Tips for Buying on Etsy

Etsy is home to over a million shop owners who sell handmade crafts, craft supplies and vintage items.  Buying something can be as easy as clicking the "add to cart" button and checking out with Paypal or a credit card. But knowing a few handy tips may prevent unnecessary frustration for you and/or the shop owner. 

 Multi-colored heart confetti

#1 READ the description for the item that you want to buy.  Make sure that you understand  - 

* Exactly what is being sold - the size, the quantity, the color

* How long it will take the seller to make and ship the item

* Where the item is shipping from - If you live in New Zealand, you won't get your package from Iowa in 3 days.

#2 LOOK for special instructions.  Do you need to leave information for the seller?  This generally applies to personalized items.

#3 ASK the seller a question! Etsy sellers do not mind hearing from potential customers.  Perhaps they forgot to mention the size of an item or you want to know if they can make blue tags instead of white.  Look for the "Ask a Question" button to the right of the price.

#4 BE specific.  If you want blue tags, ask for the specific shade.  "Can you make these in royal (sky, turquoise, navy, etc.) blue?"

#5 ORDER EARLY. We live in a world of making last minute decisions.  Too many times I've had to turn a customer down because they ask me on Monday if I can make a stack of personalized tags and have them delivered in time for their baby shower on Friday.  No, most likely not.

Zebra stripe gift tags

I hope you've found these tips helpful!  I will be back to share some more.  Please feel free to leave any questions or comments. And I hope you'll stop by my shop - Ellie Marie Designs .