So, you’ve started selling digital products on Etsy—yay, go you! But maybe you’re wondering, “Is Etsy the only place I can sell my stuff?” Or perhaps you’re dreaming about expanding your reach without putting all your eggs in one Etsy basket.
Here’s the thing: Etsy is amazing, but it’s not the only marketplace out there. Diversifying where you sell your products can open up new audiences, reduce your reliance on one platform, and, let’s be honest, make you feel like a total boss. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the possibilities!
The Problem with Staying on Just One Platform
Relying on a single platform can be risky. What if their algorithm changes? What if fees go up? What if a sudden rule tweak throws your shop into chaos? (Hello, mini heart attack.) Plus, you’re limiting your visibility to only the people browsing that platform. Only today, 17th January, I just discovered along with everyone else that Design Cuts closed its doors as of 16th January. No warning to buyers or those with shops with them. Just bam! Closed.
The solution? Expand your horizons by listing your digital products on other platforms. It’s like giving your business a second home—or a third, or a fourth.
Platform #1: Creative Market
If your digital products are design-focused, Creative Market is a fantastic option. This platform is all about high-quality design assets, like fonts, templates, graphics, and more.
- What sells here: Clipart, digital patterns, design templates, and branding kits.
- Why it’s great: The audience is full of creatives and small business owners ready to buy.
- Pro tip: Showcase your products with clean, professional mockups—they love a polished look!
Platform #2: Design Bundles
Design Bundles is a hub for digital designers and crafters. It’s known for offering bundles and deals, making it a hit with customers looking for value.
- What sells here: SVG files, printables, fonts, and digital stickers.
- Why it’s great: They have a strong crafting community that’s hungry for new designs.
- Pro tip: Bundling similar products together can boost sales and attract more buyers.
Platform #3: Your Own Website
Imagine running a shop where you call all the shots—no fees, no algorithms, no random rule changes. That’s what selling on your own website offers.
- What sells here: Anything and everything! Printables, planners, courses, clipart—you name it.
- Why it’s great: You control the branding, pricing, and customer experience.
- Pro tip: Start small with a simple platform like Shopify or WooCommerce and build from there.
Platform #4: Gumroad
Gumroad is perfect if you want something easy to set up without the bells and whistles. It’s great for selling digital downloads and even subscriptions.
- What sells here: E-books, templates, digital art, and even memberships.
- Why it’s great: Low fees, simple interface, and you can start selling in minutes.
- Pro tip: Use Gumroad’s email tools to connect with your customers and promote new products.
Platform #5: Social Media (Yes, Really!)
Did you know you can sell directly on platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, or TikTok? With digital products, it’s all about getting creative.
- What sells here: Anything visual that you can link to a download.
- Why it’s great: It’s free to post, and you can build a community while selling your products.
- Pro tip: Use platforms like Linktree or Shopify Lite to add easy “Buy Now” links to your social profiles.
The Benefits of Diversifying
When you branch out to other platforms, you’re not just selling—you’re building a business that’s more resilient, more visible, and, honestly, more fun. You get access to new audiences, reduce your risk, and create multiple streams of income.
But Don’t Forget About Etsy!
Etsy is still a fantastic platform, especially for digital products. Keep it as part of your strategy while exploring other options. The goal isn’t to replace Etsy—it’s to complement it
Ready to Expand?
Take it one step at a time. Choose one new platform to test out, and see how it works for you. Whether you’re joining Creative Market, setting up your own website, or selling bundles on Design Bundles, each step brings you closer to growing your business and living the hustle dream.
Now go get those digital products out into the world—your future customers are waiting! 🎉