Etsy, Shopify, or Your Own Damn Website: Where Should You Sell?

So you’ve made the thing. Maybe it’s a quilt, maybe it’s a pattern, maybe it’s a handmade sweatshirt. Either way, you’re ready to sell it, but where?

Etsy? Shopify? Your own custom website you build while binging true crime podcasts?

Each option has its perks, its pain points, and its price tags. Let’s break it down so you can actually make a smart decision without wanting to scream into the void.

Etsy: The Internet’s Craft Mall

Etsy is basically the big-box marketplace for indie makers. If you’re just starting out, it can feel like a safe and easy bet, and it kind of is.

Why Etsy might work for you:

• You don’t need to build a website from scratch

• Shoppers are already there (like, millions of them)

• Built-in trust factor

• Low upfront costs

  
  

But here’s the catch:

• You’re one of thousands of sellers

• You’re competing on price, trends, and search algorithm nonsense

• Fees add up quickly (listing fees, transaction fees, payment processing... it’s a lot)

• You don’t truly “own” your space - Etsy does

  
  

Verdict: Great for getting started or testing the waters. Not ideal for building a long-term brand that feels like you.

Shopify: The Custom Biz Babe Starter Pack

Shopify is a platform that lets you build your own online store — like Etsy, but with way more control and customization.

Why people love it:

• It looks professional, right out of the box

• You get to actually own your brand experience

• Built-in tools for inventory, payments, shipping, email, and more

• Easier to scale when you’re ready to grow

But keep in mind:

• Monthly fees start around $39, plus extra for apps

• There’s a learning curve (you might need to Google things or bribe a techy friend)

• You’ll need to bring in your own traffic — no marketplace baked in

  
  

Verdict: Ideal for makers who want to level up and look legit, and are ready to invest a little time (and money) into building their brand.

Your Own Website: The Ultimate Control Freak Move

This is the full DIY route — think Squarespace, Wix, WordPress, or even coding from scratch if you’re feeling a little crazy. You choose the platform, the design, the plugins, the experience.

Why this route rocks:

• 100% control over your brand and visuals

• No middlemen taking a cut

• You can add whatever you want: a blog, a portfolio, a contact form for custom orders, your pet’s resume

  
  

The flip side:

• You’re in charge of everything: hosting, security, payments, backups

• Higher learning curve, especially if you’re not a tech nerd

• Takes longer to get up and running

• Marketing is entirely on you

  
  

Verdict: Best for long-haul visionaries who want total freedom and don’t mind doing the work (or outsourcing it).

So… What’s Your Move?

Here’s the thing: There’s no “right” platform — just the one that fits where you are right now.

If you’re dipping your toe in, start on Etsy and keep things low-risk.

If you’re growing and want to look pro, consider Shopify.

If you’re building a whole-ass brand and want full ownership, your own website might be the move.

And don’t stress — you can always evolve. Plenty of makers start on Etsy, then shift to their own site once they’ve built an audience and a vision. Your business can grow with you.

The Final Verdict

• Etsy = quick start, crowded marketplace

• Shopify = brand control, solid backend, monthly cost

• Your own site = total freedom, steeper learning curve

Pick the one that feels doable, exciting, and sustainable. You can always pivot later. The important part? You’re showing up and selling your work.

Time to make some cool shit! ✂️💗

-Manon