Amazon Handmade vs. Etsy: Which platform is better for you?

Choosing the right platform to sell your handmade products can be a game-changer for your business. Amazon Handmade and Etsy are two of the most popular options, each offering unique advantages and challenges.

This comprehensive comparison will help you navigate their key features, fees, audience reach, and seller support. Whether you want to expand your product line from jewelry to party supplies or streamline your operations, making the choice between Amazon Handmade vs. Etsy can make all the difference. 

Let's dive in and find out which platform is best suited for your handmade creations.

• Amazon Handmade and Etsy online marketplaces offer unique advantages and challenges, catering to different types of handmade sellers and business goals.

• Amazon Handmade provides a vast customer base, strong brand credibility, and robust fulfillment options through Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), but it comes with higher fees and limited storefront customization.

• Etsy offers a more customizable and user-friendly selling experience with lower fees and a dedicated community focused on unique, handmade items. However, it may have a smaller audience reach than Amazon Handmade.

• Key factors when choosing between the two platforms include fee structures, audience demographics, branding flexibility, seller support, and fulfillment capabilities.

• Using Gelato’s print on demand services can enhance your Amazon Handmade and Etsy selling strategy by streamlining production and effortlessly expanding your product offerings.

Amazon Handmade is a specialized section on the Amazon marketplace dedicated to artisans who sell handcrafted goods. It connects sellers with Amazon's vast customer base, offering a platform to reach millions worldwide. Products range from jewelry to home decor, benefitting from Amazon's extensive logistics and warehousing capabilities.

Deciding whether Amazon Handmade is the right platform involves weighing its advantages and drawbacks. 

Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect when selling your handmade products on Amazon Handmade.

Amazon Handmade Pros

Amazon Handmade sellers enjoy several benefits on the platform that can significantly boost their business. From a vast customer base to the credibility of the Amazon brand, there are numerous advantages to consider: 

• Large audience reach: Amazon's enormous customer base means more potential buyers for your handmade products.

• Trust and credibility: Being part of Amazon lends authority and trust to your products.

• Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA): You can use Amazon's logistics and shipping infrastructure to manage orders effectively.

• Prime eligibility: Products can qualify for Amazon Prime, attracting Prime members looking for quick delivery.

Amazon Handmade Cons

Despite the benefits, there are also some cons for selling on Amazon Handmade:

• High competition: Given Amazon's vast marketplace, handmade items may struggle to stand out amidst the extensive product listings.

• Stringent approval process: Getting your shop approved can be time-consuming, and not all applicants are guaranteed acceptance.

• Fee structure: Amazon handmade fees include a 15% referral fee on each sale, which can affect your profit margins.

• Limited customization: Unlike Etsy, Amazon Handmade offers fewer options for customizing your shop's appearance.

Etsy is a vibrant marketplace dedicated to handmade, vintage items and craft supplies. Launched in 2005, it empowers independent sellers to reach a global audience passionate about unique and creative products. It's an ideal platform for artisans looking to showcase their craftsmanship and buyers seeking unique treasures.

If you're considering Etsy as your selling platform, it’s essential to understand both the advantages and drawbacks. Let's explore what makes Etsy a unique marketplace and weigh the pros and cons of listing your handmade products here.

Etsy Pros

For Etsy sellers, the platform provides several advantages for selling handmade products. Here are some of the key benefits: 

• Large, niche audience: Etsy attracts buyers searching for unique, handmade, and vintage items.

• Ease of use: Setting up a shop on Etsy is simple and designed for beginners.

• Brand visibility: Etsy's marketplace helps boost your brand’s visibility among targeted customers.

• Community support: Benefit from a supportive community of fellow sellers and artisans.

• Customizable storefront: You can personalize your shop to reflect your brand identity.

Etsy Cons

While Etsy offers a unique platform for sellers of handmade items, it does come with its own set of challenges:

• High Etsy fees: Etsy charges a listing fee and takes a percentage of each sale, which can add up quickly.

