I've been reading and posting on the Etsy.com Forums in hopes of picking up some marketing tips, and also to get exposure for my avatar (logo). A few days ago I learned about "Animoto" in the forums, and made my first video. I've remixed it several times now and then uploaded it to YouTube to draw more viewers.
I also learned about StumbleUpon.com, and listed my shop as one of my favorite finds. (I hope that isn't bad form!) I agreed to give a "thumbs up" to other Etsy artisans, and asked them to do the same for me.
Since I joined Etsy last month I've paid for space in the Main Showcase once, and the Quilt Showcase once. I also posted a three day Treasury list. I've only sold one quilt, but I'm encouraged by the number of people who marked my shop as a favorite, and by the positive comments I've gotten from other sellers. I'm already seeing MUCH more traffic on Etsy than I ever got on eBay.
Lastly, I'm trying to figure out how to use this blog to attract customers. I have no idea how to go about that, but I'll study up!
I can't take too much time away from quiltmaking, but I recognize the need for some attention to advertsing and marketing. Locally I can rely on word of mouth and repeat business; hopefully someday that will be true online as well.
