Selling handmade products online can be a rewarding way to turn your creativity into a thriving business. Amazon Handmade is a dedicated marketplace designed for artisans to showcase and sell their handcrafted, hand-altered, or hand-assembled goods to a global audience. Unlike Amazon’s traditional marketplace, Handmade maintains strict eligibility requirements, ensuring that only genuine handcrafted products are listed.

With more consumers shifting towards unique, artisan-crafted products, Amazon Handmade offers a valuable opportunity for skilled craftsmen. However, the platform differs significantly from other marketplaces like Etsy in terms of fees, approval processes, and fulfillment options. Understanding these nuances is essential for success.

What is Amazon Handmade?

Amazon Handmade is a curated platform exclusively for artisans who create handcrafted goods. It was launched in 2015 to compete with Etsy and provide a space for independent makers. The platform ensures authenticity by requiring sellers to apply and undergo a rigorous approval process.

Key Features of Amazon Handmade:

• Strict vetting process to maintain authenticity.
• No listing fees (unlike standard Amazon seller accounts).
• Limited product categories (currently 14 approved categories).
• Access to Amazon’s vast customer base and fulfillment services.

Key Requirements for Amazon Handmade Sellers

Amazon Handmade is only for sellers who create genuinely handmade items. This means that:

• Mass production is not allowed—products must be handmade, hand-altered, or hand-assembled.
• Hand tools and light machinery are permitted, but assembly-line production is strictly prohibited.
• Upcycled and repurposed materials can be used, as long as the final product is distinctly handcrafted.

Which Handmade Products Are Accepted on Amazon

Some of the most popular product categories on Amazon Handmade include:

• Jewelry (rings, bracelets, custom necklaces).
• Home décor (handmade candles, wood carvings, ceramics).
• Clothing & accessories (crochet scarves, embroidered shirts).
• Personalized gifts (monogrammed wallets, custom paintings).
• Handmade bath & beauty (organic soaps, skincare products).

Amazon Handmade vs. Etsy: Key Differences

While Etsy offers a wider variety of handmade products, Amazon Handmade provides access to a significantly larger audience and advanced fulfillment options like Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA). However, Handmade’s strict approval process and higher referral fees make it more suitable for serious artisans rather than casual sellers.

Why Choose Amazon Handmade Over Regular Amazon Selling?

Sellers who choose Amazon Handmade over traditional Amazon selling benefit from:

• No UPCs or barcodes required, making it easier to list custom items.
• No listing fees, unlike the standard Amazon seller account.
• Handmade products do not expire or require re-listing, ensuring longevity on the platform.

How to Get Started with Amazon Handmade

1. Application Process

Before selling on Amazon Handmade, artisans must apply and be approved. The process involves:

Step 1: Create a Professional Seller Account

• Sign up for an Amazon Professional Seller account.
• The $39.99 monthly subscription fee is waived for Handmade sellers.

Step 2: Submit an Amazon Handmade Application

• Provide details about yourself and your business.
• Explain your production process, materials, and techniques used.
• Submit high-quality images of your handmade work in progress.

Step 3: Wait for Amazon’s Review

• Approval can take up to 2 weeks.
• Amazon may ask for additional details before final approval.

Step 4: Set Up Your Artisan Profile & List Products

• Once approved, create a detailed artisan profile showcasing your story.
• List your handmade products with compelling descriptions and high-quality images.

2. Choosing a Fulfillment Method

Amazon Handmade sellers have two fulfillment options:

Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)

• Amazon stores, packs, and ships products.
• Eligible for Prime shipping, increasing visibility and sales.
• Higher fees, but hassle-free order fulfillment.

Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM)

• Sellers manage their own inventory, packing, and shipping.
• Lower costs, but more responsibility for customer service.
• No Prime eligibility unless using Seller-Fulfilled Prime.

Choosing between FBA and FBM depends on your product type, production capacity, and ability to handle logistics.

From researching the perfect handmade product to obtaining the necessary permissions and setting up your store, ZonHack can handle every step with precision and accuracy. Partner with ZonHack today and watch your Amazon Handmade business take off.

Finding the Best Handmade Products to Sell on Amazon

1. Product Research Strategies

Finding the right handmade products to sell requires thorough research.

