We created the Virtual Labs in an effort to bridge the gap between the physical Etsy Labs and the greater Etsy community. The Virtual Labs will allow us (and guest hosts) to chat with you, the community, in real time! The cool thing is – we do all the techie work, you just click into a room and hang out with us virtually.
The Virtual Etsy Labs are a multi-user online space with various rooms. We use the Virtual Labs to connect with our community, host events, put on streaming webcam how-to’s, invite special shopping guests showing off their picks, host team meetings, demos, and shop critiques!
This video is a behind-the-scenes look at how one Virtual Lab took place, in this case, with a guest from People StyleWatch.
Virtual Labs Lobby
- The homepage of the Virtual Labs is a lobby where you can find information about and join in on upcoming and current workshops.
- The Virtual Labs clock runs in your time (that is, the time you’re computer’s internal clock is set to).
- Click on any of the rooms to gain access inside that particular workshop chat room.
- To exit the workshop room and return back to the Virtual Labs mapped home, click the mini colored square marked “back” on the top right of the screen.
Chat
- To chat in the workshop, just click in chat bar near the bottom left of your screen and type away. Hit enter or click the send button next to the text field.
Your Avatar
- You will see your avatar on the screen of the workshop room upon entering, click anywhere on the screen to move your avatar around. If the room has designated squares, click one of the squares to take your seat in the workshop.
- To make your avatar spin, bounce, beat, or glow, click the 4 grey circles located underneath the text field bar. When you scroll your mouse over those buttons, they will turn a bright blue.
- To raise your hand like you are asking a question, or waving, click the gray circle next to the 4 movement buttons with the hand on it. This will put a raised hand over your avatar in the workshop.
- To indicate that you will be right back, click the gray circle next to the raised hand button that is marked “brb.” This will lighten the color of your avatar to indicate that you aren’t currently present, but will reserve your spot in the workshop.
User Avatars
- Once inside the workshop room, you can see other users in the room identified by their avatars.
- To find out more information about the users in the room, click on their avatars. This will bring up a bubble with the option to click on their shop, profile, send them a conversation, and the option to send them a private message in the current workshop (/msg).
Extras
- To change the color of your text, simply click the desired color underneath the text field bar. As you scroll your mouse over the colors, they will appear brighter.
- To turn the sound on or off in the workshop room, click the gray button located at the lower right of the screen with the megaphone icon.
- To “throw” an item in the workshop, click on your avatar and while holding down the mouse, pull back off your avatar like a slingshot aimed at the direction you’d like the item to be thrown. Let go of your mouse and the item will be released and thrown in the workshop.
- To change the image of the item you are throwing, click on the small image with the number next to it located directly under the chat text bar. This will open up a list of all the different items you can choose to throw. Click on any of them and this will become your new item.
- To insert an Etsy item picture into the workshop, click on the Item tab above the chat bar. Paste in the item number and hit enter. You will see your item appear in the workshop. Hint: You can find the item number on any item listing under “additional item info” on the far right.
FAQ’s
Why can’t I see or hear the video stream during the workshop?
If you cannot see or hear the video stream while in the workshop, it is possible the webcam hasn’t been turned on yet, or you might need to exit and re-enter the room. If you cannot hear the workshop, make sure your computer isn’t set on mute, and check the volume settings on your computer and speakers.
I exited the room accidentally, how to I get back in?
Just go back to the Virtual Labs Lobby and re-enter the room you were in; the workshop will still be taking place.
What can I do if the room says it’s too full?
If the room has reached the maximum amount of seats, then the room will be full. Check back in a couple minutes in the event someone has left their seat in the room or the maximum seat number has been increased.
Now that you know what all those crazy functions are for, go ahead and jump into one of the Virtual Labs room to test it out for yourself! It’s a good idea to practice using the Virtual Labs chat functions while there isn’t a workshop taking place, so you can get familiar with the tools and be prepared to participate in the next workshop.
See you there,
Your Etsy Labs
169 comments
Sign in to add your ownhobbledehoy says:
wow! How exciting, I can't wait to hook up my camera and get started :)
4 years ago
abitabite says:
Hahahahah i remember the day Vanessa was wearing that crazy hat.. you all need to put a picture of it on the labs flickr. It is hilariously cool
4 years ago
sarahkamsler says:
this is so cool!!! i can't wait to check it out. thanks etsy:)
4 years ago
FranksAndBeans says:
I love it! Thanks etsy team!!! :)
4 years ago
JJMFinance says:
So great to be able to play paintball on Etsy!
