As we quickly approach shipping cut-offs to deliver gifts in time for the holidays, some last minute shoppers may appreciate the convenience of a gift certificate from your Etsy shop. We have some guidelines and tips for sellers who wish to offer gift certificates.
How to Set Up Your Listing
Be sure to include pertinent information in your item listing, even if it seems obvious to you:
- When you list your gift certificate, make sure to follow Etsy’s rules for item listings.
- Be sure to use the words “Gift Certificate” in your item listing’s title and as a tag.
- Your listing must be for a set price; this should be the full value of the gift certificate.
- Be clear in your description that this gift certificate is only redeemable in your Etsy shop.
- Let your buyers know how you will handle an order redemption that has a balance. For instance, will you send the gift certificate redeemer a revised PayPal invoice?
- Your listing must be an actual, tangible item for purchase. This could be a traditional, formal paper certificate, notecard, MOO card or something the recipient might want to hang on to a little longer, like a sticker, coaster, patch or badge. A digital file, like a .pdf, is also acceptable.
- Let your buyers know how long it will take you to ship the gift certificate (or email the digital file).
- Please change your Etsy settings to allow “other” as a checkout option if it is not already enabled. This will allow the gift recipient to redeem the gift certificate in your shop.
What to Include With Your Gift Certificate
-
The name of your shop and your shop’s unique web address on Etsy (for example, username.etsy.com).
- The words “gift certificate” and the value of the gift certificate.
- A unique secret code, which the redeemer of the gift certificate will be instructed to type into the Message to Seller section when checking out.
- Clear instructions on how to redeem the gift certificate. For example: “Go to my Etsy shop and select the items you would like to buy with this fine gift certificate. Click the green Checkout button. Choose the ‘Other’ payment option. In the Message to Seller section, please type in the code. I will send you a convo to confirm your order. Thanks!”
- Be organized and keep track of the code of every gift certificate that is purchased and redeemed in your shop. When the gift certificate is redeemed, you may need to send a revised PayPal invoice to the buyer if there is a remaining balance that needs to be paid on the sale.
Here are a few creative ways Etsy sellers are offering gift certificates this year. Please let us know if you are doing anything unusual with your gift certificates in the comments below!
Gift Certificate with Felted Fortune Cookie | Gift Certificate for Cards
Gift Certificate with Stuffed Ornament | Gift Certificate in Moss and Flower filled Box
Handmade Gift Certificate | Gift Certificate with Dried Flowers and Ribbon
Custom Designed Gift Certificate | Design Your Own Cloche Gift Certificate
The Fine Print
You must research and abide by any applicable local laws governing gift certificates.* This is clearly stated in the DOs & DON’Ts of Etsy, as detailed below:
- Gift certificates are governed by local laws; it is the seller’s responsibility to determine if they are in compliance. If you list a gift certificate on Etsy, you are responsible for this compliance.
- You must include this sentence in the item listing: “This gift certificate is valid only in my Etsy shop, and it is only redeemable here.”
If you are a seller in the U.S., you may be interested in The Consumer’s Union for a brief overview of gift certificate laws. (This website and this article are for informative purposes only, and should not be considered legal advice.) Please refer to the laws of your state and/or country for more accurate, detailed and up-to-date information. You may wish to consult an attorney for specific questions.
A final point of consideration for Etsy sellers who offer gift certificates is the associated Etsy fees. Two separate transactions occur with Etsy shop gift certificates: one when the gift certificate is purchased by the gift-giver, and one when the gift certificate is redeemed by the recipient. Applicable listing and transaction fees will be reflected on your Etsy bill for both of these transactions.
Find more how-to’s about selling in our Seller Handbook.
*Finer fine print from SarahSays, our lawyer: This information is for educational and informational purposes only. The content should not be construed as legal advice. The author and Etsy, Inc. disclaim all responsibility for any and all losses, damages, or causes of action that may arise or be connected with the use of these materials. Please consult a licensed attorney in your area with specific legal questions or concerns.
270 comments
Sign in to add your ownJusadreamin says:
THANKS I want to try gift certificates to my shop
1 year ago
goingplaces2 says:
This is great information. Thank you so much for answering all of my questions and more:)
1 year ago
pamwares says:
i have been thinking about adding gift certifcates so this is great info. still thinking! thank you etsy admin for your help!
1 year ago
AlignBoutique says:
Helpful article with sojme points I hadn't considered, thanks!
1 year ago
WeeBindery says:
Thank you so much for this information! You read my mind! :-D
1 year ago
TheNebulousKingdom says:
thanks for that great article. I've been wanting to offer gift certificates in my shop for quite some times (I shall better say "years"!) but every time I failed because I really didn't know how to do them/ what informations to put on. So again, thanks! :)
1 year ago
TwinkleStarCrafts says:
Great. Thank you for this feature!
1 year ago
breadandroses says:
I've been wondering about this. Thanks so much for the info and link to research applicable details!
1 year ago
Mclovebuddy says:
Thanks. :D It's always good to get fresh information. I have my gift certificates listed and will check to see if they should be updated.
1 year ago
TickledPinkKnits says:
Thank you for the post, GC's are a great option. However, I must say that it would be extremely helpful for Etsy to come up with a mechanism so that sellers did not need to incur duplicate listing & transaction fees on the sale & redemption of gift certificates.
1 year ago
StudioElenus says:
Great info, very useful! Thanks!
1 year ago
LittleWrenPottery says:
Great tips I'd never thought about offering a gift certificate in my shop before!
