Etsy

SPECIAL PREVIEW!

October 20, 2009

This page is a special preview of our newly revised site policies. We're posting this sneak peek for the Etsy community to review and provide us with feedback. Please read this post from Etsy's blog, The Storque for more information: Policy Sneak Peek.

THESE POLICIES ARE NOT YET IN EFFECT; check the existing DOs & DON'Ts for the current policies.

Thank you!

The DOs and DON'Ts of Etsy

Membership | Conversations | Transactions | Feedback
Shops and listings | Flagging | Community

Etsy is the world's most vibrant handmade marketplace. Etsy celebrates individual creativity in design, craftsmanship and the feel of hand by connecting unique people, stories and items in a playful and meaningful way.

Please read this page with care, as it explains the dos and don'ts, the ins and outs, the ups and downs (and everything in between) of being a member of the Etsy community. These policies only apply to Etsy.com; alas, we do not control the universe, or even the rest of the Internet. If you still have questions after reading these policies, please check out our Help section or feel free to .

Membership

DOs and DON'Ts > Membership

More Help: Registration Help Guide | General FAQ | Selling FAQ | Buying FAQ

We expect all members of Etsy (including Etsy's staff) to treat each other with respect and kindness. Remember that behind every username is a real person with feelings. Your username on Etsy is your identity. You are responsible for your conduct and all content submitted under your username on Etsy.

• By joining Etsy, you agree to abide by the policies outlined here and in our Terms of Use.
• Usernames cannot be changed except in the event of documented legal action (such as trademark infringement) at Etsy's discretion. Choose your username carefully.
• You may not use the word "Etsy" in your username without permission.
• You must be at least 18 years of age to hold an account on Etsy.
• If you are under 18, you must have the permission and supervision of a parent or legal guardian who is at least 18 years of age; that adult is responsible for the account.
• If you are under the age of 18, you may not utilize the community features on Etsy (for example: Forums, Chat Rooms, Virtual Labs), unless otherwise specified. For the remaining features on Etsy, those under 18 must, at all times, have the permission and supervision of a parent or legal guardian who is at least 18 years of age.
• You may not use mature, profane or racist language or images in your username, avatar and/or Public Profile.
• You may not use the public areas of your account to demonstrate or discuss disputes with others or with Etsy.
• You may not transfer ownership or sell your Etsy account to another party.
• You may not post links/URLs to other venues or provide information sufficient to locate the other venues where you have the same items for sale that are listed in your Etsy shop. This may include your personal website if there are items for sale.
• An Etsy account may not be used for the purpose of redirecting traffic to another web location. This includes shops in Vacation Mode. Please contact Support to have your account closed if you are no longer using it.
• Keep your account information updated and accurate. Your account must have a valid email address at all times. Etsy will use the email address on file in your account information to contact you when necessary.
• Etsy encourages all members to resolve their own disputes. As a venue, Etsy cannot mediate disputes between members or other parties.

Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. This includes all of your accounts by virtue of association. In other words, Etsy reserves the right to suspend the use of the site for a person and all username(s) he/she operates under. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Multiple accounts held by one person

DOs and DON'Ts > Membership > Multiple accounts help by one person

Having more than one account ("multiple accounts" or "alternate accounts") is not something Etsy encourages, as it has the potential to cause confusion. Keep in mind that information and accounts cannot be merged in any way, so if you change your mind later, you will not be able to transfer information (for example: listings, feedback, Favorites or purchase history) from one account to another.

• All of your usernames must be clearly disclosed in the Public Profile for each account. A statement such as, "I am also on Etsy under these usernames..." would be acceptable. This includes all buying and selling accounts, as well as any collective accounts in which you are involved.
• You may not use an alternate account to purchase items from yourself. This is called "shilling."
• You may not list the same unique item in more than one shop on Etsy.

Etsy will not issue refunds for accidental activity stemming from multiple account ownership (for example: listing items in the wrong shop). Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. This includes all of your accounts by virtue of association. In other words, Etsy reserves the right to suspend the use of the site for a person and all username(s) he/she operates under. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Multiple people using a single account (collective shops)

DOs and DON'Ts > Membership > Multiple people using a single account (collective shops)

An account that involves more than one person is called a collective. There are three scenarios, outlined below, in which multiple people who know each other may use a single Etsy account.

Collaboration: Artisans combine their skills to make and list handmade products in an Etsy shop. For example:

• One artist screen prints fabric, then another artist sews clothing from the fabric. The finished product is listed in a collective Etsy shop.

Sharing a Shop: Multiple people who know each other use a single Etsy account to post their own separate items in one shared shop. For example:

• Two jewelers share a collective Etsy shop, but they create and list their own jewelry items in the shop.
• Friends, a painter and a furniture maker, share a collective Etsy shop to sell their work together.
• Vintage sellers share a shop to sell their vintage finds together.

Shop Management Help: Someone helps a friend or family member in the same household or shared physical space manage their Etsy account. For example:

• A person helps a friend or family member list or ship an item. The item is listed in their collective Etsy shop.
• With permission and supervision of a parent or legal guardian who is at least 18 years of age, a minor and an adult have an Etsy shop together. Per Etsy's Membership policies, the adult is responsible for the account.

If your shop is a collective, you must comply with all of Etsy's policies, including these additional policies specifically for collectives:

• A collective may not be an entity that represents multiple artists by contract (for example: a gallery, a consignment shop, an art agency/dealer).
• Because of the laws concerning charitable fundraising, a charitable collective shop must comply with Etsy's Charitable listings and shops policies.
• The Public Profile page for the account must fully disclose accurate information about each person, their role in the Etsy shop and the relationships between the members of the collective. Etsy may ask for additional information and require that the shop comply with additional requirements.
• The individual who registers the account is responsible for all activities of the account, the bill and any transactions. This includes participation in community features of the site.
• All standard listing policies (see Shops and Listings) apply to collective Etsy shops. All handmade items must be created by members of the collective.

Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use. If any of Etsy's policies are violated by a member of a collective, all accounts registered to members of the collective are subject to suspension of privileges and/or account termination. Etsy will not mediate disputes between individuals within a collective.

Conversations

DOs and DON'Ts > Conversations

More Help: General FAQ

Conversations (also called "Convos") are your way to communicate privately with other Etsy members. Think of it like email just for Etsy. Conversations are primarily intended for communicating about transactions. Members may also use Conversations to build friendly relationships with one another, seek advice or discuss Etsy Team activities. Please use common sense when giving out personal information to others via Conversations.

• You must not use Conversations to send unsolicited advertising or promotions, requests for donations or "spam."
• If someone hearts your shop/item to mark it as a Favorite, that is not an invitation to send a Conversation to that person.
• You must not use Conversations to knowingly harass or abuse another member.
• If someone explicitly tells you not to contact them, you must not use Conversations to contact them again, unless involved in an open transaction.
• You must not use Conversations to interfere with a transaction.
• You must not contact another member to buy or sell an item listed on Etsy outside of Etsy's marketplace. This may also constitute fee avoidance.
• You must not communicate with a member involved in an active or completed transaction to warn the member away from a particular buyer, seller or item.

Sending too many messages too quickly may auto-disable your Conversations. You must contact Support to have your ability to send Conversations reinstated. Misuse of Conversations may result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination of your Etsy account(s). Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Transactions

DOs and DON'Ts > Transactions

More Help: Buying an Item Help Guide | Buying FAQ | Selling FAQ

Etsy is a venue, not a retailer; Etsy's role is to connect the buyer and the seller. This means when you place an order on Etsy, you are entering into a direct transaction and personal relationship with an individual seller (facilitated by Etsy). We encourage the two parties to independently work through the transaction to completion.

A transaction is created when a buyer completes Etsy's checkout process. An Alchemy transaction is created when the buyer accepts a bid and the seller confirms the bid. The seller and buyer will receive email notification from Etsy with information about the transaction and an invoice record in Your Etsy. An Etsy transaction is completed when the buyer pays and the seller ships the item. Payment is submitted directly to the seller via a method specified in the item listing or seller's Shop Policies (for example: PayPal, personal check, etc).

Communication is the key to a smooth transaction. All buyer questions regarding transactions, including payment arrangements and cancellations, should be directed to the seller. Etsy recommends that members use Etsy Conversations and email to correspond. Etsy encourages all sellers to consider customer service best practices and keep records regarding proof of shipping (for example: delivery confirmation, shipping service receipt, customs form).

In certain circumstances, a seller may cancel an invalid or void transaction (see Transaction cancellation) or refuse service to a buyer (see Refusing service). A seller may post important information in their Shop Announcement, Shop Policies, Public Profile or listing description to better inform buyers. A seller's individual policies for shipping, returns/exchanges and refunds posted in the seller's Shop Policies must comply with Etsy's site-wide policies. Please note: other services involved in completing a transaction (for example: PayPal.com, shipping services) may have different policies regarding transactions.

Transaction policies for the seller:

• The seller must sell the item(s) to the buyer with whom the transaction is created, unless the transaction is eligible for cancellation (see Transaction cancellation).
• The seller must ship the item(s) as described (see Dissatisfaction with item or service).
• The seller must ship the item(s) within a reasonable amount of time, according to the transaction agreement or the terms in the seller's Shop Policies.
• The seller must ship the item(s) to the shipping address submitted by the buyer. The seller should communicate with the buyer if shipping information is unclear or inconsistent.
• In the event of a dispute, the seller may be asked to provide Etsy with proof of shipping. Etsy will not hold the seller responsible for postal or shipping service delays or errors, theft or customs delays.

Transaction policies for the buyer:

• The buyer must pay the seller directly. Do not send payment to Etsy.
• The buyer must pay at the time the transaction is created, according to transaction agreement or the terms in the seller's Shop Policies.
• The buyer must submit valid shipping, billing and payment information to the seller.
• In the event of a dispute concerning the return of the item(s) to a seller, the buyer may be asked to provide Etsy with proof of shipping back to the seller. Etsy will not hold the buyer responsible for postal or shipping service delays or errors, theft or customs delays when returning items to the seller.

Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Alchemy

DOs and DON'Ts > Transaction > Alchemy

More Help: How Alchemy Works Help Guide | General FAQ

Alchemy is a space on Etsy where a member can post a request for a custom handmade item and sellers submit bids to create the item. All Etsy transaction policies apply to Alchemy, plus a few special policies as noted below. You can also request custom items directly from a specific seller on Etsy.

• Alchemy is for requesting specific custom handmade items only. Do not use Alchemy to request commercial supplies, vintage items, services, item trades, free items (such as charitable donations) or non-specific requests for a general type of item.
• An Alchemy transaction is a sales agreement; you must follow through with all the steps of the Alchemy process and on the terms of the agreement just like any other Etsy transaction (see Transactions).
• Once a transaction has been initiated via Alchemy, you must complete the sale on Etsy. Moving the transaction off-Etsy is considered fee avoidance.
• Alchemy is not a classified ad space. Do not create requests for items or services unrelated to Etsy (for example: employment opportunities, room rentals, free puppies, personals).
• Don't use Alchemy to request pornography, knockoffs, illegal items or anything that would otherwise violate Etsy's policies.
• Don't use Alchemy to request that a seller produce a duplicate of another maker's work.
• Alchemy requests are subject to Etsy's Copyright and Intellectual Property Policy regarding any intellectual property disputes.
• You must obtain permission from Etsy prior to creating items that use Etsy's marks (for example: name, logo). Please refer to Etsy's Trademark Guidelines for more information.