• Analyze bestsellers on Amazon and Etsy to understand demand.
• Use Google Trends to identify seasonal and long-term product interest.
• Leverage keyword research tools like Helium 10, Jungle Scout, or AMZScout to find high-demand, low-competition keywords.

2. How to Differentiate Your Products

Standing out in a competitive marketplace requires creativity. Here’s how:

• Offer customizations (e.g., engraved names, personalized designs).
• Use premium materials to appeal to high-end buyers.
• Bundle complementary items (e.g., a handmade soap + wooden soap dish).

How to List and Optimize Handmade Products on Amazon

1. Creating High-Converting Listings

To attract buyers, your product listings must be compelling and optimized.

• Product Titles: Include a main keyword + unique feature + use case (e.g., “Handmade Wooden Cutting Board – Personalized for Weddings & Gifts”).
• Product Images: Use high-quality photos, lifestyle shots, and multiple angles.
• Descriptions: Share the story behind your craft and highlight materials, craftsmanship, and uniqueness.
• Backend Keywords: Use searchable terms in Amazon’s backend to increase discoverability.

2. Pricing Strategy for Handmade Products

• Factor in material costs, labor, and Amazon’s 15% referral fee.
• Research competitor prices on Amazon and Etsy.
• Offer discounts and promotions to boost initial sales.

How to Market and Promote Your Handmade Products on Amazon

Once your handmade products are listed on Amazon, effective marketing strategies will help boost visibility and increase sales. Here’s how to promote your store effectively:

1. Leverage Amazon Advertising (PPC)

Amazon offers Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising to help sellers get their products in front of potential buyers. The main ad types include:

• Sponsored Products – Appear in search results when shoppers look for related items.
• Sponsored Brands – Feature your brand logo and a selection of products.
• Sponsored Display Ads – Retarget past visitors to encourage repeat engagement.

Optimizing PPC campaigns by targeting high-converting keywords and negative keywords ensures better results and lower ad spend.

2. Optimize Your Amazon Handmade Storefront

Amazon Handmade allows artisans to create a custom storefront showcasing their brand and craftsmanship. Use this space to:

• Share your brand story – Highlight your journey as an artisan.
• Organize products into collections – Make it easy for customers to browse.
• Use high-quality images and videos – Show behind-the-scenes craftsmanship.

3. Utilize Social Media and External Traffic

Driving traffic from outside Amazon can increase sales and rankings.

• Instagram & Pinterest – Share product images, behind-the-scenes content, and customer testimonials.
• Facebook & TikTok Ads – Run targeted ads to specific audiences interested in handmade goods.
• YouTube & Blogs – Create DIY or product showcase videos to build brand awareness.

4. Encourage Customer Reviews

Positive reviews increase credibility and sales. To get more reviews:

• Follow up with customers using Amazon’s Request a Review feature.
• Provide excellent packaging and personalized notes to encourage feedback.
• Deliver high-quality customer service to enhance satisfaction.

5. Offer Promotions and Discounts

Running limited-time offers can boost visibility and conversions. Options include:

• Lightning Deals – Temporary discounts displayed on Amazon’s Deals page.
• Coupons – Offer percentage-based discounts to attract budget-conscious buyers.
• Bundle Offers – Sell complementary products together to increase order value.

FAQs

Do I need a business license to sell on Amazon Handmade?

Not necessarily. However, it depends on local regulations regarding handmade businesses.

Can I sell digital or print-on-demand products on Amazon Handmade?

No, all products must be physically handmade, altered, or assembled.

How long does it take to get approved for Amazon Handmade?

It usually takes up to 2 weeks, but delays can occur if additional verification is needed.

What are the main fees for selling on Amazon Handmade?

Amazon Handmade charges a 15% referral fee per sale, but no listing fees.

Can I use FBA for handmade products?

Yes, but ensure your products meet FBA packaging and inventory requirements.

Wrap Up

Selling handmade products on Amazon offers a lucrative opportunity for artisans to reach millions of customers worldwide. By understanding the platform’s requirements, optimizing listings, utilizing marketing strategies, and managing fulfillment efficiently, you can build a successful and sustainable business.

Start by getting approved for Amazon Handmade, crafting high-quality product listings, and leveraging Amazon’s advertising tools to grow your brand. With the right approach, your handmade business can thrive in the world’s largest eCommerce marketplace.