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  • The End of Duty-Free Imports: How the U.S. De Minimis Rule Suspension Impacts Handmade Sellers

    The End of Duty-Free Imports: How the U.S. De Minimis Rule Suspension Impacts Handmade Sellers

    Big news for Etsy and handmade sellers: the U.S. has officially suspended the $800 de minimis exemption on imports. This shift has already raised questions about how de minimis impacts handmade sellers across the world.

    For years, this rule allowed low-value shipments into the U.S. without duties or taxes. That loophole is gone as of August 29, 2025 — and the ripple effects are already hitting sellers hard.

    What Changed: How De Minimis Impacts Handmade Sellers

    Before, if you ordered materials or tools from overseas under $800, they entered the U.S. duty-free. Now, every shipment—no matter the value—is subject to tariffs, duties, and processing fees.

    Both U.S. sellers importing supplies and non-U.S. sellers shipping to American buyers are caught in the crossfire.

    To bring you up to speed, here’s a quick timeline of the major tariff updates since the US-coined, “Liberation Day.”

    Tariff Timeline (Apr–Dec 2025)

    Hover the dots for details.

    Global Policy EU Updates China/HK/Macau Postal & Carriers Other Countries

      U.S. Sellers: How De Minimis Impacts Supply Costs

      If your business depends on international suppliers for fabric, beads, charms, packaging, or other materials, get ready to pay more.

      Every shipment now comes with a base duty, set by the Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The percentage varies depending on what you’re importing—cotton fabric, brass clasps, glass beads, or packaging all fall into different brackets.

      On top of that, some regions face extra charges. Shipments from China, Hong Kong, and Macau are hit with an additional 10% tariff, while imports from the European Union are bumped up to a minimum of 15%. Other countries carry similar “reciprocal” tariffs that stack on top of the base duty.

      Then there are the standard processing fees:

      • Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF): 0.3464% of the shipment’s value, with a minimum charge of about $33.
      • Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF): 0.125% on ocean shipments.

      Put together, these changes add up quickly. A $200 order of materials that used to arrive duty-free might now set you back $230–$260 once duties and fees are factored in. Larger supply runs will see even bigger jumps.

      Non-U.S. Sellers: How De Minimis Impacts Shipping to the U.S.

      If you’re an international Etsy seller, the U.S. market just became more complicated. Every parcel headed stateside now carries a duty, and how it’s applied depends on whether you use your postal service or a courier like UPS, FedEx, or DHL.

      For postal shipments, duties must be collected before the package leaves your country. To simplify things (temporarily), the U.S. introduced a flat-fee system that runs through February 2026:

      • $80 per item if your country’s tariff rate is under 16%
      • $160 per item if it falls between 16–25%
      • $200 per item if it’s above 25%

      After February 28, 2026, the flat-fee option disappears and everything shifts to percentage-based tariffs.

      For courier shipments, there’s no grace period. Packages are charged the full tariff rate plus any reciprocal country duties and the standard U.S. user fees at entry.

      The result? Sticker shock for buyers. A handmade necklace that sells for $50 abroad could now arrive in the U.S. with another $80–$200 in duties added before delivery.

      Estimate Your New Tariffs and Fees

      Use this calculator to see how much the end of the de minimis rule could add to your costs. Enter your shipment value, origin country, and duty rate to estimate total duties, fees, and landed cost. If you’re outside the U.S., try the postal flat-fee calculator to see what your buyers might pay through February 2026.

      Tariff Estimator: U.S. Imports (Supplies/Materials)

      Estimate duties & fees when importing materials into the U.S. (for U.S.-based sellers). This is an estimate for planning only.

      Minimum applies below.
      Update each fiscal year as needed.
      Only for ocean shipments.

      This tool provides an estimate only. Real-world totals depend on exact HTS classifications, special programs, mode, and carrier surcharges.

      Postal Flat-Fee to U.S. Buyers (Temporary)

      For non-U.S. sellers using postal services to the U.S. Flat fees apply per item through Feb 28, 2026.

      Postal flat-fees are a temporary bridge; after Feb 28, 2026, postal shipments shift to percentage-based tariffs.

      Countries Suspending Shipments: How De Minimis Impacts Global Trade

      The rollout hasn’t just raised costs—it’s also created confusion across global postal networks. Many carriers simply aren’t ready to handle duty collection on small parcels, so instead of risking mistakes, they’ve paused U.S. deliveries altogether.

      Hover over your country to see how the de minimis suspension impacts your handmade business.

      Australia Post was among the first to act, suspending most parcel services to the U.S. (letters, documents, and gifts under $100 are still allowed). In Europe, postal services in Germany, France, Spain, Italy, the U.K., Belgium, Sweden, Denmark, Austria, and Slovenia have announced similar suspensions. Even major carriers like DHL Germany have pulled back, pausing business parcel shipments into the U.S.

      It’s not just Europe and Australia. Postal operators in Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, India, and Switzerland have also temporarily stopped or reduced their U.S. service.

