How to Start an Online Store for Your Handmade or Artisan Products (Even if You're Not Super Techy)

If you're a creative mama making things with your hands (e.g. soaps, birdhouses, artwork, jewelry, etc.) and you've been selling to friends and family, you might be wondering if it's time to step into something bigger.

Maybe you've been sharing your work on Instagram. You're getting lots of encouragement from people who know you, but you haven't taken the leap into selling publicly online.

First of all, let me encourage you. Turning your handmade or artisan work into an online business is not only fun and meaningful, but it can become an amazing ministry. You can create beautiful things, bless others, and earn income — all while walking in step with your God-given gifts.

And no, you don't have to be techy — though you can learn a ton along the way! You just need to be willing to take one small, faithful step at a time.

** Not sure which next step to take? Check out the Christian Mamapreneur Online Business Starter Kit (7-Step Launch Checklist + 4 Must Have Tools).

Here are a few signs you might be ready:

• You're already making and selling your products consistently

• You're hearing things like, "You should sell these online!"

• You're looking for a way to reach people beyond your immediate circle

If any of these sound like you, then yes, it might be time to expand your business and open up an online store.

There are plenty of ways to do this, so deciding on the best option for you is going to take some time and effort on your part. But this blog post will discuss a few of the most common store options to help you get started.

Let’s clarify this before you begin. A handmade or artisan store typically features:

• Products you create yourself or with minimal outsourcing (e.g. soaps, candles, knitwear, wooden signs)

• Natural, one-of-a-kind, or small-batch items

• Think of this kind of store as an extension of your creativity and calling. Don’t try to do everything. Start with your bestsellers or the things people already love.

You don’t need a fancy photoshoot or a massive inventory to get started. Just gather these essentials:

1. Product photos or videos

High quality photos are great, but in most cases, taking your photos with a phone in natural light is fine!

2. Simple product descriptions

Consider these questions: what does it do, who is it for, and why is it special? Put yourself in your ideal customer’s shoes. What words or phrases will they be using when they search in Google, Etsy, or ChatGPT for your product?

3. Pricing

Take a look at similar shops for guidance, but deciding what to charge is totally up to you. For most products, there is a huge range of what people are willing to pay. It will depend who you market to, how you describe your products, and how you value your work.

4. Shop policies

Provide specific details about things like processing times, shipping procedures, and how you'll handle returns.

5. A short “About” section

Your story matters more than you think. People who get to know, like, and trust you will become your best customers — and they’ll tell their friends about your amazing products and customer service.

💡Pro Tip: Also consider how you’ll package and ship your products. Faith-based touches like a scripture on your packaging or a small card with a note of encouragement can help your business reflect who you are.

There are two main types of platforms you can use to sell your handmade products online:

🛍️ Marketplaces – These are shared platforms where buyers come to browse from many different sellers. Think of them as online craft fairs or farmer’s markets. You don’t have to drive your own traffic because people are already shopping there.

🌐 Individual websites – These are stores you build and run yourself, usually under your own domain name. You have full control over branding, but you also have to bring in your own traffic.

Let’s break down some of the best options in each category for Christian Mamapreneurs who aren’t super techy:

🛍️ Marketplace: Etsy

Best for: Complete beginners

Pros: Built-in traffic, easy setup, well-known for handmade products

Cons: Listing and transaction fees, less control over branding, lots of competition

Why it’s fabulous: It’s the easiest and fastest way to get your first product online and seen

🌐 Website builder: Shopify

Best for: Women looking to build a long-term, branded business

Pros: Well-known, allows total customization, lots of integrations, great customer support

Cons: Monthly fee (~$39+), more setup required

Why it’s fabulous: You get your own online store with your branding front and center

🌐 Website builder: Big Cartel

Best for: Artists or makers with a small product line

Pros: Free plan for up to 5 products, super simple interface

Cons: Limited features on free plan, less discoverability than Etsy

Why it’s fabulous: It’s affordable and beginner-friendly if you want a "your name dot com" store without the overwhelm

🌐 Website builder: Wix

Best for: DIYers who want full control without knowing how to code

Pros: Drag-and-drop editor, free plan available, great tutorials

Cons: Can feel a little cluttered; takes time to learn

Why it’s fabulous: If you like playing with visuals (hello, Canva lovers!), you might enjoy building with Wix

🌐 Website builder: Squarespace

Best for: Moms who want a modern, polished look without hiring a designer

Pros: Clean templates, great for photographers, artists, and boutique shops

Cons: No free plan, less beginner-friendly than Wix

Why it’s fabulous: The end result is gorgeous and their customer support is top-notch

Yes — but only if you’re further along in your business. Here’s why it’s considered more of an advanced step:

• Amazon Handmade has a strict application and approval process

• Their referral fees are high (usually 15%+)

• You won’t have as much control over your branding or customer relationships

• Customer support can be hit-or-miss

• You’ll need polished product photos, detailed listings, and consistent packaging

That said, if your business is ready to scale and you’re comfortable navigating the Amazon ecosystem — it could be a smart next move.

Why? Amazon Handmade includes access to a massive global customer base through Amazon, the credibility and trust of the Amazon brand, and premium placement in Amazon’s Handmade marketplace.

Sellers also get access to tools like Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), which can streamline shipping and logistics. If you’re ready for a more competitive, professional selling environment and want to reach a wider audience, this could be a powerful next step.

Here’s a quick comparison chart to help you weigh your options:

Here's a quick summary:

• Choose Etsy if you want fast, easy setup and built-in buyers

• Choose Shopify if you’re ready to scale and want full branding control

• Choose Big Cartel if you want simple, affordable, and low-maintenance

• Choose Wix if you enjoy building things visually and want flexibility

• Choose Squarespace if aesthetics and ease-of-use matter most to you

If you're having trouble deciding between the different platforms, you could always sell on more than one, but my advice is to start with your favourite — at least until you get the hang of it. Then, go ahead and expand.

Many handmade sellers start on Etsy and later build their own site on Shopify or Squarespace to gain more control (or if they’re just a little nerdy like me.😉).

Just remember, you don’t have to do it all at once. Start where you are and grow from there.

Pray about your next step. You don’t have to do everything at once. You can start with just one shop. One listing. One customer at a time.

In Part 2 of this series, I’ll walk you step-by-step through setting up your shop and making your first sale. If you'd like that post delivered straight to your inbox, make sure you’re on the Christian Mamapreneurs newsletter list!

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You've got this, Mama. Let's build something beautiful together.