How to Set Up an Etsy Shop for Resin or Fluid Art (Without Getting Overwhelmed)
So you’ve decided you’re ready to part with a few pieces and see if your art can find a new home. Great! Etsy is one of the easiest ways to dip a toe into selling online—no need to build a full website or master SEO, just yet. But it helps to know what to expect and how to make the most of the tools they offer.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to launch your shop—from naming and photos to pricing and shipping—without getting stuck in perfection mode.
1. Choose a Shop Name That Feels Like You
You don’t need a big brand identity to get started, but you do need a name. Make it short, easy to remember, and reflective of your art style. Don’t overthink it—just pick something that feels right and that you won’t mind saying out loud.
Helpful tips:
- Check if the name is available on Instagram, Gmail, or TikTok if you plan to promote
- Avoid anything too long or hard to spell (like LoliVefe! 😬)
- Don’t feel pressured to include words like “resin” or “art” unless they make sense
2. Take Great Photos—They Matter More Than You Think
You don’t need a DSLR or professional setup. Natural light, a clean backdrop, and a few angled shots will do wonders. The key is to show texture, shine, and use.
Include:
- A flat shot with a clean background
- A close-up to show detail or shimmer
- A lifestyle shot (on a desk, next to a mug, as a necklace, etc.)
- Video is hugely important - show the product in use if you can
Pro Tip: Your LoliVefe mat makes a perfect clean surface for photos and helps frame your work without distraction. Just sayin'...
3. Write Descriptions Like a Human, Not a Robot
You’re not selling widgets—you’re selling handmade art. But your buyers still need clarity. Don’t go overboard with poetic language. Just explain what it is, how it’s made, and why it’s better than anything else out there.
Include:
- Dimensions
- Materials used (resin, alcohol inks, etc.)
- Care instructions (especially for functional pieces like coasters)
- What makes it unique
Example: “Hand-poured resin art coaster with swirling ocean tones and a gold metallic edge. 4” round. Each piece is one of a kind. Heat-safe and backed with cork.”
4. Keep Pricing Simple (and Don’t Undervalue Your Time)
Start with a basic formula:
Materials + Time + Overhead + Profit = Price
And then gut-check it by browsing similar listings on Etsy. You want to be in the ballpark, but don’t race to the bottom. Buyers can spot quality, and if your work is solid, your price should reflect that.
Common costs to include:
- Resin, pigments, molds, top coat, tape, stir sticks
- Packaging materials (boxes, bubble wrap, thank-you card)
- Etsy fees (transaction, listing, and processing fees)
- Your time (design, pour, finish, shipping)
5. Shipping: Don’t Overcomplicate It
Start with U.S.-only shipping if you’re new—it’s simpler. Use Etsy’s built-in label system and flat-rate boxes when possible. You’ll save time and money.
Basic shipping checklist:
- Small boxes that fit your products well (6x6x2 works for coasters)
- Bubble wrap or foam sheets to protect your pieces
- Resealable plastic bag for moisture protection
- A thank-you insert with your shop handle or care instructions
6. Use Tags and Keywords Like a Buyer Would
You get 13 tags per product—use all of them. Think about what your buyer might type into the search bar.
Examples:
- “resin ocean coasters”
- “fluid art wall decor”
- “alcohol ink keychain”
- “handmade gift for mom”
- “boho resin tray”
Repeat these phrases naturally in your title and first lines of the description. Etsy’s search engine rewards relevance.
7. Go Live—Then Tweak Later
You will not get everything perfect the first time. That’s okay. Etsy shops evolve. Start with 3 to 5 listings and just get them out there. You’ll learn what works by doing.
Don’t wait to have:
- A full line of products
- A social media strategy
- A perfectly staged studio
Just start. You can always add, update, and optimize.
Coming Up Next:
How to Market Your Etsy Shop (Social Media for Artists Who Hate Selling)
We’ll walk through how to promote your shop using Instagram, Reels, Pinterest, and even short-form videos—without feeling like you need to dance on camera or post every day.
Create. Get Messy. Love Life.