Once you become a registered seller on Etsy, it’s time to list items for sale. From choosing an attractive title to uploading images of your treasures, there are a lot of factors to consider when listing an item. Don’t worry, after a couple of listings – you’re sure to get the hang of it.

Step 1: Details of an Item

When listing an item on Etsy, you will need to create a title, write a description, and list materials. First, choose a descriptive short title that will catch the attention of shoppers. Keep in mind that the maximum number of characters you can use for a title is 155. Next, you will describe your item. Include information about the size and how it was made. This is also your chance to highlight any special features. Lastly, list the materials used to create the item. You can use single or compound words, such as “gold fillings,” “pearl,” and “silver chain.”

Step 2: Tag and Categorize

Item listings need to be tagged and categorized. Tags are keywords that assist shoppers in locating the items they wish to purchase. Use tags that are accurate and relevant to your item. For example, if your item is not vintage, do not use the tag ‘vintage jewelry.’ Some crafters choose suggestions from Etsy for their tags, while others create their own.

From the dropdown menu, select a top-level category that best fits your item. The Category will automatically become the first tag in your listing. Categories include handmade items, vintage (handmade or non-handmade items that are at least 20 years old), and supplies for crafting. Non-handmade supplies can also be listed as supplies, but must be tagged as ‘commercial.’ Etsy only allows up to 14 tags per listing.

Step 3: Selling Info

The price, quantity and shipping information is included in the selling info. First, enter the cost of an item (not including shipping fees). Next, enter in the quantity of the item. For example, if you are selling 3 bars of coconut-scented soap, increase the quantity in stock for the listing. As you sell the soap, the quantity in stock will go down on its own. You will be charged a listing fee of $0.20 per quantity in stock for the listing.

Place the item listing in a shop section by choosing from the dropdown menu or creating a brand new section. The coconut soap could be included in a section called Tropical Scents. Choose the forms of payment you will accept (personal check, money order, PayPal and/or other). Lastly, indicate the shipping information for the item.

Step 4: Images

Many shoppers purchase items from Etsy just from the image alone. You can add up to five images for each listing. The photos must measure at least 430 pixels wide with varying heights. Images should not measure more than 1000 pixels wide or high. When you add images for a listing, Etsy will automatically resize and crop from the center for square thumbnails and rectangular gallery view images. Keep in mind that the first uploaded image is used as the main thumbnail that shoppers will see in a search.

Step 5: Review and Post

The last step to listing an item on Etsy is to preview. Look over all of the details to make sure it is accurate. You can click on the pencil icon to revise a listing before it is posted. Once you have looked over the information, click the Finish button to announce to shoppers that you have an item for sale on Etsy.