⚠️ Major Etsy Changes That You Want To Know About

Sadly this weeks episode of the Crafty Entrepreneur is just black and white, no video or audio due to sheer exhaustion and possible bugs lurking 🤢

During the week I did go live on YouTube with a whole breakdown of the updates and to chat to my community which you can watch back here.  But in usual SJ Etsy Queen spirit I could not bring myself to miss my weekly Saturday updates to you my gorgeous community of Etsy sellers.   

So let's get to it!

A Message From Etsy CEO Josh Silverman

If you haven't caught the whole announcement from the big guy himself on your Etsy dashboard then check it out here .  I was lucky enough to get a sneak peak that this was coming when I met with Etsy HQ a few weeks ago.  OMG it was torture keeping this to myself!!!  

But hand on heart I can honestly say this news and all the changes are such a positive move forward, and as a Etsy Seller myself gives me huge amounts of hope that Etsy will continue to grow and stay true to it's origins.

Introducing New Creativity Standards

One of the most significant updates Etsy has introduced recently is the new Creativity Standards. These standards are designed to reinforce what Etsy stands for and make it clear that human imagination and involvement are at the core of all items sold on the platform.

Here's the breakdown:

• Made by a Seller: Physical items crafted or altered by the seller using tools.
• Designed by a Seller: Original designs by sellers, including AI-generated art with seller's prompts.
• Sourced by a Seller: Items that enable buyer creativity, such as craft supplies.
• Handpicked by a Seller: Vintage items and natural finds curated by the seller.

Highlighting Your Creative Processes for Buyers

To ensure buyers understand why an item belongs on Etsy and the seller’s role in its creation, Etsy has introduced new item details on listing pages:

• Made by [ShopName]
• Designed by [ShopName]
• Sourced by [ShopName]
• Handpicked by [ShopName]

Additionally, Etsy is adding more options in the listing form for sharing details about your processes, materials, and tools. This is just the beginning of their efforts to highlight your role in the marketplace.

Etsy will automatically be allocating the labels, Made by, Design by etc but you will need to provide additional information on your production processes to ensure that the label allocation is reflective of your products.  If you can't find where to make the listing updates, check out my YouTube tutorial here, but don't panic if you can't quite see the options yet, they are being rolled out bit by bit.

Now I know there are a HUGE amount of questions which I will do my best to answer and get feedback from Etsy for you.  Over the coming couple of weeks, I will be creating more YouTube videos to break all of this down even further to help everyone move forward and start making MONEY!!!

Improving Search Transparency

Many sellers have shared that search can feel like a “black box.” Etsy is addressing this by providing more actionable insights to help you improve the visibility of your listings. This summer, Etsy will outline specific factors that signal a high-quality listing, ensuring your items get seen and sold!

Music to our ears!!!!  I can't wait to get the low down on this one!

New Marketing Campaign

Etsy's new marketing campaign showcases how sellers are the heart of the marketplace. The campaign includes TV commercials, billboards, and social media content in the US and UK, highlighting the unique sellers who make Etsy so special.  Have you seen the ad yet?  WATCH IT HERE

I know a few people in my community have already spotted the billboards in London, if you spot one and can get a selfie make sure you tag me in your post on social media.  I would love that!

Etsy’s Stance on AI Creations

Etsy supports sellers using AI tools to enhance their creative processes, provided the original prompts are disclosed. However, selling AI prompt bundles separately from the final artwork is prohibited.

Now, I need to dig into this whole area a lot further including the stance on digital downloads, designs, PLR and the use of sites such Creative Fabrica.  Subscribe to my YouTube channel SJ ETSY QUEEN to get all the updates.  

To be continued....

There are still lots of questions and additional clarifications I am looking to seek from Etsy.  Lucky for you, I meet with Etsy Isabella from the Community Education Team and Kelly the VP of Communication and Community on a regular basis.  

To help me, please add your questions below or in the comment section of my YouTube channel so I can get back to you as soon as I know more.

Speak to you soon.

SJ xoxo

If you're still looking for traction in your Etsy business, I'd recommend starting with one of the following:

1. → My Free Etsy Workshop: Perfect for you if you are just starting out on Etsy. Learn how you can turn your creative passions into cash to earn your first £1000 on Etsy.

2.   → Free Guide: The Ultimate Guide to Launching Your Own Successful Etsy Shop

3. → Join the SJ Etsy Queen Community:  Start your 14 Day Trial Today for Only a £1!

4.  → Access The Blueprint To A Successful Etsy Business:   Fast track your results to making more money on Etsy TODAY!