Erika had a good idea... I have always wanted some constructive criticism on my shop.....

[Former_Member]

I've been on Etsy for a little over a year now and finally have figured lots out. With new knowledge, comes new questions....

I know my older pictures aren't the best, and I am going through and taking new pictures with my new camera and photo booth (makes a huge difference)! So...that issue is being taken care of.

With so many items listed, it has proven really hard to only have 10 sections. I have done my best to categorize like-items. If anyone else has some advice, I'd appreciate it :-)

Also, I am currently looking into getting a custom banner made instead of using my listing pictures. Is this a better idea?

Thanks!
Taryn

If anybody sees anything I could do to make my shop look better or be more user friendly, I'd love to hear it!

[ohmyclumsyheart]

I think you need a new banner
and several of your photographs need work.
You need more description titles.
Use ALL of your key words.

x

[Former_Member]

I think a brand new banner would really liven up your shop! :)

[Former_Member]

yes i think, a custom banner is a good idea. your listing pics always only show one item but in a custom banner you can express the whole of what you do. i have bought a banner for my shop here on etsy because i would have needed too much time to create one myself.
go out there and find someone who can create just the right thing for you. they are cheap and are made by people who specialise on these things. i highly recommend that :-)

[Former_Member]

Katie- Thanks I think so too!
Sophie- Thanks for your advice on titles and keywords.

Any future posters please be kind in your responses. Constructive criticism is positive.

[Former_Member]

Barbara- where did you get your banner through etsy if you don't mind me asking. Looks they they did a great job!

[AdamRabbit]

Your shop isn't doing your products justice! Work on making your photos lighter and a new banner. I also like rounded prices.

[Former_Member]

First off I would say that with over 100 sales in a year that you are already doing better than the vast majority of sellers here Including me...

Keep doing what feels right to you dont be afraid to experiment a little and remember that the rules are constantly chaning so always keep an open mind and be patient.

Daniel Smith

[Former_Member]

Taryn your shop is beautiful! I would LOVE to see an "About" page because I am fascinated to see a "behind the scenes" view of unique crafts....I threw pots in college and it was hard work...I'd love to see your studio!

That said, I have yet to do my own "About" page....always too busy with something else. So I'm not criticizing you, just suggesting.

You have a lot of sales so far!!!! Best of luck for a great holiday season.

[BohemianHollow]

I agree with AdamRabbit. You're work is beautiful but your photos are really lacking in quality, so I'm glad you're working to better show off your work!

I think the best tip that I learned from the Etsy blogs is this:
NEVER use your flash - try to use natural lighting as much as possible.

Here's some of my favorite blog articles:
http://www.etsy.com/blog/en/2012/the-seller-handbook/
(This is SO helpful!)

http://www.etsy.com/blog/en/2011/etsy-success-product-photography-for-beginners/
(Great tips no matter if you're a beginner or not and all in a fun little video.)

http://www.etsy.com/blog/en/2012/etsy-success-critique-your-shop/


And to be honest (this is just my personal opinion) I really don't like seeing the white background. I think pottery looks so much better with a natural looking background; wood and/or burlap especially. Or even wood painted white! But like I said, that's just me. :P

[JanJat]

You're shop is lovely and 100+ sales in a year - you're doing something right!

I would change the banner and your avatar to the new pics. The new ones are soo much better!

Another suggestion - add back links in your listings to your main shop as well as the section/category the item is in. This helps with SEO and keeps buyers searching in your shop.

[Former_Member]

Adam, Janet, Stefan, and Daniel- thank you so much for your suggestions, opinions, compliments, and encouragement. This is what I love about Etsians!

I am going to take everyone's recommendations to heart and begin working on the process. I just purchased a banner that is being designed for me.

I guess the reason I don't use natural light is because I don't have any. My house is tiny, in the woods, and lacks natural sunlight inside and out. "Too many trees". I have thought of traveling to somewhere else to picture, but transporting a bunch of fragile pottery is not an easy (or light, or quick) task. I do however have some back drops in different colors and I believe I will try that and experiment with what glazes looks best with each background color. Or maybe I could add other soft and non distracting items in the background so it's not just white.

Again, thanks so much everyone!

[Former_Member]

Catherine- I like the back-listing idea. It never crossed my mind. Thanks! Also just purchased a new banner and it's being designed over the next day or so:)

[Former_Member]

Got a new banner and avatar....on to the next step.....

[Former_Member]

Also updated my "about" section. What do you guys think so far?

I don't have pictures taken yet....but plan on adding pictures of my studio, work space, and me working on the wheel. We are just waiting for it not to be pouring down rain outside. (outdoor studio)