4 years ago
alkemystic88 says:
This is going to change the face of shopping. You just boosted enthusiasm by 200%.
4 years ago
MayaBella says:
Yeah! I love all the new changes!
4 years ago
youmeyou says:
this will be so fun..xo! thanks!
4 years ago
ArcaneArtistic says:
I can't get into any of the rooms because it says my "workshop client version is out of date, please clear my cache for new version" etc., etc..... What do I do!?!
4 years ago
lisianblue says:
Visited the labs for the 1st time tonight - oops after the official critique was over - but some people were still hanging out and I got some wonderful helpful suggestions. I hope this is ok - but Indiemoon and jillhannah were sooooooo helpful. The "labs" is awesome. I "looked" at the typo on my banner for so long I didn't even realize it was there! How embarrasing. Thank you thank you thank you.
4 years ago
currawongwhisper says:
looks good, I just have to get the hang of it.!!!
3 years ago
prasen says:
hellow
3 years ago
thefaeriecupboard says:
Thank you Etsy; that's a very creative and useful tool. I missed a meeting. Is there a way to read what went on? Can I schedule a room every week for about 10 minutes just to go in and throw things? It could be like weekly therapy~
3 years ago
DebiDesigns says:
How do we find out about having a Trunkt show?
3 years ago
WozArtStudio says:
Can't get my speakers to work, and would like to be able to "just read" this lab. Possible?
3 years ago
limitz says:
This is such an amazing feature... I went in yesterday for the first time and just couldnt believe what great job u guys do. VERY MUCH APPRECIATED!!
3 years ago
CoCoArtiste1 says:
This is fun
3 years ago
thequeensroyalcoach says:
This is Awesome!!!
3 years ago
littlepapoose says:
this looks interesting... ill have to check it all out when someones in a lab! ;)
3 years ago
craftsbykash says:
I am so overwhelmed! i am not this computer savy.
3 years ago
BlueCanvasStudios says:
Wow! This is an incredible feature. You guys are quite clever!
3 years ago
tadaboutique says:
This sounds like a lot of fun. Awesome.
3 years ago
beadinbythesea says:
I'll have to give this a try!
3 years ago
NiBuDesign says:
I think I need to try!
3 years ago
mossyrockpottery says:
I'm assuming the above info is about some kind of online classroom on how to use ETSY more effectively, NOT to do your own research using some kind of online mining tool?? A mining tool would be cool.
3 years ago
gretchenmist says:
this is great - have been to a 'meeting' and it was amazing! etsy is so cool :)
3 years ago
eastbayarts says:
OK..... need to jump in!
3 years ago
bellasparty says:
I'll try soon.
3 years ago
AuraOrganica says:
awesome!!!!!!!!!
3 years ago
CrinkleSprinkle says:
Kewl! Gotta try it!
3 years ago
TerriGarciaDesigns says:
Thanks for the info!
3 years ago
TheHeadsCreation says:
Really Neat-o- I'll have to give it a try.
3 years ago
MySerenityWay says:
Can't wait to try this feature.
3 years ago
cristinadavid says:
this feature is so cool!!!
3 years ago
Doreennagle says:
Hi - I'm brand new - so much so that I don't even have anything on my website yet. Can you tell me if the times for the virtual labs are east coast, pacific time or ...??
3 years ago
Charmony says:
Is there a way to view the content of labs after they have been held. Several have been held when I am unavailabe : (
3 years ago
GiftGalleryInc says:
How do you get into a private meeting I should be in?
3 years ago
dovecountrytatting says:
I would like info on Eastern Washington lab which is private.
3 years ago
Yoursewsweet says:
Ok this is coooool!!!
3 years ago
dragonsmoon says:
Perhaps I am not looking in the right places, but everything that has been a 'live' event, I have not been able to attend. Most of these things are set up at times that are geared towards the workday hours on the East Coast. What about us working people on the Pacific coast??? Are we just totally SOL???