      Here’s the full list so far:

      • Australia
      • Austria
      • Belgium
      • Denmark
      • France
      • Germany
      • India
      • Italy
      • Japan
      • New Zealand
      • Singapore
      • Slovenia
      • South Korea
      • Spain
      • Sweden
      • Switzerland
      • Thailand
      • United Kingdom

      All told, more than 20 countries have either halted shipments to American buyers or scaled back what they’ll accept. For handmade sellers, that means delays, service interruptions, and in some cases, an outright freeze on access to the U.S. market until systems catch up.

      What Handmade Sellers Should Do Next

      This is one of the most significant changes to international eCommerce in years. Handmade sellers need to adapt quickly to protect their margins and keep customers happy.

      What Handmade Sellers Should Do Next

      Four steps to protect margins, keep customers happy, and reduce risk in the new tariff environment.

      Step 1

      Audit Your Supply Chain

      Map every imported material—beads, fabric, clasps, packaging—and calculate landed cost with tariffs, MPF, and (if ocean) HMF.

      • Review last 3–6 months of imports and note HS codes + base duty.
      • Flag products most exposed to cost jumps.
      Step 2

      Compare Domestic Alternatives

      Price U.S. suppliers with current tariffs in mind—many are now competitive and deliver faster.

      • Request two quotes domestically; include lead times.
      • Compare total landed import cost vs. domestic delivered price.
      Step 3

      Communicate With Buyers

      Set expectations early—if you’re outside the U.S., note possible duties and slower transit to prevent surprise costs and bad reviews.

      • Update listing notes and shop announcements.
      • Use an automated pre-transit message explaining fees/delays.
      Step 4

      Diversify Your Markets

      Balance U.S. uncertainty by growing local and regional sales, and by adding one extra channel beyond Etsy.

      • Run SEO/ads for nearby buyers to lift domestic orders.
      • List on one additional marketplace to spread risk.

      Step 1: Audit Your Supply Chain

      Start by mapping out where your supplies come from. If you’re importing beads, fabrics, charms, or packaging from abroad, calculate how new tariffs and fees affect your real landed costs. What used to be the cheapest option may no longer make sense once duties are stacked on.

      • Review recent orders from international suppliers.
      • Estimate the new costs under current tariff rates.
      • Identify which products in your shop depend most heavily on imports.

      Step 2: Compare Domestic Alternatives

      Now is the time to revisit local sourcing. U.S.-based suppliers that seemed too pricey before may actually be competitive once you add up international duties, shipping costs, and delays.

      • Domestic suppliers can reduce risks of late shipments.
      • Local sourcing often means faster restocks, which is critical during peak seasons.

      Step 3: Communicate With Buyers

      If you’re outside the U.S., set expectations early. Buyers don’t like surprises, and being upfront about possible duties or slower delivery times can save you from bad reviews.

      • Add clear notes to your Etsy listings about shipping changes.
      • Use shop announcements or automated messages to explain delays or fees.
      • Remind customers that transparency is part of your brand’s integrity.

      Step 4: Diversify Your Markets

      Don’t put all your eggs in the U.S. basket. If American orders become unpredictable, shift some focus to local buyers or regional marketplaces. You’ll reduce risk and keep revenue flowing even when U.S. policies are in flux.

      • Expand into other marketplaces alongside Etsy.
      • Run targeted ads or SEO campaigns for buyers closer to home.
      • Build a loyal regional base that balances international uncertainty.

      The Bottom Line: How De Minimis Impacts Handmade Sellers Going Forward

      The suspension of the de minimis rule marks the end of cheap, duty-free imports into the U.S.—and underscores how de minimis impacts handmade sellers in every corner of the marketplace.

      For handmade sellers, it means higher supply costs, more shipping complications, and new uncertainty around international sales.

      It’s a shake-up that nobody in the handmade community asked for—but staying nimble, informed, and proactive will help your shop adapt before the holiday season rush begins.

    • Etsy Tests New Ad “Strategies” But at a Price Sellers Aren’t Happy About

      Etsy Tests New Ad “Strategies” But at a Price Sellers Aren’t Happy About

      Etsy is quietly rolling out a new beta feature for its advertising platform, giving sellers the option to choose between three “ad strategies.” But there’s a catch: you’ll need to raise your daily ad budget to at least $25/day just to access them.

      For many small shops, that’s a big jump—$750 a month on ads—before you even see whether the feature delivers on its promises.

      What’s Changing in Etsy Ads

      Traditionally, Etsy ads have run on a ‘set it and forget it’ basis, with sellers simply choosing their daily budget and letting Etsy’s algorithm do the work.

      But in 2025, staying on top of changes like this is key to growth in the handmade eCommerce space—as we covered in our 2025 handmade trend report.

      When enabled, sellers can choose between:

      Increase Orders

      Etsy will push ads into more competitive placements to maximize visibility and sales. The tradeoff? Higher cost per order.

      Best For

      Jumpstarting orders, competitive categories, and seasonal pushes.

      Balance Orders With Returns (default)

      Etsy balances ad spend, orders, and ROI in an attempt to keep things steady.

      Best For

      Consistent growth and predictable spending.

      Increase Return

      Etsy will bid more conservatively, reducing ad spend and aiming for better ROI. The downside is fewer orders and lower visibility.

