Ultimate Guide to Selling Art Online: Shopify, Etsy, and Instagram Tips
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- The Difference Between a Website and Shopify
- The Benefits of Using Etsy as a Marketplace
- Minimal Risk and Low Cost
- Access to a Established Marketplace
- Feedback and Validation for Your Artwork
- Choosing Shopify as a Website Platform
- Website with Built-in Shopping Platform
- Drawing Traffic to Your Shopify Website
- Pricing and Canadian Origin
- The Importance of Building a Following
- Engaging with Your Audience on Instagram
- Maximizing Visibility in the First Hour
- Nurturing Social Media Accounts and Promoting Your Work
- Dedication and Consistency in Building an Art Career
- Establishing a Signature Style and Body of Work
- Focusing on the Creative Process and Expansion
- Conclusion
The Difference Between a Website and Shopify
In the world of online business, understanding the distinction between a website and Shopify is crucial. Many people often confuse Shopify with being a marketplace similar to Etsy. However, it is important to clarify that Shopify is a website platform that offers a range of e-commerce solutions, while Etsy operates as a dedicated online marketplace. In this article, we will delve deeper into the differences between the two, highlighting the advantages of each platform and providing insights on how to choose the best option for your artistic journey.
The Benefits of Using Etsy as a Marketplace
When starting out as an artist, it can be overwhelming to navigate the world of online sales. Etsy, a popular online marketplace, provides a great platform for artists to showcase and sell their creations. There are several advantages to using Etsy as a marketplace:
Miminal Risk and Low Cost: With Etsy, you can list your artwork for a minimal fee of 20 cents, and the listing remains active for four months. Additionally, the commission rate is approximately five percent, providing a cost-effective way to test the market and gain exposure.
Access to an Established Marketplace: Etsy has developed a strong brand presence and attracts a substantial amount of traffic, making it easier for potential customers to discover your artwork. The platform invests in advertising and marketing, ensuring that it is a go-to destination for art enthusiasts.
Feedback and Validation for Your Artwork: Engaging with the Etsy community allows you to receive valuable feedback on your artwork. By analyzing comments, likes, and follower interactions, you can gain insights into which pieces resonate the most with your target audience. This feedback can guide you in refining your artistic style and marketing approach.
Choosing Shopify as a Website Platform
While Etsy offers numerous benefits, it may not be the ideal long-term solution for every artist. Shopify, on the other hand, offers a comprehensive website platform with built-in e-commerce capabilities. Here are a few reasons why artists may opt for a Shopify website:
Website with Built-in Shopping Platform: With Shopify, you can create a full-fledged website that showcases your artwork while retaining the ability to sell directly from your site. This integration streamlines the purchasing process for customers, enhancing their overall shopping experience.
Drawing Traffic to Your Shopify Website: Unlike Etsy, where potential customers are drawn to the marketplace itself, driving traffic to a Shopify website requires diligent marketing efforts. However, by leveraging social media platforms such as Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, you can redirect interested viewers to your Shopify site, increasing its visibility.
Pricing and Canadian Origin: It is important to note that Shopify operates on a subscription-based model, with costs ranging from three to five hundred dollars a year. While the price may seem steep, Shopify offers a comprehensive suite of features and customization options that cater to the specific needs of artists. Additionally, if you are a Canadian artist, the fact that Shopify is a Canadian company may further enhance your decision to choose this platform.
The Importance of Building a Following
Regardless of whether you choose Etsy or a Shopify website, building a following is essential for the success of your artistic career. Engaging with your audience and maximizing visibility is key to attracting potential customers and expanding your reach.
Engaging with Your Audience on Instagram: Instagram is a powerful social media platform for artists to showcase their work and interact directly with their audience. By posting regularly and engaging with comments and messages, you can foster a sense of community and build a loyal fan base.
Maximizing Visibility in the First Hour: The first hour after posting a new artwork or product image on Instagram is crucial. During this time, you should actively monitor and respond to comments, as it signals to the platform algorithms that your post is important. This can increase its visibility and reach a wider audience.
Nurturing Social Media Accounts and Promoting Your Work: Building a successful online presence takes time and consistency. By nurturing your social media accounts and promoting your work through various channels, such as art shows, collaborations, or partnerships with galleries, you create multiple avenues for exposure and sales.
Dedication and Consistency in Building an Art Career
Building an art career requires dedication, consistency, and a strong foundation. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Establishing a Signature Style and Body of Work: Before venturing into online sales, it is crucial to establish a signature style and a body of work. This cohesive collection helps potential customers understand your artistic identity and builds recognition and trust in your art.
Focusing on the Creative Process and Expansion: Instead of solely focusing on selling your art, prioritize the creative process and continue expanding your artistic repertoire. By exploring new techniques, subjects, and styles, you keep your work fresh, interesting, and constantly evolving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the differences between a website and Shopify, as well as the benefits of using platforms like Etsy, is essential for artists embarking on their online art journey. By carefully considering the advantages and disadvantages of each platform and taking consistent steps to build a following and nurture your art career, you can navigate the online art world successfully. Remember, success is not achieved overnight, and patience, dedication, and authenticity are key ingredients to advancing your art career.
WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE Etsyshop
