How to Sell on Amazon Handmade: Turn Your Hobby Into 💵

Introduction

If you’re a creative soul passionate about crafting and creating unique products, you’ve likely stumbled upon the enchanting world of Amazon Handmade. Whether you’re a seasoned artisan or just starting your crafting journey, this platform offers a remarkable opportunity to showcase your talent to a global audience.

Join us as we unlock the secrets to success, share practical tips from experienced sellers, and provide you with a step-by-step guide to harnessing the immense potential of Amazon Handmade. Get ready to turn your creative passion into a thriving business and embark on an exhilarating journey to conquer the world of e-commerce with your handmade treasures! Let’s dive in!

What Is Amazon Handmade?

Amazon Handmade is a specialized marketplace within Amazon that caters to artisans and craftsmen looking to sell their unique, handmade products online. Launched in 2015, Amazon Handmade provides a platform for sellers to showcase their craftsmanship and connect with a broad customer base seeking one-of-a-kind, handcrafted items.

Unlike the traditional Amazon marketplace that offers a vast array of products, Amazon Handmade focuses solely on handcrafted goods, promoting creativity, craftsmanship, and personalization. Artisans can create their own branded storefronts, share their stories, and highlight the artisanal process behind their creations, allowing customers to form a deeper connection with the makers and their products.

Selling on Amazon Handmade enables artisans to tap into Amazon’s immense reach and customer base while maintaining the uniqueness and authenticity of their handcrafted products. With a dedicated category for handmade items and features tailored to the needs of artisans, Amazon Handmade provides a supportive environment for craftsmen to showcase their talents and thrive in the e-commerce space.

Outclass Your Competitors

Achieve More Results in Less Time

Maximize your results and drive success faster with Helium 10’s full suite of Amazon and Walmart solutions.

Sign Up for Free

Amazon Handmade vs Etsy: Which One Is Better for Sellers?

Both Amazon Handmade and Etsy are popular online marketplaces that cater to artisans and crafters looking to sell their handmade products. The choice between the two platforms depends on various factors, including the seller’s target audience, product niche, and business goals.

Amazon Handmade offers a massive customer base and the advantage of being integrated into the larger Amazon ecosystem. With millions of daily visitors, sellers on Amazon Handmade can potentially reach a vast audience, increasing the exposure of their products. Additionally, Amazon’s robust shipping and fulfillment network provides efficient order processing and delivery options, enhancing the overall customer experience.

On the other hand, Etsy is renowned for its focus on handmade, vintage, and unique products. As a dedicated marketplace for artisans, it fosters a sense of community among Etsy sellers and buyers who appreciate craftsmanship and creativity. Etsy’s user-friendly interface and customization options for online storefronts allow sellers to effectively showcase their brand identity and artistic vision.

While Amazon Handmade may offer a broader reach, Etsy’s niche appeal can attract customers specifically seeking handmade and artisanal goods. Moreover, Etsy’s fee structure is often considered more favorable for small-scale sellers, making it an attractive option for those just starting their handmade businesses.

Ultimately, the decision between Amazon Handmade and Etsy comes down to individual preferences and business strategies. Sellers seeking maximum exposure and the potential for high sales volumes may lean towards Amazon Handmade, while those looking to establish a brand identity within a craft-focused community might find Etsy more suitable. If you want to see sales volumes of competitors in your niche, check out Helium 10’s Chrome extension here. It will give monthly sales estimates for all of your competitors to give you a good idea of how big the market is and how much market share you have the potential to talk. It is essential for sellers to assess their specific needs and goals to determine which platform aligns better with their unique selling proposition and long-term aspirations in the world of online crafts retailing.

How Does Amazon Handmade Work?

Amazon Handmade is a dedicated marketplace within Amazon that allows artisans and crafters to sell their handmade products directly to customers worldwide. To get started on Amazon Handmade, sellers must apply and undergo a rigorous review process to ensure their products meet the platform’s handmade criteria.

Once approved, sellers can create their online storefronts, where they can showcase their handmade products with high-quality images and detailed product descriptions. The storefronts can be customized to reflect the seller’s brand and artistic vision, creating a cohesive and appealing shopping experience for customers.