1 year ago
myvintagecrush says:
Thanks for sharing! I've been thinking about doing this, maybe when I'm a little less 'new' ;)
1 year ago
polkadotmagpie says:
I offer them in my shop...thanks for the reminder and will check mine.
1 year ago
3pearls says:
Thanks for the article. I've been trying to figure out how to do this and this is all very helpful info.
1 year ago
Barbiola says:
I am really impressed with the continual flow of great ideas and resources that you provide. I will definitely add some gift certificates to my shop. Thank you!
1 year ago
lithiascreations says:
WOW! I'm so excited. I'm going to do a little more research, and hopefully have some GC's available soon...thanks so much!
1 year ago
Asianexpressions says:
Thank you!
1 year ago
MerCurios says:
What a wonderful idea! My biggest & hottest seller are the custom/personalized banner rings. I was trying to think of a way that someone could give one as gift that can be personalized later. You just provided that way! That you!! xo, MJ
1 year ago
gilstrapdesigns says:
I'm thinking about starting to offer this and this is good information to find out all that I'll need to know about gift certificates.
1 year ago
TashinaFalene says:
Thank you for the tips! I've been considering gift certificates for awhile, and this gives me more confidence in placing some in my shop. :)
1 year ago
ohbabydotcom says:
Thanks-- Great information :)
1 year ago
woolgatherings says:
I love the idea of gift certificates, but I don't like the idea of paying duplicate Etsy fees. I'm hoping at some point there will be a way around it?
1 year ago
SimpleJoysPaperie says:
Thank you for all the info. I hope to offer gift certificates in my Simple Joys Paperie shop in 2011! :)
1 year ago
doveandflower says:
Now I know exactly how to list a gift certificate. All the little details that would have taken me so long to figure out right at my fingertips. Rocking info!
1 year ago
Prittyfy says:
Wonderful article. I will entartain this idea. Thanks.
1 year ago
youheartus says:
Thanks. I think I might try some adding some gift certificates this weekend.
1 year ago
JustColor says:
I have gift certificates listed but had forgotten about the other button and a few other refinements I have to make. Thanks for posting this. It is very useful.
1 year ago
bluebirdsandblossoms says:
What a wonderful idea! Thanks for the article. :)
1 year ago
reuzed says:
This is a great idea. I just started my shop and havent had much business yet, but I will keep this in mind for next year, and hopefully my business will be booming :)
1 year ago
tjscorner says:
I understand the importance of making sure buyers know that my gift certificate is only valid in my shop, not in other etsy shops, but what about my shops on other sites? Can't I make my gift certificates redeemable anywhere my products are sold?
1 year ago
TheVintageDesignShop says:
Great article! I've recently listed gift cards in my shop and it's great to see this resource for sellers compiling all the info about what to do in one place. Cheers! :)
1 year ago
funkyjunkyart says:
Thank you, great information!
1 year ago
rebeccasanchez says:
Great! Thank you!!
1 year ago
gingerurchin says:
Think I have everything covered with my Gift Certificates - I certainly went over my local and Etsy's advice for offering them with a fine tooth comb :)
1 year ago
Earleyimages says:
thank you for the information
1 year ago
SavoyFaire says:
Aslo, they're mandated now under the credit card restructure law last May to be good for 5 years. Good info thanks!
1 year ago
angelasglassstudio says:
Good article, but I'd still like to see Etsy create a better way to accept Gift Certificates. If Etsy can offer a coupon code system, then they have the capability to offer a gift certificate system along those same lines.
1 year ago
farragio says:
Very helpful article! My sister was just asking me the other day if I could offer gift certificates through my shop. This answers the question. Thanks!
1 year ago
Freyasstudio says:
Great tips, thanks! I'll be working on Gift Certificates soon :)
1 year ago
JAdamsDesigns says:
I've wondered about this as well, but like some others on here, I do worry about everything that you need to do in order to make this work. Just like a coupon code, I would much rather make it and then be able to forget about it instead of figuring out what they have left, or what they owe and then making new invoices for it all. Seems like a paper work hassle..
1 year ago
CarlasFunkyArt says:
Thanks for the article, I would love to offer gift certificates, I am new to ETSY, so I need all the help I can get! :)
1 year ago
BeJeweledNH says:
Thanks for the great info.! I've been thinking of adding Gift Certificates to my shop. I may just have to try it now. :)
1 year ago
smilingbluedog says:
Thanks for this article! I hadn't thought about gift certificates, but it sounds like I have some research to do before offering them though. But it could be well worth it!
1 year ago
eatlove says:
Great idea!! Love it.
1 year ago
StitchSenseDesigns says:
Wonderful! I'm definitely trying this.
1 year ago
trinityrocks says:
Great info, thank you.
1 year ago
Floreal says:
Great idea... I am on it..:)
1 year ago
etsyketsy123 says:
I recently posted gift certificates in my store. I saw that this is mainly repeat information, but a great refresher non-the-less. Thank you!
1 year ago
weezieduzzit says:
Allowing coupon codes for set dollar amounts would be much easier. It would also be in line with other ecommerce sites, giving customers a greater sense of confidence than this work around method. I hope Etsy plans on expanding coupon codes in the future.
1 year ago
Parachute425 says:
Great certificate designs. Love that fortune cookie!
1 year ago
mylittlelegacies says:
This is helpful! Thought about doing gift certificates but I hadn't ever thought about getting charged the fees twice...once when the gift certificate is purchased....and again when it is redeemed....Did I read that correctly?
