Hey Ginger. I had an Etsy shop selling hand-poured soy candles. I recently closed shop, not because of Etsy but because the passion wasn't there anymore. I loved having my shop but I will tell you that it takes alot of work to get noticed. You have to list an item or relist a current listing at the very least once a day to stay on the first few pages of your category. You definately have to promote yourself outside of Etsy too. I used to spend a ton of time in the forums, it's a great place with a wealth of information. Also check out the Storque for helpful tips om making your store a success. The Storque and the forums are under the community tab. I still visit Etsy everyday just not as a seller anymore. I definately think it's worth a try. Listing fees and commission fees are low enough that even if you didn't sell anything you won't be out a ton of cash. Let us know if and when you take the plunge! Good luck!
Renee

Hi Ginger,
It's a cool website...very reasonable as far as costs....easy to set up shop too. I've not had any success with selling but I look at it as really cheap advertisement for my website. I get people viewing my items but I've not had any buyers. I have, though, purchased items from Etsy myself.
Like I said....it's cheap...your biggest cost will be your time in setting up and posting. If I had more time I would get involved with some of the various groups, too.
I say Go For It! Check out my store at CherryChick (no space)

I'd say give it a try, if you find it isn't your thing then stop. It is a lot cheaper than a brick and mortor store that would cost a fortune to close if you found you weren't interested in it anymore. Good luck in whatever you decide.

Etsy is such a great place :) I'm glad I opened my shop. Others are right to say it can be a major time commitment, but the way I see it, I'm going to be scrapping anyway, so why not sell some creations.

One piece of advice I have is to have enough items to fill your shop before you open. Maybe 10-20. A full shop always looks better than just 1-2 things for sale. Get a good stock and then open.

And like others have said also, it is so easy to sign up and get started. There is really nothing holding you back :) You'll never know if you don't try! Good luck :)

If you're interested, you can check out my shop and see what you think: www.memoriesforlifesb.ets...

I say go for it! You only live once!LOL I opened up m Etsy shop last summer...I've done okay. You really have to work at it and get yourself known. Sometimes I work harder at it than other times....and it shows!LOL

My tip: Don't list everything at once..do a few at first and then if you have stuff made...list 1 a day to keep your shop upfront. That helps.

Whatever you decide, I wish you the best of luck!!!
Here's my shop: www.justusgirlz.etsy.com and another one that I neglect: www.pinkpackrat. etsy.com.