When a customer places an order, sellers can either fulfill the orders themselves or opt for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), where Amazon takes care of order processing, packing, and shipping. FBA can be especially beneficial for sellers who want to leverage Amazon’s efficient logistics network and provide fast and reliable shipping to customers.

Sellers on Amazon Handmade have access to various marketing tools, including sponsored product ads, to boost product visibility and reach a larger audience. Additionally, they can participate in Amazon Handmade’s promotional events and holiday campaigns to attract more customers during peak shopping seasons.

Once you are an Amazon handmade seller, you will want data and analytics to help keep track of your performance, understand customer preferences, and identify growth opportunities and a great tool for that is Helium 10. Sellers can use these insights from the tools on the Helium 10 homepage to optimize their product listings, SEO and keyword strategy, pricing strategies, and marketing efforts for better sales results.

Overall, Amazon Handmade provides a platform for artisans and crafters to showcase their unique creations, tap into a massive customer base, and benefit from the convenience and efficiency of selling on the world’s largest online marketplace. With the right approach and dedication to craftsmanship, sellers can turn their passion for creating handmade products into a successful and rewarding online business through Amazon Handmade.

How Many People Shop on Amazon Handmade?

Amazon Handmade attracts millions of shoppers looking for unique and handmade products. Amazon Handmade has gained popularity over the years and has millions of active customers browsing and buying from the platform. This number continues to grow as more shoppers discover the appeal of supporting artisans and finding one-of-a-kind items crafted with care and creativity.

The draw of Amazon Handmade lies in its vast customer base, which extends beyond the United States to international markets. Shoppers appreciate the convenience of finding handmade products on the same platform they trust for their everyday needs. Additionally, the integration of Amazon Handmade with the main Amazon site means that handmade products get exposure to the millions of customers who shop on Amazon every day.

For sellers, this presents a significant opportunity to reach a diverse and global audience interested in supporting independent artists and discovering unique handmade treasures. By leveraging Amazon Handmade’s marketplace and marketing tools, sellers can tap into this large pool of potential customers and turn their craft into a thriving online business.

How Many Sellers Are on Amazon Handmade?

The number of Amazon handmade sellers is unknown. However, if you want to be inspired by handmade sellers who have already set up their handmade shop on Amazon, check out this podcast episode of the Serious Sellers Podcast.

How Profitable Is Amazon Handmade?

Amazon Handmade can be a profitable platform for artisans and crafters looking to sell their unique creations online. The profitability of selling on Amazon Handmade depends on various factors, including the demand for your products, your pricing strategy, and the quality of your craftsmanship.

One advantage of selling on Amazon Handmade is access to a massive customer base. With millions of active Amazon shoppers, you have the potential to reach a broader audience, increasing your chances of making sales. Additionally, Amazon’s reputation as a trusted e-commerce platform can boost customer confidence in buying handmade products.

However, profitability also depends on competition and the niche you’re in. If you’re offering products that have limited competition and high demand, you may find it more profitable. On the other hand, entering a saturated market with numerous sellers offering similar products might present challenges in standing out and pricing competitively.

To ensure profitability, it’s essential to calculate your production costs accurately, including materials, labor, and overhead. Factor in Amazon’s fees, such as referral fees and fulfillment fees, to determine your profit margins. If you want a tool that can help you easily calculate your Amazon fees to see if your product will be profitable, download Helium 10’s Chrome Extension and use their profitability calculator feature. Regularly analyzing sales data and customer feedback can help you optimize your product offerings and pricing for better profitability over time.

Remember that building a successful business on Amazon Handmade takes time and effort. Creating a cohesive brand, optimizing product listings with compelling descriptions and images, and actively promoting your products can all contribute to increased profitability. By consistently delivering high-quality handmade products and exceptional customer service, you can create a loyal customer base and grow your business on Amazon Handmade.

What Percentage Does Amazon Handmade Take?

