Do you like making jewelry, sewing pillows or painting pictures? Try making some extra money with the online handmade marketplace Etsy. Lots of people have made money selling crafts, art and vintage goods on the site. In fact, $180.6 million worth of goods were sold on the site in 2009. Want a cut of that? Before you get too excited, consider that there is quite a bit of competition.
Some artists say it’s nearly impossible to be successful on Etsy. That’s because Etsy officials say there are about 400,000 active Etsy sellers. Active sellers are people who have sold products on the site within the past year. The competition is particularly tough for those who choose to create in popular categories like jewelry.
There are other online marketplaces for crafters and artists if Etsy seems too tough. Other sites are SuperMarket and Artsefest. You could also sell your crafts and art at a local craft show. Or talk with an art studio about showing some of your work. Even if you don’t end up selling your crafts, they could still save you money. Give them away as gifts for a low cost alternative to giving store bought items.