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Home Blog Ecommerce 6 Best Etsy Alternatives for Growing Your Business in 2025 (+ How to Choose the Best One)
best etsy alternatives
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6 Best Etsy Alternatives for Growing Your Business in 2025 (+ How to Choose the Best One)

Key takeaways: 

  • Sellers can explore many Etsy alternatives, including Network Solutions, Big Cartel, Bonanza, Amazon Handmade, eBay, and Shopify.
  • Starting your online store calls for deliberate planning. Before all else, you need to determine your niche and target audience and select the right eCommerce platform for your current business needs.   
  • To stand out in saturated markets like Etsy, sellers need to continually optimize their listings, adopt effective marketing strategies, and offer top-notch customer service. 

With over 8 million active Etsy sellers, selling on Etsy and rising above the competition is indeed no small feat. Then there are the listing fees, seller transaction fees, and additional costs for advertising. For these reasons, many sellers are exploring alternatives to sell their digital goods or handmade crafts. Others start their own stores online to gain complete control over branding, layout, and product offerings. 

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some alternatives to Etsy in the market. We’ll highlight their features, pricing, and benefits. And while we’re at it, we’ll also discuss the steps on how to build your own online store, plus the common reasons why Etsy sellers are stepping away from Etsy.

network solutions AI site builder

How we developed this list  

To put together this list of best Etsy alternatives, we identified platforms widely used by small business owners and independent sellers. We also considered options with strong reputations for reliability and eCommerce functionality. 

Our evaluation relied more on what real users say about their experiences. We consolidated and analyzed hundreds of reviews across trusted sources, including Capterra, G2, Trustpilot, Google Reviews, Reddit, and Quora. 

Here’s what we focused on when comparing platforms: 

  • Simple setup process. How simple is it for a seller to set up a shop and start selling? 
  • Features. Do the selling tools support branding, product display, payments, and other core eCommerce needs? 
  • Pricing and fees. How do costs (including hidden fees) stack up compared to Etsy’s transaction-based model? 
  • Flexibility and scalability. Can sellers grow beyond a starter shop without switching platforms later? 
  • Support and reliability. What do users report about customer service and site performance? 

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general knowledge and guidance only. Pricing and specifications are accurate at the time of publication but may change. For the latest details or to confirm whether a platform fits your needs, consult the provider directly.

6 best Etsy alternatives for sellers

Looking for the top Etsy alternatives? These platforms give small business owners the tools to sell handmade items, digital products, and other goods online. Even more so, they help you get noticed, boost sales, and reach new customers. 

  • Network Solutions 
  • Amazon Handmade  
  • eBay 
  • Shopify 
  • Big Cartel 
  • Bonanza  
Platform PricingKey FeaturesBest For 
Network Solutions Ranges from $1.99 to $29.99 per month (varies by bundle)Drag-and-drop editor, built-in marketing tools, domain + hosting bundles, 24/7 support, payment integration, and website analytics Sellers who want a customizable online store with all-in-one setup and support 
Amazon Handmade No monthly fee; referral fees applyAccess to Amazon’s audience, handmade-only products, trusted checkout Handmade product sellers looking for global reach 
eBay Store plans range from $4.95 to $2,999.95 per monthLarge marketplace, auction-style listings, global audience Sellers looking for global exposure and flexible selling options 
Shopify Ranges from $29 to $399 per monthScalable eCommerce platform, app marketplace, multi-channel selling Businesses ready to manage a larger product catalog 
Big Cartel Free plan available; paid plans from $15 to $30 per monthSimple setup, free plan available, made for artists and makers Independent artists and hobbyists selling a few products 
Bonanza Memberships from $25 to $167/monthLow seller fees, import tools from Etsy/eBay, flexible listing options Sellers who want low overhead and multichannel convenience 

Network Solutions

network solutions ecommerce web design services

Unlike Etsy, where sellers compete in a large marketplace, Network Solutions provides the opportunity to establish your own standalone online store. This means you’re not one among many. Instead, you have the chance to create a unique online store designed specifically for your brand and products.   