When you make a sale on Amazon Handmade, there is a 15% referral fee or a minimum $1 referral fee. Sellers will be charged the greater of the applicable referral fee. For example, if you sell a product that is $10, you will have a $1.50 referral fee. Joining Amazon Handmade, and listing your products on the Amazon marketplace is free. To sell on Amazon Handmade, sellers must also have a Professional selling account which is $39.99 per month, but Amazon states “This monthly fee will be waived for approved applicants after the first month.” This will save Amazon handmade sellers around $480 per year on an Amazon professional seller account.

Is It Worth It to Sell on Amazon Handmade?

Deciding whether to sell in the Amazon handmade category depends on various factors, including the nature of your craft business, your target audience, and your long-term goals. For many handmade sellers, Amazon Handmade offers a worthwhile platform to showcase their creations and reach a massive audience of potential customers.

One of the significant advantages of selling on Amazon Handmade is the exposure it provides. With millions of active customers regularly browsing the platform, your products gain visibility to a broad and diverse customer base. This exposure can lead to increased sales and brand recognition, especially if you leverage Amazon’s marketing and advertising tools effectively.

Another aspect to consider is the convenience and ease of use. Amazon Handmade provides a user-friendly interface and handles various aspects of the selling process, such as payment processing, shipping, and customer service. This allows you to focus more on crafting and less on the logistics of running an online store.

However, it’s essential to weigh the costs and fees associated with selling on Amazon Handmade. While the exposure can lead to increased sales, sellers need to factor in the fees for listing products, referral fees, and other costs, which can impact profit margins. You can use download Helium 10’s Chrome Extension which has a profitability calculator feature to calculate the profitability of your product with these costs factored into the total. Conducting a thorough cost-benefit analysis and pricing your products competitively is vital to ensure that selling on Amazon Handmade aligns with your business objectives.

Ultimately, the decision to sell on Amazon Handmade should align with your craft business’s unique needs and goals. By carefully considering the platform’s benefits, costs, and potential reach, you can determine if Amazon Handmade is a worthwhile channel to grow your craft business and connect with a global audience of art enthusiasts and shoppers.

What Can You Sell on Amazon Handmade?

As a seller on Amazon Handmade, you can offer various types of handcrafted products, including but not limited to:

1. Handmade Jewelry: From earrings and necklaces to bracelets and rings, jewelry artisans can display their exquisite creations on Amazon Handmade.
2. Home Decor: Crafters skilled in woodworking, ceramics, or textiles can sell home decor items like wall art, pottery, decorative pillows, furniture, and more.
3. Handmade Clothing: If you’re a fashion designer or tailor, you can showcase your handmade clothing items such as dresses, scarves, hats, and other fashion accessories.
4. Personal Care and Beauty Products: Artisans who create handmade soaps, lotions, skincare products, and beauty accessories have a dedicated category to exhibit their offerings.
5. Handmade Toys and Games: Toy makers can feature their unique and whimsical creations, including plush toys, wooden puzzles, and educational games.
6. Handmade Stationery and Paper Goods: If you specialize in calligraphy, printing, or paper crafts, you can list your handmade stationery, greeting cards, journals, and more.
7. Handmade Pet Supplies: For those skilled in crafting pet accessories, Amazon Handmade provides a category for handmade pet collars, toys, and other pet-related items.

It’s important to note that Amazon Handmade has specific guidelines for sellers to ensure that products meet the criteria for being genuinely handcrafted. Each item must be made entirely by hand, without the use of automated processes or mass production methods. As a seller, you’ll need to provide detailed information about your crafting process and adhere to Amazon’s policies to maintain the authenticity and integrity of the handmade platform.

Whether you’re an established artisan or a budding crafter, Amazon Handmade offers a platform to showcase your craftsmanship and connect with a global audience of art enthusiasts seeking unique, handmade treasures. If you want to sell your handmade items to a global audience, Amazon is the perfect market for you to sell handmade goods to Amazon customers around the world!

Manage Everything With Next-Level Software

Sign up now to access powerful, easy-to-use tools to help with every part of selling on Amazon and Walmart.

Sign Up for Free

What Are the Requirements to Sell on Amazon Handmade?