      Best for

      Sellers prioritizing lower costs or working in less competitive niches.

      Why Sellers Are Frustrated

      On the surface, these options give sellers the appearance of more control. In reality, it’s simply three versions of the same black-box system—spend more, spend the same, or spend less—with no real insight into how Etsy is making decisions behind the scenes.

      The biggest frustration? The $25/day minimum budget to unlock these strategies.

      For serious shops already spending heavily, this isn’t shocking. But for the majority of sellers—especially those experimenting with ads at $3–10/day—this new paywall is discouraging.

      And if you’re in categories where margins are already slim, like many of the profitable handmade products we highlighted for 2025, that extra $750 a month in ad spend can feel impossible to justify.

      As one seller put it, it feels like Etsy has introduced “a button to make ads more expensive.”

      What This Means for Your Shop

      If you’re not currently running ads, nothing changes—your shop will continue under the ‘balanced’ strategy by default.

      But if you’re still in the early stages of building traction, it may make more sense to focus on organic growth or even branch out to other platforms. There are plenty of alternative marketplaces for handmade sellers where you can test products without locking yourself into a steep ad budget.

      If you’ve been considering ads or testing them at lower spend levels, here’s what to keep in mind:

      • Don’t run ads on a brand-new shop. Without proven organic sales, you’ll likely waste money.
      • Test only when you have consistent daily sales. Ads work best once Etsy already knows your audience and what products sell.
      • Budget for a full month. Ads need at least 30 days of consistent spend to give meaningful results. If you only run $2/day and run out of budget in 90 minutes, you’ll never get usable data.
      • Match strategy to your goals. Want a seasonal sales push? “Increase Orders” might make sense. Trying to keep costs lean? “Increase Return” could be worth testing. But don’t expect miracles.

      The Bottom Line

      Etsy’s new ad strategies are less about giving sellers true control and more about nudging higher ad budgets. While the options may help certain shops fine-tune their approach, most sellers will find little difference beyond how quickly their budget drains.

      Until Etsy provides more transparency, ads remain what they’ve always been: a gamble. Whether that gamble pays off depends far more on the strength of your products and listings than on which ad “strategy” you click.

      At the end of the day, your products and the strength of the handmade industry matter more than Etsy’s latest ad experiment. The industry itself is booming, projected to hit nearly $2 trillion—as we broke down in our 2025 handmade industry report.

    • Etsy’s New AI Search Just Caused a 10x Traffic Surge (Here’s What This Means for You)

      Etsy’s New AI Search Just Caused a 10x Traffic Surge (Here’s What This Means for You)

      Etsy’s been quietly rolling out major upgrades to how search works on the platform—and the results are making noise. The latest Etsy AI Search Update triggered a 10X traffic increase, reshaping how buyers discover handmade goods. That’s not just a boost. It’s a marketplace transformation.

      Let’s walk through what changed, why it matters for handmade sellers, and what you can do to stay ahead.

      What Is the Etsy AI Search Update?

      From 2019 to 2024, Etsy’s revenue surged from $818 million to $2.81 billion. This impressive growth reflects the company’s significant investments in AI, machine learning, and technological infrastructure. In 2023 alone, Etsy allocated over $470 million to research and development, underscoring its commitment to enhancing the platform’s capabilities.

      Etsy Revenue Growth (2019–2024)
      2019
      $818M
      2020
      $1.73B
      2021
      $2.33B
      2022
      $2.57B
      2023
      $2.75B
      2024
      $2.81B

      The core goal? Smarter, more accurate product discovery. Etsy’s upgraded AI tools are now front and center in marketplace performance. The Etsy AI Search Update helps match buyers to listings with more precision—even when their searches are vague.

      And it’s working. About 95% of purchases now come from the first page of search results, up from 85%. That means the visibility stakes for sellers just got higher.

      Learn more about the State of Craft & Handmade eCommerce in 2025

      How Cloud Migration Supercharged Etsy’s Search Engine

      Etsy began moving its data to Google Cloud back in 2018. The shift included 5.5 petabytes of data (think: 40 billion photos) and allowed Etsy to ditch its aging on-premise servers.

      Why it matters:

      • 💡 15% of Etsy’s engineers were freed up to focus on new features
      • ⚙️ Experimentation speed jumped 115%
      • 🕒 Data processing timelines dropped from weeks to days
      • 💸 Computing costs were cut by 42%
      • 🌱 Energy usage dropped—helping Etsy hit its sustainability targets

      This back-end shift laid the groundwork for the Etsy AI Search Update to succeed, giving machine learning tools the power to scale and evolve.

      Key Changes from the Etsy AI Search Update

      Etsy’s new AI search goes far beyond simple keyword matching. It now learns from:

      • Browsing behavior
      • Image analysis
      • Shipping speed and cost
      • Listing quality and responsiveness

      One big innovation is Etsy’s use of “algotorial” collections—curated groups of products chosen by human experts and expanded with AI tools. These collections keep Etsy’s handmade feel while offering scalable, personalized discovery.

