If there ever was a site that gets me excited about the upcoming change of seasons, it would be Etsy. I’ve found a whole host of goodies for fall, and I feel giddy!
I’ve been a fan of another online site, eBay, since high school, but as the online marketplace became overcrowded with fakes and unauthentic items, I’ve became more inclined to focus my attention on Etsy (this doesn’t mean that I don’t visit eBay, because I do).
When I initially discovered Etsy nearly three years ago, I was overwhelmed and my search ended after 5 minutes. Since that time, however, I’ve basically become more familiar with the site and have fallen in love with the products I’ve found and purchased on Etsy. I’ve also come to grips with how, why, and when I will use Etsy and eBay.
Use Etsy for:
- Handmade clothing and accessories
- Vintage clothing
- Home décor
- Unique wedding decorations
- Art
I’m often astonished with the handmade artisans that I find on Etsy. The scarves, purses, stationery, and clothing are all not only wonderful, but most are unique. Very rarely will you run into someone wearing the exact same item that you found on Etsy. Etsy gives you the chance to add items and sellers to your favorites; one of the best features about Etsy is how wonderful the sellers are. Because these sellers are attempting to build a following, most are eager to please their customers and make sure one’s user Etsy experience is top notch. If you run across an item that is no longer available in an Etsy store, simply send the seller a message asking if the item can be remade.
Use eBay when
- You’re looking for a bargain
- You’re looking for a specific item and have the name and model number
- You’re looking for collectibles
When shopping in store I tend to second guess my purchases. Very rarely do I spend without thinking. I blame this on eBay. eBay has allowed me to search for products at cheaper prices. Before diving into the world of contact lenses, I was often asked about my eyeglasses. My trick was this: I’d find and try on frames at my optometrist’s office, write down the model number and brand name, and search for the frames on eBay. I’ve purchased eyeglasses by Gucci, Byblos, BeBe, and other well known brands for under $20. The same goes for shoes and clothing.
I know there are many more features that I have yet to experience on both Etsy and eBay, so I’d love to hear your tips and tricks for these sites.
As a seller, do you prefer Etsy or eBay? As a buyer, do you frequent both sites? Do you have a favorite?
Items featured are from the following Etsy sellers
Oh my goodnesssss! I love that cute little hat… and that neck-warmer-thingie! And that ruffle-y SKIRT!? *gasp!* I want… *drool*
Those floral heels are horribly cute.
You hit it right on the head! That’s exactly how I utilize both sites. Etsy is great for one-of-a-kind items. For brand names, I always go to eBay before making an in-store purchase. 90% of the time, eBay has the exact same item for a better price.
Heather, I want everything I posted!!
Yes, those floral heels are perfect. The seller hand paints shoes and will even paint shoes you send to her!
Nikia, I very much TOTALLY agree!!
Hi Nikia,
Totally agree. After working in the apparel bus. for many years. I was constantly shocked at the junk that would come from overseas. The quality in the industry gets cheaper and cheaper. Buying handcrafted items is the best way. Thanks for this site!
Thanks
Linda
Am I the only one? The ads and sidebars cover up the comments- I can never read them!! Please help!
Chris, I just sent you an email.
Chandra