3 years ago
tutie says:
I'm brand new to Etsy, so lots to learn. Today, I hope to get some photos in and items posted to sell. Any helpful hints will be greatly appreciated. I totally agree with "Yoursewsweet" that this is cool!
3 years ago
meomay says:
I'm new to Etsy. Any helpful hints will be greatly appreciated.
3 years ago
MaureenTillman says:
I am a newbie too but I did go to my first lab today - would have been better if I had read this article first so I would know why I was getting hit by paintballs and more. It was fun - interesting, easy to contribute to, with some silly stuff too. That's ok - we can all use that.
3 years ago
tinyspace says:
Newbie here, got lots to learn! this article is great tho!
3 years ago
GrannySacks says:
I agree with the person who said they were overwhelmed. There is so much to etsy that I could spend all day and still not be in the know. Maybe someday.
3 years ago
wheeware says:
Please can we have more descriptions and explanations in plain English? Perhaps a section for non computer people? I am having the same problem with EVERYTHING in that it is always assumed you know newspeak terms or can identify icons, but I can never find glossaries to help me out. I am skipping over a LOT of stuff just because I can't understand the "language".
3 years ago
goldfishluv says:
Does anyone know what port needs to be open to access the virtual labs? thanks!
3 years ago
ApplewoodHandwovens says:
I've just been here a while... so much to learn, figure out and yet, quite amazing... I'm among the overwhelmed... but so many helps... trying to work my way through them... Thank you ETSY.
3 years ago
needles1 says:
I'm new also, since jan. but it's getting better each day. If you think it's right just jump in and you'll find out, if it's wrong try again it won't hurt anything. all I have to remember is what I did to get it right. the language is tough.
3 years ago
artivicki says:
Hi, I've just started to set up shop too & have made some blueys can someone help correct my blunders ha I'll keep trying! Cheers, artivicki
3 years ago
mruxndesign says:
can totallllly imagine how excited everybody is. i just launched my store her today ... ;) great etsy team! cheers kris
3 years ago
studioc3designs says:
I have not yet opened my shop. Still learning the lay of the land so to speak. Have not had time to wade through all the info. Would love it if there was a "mentor" program - matching an experienced Etsy with a Newbie (not the same medium or product line) who could help 1 to 1.
2 years ago
PixieLouFelt says:
I have been on etsy for 2 months and this is the first time I have made it to here. So much to do so much to see. Louise
2 years ago
ardiegaye says:
Why is my icon smaller than everyone elses? When I try to enlarge it, I am flying hearts around the room.
2 years ago
fireflyforge says:
studioc3designs has an awesome idea - the mentor concept would help so much!
2 years ago
Mamta says:
I'm in.
2 years ago
hea84 says:
This is SO cool
2 years ago
linsjewelbox says:
i will definitely explore this! i'll be back! =)
2 years ago
BirdAndMoonStudio says:
Sounds like some fun ahead. Need to just jump in too.
2 years ago
Abbeyroadbeads says:
I'll be back... sounds great. Got to go add listings!!
2 years ago
BirdAndMoonStudio says:
When are the critiques for newbies happening again. I thought it was tonight at 9:00pm??
2 years ago
SewWhaat says:
Sounds like fun. Not that computer savy. I am among the overwhelmed. Any helpful hints will be appreciated.
2 years ago
8thStreetSoap says:
Hi there -- if I miss a chat, is it archived somewhere that I can access, or is it gone forever?
2 years ago
designDiapason says:
8thStreetSoap: I was thinking the same thing.Would be great if we could locate the labs that we were not able to attend. Also, are the lab times EST?
2 years ago
kariusdeparius says:
GREAT, I'll try that! I need those last feedbacks to get it rolling!!! And I guess I've got tips to share as well;°) See you soon!
2 years ago
SuellensCreations says:
Attended my first session last night and will join another one for newbies in a few minutes. Have to get the hang of this since it goes so fast but lots of good info.
2 years ago
SecretAura says:
I love Etsy and this is Great! Thanks Etsy!
2 years ago
foxykat says:
Well I'm just getting started. I'm going to be 70 years old and never done anything like this. It looks and sounds like fun. Bare with me.
2 years ago
WhatShop2329 says:
I like Etsy. I love handmade.
2 years ago
thissideofnevada says:
I don't have a webcam, is the webcam a requirement?