• Stiff competition: Standing out in a sea of similar products can be difficult.

• Limited customization: Etsy's design options for shop layouts are somewhat restrictive.

• Policy restrictions: Strict policies can sometimes limit what and how you can sell.

Deciding between Amazon Handmade and Etsy can be challenging. Let’s explore these platforms' key differences and similarities, helping you determine which is best suited for your handmade products. 

Product selection 

When you compare Amazon Handmade and Etsy, consider the range and type of products you plan to offer. Both platforms have unique features that cater to different niches in the handmade market.

Amazon Handmade

This platform is best for sellers looking for expansive market reach with a diverse range of handmade items.

• Broad product spectrum: Amazon Handmade appeals to artisans who produce a wide range of products, including home décor, handmade jewelry, and clothing.

• Customer exposure: Its integration with Amazon’s massive customer base provides exposure to millions of potential buyers.

• Prime benefits: Being part of the Amazon ecosystem means sellers can leverage Amazon Prime, which offers fast shipping and builds customer trust.

• Seller tools: The platform's inventory management and order tracking tools can streamline the selling process for businesses aiming for high-volume sales.

• Scaling opportunities: Amazon Handmade is a good choice for those who want to scale their operations without worrying about reaching their audience.

Etsy

Etsy shop's preferences include products and vintage items catering to groups focused on unique and creative offerings.  

• Strong community: The Etsy marketplace is known for its strong community of buyers specifically looking for unique, handmade, and vintage items.

• Specialized products: The platform excels in specialized and niche products, including personalized gifts, craft supplies, and one-of-a-kind art pieces.

• Search optimization: Etsy's search algorithm helps customers find what they are looking for, making it easier to stand out if your product fits in a niche.

• Storytelling and connection: The online marketplace encourages artisans to tell their stories and connect with customers, creating a loyal customer base.

• Creative customization: Etsy’s tools for imaginative customization and branding allow sellers to create shops that reflect their artistic vision.

Amazon Handmade covers many categories, providing sellers with many opportunities. By contrast, Etsy allows for more specialized and themed listings that cater to a specific audience looking for unique, often bespoke items.

Seller requirements and application process

Amazon Handmade and Etsy have unique seller requirements and application processes, which can significantly impact your path to becoming an online seller.

Amazon Handmade

• Application process: Amazon Handmade has a stringent application process. You must provide detailed information about your business and products, ensuring they meet Amazon’s high standards for handmade goods.

• Eligibility: Only genuine artisans can sell on Amazon Handmade. This platform focuses on quality and authenticity, making it an excellent choice for dedicated craftspeople.

• Approval time: Depending on the thoroughness of your application and documentation, the approval process can take several days to a few weeks.

Etsy

• Application process: Etsy’s application process is more straightforward. You must create an account, set up your shop, and list your items.

• Eligibility: Etsy is highly inclusive, allowing a range of handmade, vintage, and craft supply items, making it accessible to various sellers.

• Approval time: Etsy’s approval process is usually quick, allowing you to start selling almost immediately after setting up your shop.

Choosing the right platform depends on your specific needs and the time you're willing to invest in the application process. Be prepared to meet Amazon Handmade’s rigorous standards or take advantage of Etsy’s more straightforward, inclusive approach.

Fees and pricing

Fees and pricing are crucial in choosing the right platform for your handmade products. Consider how these costs will impact your profit margins and overall business strategy to make the most informed decision.

Amazon Handmade

• Referral fee: Amazon charges a 15% referral fee on each sale. This fee is a percentage of the item’s total sale price, including shipping and gift wrap charges.

• No listing fees: Amazon Handmade does not charge listing fees. Unlike some platforms, listing your products on Amazon Handmade is free.

• Professional selling plan: Amazon sellers must have a Professional Selling Plan, which costs $39.99 a month. This fee is a standard monthly charge for using the platform in addition to the referral fee.

• No payment processing fees: Amazon does not charge extra for handling transactions, which can save you money compared to other platforms.