To sell on Amazon Handmade, you must create genuinely handcrafted goods and adhere to the following eligibility requirements:

1. Origin and Production: All products listed must be designed and produced by you or a small group of family members/employees (preferably 20 or fewer) and they can not be mass-produced products. Hand tools and light machinery are allowed if used in the home, studio, or workspace. Mass-produced products created by assembly lines or automation technology are not permitted.

2. Hand-Altered and Upcycled Items: Hand-altered, pre-made items are acceptable. For instance, you can apply your own designs to drinkware or tea towels. Upcycling, which involves enhancing the value of used items through refinement or upgrades, is allowed. For example, painting or refinishing a table.

3. Repurposing: Repurposing, the act of using an item or its parts for something entirely new, is allowed. For instance, creating a bowl out of an old vinyl record or making pillow covers from vintage rugs.

The following options are prohibited in Amazon Handmade:

1. Outsourcing: Product production must not be outsourced to third parties.

2. Drop-shipping: You cannot use drop-shipping to fulfill orders.

3. Reselling: Reselling products by third parties is not allowed.

4. Digital or Downloadable Products: It is not permitted to sell digital products, downloadable content, food or ingestible products, and electronics are not permitted.

5. Live Plants: With the exception of ‘air plants’ included with hand-crafted planters or containers, live plants cannot be sold.

6. Raw Materials and Crafting Supplies: Selling raw materials and crafting supplies is not allowed, except for Do It Yourself (DIY) kits or crafting supplies that you have made or hand-altered yourself (e.g., yarn, felt, dyed material).

For specific limitations and eligibility criteria related to particular product categories, it’s advisable to consult Amazon Handmade’s Category Listing Policies and Requirements located in Seller Centrals Help articles.

By complying with these requirements for the handmade category, you can showcase your handmade goods on Amazon Handmade in your own handmade shop and reach a wide audience of potential customers. Remember to continuously review Amazon’s policies to ensure you stay within the guidelines and provide an exceptional experience for buyers.

How to Get Started With Amazon Handmade

To get started selling on Amazon Handmade, first, create an Amazon Seller Central Account or login if you already have a Seller Central Account. Check if your products meet the eligibility requirements for handmade items. Apply as an artisan, providing the necessary details about your crafting process and materials so that you can get access to an Amazon handmade account. Once approved you can now begin selling handmade products! You will need to create compelling Amazon handmade listings with high-quality images and competitive prices. Decide if you want to ship products yourself or use Amazon’s fulfillment centers. Consider participating in the Handmade at Amazon Guarantee for customer confidence. Promote your shop through various marketing channels and provide excellent customer service. Monitor performance metrics and stay compliant with Amazon Handmade’s policies and guidelines to build a thriving business.

How Do I Get Approved to Sell on Amazon Handmade?

Getting approved to sell on Amazon Handmade requires adhering to specific criteria set by the platform for the handmade category to ensure that all products offered meet the handmade and artisanal standards. Here are the steps you need to follow to apply for Amazon Handmade:

Create a Professional Seller Account on Amazon: If you don’t already have a professional seller account, start by creating a professional selling account on Amazon seller central. You can choose between an Individual or Professional Seller Account. Keep in mind that a Professional Selling Plan is required for selling on Amazon Handmade and the $39.99 monthly subscription fees are waived for Amazon Handmade sellers.

Navigate to Handmade at Amazon: Once you have a Professional Selling Plan, go to the “Handmade at Amazon” section on the Amazon website. Click on “Apply Now” to begin the application process.

Provide Business Information: Amazon will ask you to provide essential details about your business, such as your business name, contact information, and the type of handmade products you plan to sell. Be prepared to share information about your production process, materials used, and your role in creating the products.

Describe Your Process: Along with images, you’ll need to describe your production process in detail. Be transparent about the steps involved in creating your products and how they align with Amazon Handmade’s guidelines.

Submit Product Images: Amazon Handmade requires high-quality images of your products to assess their craftsmanship and uniqueness. Ensure that your images showcase the product’s details and highlight its handmade nature.