If an Alchemy request is in violation of site policy, Etsy may ask you to modify the request or we may delete it entirely. Transaction disputes stemming from Alchemy (for example: canceled transactions, non-payment, non-delivery, feedback issues) will be handled as regular Etsy transactions. Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Transaction concerns or disputes

DOs and DON'Ts > Transaction > Transaction concerns or disputes

We hope that your shopping experience on Etsy is smooth and hassle-free. In the event of a transaction dispute, Etsy encourages the buyer and seller to resolve the situation through Etsy Conversations, email and by submitting fair, honest feedback (see Feedback). The policies below describe various types of transaction disputes and the roles of the seller, the buyer and Etsy in each scenario.

Non-payment

DOs and DON'Ts > Transaction > Transaction concerns or disputes > Non-payment

Non-payment occurs when a buyer does not or cannot complete payment after a transaction has been created. The seller may invoice the buyer in an attempt to collect payment before shipping. Etsy encourages sellers to offer buyers fair, honest feedback (see Feedback). Sellers are also encouraged to consider customer service best practices.

• The buyer must pay at the time the transaction is created, according to the transaction agreement or according to the terms in the seller's Shop Policies.
• The seller may cancel a transaction for non-payment when applicable (see Transaction cancellation).

Etsy relies on sellers to submit fair, honest feedback for buyers in non-payment circumstances. Members with a low overall feedback score may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Non-delivery

DOs and DON'Ts > Transaction > Transaction concerns or disputes > Non-delivery

Non-delivery occurs when a seller does not or cannot ship an item after a transaction has been created and the buyer has sent payment to the seller. The buyer may file a non-delivery report with Etsy against the seller. When a non-delivery report is filed, both the buyer and the seller receive a notice from Etsy about the report so they can work out the issue. Etsy encourages all sellers to keep records regarding proof of shipping (for example: delivery confirmation, shipping service receipt, customs form). Etsy relies on buyers to submit fair, honest feedback (see Feedback) for sellers in non-delivery circumstances. Please note: a buyer who paid a seller via PayPal may have a limited time frame in which to file a claim for refund of purchase under PayPal's policies.

• The seller must ship goods within a reasonable amount of time, according to transaction agreement or according to the terms in the seller's Shop Policies.
• The seller must respond to a non-delivery report by contacting Etsy. A non-delivery report cannot be closed until the seller contacts Etsy.
• The seller may be asked to provide Etsy with proof of shipping in the event of a dispute.

A seller who fails to ship an item, respond to a non-delivery report or settle a disputed transaction in a reasonable manner may be suspended. Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Refusing service

DOs and DON'Ts > Transaction > Transaction concerns or disputes > Refusing service

Etsy encourages sellers to engage in clear and consistent communication, consider customer service best practices and honor transaction agreements. However, if a seller cannot compete a transaction due to an extraordinary circumstance, then the seller may refuse service to the buyer.

• The seller must notify the buyer of refusal of service through email or Etsy Conversations.
• The seller can only refuse service prior to shipping.
• If the buyer has already paid, then the seller must refund the buyer (price paid for item plus shipping).
• The seller may cancel the transaction when applicable (see Transaction cancellation).
• Unless otherwise agreed or according to the seller's terms, a seller's refusal of service to a specific buyer is indefinite within that seller's Etsy shop.

Members who abuse the privilege to refuse service may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Dissatisfaction with item or service

DOs and DON'Ts > Transaction > Transaction concerns or disputes > Dissatisfaction with item or service

A buyer may not be completely satisfied with a purchase or transaction experience. Etsy recommends that the buyer communicate with the seller by Etsy Conversations or email to resolve the matter. Etsy encourages buyers to submit fair, honest feedback (see Feedback). Sellers are encouraged to consider customer service best practices.

• The seller must accurately describe the item in the listing (see Shops and Listings).
• The seller must comply with the transaction agreement or according to the terms in the seller's Shop Policies.

In the event the buyer receives a product that is significantly different from the original listing, the buyer may contact Etsy Support to report the item not as described. Etsy relies on buyers to submit fair, honest feedback for sellers in circumstances when the buyer is dissatisfied with an item or the seller's customer service. Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Interference

DOs and DON'Ts > Transaction > Transaction concerns or disputes > Interference

To ensure the integrity of Etsy's marketplace and help protect members from potentially fraudulent activity, transaction interference is not allowed on Etsy. The following circumstances are considered transaction interference:

• You may not contact another member to buy or sell an item listed on Etsy outside of Etsy's marketplace. This may also constitute fee avoidance.
• You may not communicate (for example: by Etsy Conversations, by email, in Etsy's community spaces) with a member involved in an active or completed transaction to warn the member away from a particular buyer, seller or item.

Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Transaction cancellation

DOs and DON'Ts > Transaction > Transaction cancellation

More Help: Transaction Report

Etsy charges fees to sellers for use of Etsy's services. Sellers agree to complete valid transactions and pay Etsy fees in full monthly. On occasion, a seller may need to cancel an invalid or void transaction. When applicable, Etsy will issue a refund to the seller for the applicable fees and remove the transaction from Etsy. Only the seller in a transaction may cancel the transaction. The buyer should contact the seller by Etsy Conversations or email to request cancellation of a transaction. The buyer may contact Support if the seller does not respond to a request to cancel a transaction.