Amazon Handmade's fee structure can be more beneficial if you sell higher-priced items, as the lack of per-item listing fees and a payment processing fee can lower your overall costs.

Etsy  

• Transaction fee: Etsy charges a 6.5% transaction fee on the sale price, including shipping and gift wrap. This fee is lower than Amazon Handmade's referral fee, which can benefit sellers with lower-priced items.

• Listing fee: Requires a $0.20 per-item listing fee. Each product you list will cost you this amount, which can add up if you have a large inventory.

• Payment processing fees: Includes payment processing fees of 3% + $0.25 per transaction. This fee covers the cost of processing a buyer's payment and is in addition to the transaction fee.

• Optional advertising and promotion fees: Etsy offers optional fees for advertising and promotions. For instance, Etsy offers Offsite Ads, which can cost an additional 12-15% of the sale price, and Etsy Plus, a subscription service costing $10 per month, which provides additional tools and features for listing and promoting your products.

Etsy's fee structure might be more manageable for new or small-scale sellers due to its lower upfront costs and the flexibility of optional promotional fees, allowing you more control over your expenses.

Payment and payout

Understanding how you get paid is crucial for choosing the right platform. Evaluating payment methods and payout schedules can significantly impact your cash flow and financial planning. Let’s break down the differences between Amazon Handmade and Etsy.

Amazon Handmade

• Payment cycle: Amazon pays sellers every two weeks. You can’t request more frequent payouts, which might be a drawback if you need quicker access to funds.

• Processing Fees: Amazon Handmade charges a 15% referral fee for each sale, which is higher than other platforms.

• Disbursement: Amazon directly deposits earnings into your bank account. If you're starting, be prepared for a longer wait.

Etsy

• Payment: Etsy offers more flexibility. Payments are available weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Sellers can also request to receive funds as early as the next business day, facilitating better cash flow management.

• Processing fees: Etsy charges a 6.5% transaction fee on the sale price and includes other small fees, which can add up but generally remain lower than Amazon’s referral fee.

• Disbursement: Like Amazon, Etsy deposits earnings directly to your bank account.

Both platforms offer secure, reliable payment methods, but Etsy provides more flexibility and potentially lower fees.

Audience reach

Audience reach is a vital factor when choosing your sales platform. Amazon Handmade and Etsy offer vast audiences, but their reach varies considerably.

Amazon Handmade

Access to Amazon's massive customer base, millions of active buyers globally, and robust retail infrastructure. 

• Global reach: Amazon operates in numerous countries, giving you access to a worldwide market. This exposure can immensely boost your potential customer base.

• Customer trust: Amazon buyers often trust the platform for its reliability, ease of use, and fast shipping. This trust can translate into higher conversion rates.

• Retail infrastructure: Amazon’s logistics and fulfillment network (Fulfillment by Amazon or FBA) provides robust support for sellers, enabling efficient storage, packing, and shipping.

• Marketing and visibility: The platform offers various advertising tools to help increase the visibility of your products within its vast marketplace.

Etsy

A niche marketplace with a loyal customer base that seeks explicitly handcrafted and unique items is ideal for artisans targeting a particular audience.

• Niche audience: Etsy’s audience specifically looks for handmade, vintage, and unique items, providing a focused market for your products.

• Community engagement: Etsy shoppers value the personal stories behind each product, encouraging a stronger connection between sellers and buyers.

• Branding flexibility: Etsy allows more customization in shop appearance and product listings, helping sellers create a distinct brand identity.

• Buyer loyalty: The platform has a robust, loyal customer base that appreciates unique, handcrafted items, potentially leading to repeat purchases.

• Artisan-friendly features: Etsy offers tools geared toward the needs of artisans, such as easier shop customization and promotional opportunities catered to creative sellers.

If reaching a global market is your priority, Amazon Handmade's extensive infrastructure and vast customer base could be advantageous. On the other hand, if you aim to connect with a specific audience that values uniqueness and craftsmanship, Etsy’s niche-focused community might be the perfect fit for you.

