If you're on any social media platform, chances are you've see this meme or one like it. There is a lot of truth in the message here. As a handmade artist, I love supporting others in the handmade world by purchasing items that are creative and handmade.
I strongly encourage people to buy handmade whenever they get the chance to. Obviously in person at shows and fairs is best for the customer since you're able to immediately see and take the items with you. However, buying handmade goods through awesome sites like Etsy and Storenvy can be just as amazing of an experience.
Having bought and sold in the online world for awhile now, I have come up with some tips in order to ensure an excellent transaction for both parties.
- A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS
While the uniqueness and flaws are part of what make handmade items glorious, don't settle for one blurry picture. Someone who takes pride in their work will take several pictures of their pieces from several different angles. They ensure they have the best lighting, and take time to make sure the background isn't distracting.
Make your search as specific as possible. Since online buying is becoming more and more popular, and homemade, one-of-a-kind purchases are on the rise, there are a lot more sellers of every kind with online stores. Doing a basic search of "Frozen" on Etsy will come back with more than 79,000 items, whereas a keyword search using "girls, crocheted, Elsa, Frozen, crown" yields about 60 items. This will save you a lot of time in your search of the perfect item BE SPECIFIC- GET TO KNOW ME
Artists create because it's their passion. But there is far more to the artists than the yarn, paint, or whatever medium they use. However, there is more than meets the eye. Buying from an artist who shares his/her story about why they are in business, if portions of proceeds go to charity, etc. can help give you a glimpse into their world and gives a better sense of realism to the purchase. - MAKE IT YOUR OWN
Many times while on someone's store site, the almost perfect item will appear in front of your eyes. It's easy to skip right past thinking, "If only it was blue," or "If it was just the size I need." The beauty of handmade is that many times the creators will happily alter or create a unique, custom item just for you. In fact, several businesses, mine included, get a lot of their business through these types of sales. Do not be afraid to ask for a custom order so that you can have the PERFECT item. - PROTECT YOURSELF
There are, unfortunately, those online who are looking to scam others. The best way to ensure that you're not a victim is to first, make sure you read the fine print. Every shop has its own rules, processing time, return policies, and other elements that you as a buyer need to know. Additionally, make sure that the store uses a reputable payment system. Whether it's Paypal, Square, or a regular credit card processor it must be a secured transaction. Never do a wire transfer to send money to a seller. Also, make sure that the entire transaction is completed within the website. Sites such as Etsy, Storenvy, and Ebay all have buyer protection systems in place as long as the transaction goes through the site. The minute a seller takes it outside the site, through email for example, you are no longer covered.
How often do you make online purchases? What tips would you add?