Network Solutions’ eCommerce website builder is best known for its customization, bundled essentials (like domain registration and marketing tools), and ease of use. Put simply, it’s a comprehensive, beginner-friendly solution for sellers ready to grow beyond Etsy’s limitations.

Key features 

  • Custom storefront on your own domain. Instead of sharing space in a crowded marketplace, you get a branded store that’s 100% yours. And if your primary goal is to build credibility and gain customer trust, Network Solutions can help you achieve that.
  • Drag-and-drop builder with templates. You don’t need to know how to code or hire a developer. Just pick a layout, drag elements where you want them, and launch.
  • Built-in marketing tools. The platform includes tools for SEO, social media, and email marketing. These help you attract the right audience and drive repeat traffic without needing separate services or extra software.
  • Easy payment integration. With Network Solutions, accepting payments is hassle-free because it can process all major payment methods. Your customers can also expect a smooth checkout experience, which, in turn, helps you maximize conversions and reduce cart abandonment.
  • Pro website support. What’s more, you’re never alone with Network Solutions. Our in-house experts are always available to help you make sure your digital store is always performing at its best.
  • Website analytics. Network Solutions comes with integrated analytics so you can track how your online store is doing and see how visitors are engaging with your site.

Who it’s best for

Network Solutions is ideal for you if you:

  • are looking to build a one-of-a-kind online identity with a store that truly reflects your brand and vision.
  • want the freedom to design and customize your online store without needing to learn how to code.
  • need a solution that includes not just building your store but also securing a domain name and marketing your business online.
  • prefer to have all the tools for managing, marketing, and growing your online presence in one place.

What users are saying  

Many reviewers describe Network Solutions Website Builder as easy to set up and intuitive to use. Such features make it an appealing option for sellers who want to build their own website and step away from Etsy. The templates are modern and mobile-friendly, and to boot, they give shops a professional look with little effort. 

Several users also highlighted responsive customer support and noted that the pricing often feels fairer compared to marketplace fees. For small businesses or first-time shop owners, the platform is often praised as a practical starting point.

At the same time, some feedback does suggest areas for improvement. The number of design templates is a little more limited than that of some competitors. Meanwhile, others mentioned it’s better suited to smaller shops than those planning rapid growth.

Pricing and plans

Network Solutions offers tiered pricing for its website builder, with options that vary based on the feature inclusions. Each plan also comes with one year of free domain registration and domain privacy, which helps protect your contact details—such as your email address and phone number—from being publicly visible.

PlanCost/TermPlan inclusions
Website $1.99 per month; renews at $16.99 per month AI-powered Website Builder 
1 year free domain & domain privacy 
3 months free professional email 
1 month free SSL certificate 
1-hour expert design support 
Logo Builder & design studio 
Website + Marketing $3.99 per month; renews at $21.99 per month Everything in Website, plus: 
Sell services 
Appointment scheduling 
Social media & email marketing 
Google My Business listing 
eCommerce $9.99 per month; renews at $29.99 per month Everything in Website + Marketing, plus: 
Secure checkout on your domain 
Multi-channel selling (Facebook, Instagram, Amazon, eBay, and more) 

Note: Pricing details were last verified in September 2025 and may change over time. 

Amazon Handmade

amazon handmade etsy alternative

Amazon Handmade is a specialized online marketplace within Amazon designed for artisans like you to sell handmade products. The platform is integrated directly into the larger Amazon marketplace, which gives you access to a much wider customer base.    

Key features

  • Curated artisan marketplace. Unlike Etsy, which is open to vintage items and craft supplies, Handmade at Amazon focuses strictly on genuinely handcrafted goods. You’ll need to apply and be approved to make sure that your products meet a certain standard of quality and uniqueness before selling. This is what sets it apart from other marketplaces.
  • Global reach with Amazon’s trust. As part of the world’s largest online marketplace, Amazon Handmade offers built-in access to millions of Amazon shoppers.
  • No listing fees. On Handmade at Amazon, you don’t have to pay to list your items. Instead, you pay a 15% referral fee when your item sells, which can be more flexible, especially if you sell a lot of different things.
  • Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA). Sellers also benefit from programs like FBA, which take the hassle out of packing and shipping. While fees may be higher compared to smaller platforms, the trade-off is massive exposure and the chance to grow your brand in a high-traffic space.
  • Maker profile and community support. Share your story through a dedicated profile page, join the Handmade Community Forum, and access seller resources through the Handmade Hub. 

