If you have not fallen in love with Etsy let me explain why I have and, hopefully influence you to do so too.
Etsy is a website that allows you to shop for “handmade, vintage, custom and unique gifts”. They are based in Brooklyn, NY but allow you to shop for items all over the United States and the world! They offer you the ability to shop internationally, which is incredible because you can connect with small businesses and brag to your peers about how cool X is because it’s from Y. You also get to support small businesses right here in the states and even in your own city. You will be surprised how many local small businesses are available on Etsy. I was impressed when I found out I was able to find shops in my own town and purchasing from local businesses really helps your community.
It is also easy to make your own Etsy shop! If you have a craft, hobby, or idea to share, you can sign up right on their website for a business account. I have done this myself and although it is a small shop, a few dollars here and there goes a long way when you’re a student.
One of my absolute favorite things about Etsy is the ability to find just about anything you are looking for. You can type in keywords associated with anything you’re looking for and someone out there more than likely has their own Etsy shop that fits your request.
Another reason I adore Etsy is that you can customize many of your orders. For example, many shops allow you to select colors, fonts, materials, names, fabrics and more depending on what the product is and what it is for.
I have to tell you a little secret I found about Etsy I will share it with you. Many items ship for free or give free shipping if you spend X amount. However, if you add your item(s) to your cart and wait a little longer to check out, most shops will send you a coupon or place the item(s) on sale!
I encourage you to check out Etsy if you haven’t already and share your favorite shops and items on social media to inspire others to support small businesses as well.
Other than shopping on Etsy (which I have an addiction to) Etsy is great to generate your own ideas. I use Etsy for inspiration for crafts and DIY projects of my own.
I have made moss ball aquariums, bamboo plant decor, wooden signs, key holders, and more that I have seen on Etsy and recreate with my own style. I have also been inspired to make the change to all-natural and handmade products from shops on Etsy. It is very easy to purchase handmade bar soaps, masks, lotions, cleaning products, shampoos, and conditioners. Making this change makes me feel a little bit fancy and excited about using better products for my body.
And lastly, of course, I have to point out that Etsy has amazing feminist-inspired items. For example, a few of my purchases that are women empowerment themed have been art, stickers, tapestries, masks, lanyards, and scarves. I will be sharing some of the items I have purchased on Instagram and Pinterest soon!
Finally, I want to share with you a few of my favorite shops for you to check out or get inspired to search for related shops!
Marleysmonsters and LanCraftUS
Eco-Friendly products for small and large changes in your lifestyle.
FunCorgiDesigns
Corgi items I love as a Corgi Mom.
CellKulture and Chemelliaco
Shops for my STEMinist ladies out there!
TopLineApperalStore
Feminist inspired t-shirts
CrazyArtTeacherLady
Adorable wooden and handmade decor for all the seasons. You can also use the shop to inspire your own DIY projects.
I hope this article inspired you to explore Etsy to create your own personal experience with the site!