      Shoppers now get custom homepages, curated collections like “Island Luxe” or “Literary Girl,” and smarter recommendations based on their behavior. It’s turning Etsy from a search-first platform into a discovery-first one.

      How This Update Affects Your Listings

      Etsy’s smarter AI tools have raised the bar—but also opened up more opportunity.

      Here’s what top-performing shops are doing differently:

      • Optimizing listings with high-performing keywords
      • Using standout, high-quality photos with popular color trends on Etsy
      • Offering free shipping
      • Responding quickly to customer messages
      • Maintaining excellent reviews and fulfillment metrics

      Shops using AI-assisted tools (for writing, keyword research, and listing analysis) are seeing serious gains—up to:

      • 47% more visibility
      • 31% higher sales
      • 15 hours saved per week on admin tasks

      What Etsy Sellers Need to Know About New AI Policies

      With Etsy’s AI rollout, transparency is more important than ever.

      • If you use AI to help create your product, you need to disclose it.
      • Etsy is removing listings that violate its Handmade Policy at 4x the rate compared to last year.
      • Selling AI prompt bundles? That’s not allowed on the platform.

      Bottom line: Stay honest, stay original, and use AI to assist—not replace—your creative process.

      How to Win With Etsy’s AI Search in 2025

      The Etsy search algorithm is smarter. The platform is faster. And competition is tighter. But sellers who adapt are already seeing the rewards.

      Here’s your to-do list:

      • Optimize titles and tags for relevant, high-traffic keywords
      • Upgrade your photos—they matter more than ever
      • Keep your shipping affordable and transparent
      • Use AI tools to streamline listing improvements and Etsy SEO
      • Stay compliant with Etsy’s updated policies

      This is Etsy’s biggest tech leap in years—and it’s just the beginning. With over $470 million poured into AI development, we can expect even more personalized, predictive, and powerful tools ahead.

      And for sellers who embrace the change while staying true to what makes their shop special, the future looks very bright.

    • 50 Most Popular Colors on Etsy in 2025 (Backed by Real Data)

      50 Most Popular Colors on Etsy in 2025 (Backed by Real Data)

      Color isn’t just for aesthetics on Etsy—it’s a conversion tool. The most popular colors on Etsy are the ones that catch attention, evoke emotion, and influence purchase decisions.

      But don’t rely solely on trend reports or seasonal hype.

      If you’re basing your Etsy SEO strategy on colors like “Lime Cream” (Etsy’s Color of the Year), you could be missing the mark. According to Marmalead, “Lime Cream” only gets about 33 clicks a month—barely a blip on the buyer radar.

      This list focuses on what matters most: real shopper behavior. We ranked the top 50 colors on Etsy based on engagement, which tells you how often buyers are actually interacting with these colors—not just searching for them, but clicking, browsing, and buying.

      RankColorSearchesEngagementCompetition
      1Emerald4,38329,215557,818
      2Neon1,11625,697452,166
      3Aqua5825,419300,527
      4Bronze89222,3941,120,177
      5Yellow1,02121,4437,256,017
      6Mint1,25018,942377,283
      7Pink17,03318,6529,969,216
      8Ivory75316,388403,478
      9Green3,31315,54610,145,287
      10Gold4,12713,38110,611,744
      11Blue3,67513,21414,010,891
      12Copper5,53512,9331,274,419
      13Black1,33112,69317,084,780
      14Olive16,64711,976295,807
      15White86211,25719,952,308
      16Denim2,88611,176308,488
      17Purple5,60810,5104,594,025
      18Rose Gold5738,5812,014,181
      19Red4868,3499,333,378
      20Teal578,255458,950
      21Rust1,3698,252127,881
      22Silver9,8157,64810,204,192
      23Blush1907,637243,568
      24Turquoise6757,4191,055,763
      25Tan3026,774280,135
      26Dusty Blue2606,07949,580
      27Mustard3705,315133,222
      28Peach2,5255,134334,204
      29Cream4664,360757,510
      30Lavender2,5444,239387,307
      31Amber1,2764,128244,937
      32Orange7074,0184,165,128
      33Coral9263,804356,785
      34Sage1,9633,124219,576
      35Periwinkle1282,67123,584
      36Lilac5892,585191,690
      37Gray321,9904,749,225
      38Navy4691,9011,106,700
      39Champagne1,9541,541238,801
      40Camo7821,351117,844
      41Brown571,3146,329,636
      42Cobalt471,276103,941
      43Lime471,276103,941
      44Magenta1131,17966,528
      45Burgundy1,1711,135246,503
      46Salmon991,10957,149
      47Maroon251,095163,529
      48Indigo190961106,793
      49Terracotta116564110,853
      50Chrome2,294548141,757

      Top 10 Etsy Colors of 2025 (Backed by Buyer Engagement)

      Using real data from Marmalead, these colors have the highest engagement from Etsy shoppers—meaning people aren’t just searching them, they’re clicking, browsing, and buying. Here’s how to use them strategically in your listings.

      1. Emerald (29,215)

      Use emerald as a hero color—perfect for velvet, gemstone jewelry, and premium branding.

      • Color Theory: Luxury jewelry, wedding accents, birthstone gifts (May)
      • Photo Tips: Gold, white, matte black. Add texture like foil or linen to elevate richness.