Who it’s best for

Handmade at Amazon is recommended for sellers who:

  • seek a specialized marketplace that focuses on handcrafted goods, distinguishing your products from mass-produced items.
  • value the credibility and exposure that comes with selling on a platform as recognized as Amazon.
  • want to benefit from Amazon’s extensive customer base and advanced logistics, including shipping and customer service.
  • are willing to use a more standard way to brand and customize your shop, as compared to sites like Etsy.

What users are saying 

Many sellers highlight Amazon Handmade’s biggest advantage: access to Amazon’s massive customer base. Some even report achieving higher sales here than on Etsy. As one seller put it, “I had a lot more success on Amazon with handmade soap than I did on Etsy… the sales are worth it.” Another plus is that there are no listing fees, so you can upload as many products as you like without upfront costs. 

Conversely, feedback shows that selling on Amazon Handmade can involve more complexity. Setting up and managing listings often takes more time compared to Etsy. Even more so, sellers must meet stricter requirements for photos, returns, and performance metrics. 

Overall, users see Amazon Handmade as a strong option for reaching a larger audience, provided you’re prepared for the added structure and effort that come with the platform.

Pricing and plans

Amazon Handmade doesn’t offer traditional tiered pricing like other platforms. Instead, it follows a simplified fee structure that focuses on referrals. 

  • 15% referral fee per transaction
  • No listing or monthly subscription fee
  • Handmade sellers are required to sign up for a Professional selling account (normally $39.99 per month). After a one-time payment for the first month, the ongoing monthly fee is waived for approved Handmade sellers, which basically saves you up to $480 annually.

Note: These details were last reviewed in September 2025. Fees are subject to change, so it’s best to check Amazon’s seller site for the most up-to-date terms.

eBay

ebay etsy alternative

One of the oldest and most popular online marketplaces, eBay caters to a wide variety of items, from new and used goods to vintage and handmade items. 

Selling on eBay has always been a great option for sellers, as it offers a larger potential customer base and a broader product range. However, it doesn’t focus as much on handmade or vintage things as Etsy does. Still, eBay can be a suitable alternative for you if you’re looking to reach a wider audience or sell a diverse range of products.

Key features

  • A massive global customer base. With over 134 million buyers in 190+ markets, eBay gives you instant access to a vast global audience ready to discover your products. 
  • Auction-style listing. One of eBay’s standout capabilities is its auction feature. Buyers can bid on your items, which can be beneficial if you’re selling rare or in-demand items.
  • Fixed-price options. If you prefer to set your price and move inventory faster, you can also list products at a set price.
  • Built-in seller protection. eBay uses advanced detection systems and has a dedicated team that proactively monitors transactions, enforces policies, and helps prevent issues, so you can sell with no constant worries about fraud, scams, or disputes. 

Who it’s best for

eBay is a good choice when you:

  • are looking to sell not just handmade or vintage items, but also new and used goods across various categories.
  • prefer a platform that supports auctions, which can help you get a better price for something special or in high demand.
  • want a marketplace that offers a wide range of shipping and payment options to accommodate international transactions.

What users are saying 

eBay is one of the longest-standing platforms for online selling, with some users noting they’ve been active on the site for decades. Long-term buyers and sellers often highlight the platform’s stability, large customer base, and the tools available to manage listings and transactions. 

On the selling side, many appreciate the reach that eBay provides and mention smooth payment handling through Payoneer as well as seller protection policies. One seller shared, “eBay’s large customer base helps my products reach a wide audience… Overall, eBay provides a solid and efficient platform for online selling.” 

eBay gives your products a lot of visibility and offers strong protections for buyers. But you’ll need to stay on top of customer issues and disputes to make sure your sales go well.

Pricing and plans 

With eBay, you’ve got flexible selling options that can grow with your business. Their Store plans even give you 250 free listings every month, plus tools and seller protections to make running your shop a lot easier. 