Select Your Product Category: If you don’t see your category listed, this means Amazon does not allow the sale of those items in the Amazon Handmade store.

Provide Additional Information: Provide any additional information such as social media or store links that allows Amazon to get a better understanding of your overall Handmade business and product processes.

Wait for Approval: After submitting your application and all the necessary information, you’ll need to wait for Amazon’s review process. Approval times may vary, but once accepted, you can start listing your handmade products on Amazon Handmade.

It’s essential to adhere to Amazon Handmade’s policies and guidelines throughout the application process to increase your chances of approval. Additionally, ensure that your products genuinely meet the platform’s criteria for handmade and artisanal items. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you can gain access to Amazon Handmade and showcase your crafts to a broader audience.

Manage Everything With Next-Level Software

Sign up now to access powerful, easy-to-use tools to help with every part of selling on Amazon and Walmart.

Sign Up for Free

How Long Does It Take To Get Approved for Amazon Handmade?

It typically takes 1-2 weeks for your Amazon Handmade application to get approved. If there is something wrong with your application, Amazon will contact you via email. If it is taking a while to get approved, and you haven’t heard from Amazon you can check the status of your application here.

How Much Inventory Do You Need for Amazon Handmade?

The amount of inventory you need for selling on Amazon Handmade can vary depending on several factors, including the demand for your products, your production capacity, and your sales goals. As a handmade seller, finding the right balance between having enough inventory to meet customer demand and avoiding excess stock is essential for a successful selling experience. If you want to get an idea of the demand for your particular niche, download Helium 10’s Chrome Extension to see monthly sales estimates for similar products.

Initially, it’s advisable to start with a small batch of inventory to test the market and gauge customer interest. This approach allows you to make adjustments to your products based on customer feedback and preferences without investing in a large quantity upfront. As you gain more insights into what sells best, you can gradually increase your inventory to match the demand.

Consider the lead time required for crafting your products, as handmade items often take time to produce compared to mass-produced goods. Factor in the time it takes to replenish your inventory to avoid running out of stock and maintaining a steady supply for your customers.

Additionally, keep in mind that Amazon Handmade doesn’t require sellers to have a vast amount of inventory like some traditional retail businesses. You have the flexibility to manage your stock levels based on seasonal demand and adjust your production accordingly.

Proper inventory management is crucial for an efficient and profitable Amazon Handmade business. Use Helium 10’s Inventory Management tool to help you make informed decisions about how much inventory to keep on hand. By optimizing your inventory levels, you can maintain a healthy cash flow, reduce storage costs, and provide a seamless shopping experience for your customers.

How to Find Products to Sell on Amazon Handmade

Finding the right products to sell on Amazon Handmade is a crucial step in building a successful craft business on the platform. Here are some effective strategies to discover unique and in-demand products that will resonate with your target audience:

1. Identify Your Niche: Start by defining your niche within the handmade market. Consider your passions, skills, and expertise. Niche products often have a dedicated customer base and face less competition, allowing you to establish yourself as an expert in that category.
2. Conduct Market Research: Use Amazon Handmade’s search function to explore popular product categories and see what other sellers are offering and use Helium 10’s Chrome Extension to analyze the demand a competition of that niche. You can also analyze customer reviews and ratings to identify gaps in the market and areas for improvement by using Helium 10’s Chrome Extension. Look for products with steady demand and positive customer feedback.
3. Stay Updated on Trends: Keep a close eye on industry trends, seasonal demands, and emerging fads. Monitor social media platforms such as Pinterest, craft forums, and design websites to spot potential opportunities. Being ahead of the curve can give you a competitive advantage and boost your sales.
4. Consider Customization: Handmade products often thrive on personalization. Think about how you can offer customizable options to cater to individual preferences. Customization can also command higher prices, contributing to your overall profitability.
5. Quality and Uniqueness: Emphasize quality craftsmanship and the uniqueness of your products. Customers often seek handmade items for their distinctive appeal and attention to detail. Stand out by offering items that are not readily available in mass-produced alternatives.
6. Test and Refine: Start with a small batch of products and test them with your target audience. Gather feedback and use it to refine your designs and offerings. Continuously iterate and improve your products based on customer insights.
7. Consider Materials and Costs: Take into account the cost of materials and production when choosing products to sell. Ensure that your pricing allows for a reasonable profit margin while remaining competitive in the market.