Branding and customization

Branding and customization are vital for creating a unique identity and customer experience. Both Amazon Handmade and Etsy offer different levels of customization to build your brand.

Amazon Handmade

The customization options on Amazon Handmade are relatively limited compared to Etsy. Sellers can create a profile page with a logo and a short description. Still, the overall look and feel of the store remains consistent with Amazon's professional but standardized layout. This is beneficial if you prefer a clean, straightforward interface that leverages customers' trust and familiarity with Amazon.

• Professional and trusted environment: Professional and trusted shopping environment.

• Streamlined product management: Streamlined process for uploading and maintaining product listings.

• Limited customization: Less flexibility in customizing the store appearance to stand out.

Etsy

Etsy provides extensive customization options, allowing sellers to create a highly personalized store environment. You can customize your shop’s banner, logo, and even the layout of your listings. Etsy’s interface supports a more creative expression of your brand, which can help you connect more deeply with a specific target audience interested in handmade and unique items. 

• Highly customizable appearance: A customized store with banners, logos, and shop layouts.

• Brand narrative creation: Ability to create a unique brand narrative through ‘About’ sections and additional store details.

• Stand-out shopping experience: Greater opportunity to stand out and create a memorable shopping experience.

Due to Etsy's flexibility in customization, your brand can stand out more distinctly, which can be particularly beneficial if you wish to convey a specific brand story or aesthetic. Amazon Handmade integrates your products closely with Amazon's branding, providing a sense of professional credibility and trustworthiness that might appeal more to customers.

Seller support and resources

Amazon Handmade and Etsy offer robust assistance regarding seller support and resources, but there are distinct differences.

Amazon Handmade

• Comprehensive seller resources: A vast knowledge base filled with articles, tutorials, and FAQs to help sellers navigate challenges and optimize store operations.

• 24/7 seller support: Provides round-the-clock seller support through phone, email, and live chat, ensuring assistance is available whenever needed, which is especially useful during peak business hours or when addressing urgent issues.

Etsy  

• Community forums: The site features fantastic community forums where sellers can connect, share experiences, and exchange advice. The forums are an excellent resource for learning from the community and staying updated on trends and best practices.

• Direct and limited support: Etsy provides direct support via email and limited live chat for specific account-related issues. It offers a comprehensive help center with detailed seller guidelines, from shop setup to product listing optimization.

Enterprise-level sellers on both platforms can access specialized support through solutions engineers and professional services teams. These specialized teams offer advanced support for managing extensive inventories, optimizing listings, and integrating with additional sales and marketing tools. 

While both Etsy and Amazon Handmade provide strong support structures, choosing between them may depend on your business needs. Amazon Handmade's 24/7 support can be a game-changer for sellers needing immediate assistance, whereas Etsy's community-driven support offers a more collaborative and learning-centered environment.

Listing and selling experience

Both Amazon Handmade and Etsy offer unique experiences when listing and selling products.

Amazon Handmade

It provides access to Amazon's powerful search algorithms, which can considerably enhance product visibility and be a game-changer for sellers. Thanks to Amazon's vast customer base, your products may reach a broader audience.

• Visibility: Leveraging Amazon’s search algorithms increases the chances of appearing in relevant search results.

• Inventory management (IM): Amazon offers sophisticated IM tools that allow you to track stock easily.

• Complex setup: The initial setup process can be tedious and involves detailed steps like category approval and verification.

You may need to invest more time initially to navigate through these complexities. Once you are up and running, the integrated tools and broader audience may result in more competitive exposure for your products.

Etsy

Known for its user-friendly interface, Etsy simplifies the listing process. This streamlined approach can save you time and reduce the setup hassle.

• User-friendly interface: Etsy's backend interface is intuitive and designed to make listing products as straightforward as possible.

• Customization: Etsy allows for greater personalization in listings, enabling you to create detailed and unique product descriptions and photos that reflect your brand’s personality.

