Ideas for how buyer can download directions for a physical product being shipped to them.

[MommasatticStore]

When selling a product that needs written directions / guidance, how can I provide a digital download, pdf, image file, whatever.
I do not want to send the file through email, dropbox or Google docs and printing and mailing paper is not desirable or efficient.
Thanks so much for your insights, work-around ideas.

[ArtDollsbyJD]

You can send a link with the item to the PDF download in the package.

Frankly I no longer will buy anything where instructions are not supplied via paper.  I do not like having to use my ink and my paper to print out something I believe a seller should provide. It's an added cost to me the buyer if I have to print out. . 

[VintageRescueSquad]

After purchase, why not send it through a message? Although email would be better...

Or why can't you include a printed version in the packaging of the physical product sent?

I guess I don't understand why you don't like the traditional available options.

[CanningCrafts]

I bought something a while back here where the seller messaged me directions after the purchase. Not a PDF, but just text in a convo. I was pretty miffed about it honestly. It was inconvenient. I paid $$ for an item & thought it would've been more helpful to have the item's care instructions sent with the item. It would've fit on a postcard.

[DesertChains]

I always send printed information with jewelry sales: copy of packing slip, shop policies, and care instructions. Not a big deal, and some folks seem to appreciate it.

[Amaradorn]

There are several reasons why including a packing slip inside the package is a good idea. I would print some stickers with the url for downloading the instructions and sick it on the bottom of the packing slip. You will however need to upload the instructions to the internet somewhere either on your own website or use Dropbox.

If the instructions are brief you could add it as an image on the listings page itself.

[AutumnHollowStudio]

Google docs has the option to make individual files "public" if you want to go that route.

I am not sure what your aversion is to a printed copy that would be included in the package, but, from a buyer standpoint - I hate digital instructions that have to be accessed online when I receive something in the mail.

[DragoninKnots]

Is this for a vintage item?

[NickiesNest]

I would definitely print it.  Not everyone has the same computer access or ability and some don't even have a printer.  Why make it complicated and risk inconveniencing or annoying the customer over something so simple?

[NanaLetha]

@NickiesNest  I agree. Not everyone has a printer and I don't want to read instructions from my device. 

[JustMeToo]

@MommasatticStore   If I made a purchase that required instructions, assembly or whatever, I would expect the printed sheets to be IN the box with the purchase.  Anything else would just be annoying.  I want everything together, not another step to get the rest.

[MommasatticStore]

yes, I would expect that too, thanks

[MommasatticStore]

Well said, I would too.

[TastefulArtisan]

Agree with those that stated any instructions should be included in the package. If the directions are all the same, go to your local library, Staples, OfficeMax, etc and run off a few dozen to include with the package. No hassles, no fuss..

I bought an item that came with very detailed cleaning and care instructions and even though I only wear Sterling Silver and know how to take care f it the guide I was sent was very helpful on things I hadn't thought of. I was grateful to get this and if your items need instructions (haven't looked at your shop) you'd be better served including it in the package.

Up the price about 0.15 to cover the cost of a copy. Or whatever it costs now. Cheaper than the time suck trying to explain how to find a digital set of instructions, issues with dropbox DL or email problems. Waste of time.

But if you've a ton of time on your hands and don't mind wasting it, you do you.

[MommasatticStore]

The responses have been so interesting. Automatically assuming I'm referring to required instructions etc.
Also assuming I do not enclose packing slips or directions. Thank you to those who had a few tangible ideas.
If you know how to do what I am asking, please respond. Thank you so much.

[BagmakerSupply]

@MommasatticStore: "Automatically assuming I'm referring to required instructions etc." Not really an assumption because in your original post you write  "... product that needs written directions / guidance ..." [Emphasis added].

If you have a website, just include links to the appropriate page / download which contains that information with the item. As others have said, though, if it is information that the buyer "needs" then you should consider including a printed copy with the item.

[MommasatticStore]

All necessary paperwork is indeed shipped with items but alas, all buyers will not need extra information. 
I was not asking for advice on how to sell (this time, ha ha), I was asking an operational, logistical question on how I could make extra 'digital' information or images available for customers who purchase something that will be shipped when an item is purchased.