Finding the right products for your Amazon Handmade store requires a blend of creativity, market analysis, and customer understanding. By following these strategies and staying attuned to your audience’s preferences, you can curate a compelling product selection that attracts customers and drives your craft business to success.

Conclusion

As we reach the end of our journey through the world of selling products on Amazon Handmade, we hope you feel inspired and equipped to take your creative venture to new heights. Embrace the platform’s vast reach and discover the boundless possibilities it offers for your handmade treasures.

Remember, success on Amazon Handmade doesn’t happen overnight. It takes dedication, persistence, and a commitment to delivering exceptional products and outstanding customer experiences. Continue to refine your craft, stay attuned to market trends, and foster a strong connection with your customers.

Above all, never lose sight of the passion that sparked your creative journey in the first place. Your artistry and unique vision set you apart from the rest, making your creations truly one-of-a-kind.

So, take that leap of faith, set up your shop, and share your story with the world. The adventure awaits, and Amazon Handmade is your gateway to turning your passion into a thriving and rewarding business.

We wish you the best of luck in your endeavors, and may your journey be filled with endless inspiration and success. Happy selling on Amazon Handmade!

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Amazon Equivalent of Etsy?

The Amazon equivalent of Etsy is called “Amazon Handmade.” Amazon Handmade is a platform specifically designed for artisans, crafters, and small businesses to sell their unique handmade products online. It serves as a marketplace within Amazon, offering customers a wide range of handmade items, including jewelry, home decor, clothing, accessories, and more. Like Etsy, Amazon Handmade focuses on connecting sellers directly with buyers who appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of handmade goods.

Is Amazon Handmade Separate From Amazon?

Yes, Amazon Handmade is a separate marketplace within the Amazon ecosystem, specifically tailored to showcase and sell handmade products. While it operates under the Amazon umbrella, it functions as a distinct platform with its own set of guidelines and requirements for sellers.

The main difference between Amazon’s primary marketplace and Amazon Handmade lies in the type of products they offer. While the regular Amazon platform features a wide array of items, including mass-produced goods from various sellers, Amazon Handmade is exclusively dedicated to handmade crafts crafted by artisans and small businesses. By providing this separate space, Amazon Handmade fosters a community that values unique, handcrafted creations, allowing sellers to reach a specific audience passionate about supporting artists and their crafts.

Do You Need an LLC to Sell on Amazon Handmade?

No, having an LLC (Limited Liability Company) is not a strict requirement to sell on Amazon Handmade. As an individual seller, you can register and start selling your crafts on Amazon Handmade without the need for an LLC. However, if you wish to operate under a business entity with added liability protection and other legal benefits, you may choose to form an LLC. The decision to set up an LLC depends on your business goals, preferences, and legal considerations.

Regardless of your choice, Amazon Handmade welcomes both individual sellers and businesses, offering a platform for creative entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their handmade products to a global customer base.

Can You Sell Art Prints on Amazon Handmade?

Yes, you can sell art prints on Amazon Handmade. Amazon Handmade allows artisans to offer a wide range of handcrafted products, including art prints. If you are an artist or a printmaker, you can showcase and sell your unique art prints to Amazon’s vast customer base.

To ensure your art prints meet Amazon Handmade’s guidelines, make sure they are original, handcrafted, and created by you or your team. By listing your art prints on Amazon Handmade, you can connect with art enthusiasts from around the world and grow your online presence as a talented artist.

Can You Sell Vintage on Amazon Handmade?

No, Amazon Handmade specifically focuses on offering unique, handcrafted products made by artisans. As such, the platform does not allow the sale of vintage items. Vintage items refer to products that are at least 20 years old and hold historical or collectible value. If you have vintage items to sell, you may explore other options on Amazon’s main marketplace, such as Amazon Collectibles or Amazon’s regular selling platform.