2 years ago
thissideofnevada says:
to designdiapson: Hi! i did read this: the meeting times are automatically displayed to your time zone in accord with your computer's clock. so whatever time zone your clock is, that's the time zone Etsy displays :)
2 years ago
thissideofnevada says:
An archive would be awesome : ) for those of us who may not be able to make it to the meetings :(
2 years ago
ygvega says:
I too am new to this site. I look forward to getting my things up. So there is lots to learn. I am ready.
2 years ago
PoppinJFox says:
I'm new...any advice is welcomed! :)
2 years ago
SweetSentiments1 says:
How can I get a critique on my shop? I am new to Etsy and would like some feedback.
2 years ago
ClosetDelights says:
I would still like to find out how to (a) "machine gun" shoot all those hearts, tomatoes, etc : ) (b) and also how to BOLD the font (c) and increase font size Can anyone share the secrets to achieving these?
2 years ago
bellta says:
Hello!!
2 years ago
MyRagtrade says:
I would love some feedback on my shop too!!
2 years ago
niminami says:
wow loves it!
2 years ago
sosewit says:
am I late?
2 years ago
GrammasTreasure says:
how do i find answers to questions others have asked. Like are the meetings recorded and available at a time I can attend? Saw that question over and over. Where do I find the answer?
2 years ago
Avistudio says:
Thanks,I need to try .
2 years ago
MartiniSQ says:
Excellent,I am so exited
2 years ago
AzyP says:
Question: Why didn't Etsy create their workshops someplace like Second Life or Open Life? Sure people would have to sign in to an SL or OL account to use them, but they'd be WAY more interesting. Then I suppose a lot of people would prefer to not have multiple accounts, but it would be pretty cool to be able to not only operate an Etsy store, but also advertise it on something like SL.
2 years ago
heirloomsbylorraine says:
I really want to take part in the labs. I work 2nd shift. How can I get in while something is going on?
2 years ago
Iammie says:
Cool!
2 years ago
LilithEvy says:
I like the part of throwing things :o) I can't wait to try it!
2 years ago
mammamiaeme says:
I love it. Thanks for your support!
2 years ago
Judybec says:
cool! so, Can I do this even though I haven't opened a store yet?
2 years ago
lifeisa1wayticket says:
These labs are awesome. The moderators are so much fun!
2 years ago
arcticjewellery says:
I am new since September.... any advice is welcomed! :)
2 years ago
LondonParticulars says:
I still need to try this out, thanks for the great explanations!
2 years ago
robin246 says:
I am new, too, and sort of crushed for time, and not the best computer person, I welcome any advice as well...
2 years ago
peganders says:
I work and live on the west coast. Is there any way I can view these workshops later. thank You PEG
2 years ago
muskatoon says:
I'm going into a room and throwthings right now to get the hang of it, just a newbee hope I don't miss the newbee seminar
2 years ago
ubucreations says:
Hi ,I just signed on today & looking forward to a great adventure.. this seems so cool and exciting but since Iam also a newbee some advice seems very welcomed.. thanks.
2 years ago
PoeticArtImpressions says:
Hello, Im am new too and not sure how to use this forum. I would be very greatfull for any advice on how to sell and be noticed on this so so large site called etsy. It sure does seem very confusing. I welcome all the help and Thanks in advance!
2 years ago
DoskasDesigns says:
Hi, I am Stephanie from Doskas Designs and my sister and I are new here. I am amazed at all the resources here on Etsy. I realy look foreward to trying this virtual lab.....so exciting yay!
2 years ago
MilestoneJewelry says:
Hi, my name is Marta, I am new to Etsy and look forward to exploring further into this amazing site. Always open to informative advice!!
2 years ago
artwedeliverBrazil says:
That's cool. I am looking forward to it. Thanks Etsy.
2 years ago
ABCbirdhouses says:
Hi, my name is Sissy. This looks really interesting. I will have to check it out. Sissy
2 years ago
buttuglee says:
I never took the time to look at this. What a fool. I really need to take the time and try this out. Jennifer
2 years ago
CreativeButterflyXOX says:
Great I'm gonna practice now. Thanks you :)
2 years ago
mizdarlin says:
Love to have this recorded and available after the fact for those of us who can't be around for the talk...possible?
