etsy success: girlie pains

Given the internet is an infinite bazaar where anyone with a network connection can flog their wares, it can be tough to break through the clutter and stop someone short in their endless scroll. So how do you make your business flourish online, especially within the epic handmade marketplace that is Etsy? We chatted with some sellers who are kicking e-commerce goals for a brand new four-part blog series, Etsy Success. First up is the cute as pie Girlie Pains, who talks us through getting started, being organised and the importance of good packaging.



Tell us a little about yourself and what you sell. I'm a freelance illustrator and visual artist living in Brisbane. I sell zines, prints of my artwork, printable paper crafts and accessories.

What was the process for starting your business? It started out as being a way to sell my zines to people in Australia and overseas. I would print up a bunch and list them on Etsy and have them available until they sold out. Then I'd start the process all over again with a new zine. I never really saw it as being something that was a serious business, it was just a bit of fun and a bit of funding on the side to help future projects.

As I furthered my career, it became clear to me that I needed to take it more seriously and focus on good product photography, thoughtful packaging, good postage turnaround, fair pricing and churning out old products and constantly making new ones.

How long has it been running? It's been running since 2008, but I've only really started taking it seriously the past three or so years.



What's the best thing about managing an online business? Being your own boss. I manage myself, which helps me better myself as a person and helps me organise my entire life. I really enjoy being able to explore new things or new ways of making things. I also love the fact I can take time for myself to breathe and relax. I love having my schedule.

What have you learnt about running a successful Etsy store? Good product photography is important and not difficult. Sunlight and even an iPhone camera can produce a beautiful image. Rewarding your customers with discount coupons and freebies makes them even happier! I know when I get surprise gifts in my online orders, I'm over the moon! Having open communication with customers who have questions, requests or queries is also important.

Providing good quality products is key. I always feel, touch and experience the things I make before I release them. I want to give something that I would be happy to buy myself.

Have there been any hiccups along the way? I have come a long way in regards to how organised I am. I feel like I become more organised each day. I'm always learning new ways to better how I do things.



Do you have any tips for someone starting an online business of their own?
Make things that you yourself would be happy to buy. Be true to that.
Take photos with plenty of light and thoughtful backgrounds. If your hand or fingers must be in shot, make sure they don't look gross!
Communicate with your customers and reward them for supporting you and your dreams!
Make sure you have a good set-up at your studio or your home office where you have hours that you work, sufficient inventory and shelving, a mailing table with all your stationary.
Be organised.
Be a thoughtful order packager! It makes all the difference.

Have a squiz at Mel's goodies over here.