How to Sell Handcrafted Items Online

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Are you super crafty? Sell those awesome handmade goodies and earn some extra cash for all of your hard work.
Step 1: Take pictures
Take pictures of each item that you want to sell. Try to place the item in good lighting with nothing else in the background.
Tip
Use a lamp or sunlight to photograph your crafts. Using the flash will cause the item to be too light and won't show off all its awesomeness.
Step 2: Write a description
Write a description of your item. Make it enticing by writing something that is easy to read, but also is as detailed as possible, including measurements of the item.
Step 3: Sign up for a PayPal account
Sign up for a PayPal business account to use. It is a secure way to ensure you receive payment before shipping your handicrafts.
Tip
PayPal charges sales fees based on your monthly sales, so factor that in when pricing your items.
Step 4: Sign up for a seller account
Sign up for a seller's account on any of the online sales sites, such as Etsy and eBay, or build your own seller's website.
Step 5: Price your items
Price your items based on materials costs, labor costs, listing fees, facility fees, and competitors' prices. Facility fees include your costs for a home office or crafting room.
Step 6: List your items
List your items along with pictures, descriptions, and shipping charges.
Tip
You may want to calculate shipping charges using a postal scale before listing your item, so that when it comes time to ship you aren't dipping into your profits.
Step 7: Answer buyers' questions
Answer any questions that potential buyers send you within 24 hours, if possible.
Step 8: Complete the sale
Complete your sale, collect your payment from PayPal, and pack your items for shipping.
Step 9: Ship your items
Ship the item within 24 hours of payment. Include delivery confirmation and insurance, if possible. Then, start making plans to replenish your depleted stock.
Did You Know?
Visconti, an Italian writing instrument company, makes handcrafted pens that have been chosen for such historical occasions as the signing of the NATO-Russia Summit in 2002.