2 years ago
PoeticPaintings says:
I just went to my first virtual with Daniellexo. I was great. I feel like I know more about this huge Etsy world
2 years ago
divadogknits says:
I'm new to selling and logged in too late for my first time forum. Hope to get lots of ideas at the next one. Thanks for providing a great opportunity to learn.
2 years ago
designsbyegs says:
I'm not all that new, but am still but have yet to make a sale. "our day will come." egs
2 years ago
MichelleStudio says:
Need to jump on it.
2 years ago
VonksArt says:
Alot of information to absorb! Thank you guys for making it available!!!!
2 years ago
DazyJane9 says:
Alright... I'm a little shy, and I'll say right now... I'm sorry to everyone... I might accidentally throw something at ya! ;) Who knew??? Oh, and I can not spell. Lets just get that monster out in the room!! :) Thanks guys! :) Dazy
2 years ago
DazyJane9 says:
Thanks guys :)
2 years ago
wildflowermandala says:
Etsy Virtual Labs? What an awesome idea! ~ Regina
2 years ago
irisbiran says:
I'll try it out, hope to follow it right because I'm not a native speaker
2 years ago
Cinnamonsweeties says:
I am new and excited to be here with Etsy
2 years ago
katjojo says:
wow~ so much to do, so little time!
2 years ago
shecological says:
I can't get my camera to turn on and I can't figure out where to get help!! I have checked the storque and forums. Does anyone know how? please convo me if you do. Thanks
2 years ago
singlestitches says:
Hmm..sounds interesting..Cool idea you got there! Can't wait to join in. :)
2 years ago
rakubuttons says:
todays calender doesn't match. Nothing appears to be scheduled for tonight. Thursday, March 11 9:00pm Shop Critiques in Virtual LabsWhenThu, March 11, 9pm – 10pm Wherehttp://www.etsy.com/virtual_labs.php (map) DescriptionNeed some help with your Etsy Shop? Come on by for shop critiques with Etsy Admin and other experienced sellers. Moderator: HeyMichelle http://www.etsy.com/virtual_labs.php more details» copy to my calendar
2 years ago
0juracoquet says:
still I don't understand lots of things.. maybe it's because I'm blond :P hope to see you in some of the chats ;)
2 years ago
medicineproductions says:
went to my first virtual lab last night - what a great forum! i will attend many of them now that i understand whats happening! it was very helpful!
2 years ago
AuntKarensCreations says:
I've been hooked on the labs for months now! Each time I learn something new that I can do with my shop! Excellent source for good information!
2 years ago
GemsbyGemini says:
Just found this place-what a great idea! Not that computer savvy but I'm giving it a shot. Just started about two weeks ago and would love some feedback on my shop or some advice from the "pros". Thanks!!
2 years ago
Fnine says:
me too, i'm so exited:P
2 years ago
WinkArtisans says:
I learned new things about virtual labs... yay! thanks!
2 years ago
MajesticMoonDesigns says:
I cant wait to try it out!
2 years ago
Picatrix says:
How fun!
2 years ago
CraftedByMei says:
I just discovered this today, looks really interesting!
2 years ago
saintesmariesjewelry says:
After a couple of years with etsy... just discovered the virtual labs... with definitely check them out
2 years ago
ScrapHappieAZ says:
Why is the VL calendar wrong a good percentage of the time?
2 years ago
ScrapHappieAZ says:
Why is the VL calendar wrong so often?
2 years ago
tinypawsdesigns says:
Does it cost to participate?
1 year ago
SIRENALUNA says:
How to I find CRAFT Publishing with LARK BOOKS, the conversation on Wednesday, July 7 at 4 p.m., when Nicole McConville, Beth Sweet, and Kathleen McCafferty—editors of Lark Craft (www.larkcrafts.com) host THE CREATIVE CONNECTION/Etsy Virtual Lab?
1 year ago
sewZinski says:
ooh. this looks fun and a bit intimidating. I'll have to just jump in and give it a go.
1 year ago
tamarakraft says:
Are the workshops ever recorded for later downoad? I really wanted to watch the Lark Books lab but I was still at work : (
1 year ago
LittleGoldenHen says:
Ever enchanted!
1 year ago
boobahloujewels says:
This seems like fun - if a little daunting! Will have to give it a try - thanks team!