      2. Neon (25,697)

      Best used as a bold accent in apparel, digital art, or party decor. Adds playful energy but can quickly overwhelm.

      • Color Theory: 90s fashion, rave accessories, bold party decor, digital art
      • Photo Tips: Keep surroundings minimal or matte to make neon pop without chaos.

      3. Aqua (25,419)

      Great for summer or spa-themed products. Feels clean, fresh, and calm.

      • Color Theory: Summer beach themes, nursery art, wellness branding
      • Complimentary Colors: Coral, sand, ivory. Shoot against beige or wooden backdrops for coastal vibes.

      4. Bronze (22,394)

      A warm metallic perfect for rustic or moody designs. Works beautifully in home goods and statement jewelry.

      • Color Theory: Rustic home decor, boho jewelry, masculine gifts
      • Finishing Tip: Use brushed or aged finishes. Pair with navy, burgundy, or forest green.

      5. Yellow (21,443)

      Brightens spaces and sells well in decor and baby items. Use softer tones to avoid overwhelming the eye.

      • Color Theory: Baby showers, affirmations, spring/summer apparel
      • Complimentary Colors: Grays, sage, dusty pink for balance and approachability.

      6. Mint (18,942)

      Clean, calm, and universally appealing—ideal for baby products, packaging, and minimalist styles.

      • Color Theory: Wedding invitations, skincare labels, baby goods
      • Complimentary Colors: White, kraft brown, beige for an organic and soothing look.

      7. Pink (18,652)

      From romantic to edgy, pink adapts to many niches. Great for events, causes, or girly glam.

      • Color Theory: Valentine’s gifts, bachelorette merch, breast cancer awareness
      • Complimentary Colors: Gold, cream, or deep green depending on the vibe.

      8. Ivory (16,388)

      A staple for weddings and neutrals. Use in lace, paper goods, and timeless home decor.

      • Color Theory: Bridal products, vintage-style decor, minimalist packaging
      • Photo Tips: Pair with soft blush, olive, or metallics to create elegant contrast in photos.

      9. Green (15,546)

      “Green” covers a lot—narrow it down to olive, sage, or forest for product clarity. It works well in sustainable packaging and nature-inspired items.

      • Color Theory: Eco-friendly branding, St. Patrick’s Day, botanical art
      • Complimentary Colors: Combine with cream, wood, or clay to bring out its earthy character.

      10. Gold (13,381)

      Gold adds instant elegance. Use it sparingly—on foil labels, jewelry, or in holiday gift wraps.

      • Color Theory: Holiday packaging, anniversary gifts, luxury goods
      • Photo Tips: Shoot under soft, diffused lighting to avoid harsh reflections and let the shimmer come through naturally.

      Want to go deeper on how color psychology impacts buyer behavior? Read this guide on color theory to boost Etsy conversions.

      High Engagement, Low to Mid Competition: Best Bets for Trending Colors

      These colors have strong buyer engagement and manageable competition—great for SEO and design choices.

      • Emerald: High engagement, relatively low competition. Ideal for jewelry, home decor, and wedding items.
      • Aqua & Mint: Bright, eye-catching pastels that work great in spring/summer lines.
      • Olive & Ivory: Earthy and neutral tones gaining steam in both fashion and home goods.
      • Denim: A sleeper hit—popular in fabric, digital design, and clothing niches.

      Want to see where these trends are headed beyond Etsy? Read The State of Craft & Handmade eCommerce in 2025 for industry-wide insights.

      Oversaturated Colors That Are Still Popular

      These colors perform well but are in very competitive spaces. If you use them, pair with strong niche keywords.

      • Pink, Blue, Green, Black, White, Gold, Silver, Red

      Pro Tip: Combine with product-specific terms like “pink gemstone ring” or “green nursery art” for better ranking.

      Under-the-Radar Opportunities

      These colors have solid engagement with low competition—a goldmine for smart sellers.

      • Dusty Blue: Low competition (49k), still getting over 6,000 engagement.
      • Rust, Mustard, Lilac, Amber, Blush: On-trend, low-barrier keywords with strong aesthetic appeal.
      • Periwinkle: Just 23,000 competition and high engagement—worth testing in digital art and stationery.

      Don’t Be Fooled by Trending Color Hype

      Etsy named Lime Cream its Color of the Year. But here’s the data:

      • Searches: 37
      • Engagement: 33
      • Competition: 5,621

      Buyers just aren’t searching for it.

      Design with it if you love it—but don’t count on it for SEO. Instead, use searchable synonyms like “light green” or “soft mint.”

      How to Use Color Trends in Your Etsy Shop

      • Use high-engagement color keywords in your product titles, tags, and descriptions.
      • Pair color + product for best results (e.g., “mint green planner,” “emerald drop earrings”).
      • Photograph your products using trending colors as props, backgrounds, or packaging to enhance appeal—even if the keyword isn’t the product itself.
      • Stay flexible. What’s popular now might fade in a few months. Use Marmalead to check predictive trends regularly.