  • Starter Store: $4.95 per month 
  • Basic Store: $21.95 per month 
  • Premium Store: $59.95 per month 
  • Anchor Store: $299.95 per month 
  • Enterprise Store: $2,999.95 per month
eBay pricing as of September 2025

Note: Pricing listed is from September 2025 and is subject to change.

Shopify

shopify etsy alternative

Shopify is one of the most flexible alternatives to Etsy. It’s packed with customization that’s ideal for sellers who want full control over brand, design, and customer relationships. It also provides store management tools to handle everything—from product listings to marketing and payments—all in one platform.

Key features 

  • Customizable templates. You don’t have to worry if you don’t have design skills. Shopify offers a variety of free and customizable website templates.
  • Smooth checkout process. A seamless checkout means more completed purchases and fewer abandoned carts. Shopify’s checkout is designed to be just that: fast, customizable, and built to convert.
  • Shopify POS (point of sale). Want to sell in-person as well as online? Shopify POS makes it easy. Shopify POS connects all your sales to your online store and tracks your inventory in real-time. As such, everything is always in sync, no matter where you’re selling.
  • Live view reports. Shopify’s Live View feature gives you a real-time snapshot of your store’s activity. You can monitor customer actions, sales, and traffic in your store as they happen. This lets you quickly respond to trends, optimize promotions, and gain store performance insights. 

Who it’s best for

Shopify is especially helpful for sellers who: 

  • are looking for a platform that grows with your business, with tools and plans that support everything from basic stores to high-volume operations. 
  • need a flexible solution that allows you to sell digital products and physical goods 
  • are willing to invest in marketing and want a platform with extensive tools

What users are saying 

Many users praise Shopify’s intuitive builder and the modern, mobile-friendly templates available. Several sellers also point out that pricing is reasonable for the range of features offered, and some reported positive experiences with responsive customer support. 

However, a few users found the initial setup confusing or time-consuming. Others even mentioned that advanced customization options may require upgrades or additional apps. There were also occasional reports of hidden fees, such as payment processing costs, and reliability issues. 

As one reviewer put it, the platform is “simple and easy to use,” though others noted that “some elements can’t be changed or edited from our side,” which can be frustrating “when the solution seems simple but requires Shopify to make the adjustment.”

For the most part, Shopify remains a strong Etsy alternative for sellers seeking a versatile, well-known platform. Although, it may take some trial and error—and possibly extra investment—to uncover its full potential.

Pricing and plans 

Shopify offers flexible plans that grow with your business. Plus, it provides a yearly discount on select plans, so you can save in the long run. 

  • Basic: $19 per month 
  • Grow: $49 per month 
  • Advanced: $299 per month
  • Plus: $2,300 per month 
Shopify pricing as of September 2025

Note: All Shopify plans include a 14-day free trial, and additional fees may apply for payment processing. Pricing is current as of September 2025 and may change without prior notice.

Big Cartel

big cartel etsy alternatives

Big Cartel is for independent artists and small-scale sellers who want an easy and straightforward online store without breaking the bank. With its clean, minimalist interface, it’s perfect for creators looking for a no-fuss solution to showcase their products. 

Key features 

  • Customizable branding. The platform, like the others, lets you fully customize your store. The difference is, it has a variety of SEO-optimized themes, which you can modify to fit your brand’s style.
  • Simple setup and user-friendly interface. With Big Cartel, setting up your store is quick and simple. You don’t need any technical expertise, and you can have your shop running in no time.
  • Real-time sales dashboard. Want to see your sales straight away? Thanks to Big Cartel’s live sales dashboard, you can do so easily. 

Who it’s best for

Big Cartel works best for those who:

  • are looking for an easy-to-use platform to showcase and sell your products.
  • need a basic eCommerce solution that covers the essentials without unnecessary features.
  • want a platform that supports independent artists and small businesses. 

What users are saying 

Big Cartel is often praised for its simplicity and affordability, especially by artists, hobbyists, and small-scale sellers who don’t want to be overwhelmed by too many features. Many reviewers highlight how easy it is to set up and manage, even for those new to ecommerce. 