• High competition: Due to the large number of sellers, standing out on Etsy can be challenging, especially in popular categories.

Despite the competition, Etsy's niche focus on handmade and vintage items attracts a dedicated customer base that appreciates craftsmanship, potentially making it easier to find your target audience.

While Etsy allows for greater personalization in listings with unique photos and detailed descriptions, Amazon Handmade follows a more standardized format in its product listings. Choosing between the two might depend on prioritizing a straightforward setup and niche audience (Etsy) or advanced tools and broader reach (Amazon Handmade).

Mobile app functionality

Regarding mobile app functionality, both Amazon Handmade and Etsy strive to provide their sellers with versatile tools for managing their businesses on the go. However, some key differences could influence your choice.

Amazon Handmade

• App interface: The Amazon Seller app allows you to manage your listings, respond to customer inquiries, and track sales. The interface is smooth and integrated with Amazon’s comprehensive ecosystem, which is beneficial if you already sell products on Amazon.

• Notification system: Amazon's app offers real-time notifications, so you're always up-to-date with orders, reviews, and inventory alerts.

• Multifunctionality: The app doubles as a thorough management tool, giving access to sales performance analytics, advertising campaigns, and more.

Etsy

• App interface: The Etsy Seller app is user-friendly, making it easy to update listings, process orders, and communicate with customers. It’s tailored specifically for handmade and vintage sellers.

• Customization and tools: The app allows you to customize your shop profile conveniently and offers marketing tools to boost your shop’s visibility directly from your mobile device.

• Notification system: Like Amazon, Etsy’s app provides seamless real-time notifications for every transaction and message, ensuring you’re always informed.

Both platforms offer robust mobile app functionality, but your decision may hinge on whether you prefer Amazon’s extensive business tools or Etsy’s niche-focused, user-friendly interface.

Marketing and promotion

Marketing and promotion drive traffic and sales to your handmade products. Amazon Handmade and Etsy offer various tools to help you reach a larger audience.

Amazon advertising

Leverage Amazon's robust advertising network to promote your products through sponsored ads and increase visibility. By utilizing Amazon’s vast customer base, you can access a range of advertising options that include:

• Sponsored products: Pay-per-click ads that display your products in user searches.

• Sponsored brands: Ads featuring your logo, custom headline, and multiple products.

• Sponsored display: Automated ads that appear on and off Amazon to reach relevant audiences.

Etsy promotions

To attract more buyers, utilize Etsy's built-in promotional tools. The platform offers multiple ways to advertise and promote your store.  

• Etsy ads: Etsy’s Pay-per-click ads help your listings appear in search results and other prominent places on the platform.

• Sales and coupons: Discount campaigns to entice buyers with special offers.

• Social media integration: Share your listings directly to drive more traffic.

Both platforms offer search engine optimization features to help your listings rank higher in search results, but Etsy's SEO tools are more customizable. Here's how they compare:

• Amazon Handmade SEO: Automatic indexing of your listings helps them appear in relevant search results. However, customization options are limited compared to Etsy.

• Etsy SEO: Advanced tools allow you to optimize your listings with specific keywords, Etsy tags, titles, and descriptions. You can also monitor performance using Etsy’s analytics, making it easier to refine your SEO strategies.

Both platforms provide robust marketing and promotional tools to enhance visibility and sales. Etsy’s customizable SEO features and flexible promotional tools may offer a slight edge for sellers looking to fine-tune their marketing strategies.

Order fulfillment

Order fulfillment is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing between Amazon Handmade and Etsy. 

Here are the differences between the two: 

Amazon's logistics

When you opt for Amazon Handmade, you can use Amazon's extensive fulfillment network, including Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), which handles your shipping, returns, and inventory management. 

• Automated order fulfillment: FBA automates the order fulfillment process, allowing you to scale efficiently as demand increases.

• Faster delivery: Amazon’s robust logistics network ensures quicker delivery times, increasing customer satisfaction.