1 year ago
fubabee says:
Definitely something extra worth considering to add to your shop. Not only does it get your customers to browse your shop more, you'll get the gift certificate recipient to visit your shop also! It's a win-win!
1 year ago
absynthejewelry says:
thanks this is great info!!!
1 year ago
bstrung says:
This is something that I have wanted to do, but will have to fiqure this out after the Holidays. It needs to be thought out ahead of time and not rushed. Thanks for all the info.
1 year ago
hankietankie says:
thanks for the info, have been meaning to do this forever!!! xoxo
1 year ago
loopinloop says:
Thank you for the info and your care!!
1 year ago
binkaminka says:
Thank You so much for this info! I was thinking about making gift certificates, but never knew how.. Very useful!
1 year ago
artlandish says:
I'm with 'bstrung' - thank you for this info! I saw someone offering a gift certificate and told myself I need to go figure out how to do this. Typical, fabulous Etsy - voila` - here it is, step by step. Etsy Admin SO rocks! thank you!
1 year ago
FTRC says:
thank you! I had mostly everything right but there were a couple things that were essential to my listing that I just changed! Thanks again :)
1 year ago
foxpots says:
thanks for the reminder - I hadn't thought about enabling "other" as a payment option.
1 year ago
Ayun says:
Ooh, this would be a good way to set up subscriptions to my zine. Excellent info. And I'm digging on the fortune cookie.
1 year ago
megscreations says:
Perfect timing, very helpful. Thanks
1 year ago
rarebeasts says:
Great idea, thanks for the info.
1 year ago
treasurebooth says:
Thanks for the info. Wishing we could use a unique coupon code for each gift certificate. If the option was there to subtract a specific amount (instead of a percentage), this would work great :)
1 year ago
accentonvintage says:
Helpful info. Thanks!
1 year ago
imadeyouabeard says:
heck yes! i just started offering gift certificates in my shop, thanks for the tips!
1 year ago
BizzieLizzie says:
I've been offering them since I've been on Etsy - has worked great so far! Nice to see an article up about them!
1 year ago
TanjaDesign says:
I've just made my first Gift Certificate yesterday :)
1 year ago
CookbookAddict says:
Too funny, I was just thinking about ths topic:)
1 year ago
lamarquisedesanges says:
wonderful artcile !! merci so very much for picking my gift certificate and for all the wonderful informations. MERCIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII xoxo sabine
1 year ago
TownCountryJewelry says:
Excellent timing! I've been working on mine today and had all these questions. Thanks Danielle!
1 year ago
cazhoffy says:
Great info, i think i may think more about doing gift certificates next year!!
1 year ago
lamixx says:
Great idea love the article
1 year ago
HighPriestess says:
Thanks for all the useful tips. I didn't know where to start when it came to gift certificates but now I'm armed with information. And if they're as popular as the gift cards in stores or Amex, look out. Always enjoy reading your posts.
1 year ago
AlphabetCityStudio says:
Thanks for the tips! I hadn't really thought of adding gift certificates to my shop, but am now considering the idea.
1 year ago
GracefullyGirly says:
This is so super helpful! Thanks. There were some things I hadn't thought of that I will add.
1 year ago
sofisticata says:
Love all the examples :) Thank you for all the tips, that gift certificate is a great idea!!
1 year ago
rocknwrap says:
This is very timely as I just added gift certificates last night! I'll double-check that I have all my info correct.
1 year ago
Girlontherocks says:
This is useful. I still prefer to offer gift certificates through paypal since they take care of all of the details that way. It also prevents paying the etsy fees twice.
1 year ago
ErikaPrice says:
I have gift certificates too.... :)
1 year ago
StacyBayless says:
Etsy, when are you going to fix the problems with double transaction and listing fees? It's hard enough for sellers to remain competitive, keep prices low for customers, and still earn a fair wage at the end of the day. I don't offer gift certificates in my Etsy shop because of this very issue. I just don't think it's fair. So anyone who wants to buy a gift certificate from me can't, meaning Etsy just loses the fees from that sale anyway. I know I can't be the only one who feels this way. Please Etsy, please! Otherwise, thanks for the tips and keep up the improvements we've seen lately!
1 year ago
cornflowerbleu says:
Love the ideas, thanks.
1 year ago
IcingOnTheCupcake says:
Good idea and info, thanks!
1 year ago
toriska says:
Thanks for the detailed info. I wish that link had information about the state of Pennsylvania, though. The double transaction and fees bothers me enough, though, that I don't plan on offering gift cards.
1 year ago
petalandpink says:
This is really helpful and gives me some good information to think over. Thanks!
1 year ago
JustaBrenda says:
I dislike Etsy's 'double dipping' of fees so I only offer Paypal Gift Certificates through my blog or Facebook. I would like to see Etsy incorporate this type of transaction somewhere in our profile perhaps? I have mine set up specifically for each of my Etsy stores so I believe that this is not against any TOU.
1 year ago
skysetter says:
Gift Certificates? GIFT CERTIFICATES!!!! I'm on it! What an awesome idea! Thanks!
1 year ago
fibrous says:
Great info! Hopefully I'll have one in my shop soon!
1 year ago
manekineko31 says:
Sounds like a good option.