Several reviews mention downsides, too. Features are limited compared to platforms like Shopify, and sellers need to drive 100% of their own traffic, which can be challenging if you don’t already have an audience. 

Still, many agree that Big Cartel has a welcoming, artist-friendly feel and that the customer support team is responsive when issues arise.  

For small creative businesses, it’s an affordable and low-stress way to start selling online. But if your business grows and you need more advanced features, you may eventually move on to larger platforms. 

Pricing and plans

Big Cartel offers flexible pricing to suit different needs, from beginners to more established sellers. With a free plan available and affordable paid options, it’s an accessible choice for creators on a budget.

PlanCost/TermsInclusions
Gold Plan $0 per month  Up to 5 products 
Sell online (cards, PayPal, Afterpay) 
Mobile app (iOS & Android) 
Sales tax autopilot 
Import products from Etsy, Squarespace, or Shopify 
Platinum Plan $15 per month Up to 50 products 
Everything in Gold, plus: 
In-person selling and mobile payments 
Discount and promo tools 
Unlimited label printing and shipping discounts (up to 90%) 
Shipment tracking 
Inventory tracking 
Bulk product editing 
Easy-install apps (print-on-demand, reviews, etc.) 
Advertising options Google Shopping integration 
Diamond Plan $30 per month Up to 500 products 
Everything in Platinum, plus: 
Automatic discounts 
Advanced discount logic 
Priority tech support 
Abandoned cart recovery 

Note: For the latest pricing and terms, visit Big Cartel’s website.

Bonanza

bonanza etsy alternatives

If you’re looking for platforms like Etsy, Bonanza is yet another alternative worth checking out. Much like Etsy, Bonanza lets you sell unique items like art, crafts, and collectibles.

But what truly makes this platform different is the way it adapts to your needs. You’re not limited to just the marketplace. You can also create your own website for your store.

Key features

  • Automatic eBay, Amazon, and Shopify inventory import/sync. Juggling multiple platforms? Bonanza makes it easy. With automatic sync for your inventory from eBay, Amazon, and Shopify, you can ensure your product listings stay up to date across all channels without doing manual updates.
  • Multi-item editing capabilities. Editing multiple listings at once is a breeze with Bonanza’s multi-item editing tools. If you need to update descriptions, pricing, or other details, you can do so for several products—all at once. 
  • Customized marketing campaign tools. Ready to put your products in front of the right people? Bonanza’s marketing tools allow you to create personalized campaigns, from email promotions to custom ads, that target the audience who’s most likely to buy.
  • Zero-effort webstores. Building a brand-new online store? With Bonanza, you don’t need to start from scratch. Their automatic webstore feature takes your marketplace account and instantly turns it into a fully functional online store.

Who it’s best for

Bonanza is best suited for you if you: 

  • want a marketplace with lower fees and more flexible pricing options. 
  • want the option to create a unique, standalone store in addition to selling on a marketplace. 
  • are looking for an easy-to-use platform that supports cross-platform integrations like eBay, Amazon, and Shopify.

What users are saying 

Bonanza tends to get mixed reviews, though many sellers appreciate the platform’s supportive community and responsive customer service. Sellers often highlight that Bonanza is easy to work with and that the team listens to feedback. 

Long-time users mention smooth experiences both buying and selling, with one seller noting that Bonanza support is “quick to reply, unlike several large selling sites.” Some sellers really appreciate their customer service team for being attentive and persistent when helping resolve issues. 

On the flip side, some users feel Bonanza struggles with visibility and site traffic, which can make it harder for listings to get noticed. Some sellers compared it to bigger marketplaces and noted that, like anywhere online, scams can happen. 

On the whole, Bonanza appeals to those who value a seller-friendly environment and responsive support. Although it may require more effort to drive traffic compared to bigger platforms.

Pricing and plans

Bonanza offers three pricing plans, each tailored to different types of sellers: beginning sellers, full business management, and high-volume sellers. You can also choose between membership plans like Gold and Titan for more focused support as your business grows. 