      Curious which products pair best with these trending colors? Explore the Most Profitable Handmade Products to Sell in 2025.

      Final Thoughts

      Trends may come and go, but real buyer behavior is what drives sales. By using color keywords that shoppers are actively engaging with—not just the ones trending on design blogs—you’re giving your products the best chance to be seen, clicked, and bought.

      Whether you’re launching a new product or refreshing old listings, this data-backed color list gives you a strategic edge. Combine strong visuals with smart SEO, and let your color choices do more than just look good—let them work for you.

      Need help choosing the best keywords for your Etsy listings? We recommend Marmalead to track color trends, engagement, and forecasted performance with real buyer data.

    • 10 Best Marketplaces for Handmade Sellers (That Actually Make Money in 2025)

      10 Best Marketplaces for Handmade Sellers (That Actually Make Money in 2025)

      The handmade market hit $906.8 billion in 2024 and is projected to nearly double by 2033. As outlined in our full Handmade eCommerce Trend Report, this explosive growth means there’s never been a better time to start selling your handmade products online—whether you craft jewelry, design custom clothing, or create home décor.

      Platforms like Etsy and Amazon Handmade connect creators with millions of buyers. Etsy alone has 96 million active shoppers. Amazon Handmade taps into Amazon’s 2.5 billion monthly visits. TikTok Shop, though newer, already brings in over $32 billion in annual U.S. sales.

      But not all marketplaces are created equal. Fees, competition, rules, and audience vary. In this guide, we break down the 10 most profitable handmade marketplaces for 2025—so you can pick the right one for your business.

      1. Amazon Handmade

      Amazon Handmade is ideal for tapping into Amazon’s massive customer base, giving handmade sellers instant visibility with millions of shoppers. Great for scaling up, but requires tight margins and adherence to strict handmade guidelines.

      Amazon Handmade
      • Fees: 15% referral fee (20% for jewelry up to $250), no listing fees, waived $39.99 Pro seller fee
      • Pros: Massive audience, trusted brand, no listing fees, access to FBA and Amazon Custom
      • Cons: High fees, strict handmade verification, limited branding, no customer email access

      Amazon Handmade gives you reach, but at a cost. Its 15%+ cut is steep, but the waived Pro plan and listing-free model can offset that—especially if your margins are solid.

      2. Etsy

      Etsy is best for makers who want a built-in handmade-focused audience. Etsy is the go-to for handmade sellers starting out, with built-in traffic, low barriers to entry, and a community of buyers actively searching for unique, personalized products. It’s competitive, but powerful if you learn Etsy SEO.

      Etsy
      • Fees: $0.20 listing fee, 6.5% transaction fee, 3% + $0.25 payment fee, 2.5% currency conversion
      • Pros: Dedicated handmade audience, brand recognition, customizable storefront
      • Cons: High competition, rising fees, Etsy owns buyer data, algorithm swings

      Etsy’s still the most popular handmade platform, but you’ll need strong SEO and marketing chops to stand out among 9 million other sellers.

      3. Shopify

      Shopify is ideal for makers who want to build their own brand, email list, and checkout experience. There’s no built-in traffic, so you’ll need to drive your own marketing—but your profit margins and customer relationships are all yours.

      Shopify
      • Fees: $29–$299/month (plus apps), ~2% processing fee
      • Pros: Full control, own your customer data, scalable, predictable costs
      • Cons: Requires you to drive traffic, higher upfront setup effort

      Shopify is great if you’re ready to go beyond marketplaces. While it doesn’t bring automatic traffic, it gives you full brand freedom.

      4. Goimagine

      Goimagine is a handmade-only platform that donates 2% of every purchase to children’s charities. It’s great for socially conscious U.S. sellers who want lower fees and care about impact—but you’ll need to bring your own traffic.

      Goimagine
      • Fees: 2–6.5% + Stripe processing; $0–$15/month
      • Pros: Handmade-only, donates 2% to children’s charities, low fees
      • Cons: U.S. only, small buyer base, sellers must drive traffic

      Goimagine focuses on handmade integrity and social impact. It’s great for makers who value mission over volume—and don’t mind promoting themselves.

      5. Folksy

      Folksy is the UK’s largest handmade marketplace, serving a niche audience that values British-made goods. It’s handmade-only, community-driven, and cheaper than Etsy—perfect for UK crafters who want a more personal marketplace.

      Folksy
      • Fees: £0.15 per item (Basic), £7.50/month (Plus); 6% + VAT on sales
      • Pros: British buyer focus, supportive community, fewer competitors
      • Cons: UK-only, smaller audience than Etsy

      Folksy is like a cozier, UK-focused Etsy—with fewer sellers and a strong sense of community.

      6. eBay

      eBay is great for artists who sell items with collectible, vintage, or nostalgic appeal. You can run auctions or set fixed prices, reaching both collectors and handmade shoppers—but it lacks Etsy’s niche focus.

      eBay
      • Fees: 250 free listings, then $0.35/item; 2.5–15.3% final value fee
      • Pros: Auction or fixed price options, global audience, vintage appeal
      • Cons: Not handmade-specific, heavy competition, fewer tools for artisans

      eBay isn’t just for auctions anymore. It’s ideal if your handmade items double as collectibles or vintage-inspired pieces.