1 year ago
AcornAlleyDesigns says:
Thanks for the info! I recently added gift certificates to my Etsy store. I can even email them on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day for last minute shoppers. Echoing earlier comments, I would love to see a dollars off option for coupon codes. That would make redeeming a gift certificate so much easier, and get rid of the double dip on Etsy transaction fees.
1 year ago
manekineko31 says:
Great,thank you.
1 year ago
HandiworksbyJanice says:
I do offer them in my shop and they follow all the guidelines...now, if someone will just purchase one! lol!
1 year ago
pinkbijou says:
Good information, it´s a good idea! Thanks
1 year ago
HarrietsHaven says:
Thanks Etsy! You've got my wheels turning!
1 year ago
photographyangel says:
Thanks sooo much for this feature, great advice, I plan on doing these very soon!
1 year ago
topflightfashions says:
I plan on doing this tonight thank you
1 year ago
WhimsicalsCards says:
Thank you! I am going to start offering gift certificates.
1 year ago
CrofootDesigns says:
Totally Cool! I was wondering how you do this?
1 year ago
BlueForestJewellery says:
Great info and timely too, as tomorrow is the last guaranteed shipping day for delivery to the US from the UK. After that, I'll be offering gift certificates so my US customers can shop right up to Christmas Day! Thanks :-)
1 year ago
METALZOOO says:
yeah!
1 year ago
northwoodstoys says:
A couple comments: Now that we have coupon codes enabled, couldn't we create a custom coupon code for the gift recipient rather than going through the rigamarole of revising the paypal invoice? Also, I agree with the previous posters that it stinks that we'd have to pay fees twice.
1 year ago
AlikiBags says:
What a brilliant article, what a good idea! Feel cross with myself that I have missed the opportunity for this Christmas. Thank you for the idea and 'how to' guidance!
1 year ago
Edelind says:
Thank you! Here is one of my current Gift Certificate listings: http://www.etsy.com/listing/59765603/gift-card-customized-burp-cloth-set
1 year ago
nancynelsonjewelry says:
Thanks! Something I need to add.
1 year ago
polkadotsandblooms says:
This is a great idea, thanks for all the tips. I think this works also well for those of us that live further away from customers, e.g. last shipping days before xmas.
1 year ago
BobiCreations says:
nice, love the idea of gift moo cards and the fortune cookie idea is soooooo cute.
1 year ago
baysidewiredesigns says:
What a great article. I was thinking about adding gift certificates and didn't exactly know where to begin and how to go about it. Thanks so much for this very practical information. :)
1 year ago
happygolicky says:
Great ideas for gift certificates. It answered all my questions.
1 year ago
spiritcleanslate says:
I like this idea, since my items are on a more personal level, it is nice so that the recipient can choose and obtain what they like. I think it could also be a good idea for a custom blend. i definetely would put it in a gift box. I appreciate the ins and outs of these things.
1 year ago
OrangeBlossomCrafts says:
Very cool idea! Thanks Etsy!
1 year ago
imakecutestuff says:
Fantastic article! Thanks for the great info! (off to share this article with etsyRAIN! :)
1 year ago
theaterclouds says:
great article - thank you so much for the tips
1 year ago
TheFertileGarden says:
Great article, thanks so much!
1 year ago
TheFertileGarden says:
Great article and tips, thanks!!
1 year ago
DreamspiritCreations says:
Great idea for last minute shoppers. I may try them in my shop. Very informative article with good information. Thanks!
1 year ago
forkicksandgiggles says:
I had been wondering about how to do both coupons and gift certificates, and in the last few weeks you've answered both questions fully! Thanks so much!
1 year ago
Rosalinart says:
I did the coupon for black friday and cyber monday and I was wondering how to place a gift certificate, so this tip is totally helpful, Thank you so much !! :)
1 year ago
essiewb says:
Let me know when you fix the double billing problem. I won't have gift certificates until that issue is cleared.
1 year ago
samsstuff says:
Interesting info. I've been thinking about gift certificates, so this is very helpful, thank you!
1 year ago
FlowersandBeyond says:
GREAT INFO! I will definitely add some gift certificates to my shop. Thank you! ~Tutus by Gayle
1 year ago
bound2last says:
Good idea- especially for custom items in my store... lots to think about...!
1 year ago
GemsOfTheSoil says:
Excellent info here. Thanks for providing some great ideas~
1 year ago
graciespawprints says:
Thanks for sharing something to think about.
1 year ago
FreshRetroGallery says:
I have a $16 gift certificate at my shop with details in the description. Check it out or try it if you are interested!
1 year ago
edithandlulu says:
Are we still charged a fee on both the sale of the gift certificate AND when it's redeemed? Not going to offer gift certificates until it's no longer a work around.
1 year ago
che4u says:
Just did mine! :) Happy Holidays everyone! Shannon
1 year ago
BotanicalBead says:
Very cool, thanks a bunch!
1 year ago
RockRibbons says:
Thanks so much for posting about adding Gift Vouchers to your store! I've always wondered how to do this and now I know. Thanks for sharing your tips, much appreciated!
1 year ago
PPalette says:
Thank you!
1 year ago
charlesvintage says:
@stacybayless GREAT POINTS! I hadn't even thought about the double transaction fees... it would be wonderful if Etsy had a GC feature.
1 year ago
frenchtoastfriday says:
Thanks for the info!
1 year ago
GiRLStreetVintage says:
This is terrific information. I am offering gift certificates at GiRLStreetVintage and have quite a number of hits, but no buys. I will try your techniques. Thank-you.