PlanCost/TermsInclusions
Gold $25 per month Google Analytics
Transaction Fee Waived 
Advanced Item Stats 
Diamond $113 per month Everything in Gold, plus: 
Stand-alone webstore and more 
Cross Platform Order Management 
Fully integrated accounting software package 
Fully integrated software to pay all of your business expenses 
Titan $167 per month Everything in Diamond, plus: 
Personalized quarterly consultation 

Note: Aside from these key features, Bonanza memberships also include sales and marketing tools, seller support, and item management options. Pricing may change, so it’s best to check the Bonanza website for the most up-to-date details and the full list of benefits.

Frequently asked questions

What is Etsy’s biggest competitor?

Etsy’s biggest competitor is eBay. Both platforms cater to independent sellers, but eBay offers a wider variety of products, including used goods, electronics, and collectibles, while Etsy focuses primarily on handmade, vintage, and craft items. Other notable competitors include Amazon Handmade, Bonanza, and Shopify.

Why are so many sellers leaving Etsy?

Many sellers are leaving Etsy due to rising fees, heavy competition, and limited control over their shops. Some think the platform has shifted away from its original focus on handmade goods, which makes it harder for smaller Etsy sellers to stand out against big retailers. Concerns about policies and customer support have also pushed sellers to build their own sites or turn to Etsy alternatives.

What are the best Etsy alternatives for selling digital products?

Some of the best Etsy alternatives for selling digital products include Shopify, which offers customizable stores; Big Cartel, ideal for independent artists with low fees; and Bonanza, a marketplace that lets you list digital products alongside other unique items.

What is the best site for selling crafts?

Etsy is the most popular option, with a huge community of buyers who specifically look for handmade and vintage goods. Amazon Handmade is another strong choice if you want to tap into Amazon’s massive customer base, though it comes with referral fees. If you’d rather have full control over your shop’s design and branding, building your own eCommerce store with a platform like Network Solutions can be a great fit.

Which platform has lower fees than Etsy?

Platforms with generally lower fees than Etsy include Shopify and Bonanza. While Etsy charges per-listing and per-sale transaction fees, Shopify uses a subscription model that can be more cost-effective for high-volume sellers. Bonanza, on the other hand, offers flexible listing options with lower transaction fees.

Why are Etsy sellers exploring alternatives? 

Selling on Etsy is often a great way to start reaching buyers, especially for handmade crafts or digital products. But as businesses grow, many sellers begin to wonder if Etsy is the right long-term fit. 

Here are some common challenges that push sellers to explore Etsy alternatives: 

  • High competition. Etsy is a highly saturated market with millions of active sellers. The sheer volume of shops and products can make it difficult for online sellers to get noticed. 
  • Fees. Etsy charges listing fees, transaction fees, and payment processing fees. For small-scale sellers, these fees can significantly cut into profit margins. Etsy also encourages sellers to spend on advertising to gain visibility, which further increases costs. In fact, in 2022, Etsy’s decision to raise transaction fees led to a strike involving thousands of sellers. 
  • Limited customization. While Etsy allows some level of shop customization, sellers have limited control over their Etsy shop’s layout and branding. The restrictive store design, in turn, makes it challenging to create a unique and memorable brand identity within the platform. 
  • Customer acquisition and retention. Building a loyal customer base solely through Etsy can be challenging. The platform’s market dynamics often prioritize product searches over loyalty to specific shops. This makes it harder to secure repeat business and build a loyal customer base. 
  • Algorithm changes. Etsy’s search algorithm changes can dramatically affect shop visibility and sales. Sellers must continuously optimize their listings and stay abreast of best practices to maintain visibility.   
  • Customer data limitations. Etsy sellers have restricted access to customer data, which can make it harder to run targeted marketing campaigns. 

Given these challenges, some online sellers are debating whether it’s even worth it to sell on Etsy.