1 year ago
misscharlottejewelry says:
Yes...Etsy is complicated, so much to it, but i'm learning slowly but surely. How am I gonna remember how to work all the lab extras?
1 year ago
23VineStudio says:
New today. Have a buyer account for a few weeks, setting up seller account now (of course username for buyer did not work for seller...) It's more complicated than I imagined, thought there would be seamless step-by step process. It;'s very disjointed so far.
1 year ago
WildMountainWreaths says:
~Sounds like fun!~ Looking forward towards Jumping in!
1 year ago
IzabellsDesign says:
The days are getting shorter and colder why not get Coat or wool vest to keep warm this winter.
1 year ago
AndoCabrada says:
Does anyone know when they'll be giving shop feedback again? After having tons of people tell me how great my stuff is but not buying anything, I'm about ready to throw the towel in (or just sell myself somewhere else). However, I'd like to get someone's professional opinion before shutting down for good.
1 year ago
Tepca says:
Wow, every day I discover another jewel inside Etsy's Pandora box! Thank you!
1 year ago
clawgee says:
fuunnn
1 year ago
alchemia1 says:
wow!! great!
1 year ago
madebycarmela says:
Anyone superstitious? check out jack-the-rabbits lucky charms:)
1 year ago
JKdesignsMe says:
I'm looking forward to learning all this tricks:)
1 year ago
JKdesignsMe says:
I'm looking forward to learning all these new tricks:)
1 year ago
gigantour says:
i love the labs; they are fun and informational
1 year ago
DaSSanaDeZines says:
I entered my first Virtual Lab this evening and had a few questions...it would not let me use Chat NOR the ask to ask questions... they simply did nothing when I clicked on them.... Does anyone know why that would happen... I am still fairly new to Etsy and was so excited to take a "sellers virtual Lab" to learn MORE!!!
1 year ago
MSMCreations says:
How does one get rid of all the items that have been posted by many sellers? They interfere with the team meeting I am supposed to be in shortly. The listing pics crowd the screen.
1 year ago
FeliKiwi says:
What do the different chat room names represent?
1 year ago
PathwaysThroughTime says:
I've seen this question so many times but don't know where to go to get the answer>>> if I can't make it to the newbie chat during day time work hours, is it recorded for viewing later or reading? as a newbie, I need the help but don't know where to go for answers..didn't even see a "thread link" on this page. Lindy
1 year ago
PathwaysThroughTime says:
btw, looooove the mentor idea!!!
1 year ago
cjlucas1 says:
Hello: Need help. I am a newbie. Where can I promote my items on Etsy??? Please Reply.
1 year ago
ThePeachMartini says:
It'd be nice to have some follow-up to answer all the questions that have previously been asked...I can't believe it's been 3+ years with the same questions being asked and NO one has even responded or taken the time to say they were looking into it... ...hhheeeeelllloooooo out there!!!
1 year ago
CreatebyGrace says:
I am a newbie. 2months.
1 year ago
CreatebyGrace says:
I am a newbie. 2months.
1 year ago
CreatebyGrace says:
I am interested in boosting my sales. I have had 10 sales and that was from a sneak attack, which was a lot of fun while it lasted. sales then stopped. For the last 2 days i have added to my circle. what great fun that was to see it grow and grow. Finally they cut me off and would not let me choose any one else for my circle. It was amazing the attention it brought to all of us. seeing so much talent was amazing.
1 year ago
CreatebyGrace says:
Is anyone out there?
1 year ago
ishigallery says:
Wow, this is wonderful. I am enjoying Newbie Chat, even though I have been on Etsy a long time. I have spent so much time creating, photographing, and listing that I haven't been taking advantage of all of the help, that Etsy has to offer. I am trying to catch up. Thanks to Etsy for all of the great ideas and help.
1 year ago
spinnersstudio says:
I would like to request a shop critique that is not on a Thursday night. That is the only night I am unavailable :(
1 year ago
sripachara says:
I am certainly will look in how to have my shop critique and newbie chat.Thank you for all the help Etsy provided.I hope one day my shop will be success.
1 year ago
darrylblack says:
Help!Im in a chatroom for the first time and I cant work out how to chat???there is no option in the chat bar.....
1 year ago
MASHUGANA says:
this is neat... I am going to stop by!
351 days ago