• Inventory storage: Products can be stored in Amazon’s warehouses, reducing the need for your own storage space.

• Return handling: Amazon manages returns, streamlining the process and enhancing the buyer's overall experience.

Etsy’s independence

Etsy allows sellers to manage their shipping processes or leverage its partnerships for discounted shipping rates. 

• Custom shipping methods: You can select your shipping carriers and methods, adding a personalized touch to the customer experience.

• Third-party shipping integration: Etsy integrates with third-party shipping services, offering discounted and competitive shipping options.

• Brand control: You have complete control over packaging and branding, which is essential for creating a unique and memorable unboxing experience.

• Direct returns and inventory management: Returns and inventory are managed on your terms, enabling more direct customer interaction. 

Both platforms support integration with third-party order fulfillment services, such as Gelato, allowing for scalable solutions as your business grows. Gelato can produce and fulfill custom products, streamlining the order fulfillment process on Amazon Handmade and Etsy. This partnership helps you optimize shipping, manage inventory more efficiently, and focus on growing your business.

Integration and compatibility

Integration and compatibility are crucial for sellers wanting to streamline their operations and provide a seamless customer experience.

Amazon Handmade

• Extensive third-party integrations: Amazon provides access to a wide range of tools through third-party integrations, supporting sellers in various aspects of their operations.

• Global selling tools: These integrations cover accounting software and inventory management systems, allowing sellers to manage their business more efficiently.

• Part of the Amazon ecosystem: Amazon Handmade benefits from being part of Amazon’s larger ecosystem, offering advanced features and support.

• Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA): Sellers can access Amazon’s advanced logistics services, such as FBA, enabling global product storage and shipping.

Etsy

• E-commerce tool integrations: Etsy integrates with popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify, offering flexibility for various business needs.

• Social media channel integration: Sellers can connect their Etsy shops to social media platforms, expanding their reach and simplifying marketing efforts.

• Streamlined business operations: These integrations make it easier for sellers to manage listings, process payments, and handle shipping efficiently.

• Marketing and analytics tools: Etsy offers integrations with marketing and analytics tools, helping sellers optimize their shops and better target their audience.

Both platforms support a range of crucial tools: 

• Payment gateways: Integrations with services like PayPal, Stripe, and Amazon Pay ensure smooth customer transactions.

• Marketing software: Tools like Google Analytics, Mailchimp, and Facebook Ads help sellers promote their listings and analyze performance.

• Inventory management: Platforms like Orderhive and Sellbrite offer features for tracking stock levels and automating inventory updates across multiple sales channels.

• Shipping solutions: ShipStation and Easyship provide seamless generation of discounted shipping labels, shipping rate comparison, and tracking capabilities.

Amazon Handmade and Etsy offer extensive and powerful integrations, enabling sellers to customize their operations according to their needs. While Amazon Handmade benefits from being part of Amazon's expansive ecosystem, Etsy shines with its adaptability and wide range of ecommerce tool integrations.

Policies and regulations

Understanding the policies and regulations on each platform is crucial for compliance and smooth operations.

Amazon Handmade

• Proof of handmade products: Sellers must provide documentation or photo evidence demonstrating the handcrafted nature of their products.

• Handmade criteria: Products must be handmade, hand-altered, or hand-assembled to qualify for Amazon Handmade.

• Stringent verification process: The process can be rigorous, ensuring Amazon sellers only sell authentic handmade products on the platform.

• Compliance with seller policies: After verification, sellers must adhere to Amazon's general seller policies, which include maintaining accurate product listings and upholding customer service standards.

Etsy

• Product categories: All items listed must be handmade, vintage (at least 20 years old), or craft supplies, ensuring they align with Etsy’s core product standards.

• Detailed listings: Sellers must provide honest and comprehensive descriptions of their products, including the creation process, and upload relevant, high-quality photos that accurately represent the items.

• Compliance monitoring: Etsy maintains adherence to its guidelines through regular audits and community flagging, ensuring that all listings meet the platform’s criteria.

