I remember when Etsy felt like a quiet corner of the internet. A place full of hand made cards, personalised prints, and hand-poured candles. You could tell things were made with care, often by someone working from their kitchen table.

I still love what Etsy stands for, and continue to shop there but it’s fair to say the platform has changed over the years. More mass-produced items have crept in, and it can be harder to find truly handmade products without scrolling through what pages of imported lookalikes and massed produced items.

That doesn’t mean Etsy isn’t worth using — it just means you need to approach it a little differently.

🛒 Etsy in 2025: What’s Actually on There?

Etsy is still packed with wonderful sellers, but the mix is more varied now. Alongside truly handmade items, you’ll also find:

• Print-on-demand products (like T-shirts or mugs)
• Dropshipped homeware and jewellery (sometimes similar to items from Temu or AliExpress)
• And vintage or “hand-finished” products, which aren’t always what they seem at first glance

Etsy has introduced new rules recently to protect the handmade spirit, but the marketplace is still a blend. That’s the reality and it’s okay, as long as we know what you're looking for.

🎯 So... Is It Still Worth Shopping on Etsy?

Yes — if you know what you're looking for and who you're supporting.

Here’s how to get the best out of it:

• Look for sellers who show their process — photos, behind-the-scenes videos, even handwritten notes in listings
• Use filters like “Handmade” and “UK-based” to support smaller, local creators
• Read reviews and seller bios — you can often spot the difference between a genuine maker and a high-volume reseller
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions — a real maker will usually reply and appreciate your interest

💡 Ideas for How to Use Etsy

You don’t have to sell your own crafts to enjoy or benefit from Etsy. Here are a few ways to make it part of your side-saver or intentional living journey:

🎁 1. Gift with Purpose

Buy fewer, better gifts. Find sellers who personalise items or make items in small batches.

🏷️ 2. Create a Favourites List

Start a “treat fund” list — whether it’s handmade earrings or a birthday idea and use money from platforms like Vinted to buy things that truly bring joy.

💌 3. Support Independent Creators

Just like you might follow local shops or small Instagram makers, think of Etsy as an online craft fair, somewhere to champion people doing great things in quiet corners.

💻 4. Be Inspired

Even if you’re not a maker, browsing Etsy can spark inspiration. Could you create your own version of something for a personal project? Or review handmade products you love?

💬 Final Thoughts

Etsy might not be the handmade haven it once was but it’s still full of brilliant creaters and beautiful things. If you're thoughtful about where you spend and who you support, it's still a place where creativity and care shine through.

It’s not about perfection. It’s about making small, thoughtful choices that align with your values — whether that’s spending a little wiser, supporting independent creatives, or just making your home feel a bit more you.