Etsy.

If you have a knack for creating cute and practical pet products, this could be your golden ticket to a successful Etsy business. As a fellow pet lover, you’re uniquely positioned to understand what pet owners (and their companions) truly want. Think stylish collars for new pups, engaging toys for curious cats, or even personalized accessories that showcase each pet’s unique personality.

11. Children’s clothing

Children sitting in a field wearing colorful clothing.

Whether it’s for everyday wear or special occasions, baby and children’s clothing is a constant bestseller on the marketplace. Adorable baby clothing options, from witty onesies to matching sibling sets, make great personalized gifts and wardrobe must-haves.

Tap into this demand by offering custom designs, allowing parents to add their baby’s name, photos, or cute sayings to their clothing. The possibilities are endless, and the demand is there – you’ll be surprised how quickly those personalized baby tees fly off your virtual shelves.

12. Leather goods

A leather bag sitting on the floor with a blurred passport in front of it.

The allure of leather is timeless, and the global leather goods market is set to reach a staggering $738.61 billion by 2030. Shoppers are drawn to the luxurious feel, durability, and classic appeal of leather products, making this category a prime opportunity for skilled artisans and designers.

From handcrafted wallets and belts to stylish bags and personalized journals, leather goods are among the top-selling items on Etsy. By creating unique and high-quality leather pieces, you can tap into this growing market and attract customers who appreciate the craftsmanship and longevity of leather products.

13. Eco-friendly products

A wall rack with eco-friendly products hanging from it.

The demand for eco-conscious products is surging, with the global sustainability market projected to grow from $28.6 billion in 2024 to a staggering $134.9 billion by 2030. Shoppers increasingly seek sustainable alternatives to spend money on, making these profitable items the perfect choice for conscious Etsy sellers.

From custom-printed tote bags and biodegradable phone cases to organic clothing, there’s a growing appetite for products that are kind to the planet. By offering eco-friendly alternatives, you can tap into this flourishing market and attract customers who prioritize sustainability.

14. Knitted and crocheted items

Etsy shoppers love the charm and character of handmade products and knitted and crocheted items are a prime example. From snuggly scarves and hats to adorable amigurumi creations and intricate blankets, these handcrafted treasures add warmth and personality to any home.

With the growing demand for unique and sustainable fashion, handmade clothes are also gaining traction on Etsy. Show off your knitting and crocheting skills by creating one-of-a-kind sweaters, cardigans, and accessories that stand out from mass-produced items.

16. Stationery and greeting cards

Two women exchanging gifts and greeting cards.

From whimsical birthday cards and handmade invitations to charming thank-you notes, personalized stationery sets, and artistic journals, the possibilities here are endless.

Etsy shop owners can leverage print-on-demand services to easily create and sell personalized products without the hassle of inventory management.

Promoting your stationery creations on social media platforms like Pinterest and Instagram can help you reach a wider audience and showcase the beauty and craftsmanship of your products. By tapping into the emotional connection that greeting cards and stationery evoke, you can build a loyal following of customers who return to your shop repeatedly for their paper needs.

Make it happen today!

How to find best-selling items on Etsy

Combine these research methods and be on your way to discovering the best-selling items on Etsy and creating a thriving shop of your own.

1. Check Etsy’s trending now section

Etsy’s got your back. Its dedicated Trends section showcases the hottest products and styles across various categories that are worth selling. It’s a fantastic way to see what’s catching the eye of an Etsy shopper in real-time.

2. Get familiar with Etsy’s seller handbook

Etsy’s Seller Handbook is your go-to guide for all things Etsy. It’s packed with tips, tricks, and insights on everything from product photography to pricing strategies. Take some time to explore the handbook and learn from Etsy’s experts.

3. Research trends

Don’t just rely on Etsy – broaden your horizons and explore other platforms like Google Trends, Pinterest, and even social media to see what’s buzzing in the world. Pay attention to popular hashtags, trending topics, and seasonal interests to uncover potential product ideas.

4. Explore the competition

Take a peek at what other sellers are doing. See what products are selling well in your niche, analyze their pricing and marketing strategies, and look for opportunities to differentiate yourself and offer something unique. Check out other marketplaces like eBay for more inspiration.

4 Tips to run a successful Etsy shop

1. Sell amazing products

This might seem obvious, but it’s the foundation of any successful Etsy store. Offer high-quality products that are unique, creative, and well-made. Think about what makes your products special and what sets them apart from the competition.

2. Sell multiple items

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Offer various products to appeal to a wider range of customers and increase your chances of making sales. This could mean offering different styles, colors, or even product categories within your niche.

3. Make your pictures stand out

Invest in high-quality images that showcase your top-selling items in the best possible light. Use good lighting, clear backgrounds, and multiple angles to give customers a complete view of what they’re buying. Check out our blog on how to take product photos for more tips.

4. Use Etsy SEO to your advantage

Etsy SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is the secret sauce to getting your products seen by more shoppers. Optimize your product titles, descriptions, and tags with relevant keywords your target audience is searching for. Check out this video about SEO on Etsy:

Sell on Etsy with Printify

Now that you know the top-selling items on Etsy, you need a reliable supplier. Team up with Printify and start creating Etsy listings with POD products!

FAQ


Simply create an account, set up your Etsy shop, list your products with catchy descriptions and high-quality photos, and start promoting your store. Check out top Etsy sellers to get inspired. We have a handy guide on how to sell on Etsy to help you get started.

Etsy charges various fees, including listing fees, a transaction fee, and a payment processing fee. For the latest details, visit Etsy’s Help Center.

The best-selling items on Etsy can vary depending on trends and seasons. Still, some recurring favorites include handcrafted jewelry and other handmade products, personalized items, home decor, craft supplies, and vintage items.

If you’re looking for easy-to-make items, consider print-on-demand products like t-shirts, mugs, tote bags, or phone cases. Create unique designs and let Printify handle the production and shipping.

The most profitable businesses on Etsy and other marketplaces often involve high-demand products with low production costs, like digital downloads (PlannerKate1) or personalized items (ModParty). However, the key to success lies in finding a niche you’re passionate about and creating products that stand out from the crowd.

Things to make and sell on Etsy: Conclusion

Etsy is full of opportunities for creative entrepreneurs. By focusing on high-demand, customizable, and unique products, you can start selling items that cater to the diverse interests of millions of shoppers. From personalized shirts and jewelry items to wall stickers, party decorations, and eco-conscious home decor, the possibilities for what to sell on Etsy are endless. 

Remember to research trends, optimize your product listings, and leverage social media to reach your target audience. Now, open your Etsy account, start designing unique products, and let your creativity soar.

Make it happen today!

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