Are you a creative teen looking to start your own business? Selling on Etsy can be a great way to turn your passion into profit, even if you’re under 18. While Etsy’s terms of service require account owners to be at least 18 years old, there are still ways for minors to sell on the platform with parental permission and supervision. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to get started selling on Etsy as a minor.

Can Minors Sell on Etsy?

Yes, individuals between the ages of 13 and 17 can sell on Etsy with certain conditions. Minors must have permission and direct supervision from a parent or legal guardian to use Etsy’s services[18]. The parent or guardian must be the one to set up the Etsy account, and their name and banking information must be used[1][5][9].

It’s important to note that the parent or guardian will be fully responsible for the minor’s shop and any account activity[1][19]. The minor must also disclose on their shop’s “About” page that a parent oversees their Etsy account[1][5][9].

Setting Up Your Etsy Shop as a Minor

To start selling on Etsy as a minor, follow these steps:

1. Get parental permission: Before setting up your shop, discuss your plans with a parent or legal guardian and get their approval to open an Etsy account under their name[1][9].
2. Create an Etsy account: Have your parent sign up for an Etsy account using their information, including name, email address, and banking details[1][5][9].
3. Set up your shop: Choose a memorable name for your shop, create a logo, banner, and write an engaging “About” section that shares your story and what inspires your creations. Be sure to disclose that a parent manages your account since you are a minor[1][5][11].
4. Add your products: Take high-quality photos of your items, write detailed descriptions, set competitive prices, and publish your listings. Aim to start with at least 10-20 products to give shoppers options[11].
5. Set up payment and shipping: Decide which payment methods you’ll accept (Etsy Payments, PayPal, etc.) and set up your shipping profiles with shipping costs and processing times. Remember, this must be configured with your parent’s information[1][9].
6. Market your shop: Share your products on social media, reach out to friends and family, and consider investing in Etsy Ads to help your items get discovered[11][13].

Tips for Success as a Young Etsy Seller

Selling on Etsy as a minor may seem daunting, but with dedication and these tips, you can set your shop up for success:

• Create unique, high-quality products: Focus on creating items that showcase your unique style and creativity. Ensure your products are well-made and something you would personally buy[13].
• Take great photos: Since online shoppers can’t see your products in person, your photos need to be top-notch. Use natural lighting, style your shots, and show your items from multiple angles[4][12].
• Write detailed descriptions: Help shoppers envision your products by writing thorough, engaging descriptions. Include key details like dimensions, materials, and care instructions[4][12].
• Price competitively: Research similar products on Etsy to ensure your prices are competitive. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of materials, labor, shipping, and Etsy fees[1][11].
• Provide excellent customer service: Respond promptly to customer inquiries, ship orders on time, and go above and beyond to create a positive experience for your buyers[11][13].
• Continuously improve: Regularly evaluate your shop’s performance and look for ways to optimize your listings, photos, and marketing strategies. Seek feedback from customers and fellow sellers to identify areas for growth[11][12].

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when I turn 18?

Once you turn 18, you can have your Etsy shop transferred to your own account by contacting Etsy’s support team at integrity@etsy.com[9]. You’ll need to provide proof of identification and set up your own banking information.

Do I need to pay taxes on my Etsy income?

If you earn more than $400 in a year from your Etsy shop, you’ll need to report your income and potentially pay taxes, even as a minor[1]. Consult with a tax professional or do thorough research to understand your tax obligations.

How can I market my Etsy shop as a minor?

Leverage social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest to showcase your products and creative process[11][13]. Engage with your followers, collaborate with other creators, and consider partnering with influencers in your niche to expand your reach.

Conclusion

Starting an Etsy shop as a minor is a fantastic way to explore your creativity, learn valuable business skills, and earn money doing something you love. By following Etsy’s guidelines for minors, setting up your shop strategically, and consistently providing high-quality products and customer service, you can build a thriving business on the platform. Remember to seek guidance from your parents and other experienced sellers, and don’t be afraid to experiment and learn as you go. With dedication and hard work, your Etsy shop can flourish, setting the stage for a successful entrepreneurial future.

Citations: [1] https://www.gohenry.com/us/blog/financial-education/how-to-sell-on-etsy-as-a-minor [2] https://www.reddit.com/r/Etsy/comments/mofadt/im_16_years_old_and_want_to_start_selling_on_etsy/ [3] https://fitsmallbusiness.com/selling-on-etsy-tips/ [4] https://community.etsy.com/t5/Announcements/Deepening-our-commitment-to-child-safety/td-p/143005739 [5] https://craftindustryalliance.org/kid-wants-etsy-shop-now/ [6] https://www.etsy.com/legal/policy/imagery-of-minors/1163576429586 [7] https://www.printful.com/blog/how-to-succeed-on-etsy [8] https://www.etsy.com/ca/seller-handbook/article/22785442016 [9] https://greenlight.com/learning-center/earning/how-to-start-an-etsy-shop-as-a-teenager [10] https://www.createandthrive.com/the-dos-and-donts-of-selling-successfully-on-etsy [11] https://www.growingyourcraft.com/blog/top-tips-starting-etsy-shop [12] https://www.etsy.com/seller-handbook/article/22421860924 [13] https://www.reddit.com/r/EtsySellers/comments/ob07nm/what_is_your_best_tip_for_etsy_success/ [14] https://www.etsy.com/legal/sellers/ [15] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0uL54yAd6U [16] https://www.etsy.com/legal/minors/ [17] https://www.reddit.com/r/EtsySellers/comments/1bpk4w1/how_can_i_start_under_18/ [18] https://www.alura.io/docs/article/etsys-rules-for-young-sellers-starting-your-shop-before-18 [19] https://help.etsy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360040983333-Can-Minors-Sell-on-Etsy [20] https://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=6700445