In the age of technology and e-commerce, handmade goods have found a thriving market online. With a surge in appreciation for unique, handcrafted items, various online handmade marketplaces have emerged to connect artisans with consumers who value craftsmanship and individuality.
These online handmade marketplaces provide a global stage for talented creators to showcase their skills and offer buyers a diverse array of one-of-a-kind products.
Here is a roundup of the best online handmade marketplaces that have captured the hearts of both artisans and aficionados of handmade treasures.
Etsy: A Pioneer of Handmade Commerce
Undoubtedly the most well-known handmade marketplace, Etsy has been a trailblazer in connecting artisans with a global audience. Established in 2005, Etsy provides a vast platform for artists, crafters, and designers to sell their handmade and vintage pieces.
Etsy’s user-friendly interface and robust search features make it easy for buyers to discover and support artisans across the globe, as well as for entrepreneurs who are new to online selling.
This is my preferred website for browsing handmade items, offering a multitude of options. It’s where I’ve discovered shop owners featured on this blog.
Handmade at Amazon: A Giant’s Foray into Craftsmanship
Amazon, the e-commerce giant, entered the handmade space with the launch of “Handmade at Amazon“. This platform caters to artisans who create handmade products, fostering a community of skilled creators. With the reliability and reach of Amazon, artisans from over 80 countries can tap into a massive customer base while maintaining the charm and personal touch of their handmade goods.
Big Cartel: Empowering Independent Artists
Big Cartel focuses on providing a simple and intuitive platform for independent artists and makers. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to maintain control over their brand and storefront. With customizable themes and straightforward pricing, Big Cartel allows artisans to set up their online shops quickly and start selling their handmade creations with ease.
Madeit – By Australians for Australians
Madeit is a platform solely focused on supporting Australian artisans. Husband and wife team, Bec and Jayce originally built the platform as an online directory for local Artisans and Crafters at about the same time that Etsy was being formed.
Louise McCauley became the owner of Madeit in 2015, and helped transition the site to be a subscription model, and later on sold the platform. In April 2023, Leina Broughton took over Madeit, and became the CEO of the company.
Aftcra – Proudly Made in the US
Aftcra is an online marketplace that focuses on handmade products crafted by local artisans who are based in the United States. The business name is an anagram of the word “craft”, and the company has remained true to its vision of only selling pieces made by hand. Founded in Milwaukee, the platform launched in beta mode in late 2012 and was officially launched in mid-October 2013.
Bonanza
Named as “Best Entrepreneurial Company in America” by Entrepreneur Magazine, Bonanza presents itself as a seller-centric marketplace, in the sense that sellers not only has the opportunity to make sales but also build a brand by developing relationships with their customers.
Storenvy
Founded in 2010, Storenvy offers a marketplace for artists, designers, and makers to sell their products with a customized store to match their brand. It is also a place to discover one-of-a-kind pieces that are not easy to find anywhere else.
Society6
Society6 is a platform for a global community of more than 450,000 independent artists from over 170 countries. With a focus on contemporary design, Society6 offers a variety of products – from wall art, home decor, to tech accessories and furniture.
Discover Online Handmade Marketplaces
The rise of online handmade marketplaces has revolutionized the way artisans share their craft with the world. These platforms offer a space for creativity to flourish while connecting consumers with unique, handcrafted treasures.
Whether you’re an artisan looking to showcase your creations or a buyer in search of distinctive, personalized items, exploring these online handmade marketplaces can be a delightful journey into the world of craftsmanship and creativity.
So, dive in, support independent creators, and uncover the magic of handmade goods in the digital age.
What are favourite online handmade marketplaces?
Do you love supporting indie or small businesses? If so, which online handmade marketplaces do you frequently buy from? Or are you a small business owner who also sell through one of these platforms? Which of the above online handmade marketplaces would you recommend for those looking to sell their crafts online?