      7. Bonanza

      Bonanza lets you import listings from Etsy, Amazon, or eBay and integrates directly with Google Shopping. It’s seller-friendly with fewer fees, and includes tools like background removal and pricing negotiation.

      Bonanza
      • Fees: 11% base fee, $0.25 transaction; optional ad tiers up to 30%
      • Pros: Imports from other platforms, Google Shopping tools, seller-focused
      • Cons: Smaller audience, fees increase with ad spend

      Bonanza shines with its integrations and marketing features. Great for experienced sellers wanting more control without starting from scratch.

      8. Mercari

      Mercari is designed for speed and simplicity.

      Just snap a photo, write a short description, and your handmade item is live. The app-first setup is ideal for casual sellers, hobbyists, or those looking to test product ideas without a complicated store build.

      Mercari
      • Fees: 0% selling fee + 2.9% + $0.50 payment processing fee
      • Pros: Easy mobile listing, no upfront costs, discounted shipping, quick setup
      • Cons: No custom orders, mockups not allowed, fees apply per sale

      Mercari’s no-fuss approach makes it a great option for part-time makers who want a lightweight platform with minimal setup and a built-in mobile audience.

      9. TikTok Shop

      Best for video-savvy sellers who want to build a brand through short-form content.

      TikTok Shop combines social media with eCommerce, letting sellers tag products in videos, host live shopping, and leverage viral content. It’s ideal for creators who can consistently post and engage an audience.

      TikTok Shop
      • Fees: 6% (intro 2% for first 60 days), no listing fees
      • Pros: Video integration, shoppable posts, live streams, influencer programs
      • Cons: 1,000-follower minimum, fast pace, must create content consistently

      TikTok Shop adds video to social commerce. If you can commit to content, it’s a powerful way to go viral and drive direct sales.

      10. Michaels MakerPlace

      Ideal for crafters who already shop at Michaels and want multiple income streams.

      Backed by the Michaels brand, MakerPlace lets you earn from product sales, virtual classes, and affiliate guides—all without listing fees. It’s built for handmade sellers looking to monetize both their craft and their knowledge.

      MakerPlace
      • Fees: 2–4% referral; $0–$9.98/month
      • Pros: No listing fees, earn from classes/guides, possible in-store placement
      • Cons: New platform, limited traffic compared to Etsy

      Michaels’ MakerPlace is a fresh Etsy alternative with perks like rewards on supplies and class commissions.

      Final Thoughts

      You don’t have to pick just one. Many successful sellers start on Etsy or Amazon Handmade, then grow into platforms like Shopify or TikTok Shop to take more control.

      Use this guide to match your goals, products, and skills to the right platform(s)—and start turning your handmade hobby into a diverse income stream.

    • The Most Profitable Handmade Products in 2025: Digital & Personalized

      The Most Profitable Handmade Products in 2025: Digital & Personalized

      The handmade market is bigger than ever. In 2024, the global handmade industry reached $906.8 billion—and it’s not slowing down. Experts predict it will nearly double to $1.94 trillion by 2033, growing at 8.83% per year.

      That kind of growth means sellers have more opportunity (and competition) than ever. But the real edge comes from choosing products that balance strong demand with low overhead and high margins.

      This guide covers three of the most profitable handmade products in 2025: personalized jewelry, digital downloads, and customizable gift boxes.

      These categories combine emotional appeal, repeat sales potential, and smart scaling strategies. If you’re starting or expanding your handmade business this year, these are great places to begin.

      Personalized Jewelry – High Demand, High Return

      Personalized jewelry is a proven evergreen category on Etsy and other marketplaces. It consistently ranks among the top-selling product types and shows no signs of slowing down.

      📈 Market Insights

      The global handmade jewelry market was valued at 353.26 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a 4.7% CAGR through 2030. Online sales dominate the space, with over 60% of purchases happening on platforms like Etsy, Pinterest, and Instagram.

      GVR

      The demand is driven by emotion—buyers want pieces that feel like theirs. That makes personalization an irresistible feature.

      💡 What to Sell

      Using Marmalead for Etsy product research, we found some of the most profitable jewelry products include:

      • Name Necklaces – Custom names, initials, birth flowers, and even handwriting.
      • Birthstone Jewelry – Emotional value drives repeat purchases for birthdays and anniversaries.
      • Sustainable Jewelry – Recycled metals and lab-grown stones cater to eco-conscious shoppers.
      • Charm Necklaces & Bracelets – Customers build and personalize over time, which leads to repeat sales.

      💰 Pricing Formula

      A proven formula for pricing handmade jewelry:

      Materials + Labor + Expenses + Profit = Product Cost

      A popular strategy among Etsy sellers is multiplying the cost of materials and packaging by 4x for retail pricing. This allows room for wholesale pricing at 50-60% of retail while still making a healthy margin.

      Estimate your hourly rate realistically—many artisans use 2.5x the average wage in their region to calculate labor.

      👉 Need help figuring out your own profits? Use our free Etsy profit calculator.