1 year ago
divinalocura says:
this is pretty helpful... i think i will give it a try! thanks!!!
1 year ago
Minxshop says:
Glad you like my flower gift certificates! I think I might also include pictures of WHAT I am selling next year (ie clothes) Maybe a few pictures of my more popular deigns so people have something more to show as a gift...
1 year ago
creativenovelties200 says:
Thanks for the info. This was very helpful.
1 year ago
sewartsy says:
This is great! Thanks for putting it together!
1 year ago
SweetlyFallen says:
Thanks for the information. Very helpful!
1 year ago
BelladonnasJoy says:
I'm going to add one gift certificate soon and see how that goes. If only etsy made a gift certifcate that all the sellers could use, especially if they didn't want to pay for, or could not afford graphic artists. I'm grateful for all the people on here talking about etsy double dipping on fees with gift certficates. Maybe now they'll take action. Certainly there have been significant improvements to the site, that should be an easy fix for programmers??
1 year ago
terumahartistry says:
I can't remember, but doesn't the new coupon code feature allow you to do dollar amount coupons? May be an easy way to come up with and keep track of gift certificate codes.
1 year ago
ItziandBitzi says:
thanks for the refresher on "how to"...still considering the option of using, but am hesitant due to the follow up involved I would also love to have the coupon code application expand to include a gift cert option - love to see all the updates taking place here and this one would be wonderful!
1 year ago
earthgarden says:
Thanks for the info, very helpful!
1 year ago
RollingHillsVintage says:
I added gift certificates to my store. This article was extremely helpful. Thanks!!
1 year ago
topflightfashions says:
OK I put up a gift certificate it took me a few hours, I have a plan for 4 different ones, but now I'm confused will I keep one up and people keep reusing that listing? cause I started to copy it and I don't know how to say more than one in stock, so I stopped listing until I find out more help?
1 year ago
GalleonsGold says:
Great article! I didn't know gift certificates were possible. Jenny www.galleonsgold.blogspot.com www.facebook.com/galleonsgold
1 year ago
topflightfashions says:
I am putting gift certificates in my reusable fabirc gift card holders of different sizes, but I had to stop until I am more clear on this, I'm not sure if I post 75 or the posting gets reused? I'm new here
1 year ago
linsjewelbox says:
great! about time i try this out! thx
1 year ago
Andra123 says:
What a great idea! Thank you for the suggestion.
1 year ago
Krishenka says:
Thanks for this had to go and make a few tweaks to mine but think it's sorted now. Will be interesting to see if it works.
1 year ago
julenas1oak says:
Thank you for a great idea!
1 year ago
kittyd says:
Cool! Wish I had thought of this when ordering moo cards. :) I would love to offer gift certificates in my shop. :)
1 year ago
SiaJahta says:
Thanks for the tips and ideas! I got inspired today and created little certificates, if all goes well I'll be posting a free suprise gift with certificates tomorrow.
1 year ago
BeljaysFeltnArt says:
Brilliant
1 year ago
autumnraincreations says:
Awesome, Thank you!!
1 year ago
TataniaRosa says:
Thank you very much for this article :)
1 year ago
mattyhandmadecrafts says:
That sounds great! Many thanks :)
1 year ago
sallydove says:
Very informative thanks. I have only just started selling so I may tackle vouchers in the new year when I'm a bit more sorted. It could be fun to do special occasion ones...(creative brain ticking..) Cheers!
1 year ago
sallydove says:
Great idea thanks, maybe I can do some special occasion ones in the new year..
1 year ago
sallydove says:
Oh woops! Sorry for the multiple messsages I am new to this!!
1 year ago
FabricFascination says:
Great information. I am offering a gift certificate this holiday, so will come back to check on the details again.
1 year ago
BachsCrafts says:
What a great idea!
1 year ago
coalacawaii says:
What a great idea! Thanx!
1 year ago
teepetals says:
thanks so much! for this information
1 year ago
JamminJellyBeans says:
Thank you I have been thinking about adding a gift cert.
1 year ago
adustyframe says:
Thank you for the information!
1 year ago
AlethaFaye says:
Good point TickledPink ... Personally I've never done a 'revised' paypal invoice and would be afraid that I would screw it up!
1 year ago
TeresaJanuary says:
Thanks! That is very useful!
1 year ago
TeresaJanuary says:
Thanks! Very helpful!
1 year ago
MoonlightAndFire says:
Wonderful info. Thanks for sharing the information!
1 year ago
ZenBeach says:
Thanks for the step-by-step advise! It's a great option to offer customers... I'll add one to my shop this weekend. Thanks!
1 year ago
silkoak says:
Thanks! This was very helpful. I haven't done gift certificates in my Etsy shop before. I'll do some today!
1 year ago
JacksonFabricArts says:
They are not a good option, given that you, the seller, have to pay an Etsy transaction fee and a PayPal fee at the time of the purchase of the gift certificate, and an Etsy transaction fee and a PayPal fee when the card recipient redeems the gift certificate. I wouldn't mind paying once, as for any sale, but paying twice is too much.
1 year ago
SoClaudia says:
Thank you! This was easy to do once I read your article. It's a great last minute option for holiday shoppers and allows many of us the ability to gain a stress free sale that probably wouldn't have happened otherwise.
1 year ago
KarinLorenc says:
I've thought about adding these for last minute shoppers but I'm not willing to add "other" to my payment options and open up my shop for non payers again. I am LOVING the lack of non paying buyers. That was such a huge issue and a hassle. I wish there was another way to use them.