• The seller may not cancel a transaction for the purpose of avoiding fees or feedback.
• The seller may cancel an invalid or void transaction, as defined by these circumstances:
• The buyer did not pay (see Non-payment) at the time the transaction was created, according to the transaction agreement or according to the terms in the seller's Shop Policies.
• Both the buyer and seller agree to cancel the transaction prior to shipment. If the buyer has already paid, the seller has refunded buyer (price paid for item plus shipping).
• The seller has refused service to the buyer (see Refusing service). If the buyer has already paid, the seller has refunded the buyer (price paid for item plus shipping).
• The buyer paid for the item(s). Although the seller shipped the item(s), the buyer did not receive the item(s). The seller has refunded the buyer (price paid for item at minimum).

Members who abuse the privilege to cancel transactions may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Feedback

DOs and DON'Ts > Feedback

More Help: Feedback Help Guide | General FAQ | Selling FAQ

Feedback is a way to establish a reputation of trust for buyers, sellers and the Etsy marketplace. For every transaction, the buyer and seller have the opportunity to submit a rating (positive, neutral or negative), an optional comment and an optional Customer Appreciation Photo. Both buyer and seller have the opportunity to submit feedback for up to 120 days after the date of the transaction or until the transaction is canceled by the seller (for void or invalid transactions). Consistency, fairness and honesty are critical to the integrity of the feedback system. Feedback directly affects a member's reputation, so we ask that members take it seriously.

• Positive-rated feedback (including the optional comment and Customer Appreciation Photo) cannot be edited or removed after submission except in the circumstances noted in Etsy's Feedback policies.
• Negative- or neutral-rated feedback may be changed to a positive rating when both parties agree using the Kiss and Make Up feature.
• Kiss and Make Up is not available for canceled transactions. Negative or neutral feedback for a canceled transaction may be removed if the author of the feedback contacts Etsy Support.
• After 120 days the option to leave feedback expires; this option cannot be reinstated.
• The option to leave feedback for a canceled transaction cannot be reinstated.
• Feedback ratings, comments or images removed by Etsy cannot be reinstated or resubmitted.

Members may ask Etsy to review feedback for removal. Contact Support to request a feedback review. Etsy does not investigate the validity of opinions or statements made in feedback or mediate feedback disputes. At Etsy's discretion and without notice to both parties involved, feedback may be removed or altered by Etsy in the following circumstances:

• The member who submitted a negative or neutral feedback rating requests removal when Kiss and Make Up feature is not available.
• Personally identifying or private information was published (for example: a phone number, real name, email address, physical address, content of a private Etsy Conversation, details regarding an Etsy investigation).
• Feedback contains mature, profane or racist language and/or images.
• Feedback contains spam, links, scripts or advertising.
• Shilling is evident (fraudulent inflation of feedback rating by use of an alternate account).
• Feedback is given for a transaction created for the sole purpose of leaving feedback.
• Negative or neutral feedback was mistakenly submitted for a different transaction.
• Negative or neutral feedback refers to an unrelated transaction.
• Positive feedback obtained using the Kiss and Make Up feature contains negative comments or images.
• Negative or neutral feedback comments about using Etsy or other services (for example: payment processors).
• A member is confused about how to use the Feedback system, resulting in unintended negative or neutral feedback.
• Etsy is provided with a valid court order requesting removal of feedback.

Members with low overall feedback scores or members who have violated the above policies for feedback may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Shops and listings

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings

More Help: Setting Up Your Shop Help Guide | Listing an Item Help Guide | Selling FAQ

Etsy provides a marketplace for crafters, artists and collectors to sell their handmade creations, vintage goods and crafting supplies. Most shops belong to individuals, but a small group can run an Etsy shop as a collective (see Membership).

We encourage all sellers to provide information about yourself and/or your craft in your Public Profile. Shoppers will likely be interested in this information, as they are often here specifically to buy handmade items directly from the creator. You should explain your shop's policies regarding shipping, payments, refunds and exchanges on the Shop Policies page. You may use this space to provide additional shop policy information.

Please keep the following things in mind as you set up your shop and create listings:

• An individual shop's policies must abide by Etsy's site-wide policies. Etsy reserves the right to request that a seller provide policy information or require a seller to modify unreasonable policies at Etsy's discretion.
• Do not make illegal use of photographs or written text. This is in violation of our Terms of Use.
• Use of mature, profane and/or racist language or images in the public areas of your Etsy shop is not permitted. This includes your username, Public Profile, item titles, tags, avatar, banner, Shop Announcement and/or shop sections.
• You may not set a minimum purchase amount requirement in your shop.
• You must pay your Etsy bill on time to avoid penalties, including but not limited to: suspension of listing privileges and/or account termination. Learn more about billing in the How Billing Works Help Guide.
• You may not engage in any activity to avoid Etsy's fees ("fee avoidance"). This includes but is not limited to: completing a transaction off-Etsy once it has been initiated on the site, listing an item below its intended purchase price or canceling a valid completed transaction.

Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Listings

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Listings

All listings on Etsy should be clear, accurate and detailed. Accurate titles, tags, photos and descriptions are critical to selling on Etsy. Check out the Listing an Item Help Guide for more information on how to list your items. Keep these policies in mind as you list and describe your items:

• Listing descriptions and photos must accurately describe the item for sale so buyers know what is included in the purchase.
• Each listing must be available for purchase.
• You may not create a listing for an item that is not for sale or sold out.
• A listing may not be created for the sole purpose of sharing photographs or other information with the community.
• A listing may not be created solely as an advertisement. This includes notices of sales or promotions in your shop. Such information may be included in your Public Profile, avatar, banner, Shop Announcement and/or item descriptions.
• Items must not be listed as available for rental or lease.
• Listing prices must be reasonable.
• You may price an item how you choose; however, a listing should not be created with an inaccurate price in order to keep it from selling.
• The shipping cost must be reasonable for the item.
• Each unique item must have its own listing. You may group items as a set into a single listing if the items are being sold and shipped together.
• You may not edit a listing's information to change it to an entirely different item; this is considered fee avoidance.
• All listings on Etsy must be for a tangible object. (Note: a digital file is considered a tangible object.)
• Your listing may not contain links/URLs or provide information sufficient to locate the other venues where you have the same items for sale that are listed in your Etsy shop.
• A listing must not be conditional upon the purchase of another listing in your shop (for example: saying "this item may only be purchased along with another item in my shop" is not allowed). This includes listings for item upgrades, shipping upgrades and gift wrapping upgrades.
• A free with purchase item may not be listed as a separate listing conditional upon the purchase of another item in your shop.
• The title and tags must not mention or describe the free with purchase item.
• Information about free with purchase items may only be included in the item description.
• A free with purchase item must not be featured in the first photograph of the listing.
• The listing price must only reflect the listed item.
• 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."
• Drop shipping is not permitted. All items must be shipped under the direct supervision of the seller.

In addition to the listing and tagging rules that apply to all listings on Etsy, please review the specific policies that apply to the three types of items that may be sold on Etsy: handmade by you, commercial crafting supplies and vintage items. Some items are prohibited, and some items (for example: mature content) require special attention to comply with Etsy's policies.

Listings that do not comply with Etsy's policies may be flagged for review (see Flagging). Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. If Etsy removes an item listing for violating Etsy policy, the seller is still obligated to pay the listing fee for that item. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Tagging

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Tagging

More Help: Listing an Item Help Guide | Selling FAQ | Guidelines & Tips: Tagging on Etsy

Accurate tags are very important, as many of Etsy's shopping features use tags to help shoppers find your listings. Check out the Listing an Item Help Guide for more information on how to add tags to your listings. Here are the basic policies for tagging:

• Only use accurate and relevant tags that describe the specific item for sale in your listing.
• You may use relevant synonyms as tags (for example: a purse may be tagged with "handbag"). You must not tag a listing with related, but inaccurate words (for example: mittens should not be tagged with "gloves," earrings should not be tagged with "necklace").
• If your items are one-of-a-kind or unique, you may tag your listing with "original," "OOAK," "one of a kind," or other synonyms. However, if your item is a reproduction or in an edition of multiples, you must not tag it with these terms.
• You may only use multiple words as a single tag if they comprise a single descriptive phrase (for example: "sterling silver" or "art doll"). Examples of unacceptable multiple words in a single tag: "silver earrings," "beach water sunset," "handbag purse clutch," "green red blue black."
• Tags should only state what the item is, not what the item may become or potential uses for the item (for example: yarn should not be tagged with "sweater," beads should not be tagged with "bracelet," small gift items should not be tagged with "stocking stuffer").
• Tags that describe the craft or process used to create an item should only refer to the processes that you personally used to create the item (for example: note cards should only be tagged "papermaking" if you made the paper by hand from pulp, a wooden shelf should only be tagged "woodworking" if you built the shelf).
• If your listing contains mature content, then you must comply with Etsy's mature content policies. This includes tagging and titling your listing with the word "mature."

Tagging handmade listings

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Tagging > Tagging handmade listings

These additional policies apply when tagging listings for handmade items:

• Choose the top-level category that best describes the handmade item in your listing.
• Listings for handmade items must not be tagged with "commercial." This tag is only for items not made by the seller.
• Upcycled, reconstructed or significantly altered vintage items are considered handmade. These items should be listed as handmade, not in the top-level Vintage category.

Tagging vintage listings

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Tagging > Tagging vintage listings

These additional policies apply when tagging listings for vintage items:

• Vintage items must be listed in the top-level Vintage category; this means the first tag is "Vintage."
• Tags that describe the decade or age of the item must be accurate to the best of the seller's knowledge.
• A commercial crafting supply that is 20+ years old may be listed in the top-level Vintage or Supplies categories.

Tagging supply listings

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Tagging > Tagging supplies listings

These additional policies apply when tagging listings for supply items:

• Commercial crafting supplies must be listed in the top-level Supplies category; this means the first tag is "Supplies."
• Commercial crafting supplies must be tagged with "commercial."
• Commercial crafting supplies must not be listed in the top-level handmade categories (for example: the Books and Zines category is only for handmade books; the Knitting category is only for handmade knitting-related items).
• Mass-produced commercial crafting supplies must not be tagged with "handmade."
• A commercial crafting supply that is 20+ years old may be listed in the top-level Vintage or Supplies categories.
• Handmade crafting supplies may be listed in the top-level Supplies category or other top-level categories (for example: a glass bead handmade by the seller could be listed in the top-level Supplies or Glass categories).
• Handmade crafting supplies should be tagged with "handmade."

Listings that do not comply with Etsy's policies may be flagged for review (see Flagging). Etsy may review listings and remove tags without notice. In addition to the listing and tagging rules that apply to all listings on Etsy, please review the specific policies that apply to the three types of items that may be sold on Etsy: handmade by you, commercial crafting supplies and vintage items. Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. If Etsy removes an item listing for violating Etsy policy, the seller is still obligated to pay the listing fee for that item. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Handmade by you

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Handmade by you

With the exception of Vintage and Supplies, categories on Etsy are for handmade items. Handmade items must be created by the seller (or a member of the collective) operating the Etsy shop. Below are general policies regarding handmade items on Etsy, as well as special considerations for certain types of listings or activities in the handmade categories.