      CraftyTrendy Etsy Profit Calculator

      📦 Material Sourcing Tips

      Keep costs low without sacrificing quality:

      • Buy beads, clasps, and tools in bulk via eBay or wholesaler sites.
      • Join Facebook “destash” groups where other makers sell leftover supplies at deep discounts.
      • Repurpose old jewelry for chains, stones, and findings to reduce material costs.

      With the right design niche and pricing, personalized jewelry can deliver 50–60% profit margins—making it a staple in any handmade product line.

      Digital Downloads – Low Overhead, Pure Profit

      If you’re looking for low risk and high reward, digital products are hard to beat. You create them once, and they can be sold thousands of times with no need for inventory, packaging, or shipping.

      Another great aspect of digital products? They’re completely unaffected by global trade tariffs.

      📊 Market Potential

      The global digital product market is expected to reach $26.06 trillion by 2034. That includes everything from e-learning and online courses to printables and design templates.

      On Etsy alone, downloads like planners, templates, and wall art remain top performers. Profit margins? Nearly 100% once you’ve covered your initial time and software costs.

      🧠 What to Sell

      Top-selling digital product ideas for 2025:

      • Printable Planners – Daily, weekly, meal prep, goal tracking, etc.
      • Social Media Templates – For Canva, Instagram Reels, YouTube, or small business branding.
      • Digital Art & Wall Prints – Instant home decor solutions.
      • Ebooks or Mini Courses – Great for makers with teaching experience or niche knowledge.
      Canva

      🛠️ Creation Tips

      • Use tools like Canva Pro, Affinity Designer, or Adobe Illustrator.
      • Ensure files are compatible across devices (PDFs, PNGs, editable files).
      • Add keywords to file names and listings for SEO visibility.

      A good digital product solves a specific problem—like saving time, boosting productivity, or helping someone get organized. That’s what drives consistent downloads.

      💵 Pricing Models

      You have flexibility here. Test what works best for your audience:

      • One-Time Payment – The most common model for printables and templates.
      • Subscription Access – Ongoing value for planners, courses, or design libraries.
      • Freemium – Offer a free version and charge for upgrades or bundles.
      • Tripwire/Bundles – Low-cost entry product that leads to a higher-ticket upsell.

      A template that saves your buyer 10 hours of work should be priced based on value, not production cost.

      📢 Platform Optimization

      Etsy is great for lifestyle printables. Gumroad and Payhip work well for eBooks or techier products. No matter where you list, focus on:

      • Clear SEO titles and tags
      • Clean mockups and visuals
      • Detailed descriptions that explain value

      Use auto-delivery tools so buyers get instant downloads after purchase—this boosts satisfaction and reviews.

      Custom Gift Boxes & Subscription Products – Built-In Repeat Sales

      While one-off products can make quick sales, subscriptions and gift boxes create repeat customers. They combine personalization with convenience—two huge trends in 2025.

      📦 Industry Growth

      The global gift packaging market is expected to grow from $28.82 billion in 2025 to $43.99 billion by 2034, with North America leading at 37% of total market share.

      Subscription boxes often see 40–60% margins, making them one of the most scalable handmade business models.

      imarc

      🎁 What to Offer

      Examples of handmade gift boxes that perform well:

      • Self-Care Boxes – Bath bombs, handmade candles, herbal teas, mini journals.
      • Pet Lover Boxes – Personalized pet toys, treats, or accessories.
      • Book & Stationery Sets – Pair handmade bookmarks, note pads, and reading-related gifts.
      • Niche Interests – Gardening, cozy living, crystals, fandom boxes, etc.

      Customizability is the key—let buyers select scents, flavors, themes, or even delivery frequency.

      🧮 Pricing Structure

      To stay profitable:

      • Use tiered pricing to offer both starter kits and premium bundles.
      • Bundle slower-moving products with top sellers to increase perceived value.
      • Don’t forget fulfillment costs—labels, boxes, packaging, etc.

      And yes—unboxing matters. The more Instagram-worthy your packaging is, the more likely you are to go viral or get word-of-mouth referrals.

      🔄 Retention & Marketing

      To keep subscribers:

      • Offer a clear value proposition (e.g. “$60+ value in every $29 box”).
      • Encourage social sharing with hashtags and insert cards.
      • Use email automation to upsell or re-engage lapsed subscribers.
      • Highlight personalization and eco-friendly packaging—those are key motivators for today’s buyers.

      Final Thoughts

      If you’re looking for high-profit handmade products to sell in 2025, start with these three:

      • Personalized jewelry taps into emotional buying behavior and has long-term appeal.
      • Digital downloads offer nearly pure profit and are perfect for creatives who prefer designing over shipping.
      • Custom gift boxes bring repeat revenue and cater to the growing demand for unique, thoughtful gifts.

      Each of these categories scales differently—so start with one that fits your skill set and audience. Once you’ve got traction, you can expand.

      👉 Want help picking the right product niche? Or need to track your Etsy listings more effectively? Use our free Chrome extension to analyze your shop performance and make smarter product decisions.

      🔗 Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll break down trending handmade fashion and decor products that are driving big profits in 2025!