What is Etsy's policy on handmade items?

Etsy has established specific guidelines regarding the sale of handmade items on its platform to maintain the integrity of the marketplace and to support artisans. According to Etsy's policies, all items sold in the Handmade category must be made or designed by the seller, ensuring that the creation process actively involves the seller themselves. The platform emphasizes that the seller should be intimately involved in the making of the item, allowing for personal input in both the design and the crafting stages. Moreover, sellers are permitted to use tools and production methods that enhance their creative process, but they must be transparent about the extent of their involvement. For example, it is acceptable for artisans to use manufacturing partners for the production of their goods, provided that they remain intimately involved in the design and overall creation of the items. This allows artisans to scale their businesses while still fostering originality and authenticity in their products. Etsy's policies also highlight that the handmade aspect is crucial to the value of the shop and to the buyer's experience. Therefore, sellers should ensure that their listings clearly represent their involvement in the making of the item, whether those items are crafted from scratch or involve some levels of production assistance. For more detailed information about what qualifies as handmade, sellers and buyers may refer to the guidelines found on the Etsy website, where Etsy clarifies its expectations and policies regarding handmade goods.