1 year ago
meganleone says:
Thank you so much for the advice! I totally missed the other payments option.
1 year ago
seawillowherbs says:
Thank you so much!! I was wondering how to offer one!!
1 year ago
pimnpraew says:
Thank you. Very useful.
1 year ago
PattiTrostle says:
Thank you for the advice!!
1 year ago
RozPetalzStudio says:
Just set mine up with a FREE sample of what my shop offers included. Thanks for the advice! http://www.RozPetalzStudio.etsy.com Kathy
1 year ago
ViviansKitchen says:
Would love to do this more, but don't understand the paying fee twice.
1 year ago
yellowfield7 says:
Thank you so much! Behida
1 year ago
2GoodClaymates says:
We were offering gift certificates in a special handcrafted tin box at our local Christmas craft fairs and just realized we should offer them in our Etsy shop as well. Thanks so much for the article.
1 year ago
dodelinedesign says:
Wow, I was so totally surprised when I clicked on this article just to read it, and then saw my gift certificate included! Ahh so cool!
1 year ago
WingsieThings says:
This is a sweet idea! Thanks!
1 year ago
TheMayFlower says:
Definitely going to try listing up gift certificates. I'm trying to think of a cute way to delivery it to the customer though.....
1 year ago
pollyannedesigns says:
Thanks for the info! I have been wondering how to do this, and am excited to start offering gift certificates in my shop! I am thinking of a small hand dyed silk rose with the card curled into it... :) Time to get to work on it!
1 year ago
lilbabybumble says:
Thank you for this article!
1 year ago
elettrarossa says:
...thank you, I set up my gift certificates immediately. I offer also free shipping, since it seems to me much fair ...After all, you're purchasing a gift for someone! Wouldn't be horrible to make your recipient pay any fee? Very useful article!!!
1 year ago
bluewhitejewelrywear says:
This has been on my "to do list" - I am getting motivated..
1 year ago
jaipuronline says:
vary interesting......
1 year ago
valentinefiberarts says:
Yet another great way to provide outstanding customer service to your customers. Gift Certificates can help with the decision process. Timely and valuable information. Thank You.
1 year ago
artworksbycarol says:
I"m just wondering,how many gift certificates have been sold,has it been successful for you all?
1 year ago
emmjeyessvintage says:
Just found this post. Thanks for sharing this very helpful info. Happy Holidays all!
1 year ago
AmongNewHorizons says:
Never thought about offering gift certificates before. Thanks for the information... now I can make an informed decision.
1 year ago
birdyloo says:
I really wanna try it after reading this! Thanks!
1 year ago
NoaSharonDesigns says:
Thank you for all the tips, it makes it much easier!! :)
1 year ago
GardenofFrancis says:
I will not be offering gift certificates that are charged double fees in the end. Before promoting the use of gift certificates, Etsy should develop a gift certificate module (short of changing the whole payment infrastructure) that ends up only charging Etsy fees on the amount of money being exchanged - thereby cutting back the double-dipping to ONLY the listing fee for each certificate and follow-up purchased item.
1 year ago
lisabees says:
It all looks good except.... Does this mean Etsy gets to charge their fee twice? Once for the Gift certificate and then again for the redemption of it? Just wondering!
1 year ago
theshagbag says:
Thank you! And ditto to the dollars off coupon option. I like to offer gift certificates, but I had to disable the "other" option in my shop because during the holiday craze everyone was accidentally choosing it.
1 year ago
theshagbag says:
Thanks! Ditto to the dollars off coupon option! I like to offer gift certificates but I had to disable the "other" option in my shop because during the holiday craze everyone kept accidentally choosing it.
1 year ago
babyjives says:
Great article and thanks so much for highlighting my gift certificate. I also agree that it would be great to be able to use the coupon code system to apply a dollar amount off making it much easier to use a gift certificate.
1 year ago
candlemoods says:
Thank you! Been wondering how to offer gift certificates.
1 year ago
GardenofFrancis says:
There is a way to offer gift certificates for use on Etsy without being double-charged (google it). I look forward to the day when Etsy offers the option built-in, without the double fees.
1 year ago
kjmarksjewelry says:
Thanks for this article, I have been wondering how others handle gift certificates.
1 year ago
GiacomoScandroglioPh says:
Thank you for the info!
1 year ago
nishkasniche says:
great info!
1 year ago
bertiescloset says:
thank you! hope to see etsy sitewide gift certificates implemented in the future too.
1 year ago
fullregailiajewelry says:
Thank you so much for the gift certificate info. I've been thinking of adding them to my store. Thanks again etsy admin for all the great info.
1 year ago
ilovetrash says:
hi there. i made a very fancy very funny gift certificate. i guess i know how to make lively virtual paper ephemera; then again & in this precise case, that is only half the first half of the battle. in the descrip i threw in everything but the water-filling receptacle located in the kitchen, made it as informatively & funny as i could--i guess that is the second half of the first half of the battle. the other whole half: how do you get people to see it? any suggestions would be appreciated. {as a vintage dealer, i didnt even quite understand its category.} kthxthxk
1 year ago
cosmiksouls says:
Fabulous article ... gift certificates are fabulous idea !!!!
1 year ago
naomicayne says:
Great info! I have been thinking about whether or not to add this to my shop.