• Consequences of violations: Failure to comply with Etsy’s guidelines can result in the deactivation of individual listings or the suspension of the entire professional seller account, emphasizing the importance of following all rules.

Both platforms mandate compliance with regional and international regulations, including data security and payment standards. Sellers must also know consumer protection laws, return and refund policies, intellectual property rights, and tax obligations. It's crucial to stay updated with any changes in these regulations to maintain compliance and avoid potential penalties.

Customer service

Customer service is a critical factor when choosing between Amazon Handmade and Etsy. Both platforms offer support, but they differ in terms of availability and quality.

Amazon Handmade

• 24/7 availability: You can access customer support anytime or night, ensuring assistance is always available.

• Diverse support channels: Use multiple communication methods, including live chat, phone, and email, to connect with support in the way that best suits you.

• Comprehensive assistance: Receive help for a wide range of issues, whether you're dealing with technical problems or have questions about managing your shop.

• Flexible communication options: To enhance your overall support experience, choose your preferred support method—whether you want to speak directly over the phone, type out your concerns in a live chat, or send a detailed email.

Etsy

• Support options: Etsy provides email support and a comprehensive help center to assist sellers.

• Help Center resources: The Help Center features many articles, guides, and FAQs designed to resolve common issues effectively.

• Email support limitations: Email responses can vary in timing, which may be less beneficial for those needing immediate assistance.

• Lack of direct support channels: The absence of live chat and phone support can be challenging for sellers who prefer direct interaction for swift resolution.

In addition to these platforms, Gelato is a valuable partner that provides local, efficient production and order management for Amazon Handmade and Etsy sellers. Here are some notable benefits:

• Round-the-clock support: Gelato offers support 24/7 to address any production or logistics issues.

• Professional services teams: Available for enterprise customers, ensuring large-scale operations run smoothly and effectively.

Leveraging Gelato's services while optimizing order fulfillment and production processes on either platform can help you comprehensively meet customer support needs.

Growth and expansion opportunities

Choosing between Amazon Handmade and Etsy will impact your business's growth and expansion opportunities. Both platforms offer unique advantages to help sellers scale their small businesses, but their approaches differ.

Global reach

• Amazon Handmade: Leverages Amazon's extensive global marketplace to reach millions of customers worldwide. This broad audience can help increase visibility and sales, especially for sellers who aim for a diverse customer base.

• Etsy: This platform primarily focuses on a community of buyers passionate about handmade, vintage, and unique items. While its market reach is more niche, it provides a concentrated audience that values creativity and craftsmanship, which can result in higher engagement and loyalty.

Tools for scalability 

• Amazon Handmade: Offers advanced seller analytics tools, providing in-depth insights into sales performance, customer behavior, and inventory management. Amazon's robust fulfillment options, including Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), can streamline logistics and scale your business operations efficiently.

• Etsy: Provides a suite of SEO and marketing tools for optimizing product listings, increasing search visibility, and driving traffic to your store. Etsy Ads and social media integration make it easier for sellers to promote their products within the Etsy ecosystem and beyond.

Collaboration and B2B opportunities  

• Amazon Handmade: Amazon's extensive network offers broader B2B opportunities. Collaborating with other businesses, such as retailers or suppliers, through Amazon's network can help expand your product reach and potential partnerships.

• Etsy: While Etsy's collaboration opportunities are more community-focused, sellers can still engage with other sellers and influencers within the vintage and handmade goods space. These collaborations can lead to cross-promotions and enhanced visibility within the niche market.

Both platforms offer substantial growth and expansion benefits, but the best choice depends on your business goals and target audience. If reaching a broad, global market is your priority, Amazon Handmade may be the better option. If you prefer targeting a specialized community of handmade product enthusiasts, Etsy's niche focus can be more advantageous.