• On Etsy, the term "handmade" can additionally be interpreted as "hand-assembled" or "hand-altered."
• Simply tailoring, restoring or repairing an item is not considered handmade.
• To be considered handmade, the seller must substantially alter the design of an item produced from a "ready to assemble" kit.
• Upcycled, reconstructed or significantly altered vintage items are considered handmade. These items should be listed as handmade, not in the Vintage category.
• Selling commercial or mass-produced items in Etsy's handmade categories is not permitted.
• You may not list handmade items that you (or a member of your collective) did not create. This is considered reselling and is not permitted.
• All items in the handmade categories must comply with Etsy's listing and tagging policies, including special policies for tagging handmade listings.

Listings that do not comply with Etsy's policies may be flagged for review (see Flagging). Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. If Etsy removes an item listing for violating Etsy policy, the seller is still obligated to pay the listing fee for that item. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Custom orders

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Handmade by you > Custom orders

Custom orders or customizable items may be listed on Etsy in the handmade categories if they adhere to the following policies for listing:

• "Custom order" listings must be listed for purchase with a set price.
• The seller may use photographs of previous work and options for customization (for example: color choices) in the listing.
• If the seller offers different sizes or styles that affect the price, the seller must make a separate listing for each item.
• The buyer must purchase the listing on Etsy to have an item created. Details about the customization can be discussed via Etsy Conversation or email.
• If the buyer supplies their own materials to the seller for a custom order, they do so at their own risk.
• The final custom item must comply with all of Etsy's policies for handmade items.

Listings that do not comply with Etsy's policies may be flagged for review (see Flagging). Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. If Etsy removes an item listing for violating Etsy policy, the seller is still obligated to pay the listing fee for that item. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Gift baskets

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Handmade by you > Gift baskets

Creatively re-packaging commercial items does not qualify them to be sold as handmade (for example: a gift basket consisting of non-handmade items).

• Gift sets and kits that are a collection of non-handmade ("commercial") items may not be sold in Etsy's handmade categories.
• To sell commercial items as a grouping, the items must be assembled as components to create a new product.

Listings that do not comply with Etsy's policies may be flagged for review (see Flagging). Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. If Etsy removes an item listing for violating Etsy policy, the seller is still obligated to pay the listing fee for that item. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Production assistance

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Handmade by you > Production assistance

Production assistance for certain intermediary tasks in some crafts may be acceptable. The following policies govern use of production assistance in the creation of handmade items:

• An assistant, under the direct supervision of the seller, may: assist with a portion of the creation process, list items in a shop, ship items, communicate with buyers, accounting or other record keeping.
• A third-party vendor may be used for intermediary tasks in some crafts. Acceptable examples include, but are not limited to: printing the seller's original artwork, metal casting from the seller's original mold, or kiln firing the seller's handcrafted ceramic work.
• A third-party vendor may not fulfill your orders to your Etsy customers on your behalf (no drop-shipping).
• An assistant or third-party vendor's involvement may not comprise a majority share of a handmade item's creation.

Listings that do not comply with Etsy's policies may be flagged for review (see Flagging). Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. If Etsy removes an item listing for violating Etsy policy, the seller is still obligated to pay the listing fee for that item. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Services

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Handmade by you > Services

In general, services are not allowed to be listed on Etsy. There are a few exceptions noted below that are allowed as they produce a new, tangible, physical item.

• Any service that does not yield a new, tangible, physical item is not allowed (for example: tailoring, restoring or repairing an item, photographic retouching or color correction).
• Custom graphic design and digital pattern distribution are allowed; a digital file (for example: .pdf, .jpg, .doc) is considered the tangible, physical item.
• An instructional crafting workshop is allowed as long as it provides the buyer with a tangible, physical item (for example: an instructional booklet, crafting supplies, a finished project that the student created in the workshop).

Listings that do not comply with Etsy's policies may be flagged for review (see Flagging). Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. If Etsy removes an item listing for violating Etsy policy, the seller is still obligated to pay the listing fee for that item. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Commercial crafting supplies

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Commercial crafting supplies

A commercial crafting supply is an item that is primarily used to make handmade items you might find for sale on Etsy (for example: yarn, beads, instructional books, patterns, tools). Both handmade and non-handmade ("commercial") crafting supplies may be listed under the Supplies category.

• Commercial crafting supplies are items not handmade by you. (Crafting supplies handmade by the seller are allowed to be sold on Etsy, but are not subject to the policies for commercial crafting supplies. Please see the policies for handmade items.)
• A commercial crafting supply is not a commercial item that, although it may be used in crafting, is ready to use as is (for example: mass-produced clothing, dollhouse furniture and clothing).
• Commercial tools, elements and accessories that are used in conjunction with handmade items, but are not used to create a new item may not be sold on Etsy as a commercial crafting supply (for example: make-up brushes, wax tart burners).
• Shipping supplies and packaging materials are allowed in the top-level Supplies category.
• All items in the Supplies category must comply with Etsy's listing and tagging policies, including special policies for tagging Supplies listings.

Listings that do not comply with Etsy's policies may be flagged for review (see Flagging). Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. If Etsy removes an item listing for violating Etsy policy, the seller is still obligated to pay the listing fee for that item. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Vintage goods

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Vintage goods

Vintage goods and vintage collectibles may also be sold on Etsy. The following information details the criteria and guidelines regarding listing these items:

• The Vintage category is for items that are at least 20 years old.
• Unaltered items or items which have been repaired or restored to their original condition are allowed to be listed in the Vintage category.
• Upcycled, reconstructed or significantly altered vintage items are considered handmade. These items should be listed as handmade, not in the Vintage category.
• All items in the Vintage category must comply with Etsy's listing and tagging policies, including special policies for tagging Vintage listings.