1 year ago
somethingxtraspecial says:
I did have gift certificates in my shop but have just taken them out now!! I can now see too many problems with them. Something that hasn't been mentionned is about putting a valid time with them, are they valid for a month, a year, a lifetime? Are they transferable? Would you still get double Etsy fees if you put a code on them that used the 'sales' code that you set up for 100% of the price? ie certificate worth $20 has code xxx$20 blah and you set up code xxx$20blah to have 100% discount off the price? The balance goes to whom? the gift recipient or the buyer? How would the gift recipient deal with the paypal issue as they didn't buy and therefore you can't refund, or do you send money via paypal. What if the recipient doesn't like anything in your shop can they ask for a refund in cash? I can just now see too many problems, too many possible scams opening up by unscrupulous etsy users. ie, if you want to launder money, buy up loads of gift certs and then ask for refunds. Great article though and thanks for making me think it through totally.
1 year ago
urbnpop says:
This is a great help.. Thanks
1 year ago
DogCityBakery says:
Fantastic Suggestions! Thanks
1 year ago
G2HCrochet says:
Thanks for all the great information!
1 year ago
OnTheRoadVintage says:
I'm going to give this a go in the near future-thanks! Jan
1 year ago
PersimmonRoad says:
Thanks for the info!
1 year ago
OliviaClare says:
Checking certificates off my list today! Mahalo for the reminder :)
1 year ago
poofydesigns says:
thank you for the gr8 info!!! always helpful info here!!!
1 year ago
lauraprill says:
gee, wish I had seen this a month ago... but marking to use in 2011, thank you!
1 year ago
Coolbeans717 says:
Simply editing the Coupon codes to allow a dollar amount instead of a percentage would make this option viable, but double fees and work a rounds can get very frustrating to sellers and customers. The information is good but it is flawed a bit.
1 year ago
AlphaDogPhoto says:
My biggest concern is the comments about opening the checkout settings to "other." It sounded like some of the posts had problems with "non-payers" ordering stuff. That would be very frustrating. Please post if you've had problems with this. Even with double fees, it's possible it could work with my shop.
1 year ago
beautywatcher says:
thanks, I wondered about how to do this.
1 year ago
anhartetsy says:
I just listed my gift certificates. I am really excited to see this work. Thank you.
1 year ago
picturesofsilver says:
Great idea just in time for Christmas :) thanks Danielle! Janice
1 year ago
thumbelinapaint says:
WOW, this is so ALMOST awesome. I appreciate all of this info! HOWEVER... I think that changing the coupon to a dollar option would be perfect! Also,(just on an aside) being able to make the coupon for one section in your store would be great (like a sale section). I LOVE the coupon idea, it works really well but could be EVEN BETTER! Changing the payment option to OTHER sounds nightmarish. Won't do it. Also I don't think we should have to pay twice. That is just not right. Come on you etsy smarty pants'iz, I know you can make this better!
1 year ago
BlessedRepublic says:
Thanks! It seems a lot to do. But I wont know until I try it.
1 year ago
IdahoHempWorks says:
This is insightful! Great ideas... def put on my to-do list!
1 year ago
GemdropsoftheFalls says:
Gift certificates seem too tricky on here. Don't think we'll be doing any unless a lot of sellers feel it's not a big hassle.
1 year ago
HappyCampers12345 says:
I have thought about offering gift certificates. Thanks for sharing . . . .
1 year ago
ravenspaperjewelry says:
Mostly Good info, but the link to "sending a revised PayPal" invoice leads to a 404Page Not Found :( I just spent quite a long time creating a gift certificate listing, but after reading these comments I'm getting cold feet about it, and it's really coming home to me what the double-dipping by etsy will mean for me. Not right. This should be on top of etsy's list of things to improve in future.
1 year ago
mangosteenjewelry says:
Why wouldn't we just set up a coupon code for an amount off that equals the amount of the gift certificate instead of hassling with the invoiced for the balance, etc? What am I missing here?
1 year ago
dasweetzpot says:
Thanks for the great article... I have tried gift certificates, but had to no takers... I wonder if the items in my store are not something someone would offer gift certificates to!?!?! any help will be greatly appreciated.
1 year ago
knottyandnyce says:
Great article. Really makes the daunting task of setting up gift certificates a lot easier. Please fix the double billing issue though. It is a real deterrent to us sellers when we are just trying to keep our customers happy. Doesn't seem fair that we should get penalized. :S
1 year ago
petitehermine says:
This was really helpful. Thanks!
1 year ago
loscrignodililly says:
Really a great post! Thank you! I have just listed my gift certificates!!!!! ^^
1 year ago
stylesupplier says:
Thanks for your sharing, it is really helpful.
1 year ago
AddieRoseJewelry says:
Super helpful. Thanks!
1 year ago
BurtonLeatherCo says:
I was wondering the best way to go about creating these; thank you so much!
1 year ago
levyphotography says:
Great read, I definitely want to incorporate gift certificates in my shop in the near future. I just adds another element of customer service.
1 year ago
Sugarshoxcrafts says:
Awesome info! Nice and simple to understand, as well. I will be adding these to my shop starting today.
1 year ago
CelticArtisans says:
I agree, the double billing is like bilking us! Etsy should offer it as a coupon as suggested already!
1 year ago
spiritcleanslate says:
I had some gift certificates made up by sparkledustdesigns and posted listings. I am also giving them to family members for Christmas. Thanks for all the info. I would have never known how to do this.