Choosing the right platform to sell your handmade items can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into key factors can simplify the decision. Both Amazon Handmade and Etsy have their own strengths and weaknesses; let's take a look at what to consider when comparing the two: 

• Product type: Analyze if your products align more with Amazon Handmade's broad marketplace or Etsy’s niche focus on unique and vintage items.

• Fees and costs: Compare both platforms' fee structures and transaction costs to understand which offers the best financial advantage for your business.

• Audience reach: Determine where your target audience spends their time and money. Amazon has a larger general customer base, while Etsy attracts buyers who are specifically looking for handmade and vintage products.

• Branding and control: Consider how much control you want over your branding. Etsy offers more customization options for your store, while Amazon’s branding is more uniform.

• Seller support: Evaluate the resources and support each platform offers to sellers. Reliable customer service and helpful seller resources can be crucial to your business’s success.

When to choose Amazon Handmade: 

• Broad audience reach: Best to access Amazon's vast customer base, including Prime members.

• Logistics: Ideal if you need advanced logistics and fulfillment solutions through FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon).

• Brand visibility: Suitable for brands looking to leverage Amazon's strong SEO and ranking system.

When to choose Etsy: 

• Artisan community: If you want to connect with a niche audience explicitly looking for handmade, vintage, and unique items, Etsy is the best.

• Customization: Ideal for sellers who want more control over their shop's branding and aesthetic.

• Cost-effectiveness: Suitable if you prefer lower upfront costs and specialized seller support.

Selling on Amazon Handmade and Etsy can help you reach more customers and diversify your income. Each platform attracts different types of buyers, which broadens your market. You can showcase your products using Amazon and Etsy's robust features to boost visibility and reduce risks.

However, managing multiple storefronts can take time and effort. That’s why using a print on demand service like Gelato will streamline inventory and order management, allowing you to focus on growing your business while keeping operations efficient.

If you choose Etsy over Amazon Handmade, Gelato can help in various ways.

Gelato's POD service handles everything from printing your designs on high-quality products to fulfilling customer orders and shipping them directly. This frees you up to spend more time on the creative and strategic aspects of running your Etsy store to build something you’re proud of. 

Here's how Gelato empowers Etsy sellers:

• Focus on what you do best: Unleash your creativity and dedicate more time to design and marketing, leaving the production hassles to Gelato.

• Expand your product range: Experiment with new product offerings such as custom hats, bio phone cases, and sustainable tote bags without worrying about upfront inventory costs.

• Reduce risk: Minimize financial risks associated with unsold inventory.

• Scale with ease: As your shop grows, Gelato's global fulfillment network scales seamlessly to meet your increasing demand.

Ready to take your Etsy shop to the next level? Sign up for Gelato and subscribe to one of our affordable plans to harness our innovative POD solutions today!

Is Amazon Handmade profitable?

Amazon Handmade can be profitable, particularly due to Amazon's massive customer base. However, profitability will depend on factors like product pricing, marketing, and fees. Sellers benefit from Amazon's advanced infrastructure but must consider competition and costs. It's essential to evaluate these aspects carefully to determine personal profitability.

Does it cost more to sell on Etsy or Amazon?

Selling on Amazon Handmade can generally be more costly than Etsy due to higher referral fees, which are around 15% compared to Etsy's 5%. Both platforms have listing and transaction fees, but Etsy is typically cheaper, making it a budget-friendly option for small sellers looking to minimize costs while reaching a large audience.

What percentage does Amazon Handmade take?

Amazon Handmade charges a 15% referral fee on each sale, which is higher than many other platforms, but offers access to Amazon's vast customer base. Additionally, professional sellers pay a $39.99 monthly subscription fee, although individual sellers can list for free but pay $0.99 per item sold plus the referral fee.

What is the best site to sell handmade and vintage items?

Choosing between Amazon Handmade and Etsy depends on your unique needs. Etsy excels in community engagement and creative niches, while Amazon Handmade leverages Amazon's vast customer base and logistics network. Review your target audience and business model to determine which platform aligns best with your goals when you sell handmade items.