Listings that do not comply with Etsy's policies may be flagged for review (see Flagging). Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. If Etsy removes an item listing for violating Etsy policy, the seller is still obligated to pay the listing fee for that item. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Charitable listings and shops

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Charitable listings and shops

Etsy understands that members may wish to participate in fundraising for charitable organizations and causes. Charitable fundraising is subject to many laws, and unfortunately, there exist unsavory people who may attempt to take advantage of your good will. Therefore, for the protection of our community, Etsy has established some policies regarding charitable listings and shops. Members participate in charitable fundraising at their own risk.

• Members represent that any charitable fundraising complies with all applicable laws.
• A seller who engages in charitable fundraising on behalf of a recognized tax-deductible charitable organization (for example: 501(c)(3) status or equivalent with the IRS, similar legally-recognized non-U.S. charitable organization) must receive appropriate consent from the charitable organization.
• The seller must include clear information about the organization and donation details in the listing and/or Public Profile.
• Listings created solely to solicit for donations are not permitted. All listings on Etsy must be for a tangible item available for sale.
• Members must comply with all policies, including Etsy's Community and Conversations policies. Members must not send unsolicited donation requests.
• A charitable shop involving multiple people must comply with all applicable rules concerning collective shops.

Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. If Etsy removes an item listing for violating Etsy policy, the seller is still obligated to pay the listing fee for that item. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Mature content

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Mature Content

Etsy aims to maintain a marketplace appropriate for general audiences, therefore the use of mature content must comply with the following policies. Mature content is defined as: photographic or photorealistic frontal nudity, sexual activity or content, profane language or graphic violence. Mature content listings will remain in all Etsy searches by default; users can restrict results by using the exclusionary search term "NOT mature" ("opt-out" search status).

• Item listings containing mature content must be tagged with "mature" and include the word "mature" in the item title.
• Mature content and/or profane language or images are not allowed in your username, Public Profile, item titles, tags, avatar, banner, Shop Announcement and/or shop section titles.
• The first thumbnail image in your item listing should be kept appropriate for general audiences; additional images in the listing may show the item in its entirety. Mature content and/or profane language or images are only allowed in the second, third, fourth and fifth photos of an item listing and the description text of a listing.
• Pornography is prohibited on Etsy.

Listings that do not comply with Etsy's policies may be flagged for review (see Flagging). Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. If Etsy removes an item listing for violating Etsy policy, the seller is still obligated to pay the listing fee for that item. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Prohibited items

DOs and DON'Ts > Shops and listings > Prohibited items

Each Etsy seller warrants that his or her use of the site complies with all applicable laws. Beyond the legal issues, Etsy members are responsible for making important moral or ethical decisions regarding what they buy and sell on Etsy.

Some items are inappropriate for Etsy's marketplace, even though they may otherwise meet Etsy's selling criteria. You may not list the following types of items on Etsy:

• Alcohol
• Tobacco
• Drugs, drug-like substances, drug paraphernalia
• Live animals, illegal animal products
• Pornography
• Firearms and/or weapons
• Recalled items
• Real estate
• Motor vehicles (automobiles, motorcycles, boats, etc.)
• Items that promote or glorify hatred, racial, religious intolerance
• Items that instruct others to engage in illegal activity

Additionally, a seller may not list any item that violates the seller's local laws, including shipping restrictions, per our Terms of Use. Listings for prohibited items will be removed from the site, and the member's selling privileges may be suspended and/or terminated. If Etsy removes an item listing for violating Etsy policy, the seller is still obligated to pay the listing fee for that item. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Showcase

DOs and DON'Ts > Showcase

More Help: Showcase Help Guide | General FAQ

The Showcase is a self-service, paid advertising program for Etsy shops that may increase awareness of your items and shop, views and/or sales on Etsy. Sellers can purchase a spot to promote their items on the site.

• Showcase spots are not transferable between Etsy accounts.
• Showcase spots are non-refundable, except under very special circumstances at Etsy's discretion.
• You must follow the restrictions for the Showcase spot you've purchased (for example: category, tag, theme).

Item listings in Showcases that do not meet the particular restrictions for that Showcase may be reported to Etsy for review. If an item listing violates these Showcase policies or any other listing policy, Etsy reserves the right to remove your item from the Showcase or remove your spot on the Showcase without notice or refund.

Flagging

DOs and DON'Ts > Flagging

More Help: General FAQ

Flagging is akin to Etsy's neighborhood watch. It's your way to alert Etsy of potential problems. Use the "Report this item to Etsy" link on any item listing page. This is a confidential process. The member whose listing is reported will not know who flagged it. Additionally, Etsy's investigation will be handled privately; you will not receive a personal response to your flagging message.

• Flagging should be used to report any item listing, shop or Alchemy request that violates any of Etsy's policies.
• Do not flag a single violation multiple times.
• Do not flag for intellectual property matters. Instead, please follow Etsy's Copyright and Intellectual Property Policy.
• Since flagging is a private matter, members should not discuss flags in any of Etsy's community spaces.

In most cases, Etsy will work with a member privately to remedy the problem. If a seller does not respond to Etsy's communication or requests in a timely manner, the item may be removed, and the shop's selling privileges may be suspended and/or terminated. In some extreme cases, listings will be removed immediately. Abuse of the flagging system by means of raising repeated, unjustified flags may result in the suspension and/or termination of your account. If Etsy removes an item listing for violating Etsy policy, the seller is still obligated to pay the listing fee for that item. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

Community

DOs and DON'Ts > Community

More Help: General FAQ

The community is the heart of Etsy; all registered members are part of our community. Etsy has established multiple ways for members to interact with one another on the site, such as the Forums, Chat Rooms, Virtual Labs and Teams. Please remember that these are public spaces, so use common sense when sharing personal information. Etsy's role is to facilitate open discussion and support our community through constructive communication. Above all, treat one another with respect, and remember that there is a real person behind each username.