1 year ago
MadebyLinLin says:
Thanks for the advice etsy <3 www.madebylinlin.etsy.com
1 year ago
bloomerie says:
The information is great and all, but offering gift certificates for sale in your Etsy shop is currently done through a rudimentary process of opening your shop up to non-payers (because you have to change your payment settings to allow "other") and then get charged twice on etsy fees (once you sell the gift certificate and then again when someone purchases items from your shop with the gift certificate). As smart as the people are behind building and keeping the Etsy site running, it's really a shame that a gift certificate module has not been developed and that Etsy does not reimburse the "double-dipped" fees. (Which should be reimbursed because it's the RIGHT THING TO DO.) Until a real gift certificate module is adopted, I will continue to offer gift certificates for sale on my blog (via Paypal). Otherwise, thanks for sharing important links on following the rules when selling them!
1 year ago
orglamix says:
I don't like the fact, I am double billed for two sales, when it should be the gift certificate only, not when the customer redeems it as well. Bummed! I'm deleting all my gift certificates now. I wish I had seen this prior t holidays :(
1 year ago
DestinyAccessory says:
will have to try this!! Thanks
1 year ago
PennyLuck says:
Great info. -To the people with the very good point of double fees, if the giftcard recipient was treated as a custom order, then a reserved listing with a price of say, a penny :), would eliminate double charges. The only cost would be an additional twenty cents to relist the item(s) they want specifically for them.
1 year ago
IzabelaHanka says:
Thank you so much for this info. I will definitely be adding gift certificates to my shop in the next few days!
1 year ago
charlotart says:
Thanks for the info!
1 year ago
christintina says:
Thank you so much for such detailed information!
1 year ago
AlphaDogPhoto says:
My gift certificates are bookmarks featuring my original photography with promo codes on the back: http://www.etsy.com/listing/74822751/bookmark-gift-certificate
361 days ago
JoyBelleJewelry says:
So we pay double fees if we offer gift certificates. Perhaps Etsy should create a better system for the gift certificates, similar to a coupon code.
361 days ago
MickeyandGrace says:
Awesome info...thanks so much!
357 days ago
InnerWild says:
I would love Etsy to offer an automatic Gift Certificate facility. I'm making up a Gift Voucher to donate as a charity raffle prize {so, importantly, it could be won by someone who isn't familiar with Etsy.com, so in turn it's also promoting Etsy} and would love to make this super-easy for them to redeem.
352 days ago
HanaMauiCreations says:
Thanks for the info!
300 days ago
AuntieDawn says:
Great!!! I have GC's in my shop and this helps immensely!!
292 days ago
freshfeathers11 says:
This is such a great idea! I sell feather hair extensions so I am going to start giving these to my friends for special occasions so they can purchase from my shop!
284 days ago
KalaArt says:
Thanks for the info and all of the posts.
224 days ago
AliceFlynn says:
I am also wondering why we can't just use coupon codes on the gift certificates to make it MUCH easier for the buyer and recipient to understand and use. Having to use "other" to pay instead of a coupon code, using two listing charges, putting a message in the order... all of that makes too many hoops for the buyers to jump through. Etsy, can you simplify this to just a coupon code on the Gift Certificate sent to the recipient? Thanks!
209 days ago
potterybynoelle says:
how do you list a gift certificate
194 days ago
myfunbeads says:
I am donating a few necklaces to the Washington Capitals players' wives and girlfriends for their charity baskets. I would also like to donate a couple Gift Certificates to this event to invite people who get the baskets to shop in my shop. The value of the certificates would be about half of the regular price of my jewelry so they would have to pay the difference. Is this allowed? Could it possibly work? I would not mind if Etsy takes their percentage from the whole price, just don't quite understand how could I do it. Does anyone knows?
193 days ago
DarDesignsCards says:
Yes! I would like to offer a gift certificate through coupon codes from my shop also. AliceFlynn has a good idea could we expand on this idea? Investigate it please as it does seem to make it less difficult for the buyer, seller, and redeemer. Sometimes simpler really is better.
192 days ago
meowadays says:
please create an easier way!
160 days ago
VintageHunts says:
I totally agree that we need an easier and simpler way to redeem gift certificates. I recently created 3 different ones but will hold off from listing them. The process is just a little bit too confusing for the redeemer and too time consuming for me. The idea to use the coupon code option to somehow accept gift certificates seems optimal.
158 days ago
conita01 says:
great info, thanks!
143 days ago
FolkOfTheWoodCrafts says:
THANK YOU for writting this article. VERY helpful, I am going to set up gift certificates for my shop now! :)
110 days ago
ModernBling says:
Great info - I read it when I first thought about doing gift certificates and have just read it again to tweak my info! Now, I just need to find someone to purchase my lovely new creations! Any advice on this is most welcome!! http://www.etsy.com/listing/83451055/gift-voucher-for-25-pounds-at
106 days ago
Erin Miller from LustrousElements says:
Just found this - so helpful! Thank you! :)
27 days ago
Indounik from Indounik says:
Hello, hello in there Etsy. I've carefully read this blog and the comments that follow it in the hunt for info about setting up a Gift Certificate. It and the comments are about a year old. Can we please have an update? Have the valid concerns raised here about double fees been addressed? And dollars off instead of percentage? I've created a listing for a gift certificate for Mother's Day but having read the comments here, I'm afraid it's going to end up in the too hard basket instead of being actually listed. Seems to me Gift Certificates are a great idea but i'm wondering if there's any plan to answer the calls here for a simple module for one. Many thanks if you can respond.
21 days ago