How to choose the right Etsy alternative 

Not every platform works the same way, so the best Etsy alternative for you depends on your products, budget, and business goals. At the end of the day, the right choice should make it easier to increase your sales. Here are some factors to consider: 

  • Budget and platform fees. Every platform charges differently. Some alternatives for selling charge listing fees, seller transaction fees, or a flat monthly rate. Others include payment processing fees in their pricing. Look closely at the numbers so you know what you’re really paying. 
  • What you sell. If your focus is on handmade goods, marketplaces like Amazon Handmade can connect you with buyers who value unique goods. If you’re planning to sell digital products, platforms like Big Cartel or Shopify offer tools best suited for creators. 
  • Level of control. Building your own website means you have more control over your branding, store design, and customer experience. Marketplaces, on the other hand, give you exposure but come with more restrictions. 
  • Traffic vs. marketing. Marketplaces bring built-in audiences, but if you want to grow long-term, an independent store may give you more flexibility to market and grow your business. 
  • Selling tools and features. Look at store management, shipping support, inventory tracking, and discount tools. Make sure the platform supports the way you plan to sell, whether it’s handmade items, physical and digital products, or a mix. 
  • Ease of use. Many platforms offer free trials or demos. Test them to see which feels easiest and most supportive for your selling workflow. 

And here’s a quick way to figure out which option might fit your business best: 

  • Need built-in traffic? Go with a marketplace like Amazon Handmade, eBay, or Bonanza. 
  • Want complete control over your brand? A store builder such as Network Solutions, Shopify, or Big Cartel is the better fit. 
  • Selling only digital products? Shopify or Big Cartel make it easy. 

Before you decide, write down the features you absolutely need, compare pricing side by side, and try at least one demo. The platform that feels most natural to use is usually the one that will support you best in the long run. 

How to create your own online store  

Selling in established marketplaces offers convenience and immediate access to a large audience. But having your own online store comes with a lot of benefits.  

It gives you full control over your brand, from the look and feel of your site to the customer experience. Plus, it allows you to build direct relationships with your customers, gather valuable data, and potentially enjoy higher profit margins without marketplace fees. 

Here’s a quick guide to get you started, from planning your online business to launching and marketing it: 

  • Step 1. Identify your niche and products or services 
  • Step 2. Choose the right eCommerce platform    
  • Step 3. Set up your online store 
  • Step 4. Set up payment and shipping    
  • Step 5. Launch and market your store 

Step 1. Identify your niche and products or services    

Creating your own online store begins with careful planning. Identify your niche market and target audience to guide your product selection and marketing efforts. Once you’ve defined your niche, decide on the range of products or services you want to offer, taking into account your expertise, passion, and market demand.    

Step 2. Choose the right eCommerce platform    

Selecting the right eCommerce platform is important for the success of your online store. So, think about the features, scalability, cost, and ease of use when researching platforms. Each platform has its own set of advantages, so take the time to find the best fit for your business needs.    

Step 3. Set up your online store   

With the platform chosen, it’s time to set up your online store. Register a memorable, brand-relevant domain name that reflects your business identity and design your store to align with your brand and optimize user experience. Add products with compelling descriptions, high-quality photos, and clear categorization to make browsing easy for customers.    

Step 4. Set up payment and shipping    

Offer secure payment options so your customers can pay easily and safely. Also, set up clear shipping policies, including rates and delivery times, to make the buying process smooth and hassle-free.  

Step 5. Launch and market your store    

Finally, before launching your store, run a pre-launch checklist to ensure all functionalities are working smoothly. Once everything is in order, implement basic marketing tactics such as email campaigns, SEO, and social media marketing to bring traffic to your store and generate sales.  

A little planning always goes a long way in building your eCommerce store. For one, it’ll help you effectively reach your target market and showcase your offerings in the best way possible.    

Follow these steps, and you’ll be ready to launch a successful online store. However, keep in mind that the key to success often comes from continuously optimizing and marketing your store.   

Find your ideal Etsy alternative for selling online 

Whether you’re already running an Etsy store and looking to expand your business or just starting out online, exploring alternatives to Etsy can offer new opportunities for growth.  

Some of the popular Etsy alternatives include: 

  • Network Solutions
  • Amazon Handmade
  • eBay
  • Shopify
  • Big Cartel
  • Bonanza 

If the thought of juggling fees, plugins, or multiple tools seems overwhelming, our AI website builder can alleviate your worries. Our platform makes it easy to create your own website. Everything you need—marketing tools, secure checkout, hosting, domains, and 24/7 support—comes built in.

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