Forums, Chat Rooms and Virtual Labs

DOs and DON'Ts > Community > Forums, Chat Rooms and Virtual Labs

The Forums, Chat Rooms and Virtual Labs are the primary venues for community interaction on Etsy.

• Treat one another with respect. There is a real person behind each username.
• Knowingly harassing, insulting or abusing other members is unacceptable.
• Discussing a specific member, shop or item (either by name or with identifiable hints) in a negative way is not allowed. This is referred to as "calling out."
• Do not use the community spaces to facilitate or arrange any sort of auction or transaction.
• Specific transactions and/or feedback should not be discussed in public community spaces. Instead, contact Support privately if you need help with a transaction.
• You may not use an undisclosed alternate account (also called a "sock puppet") in the community spaces.
• Do not publicly post any kind of private information (for example: email, Conversations, letters, phone numbers, addresses, full names or business transactions).
• Solicitation for direct donations or other fund-raising is not allowed in the community spaces. (Etsy shop promotions that entail donating proceeds to charities must comply with Etsy's Charitable listings and shops policies.)
• Etsy does not allow spam in the community space; for this reason, unsolicited promotion or advertisement from representatives or affiliates of outside services, websites or other products is not allowed.
• To participate in the community spaces, a member must be over 18 years of age, unless otherwise specified (see Membership).

In addition to the policies for all community spaces on Etsy, these additional policies apply to the Forums:

• Keep your posts on-topic and in the appropriate section of the Forums. Forum threads in the wrong section will be moved without notice to the appropriate place.
• Take care in what information you post in the Forums; in general, the Forums serve as a permanent record. In certain circumstances, at Etsy's sole discretion, Etsy may remove content from the Forums.

Etsy reserves the right to close any Forum thread for any reason. Violating community policies may result in suspension of community or other privileges and/or account termination.

Teams

DOs and DON'Ts > Community > Teams

More Help: Teams | Selling FAQ

Etsy Teams are intended to facilitate relationships between members to network, promote their shops, meet people with similar interests or skills and accomplish the goals set forth by Teams. Etsy provides resources for Teams to develop creative ways to network and promote.

• Teams must abide by all of Etsy's policies, including our Terms of Use and Copyright and Intellectual Property Policy.
• Team members are responsible for their actions. Etsy is not responsible for membership policies or other actions of Teams.
• Etsy is not involved in Team finances and/or membership dues.
• Teams are responsible for their own actions, events, contests or promotions, both online and offline. Please use common sense when giving out personal information and meeting people online or offline.
• Etsy will not mediate disputes between Team members or between teams and outside parties.
• Etsy reserves the right to refuse links on any profile page or Etsy Teams page for any reason.
• Do not use the term "Etsy," other Etsy Trademarks or confusingly similar marks in a manner likely to cause confusion (see Trademark Guidelines).
• Etsy staff will not monitor third-party forums (for example: Yahoo or Google groups) or other independent Team sites (for example: blogs, Team websites).
• Teams who wish to open a shared account must comply with the policies for collective shops (see Membership).
• The individual that registers the account is responsible for all activities of the shared account.
• Members that choose to participate in shared shops do so at their own risk. Etsy will not mediate disputes.
• If a Team chooses to use a dedicated item listing tag, it must contain the word "team." Etsy will not mediate disputes regarding use of Team tags on item listings.

Members who do not comply with Etsy's policies may be subject to review, which can result in suspension of account privileges and/or termination. Suspended or terminated members remain obligated to pay Etsy for all unpaid fees per our Terms of Use.

The Storque

DOs and DON'Ts > Community > The Storque

More Help: The Storque | General FAQ

Etsy's blog, The Storque, publishes fresh content daily — sharing stories, videos, seller tips and shopping finds from the Etsy marketplace. Etsy staff, special guests and members of the Etsy community contribute posts on a variety of topics. We'd love to hear your story; you're welcome to pitch an article to us.

• Knowingly harassing, insulting or abusing other members is unacceptable in Storque comments. Constructive criticism is fine, but being mean is not.
• Etsy does not allow spam in Storque comments; for this reason, unsolicited promotion or advertisement from representatives or affiliates of outside services, websites or other products is not allowed.

The Storque is published, in part, under a Creative Commons license that allows you to repost articles. Give credit where credit is due, and always cite the author(s) of the article.

• Link back to the original Storque article; each page has a unique URL (web address).
• While Etsy has permission to use content that our members post on Etsy.com, our members may retain certain intellectual property rights for their work. Please respect the artist's rights if contacted about use of material.

Etsy reserves the right to remove Storque comments. Posting inappropriate comments may result in suspension of privileges and/or account termination.

The Treasury

DOs and DON'Ts > Community > The Treasury

More Help: The Treasury | General FAQ

The Treasury is an ever-changing, member-curated shopping gallery of handpicked items. Members can feature their favorite items, items selected on a theme or just whomever they like. Etsy may, at times, promote whole or partial selections from a Treasury list to other areas of the site (for example: the home page).

• Only one Treasury list per person at a time. Do not create lists with multiple accounts at the same time.
• Treasury is not intended for personal promotion. Do not include more than one of your own items in your Treasury list.

Etsy reserves the right to remove Treasury lists at any time. Abuse of the Treasury may result in suspension of privileges and/or account termination.

Etsy reserves the right to alter these policies at any time.