What We Wish We Knew Before Selling Polymer Clay Earrings

So, you’ve fallen in love with polymer clay and now you’re thinking about turning your passion into a little side hustle by selling your earrings. That’s awesome! But before you dive into the world of running a polymer clay business, there are a few things we wish we had known before starting out. We're sharing these lessons to help you avoid common pitfalls and set yourself up for success. Let’s dive into the truth behind selling polymer clay earrings!

1. Quality Cutters = Quality Earrings ✂️

When we first started, we didn’t think twice about the quality of the cutters we were using. Let’s just say—it makes all the difference! Cheap, flimsy cutters often lead to jagged edges, requiring a lot of sanding and shaping after the fact. Investing in high-quality polymer clay cutters with sharp, smooth edges will give you cleaner, more professional-looking earrings right from the start. Plus, it saves you time and frustration in the long run. Trust us, good tools = good results!

2. Supplies Add Up—Quickly! 💸

Here’s the truth: selling polymer clay earrings can get expensive. The cost of clay, tools, cutters, earring posts, jump rings, packaging, and branding materials really adds up over time. We didn’t realize how much we'd be spending upfront on supplies, especially when scaling up production for multiple orders. Make sure to keep track of your expenses and plan your pricing accordingly, so you’re not undercharging for all the effort and materials going into your work.

3. Look Into Your State Tax Laws 📝

We didn’t know this in the beginning, but if you’re selling polymer clay earrings—whether through Etsy, Shopify, or in person at craft fairs—you’ll likely need to look into your state’s tax laws. Many states require you to collect sales tax and have a business license or permit if you’re selling physical products. It’s worth researching the requirements in your area to avoid any surprises down the road. It might sound overwhelming, but handling this early on will save you headaches later!

4. Etsy vs. Shopify: The Pros and Cons 🛍️

When deciding where to sell your earrings, you’ll likely come across two big options: Etsy and Shopify. Here’s what we’ve learned about each:

• Etsy Pros: Etsy is a great platform for getting started quickly. It has built-in traffic, a supportive maker community, and is relatively easy to use. People come to Etsy specifically to buy handmade products, so it’s a great place to reach your target audience without doing a ton of extra marketing.

• Etsy Cons: The downside? Etsy takes a percentage of each sale (listing fees and transaction fees add up), and with so many sellers, standing out can be tough. You’re also limited in how you can brand your shop compared to other platforms.

• Shopify Pros: Shopify, on the other hand, gives you more control over your website, branding, and pricing. You can set up your own online store without competing listings on the same page, which makes your business feel more polished and professional.

• Shopify Cons: The con? You have to drive your own traffic. That means more marketing work on your part (social media, ads, etc.), and there’s a monthly fee to run your store.

Both have their perks, so it really depends on what fits your style and business goals.

5. Workshops: A New Income Stream 🧑‍🏫

One thing we didn’t realize at first was how much potential there is in hosting polymer clay workshops. Instead of just selling earrings, you can also charge people to learn how to make their own! It’s a fun, interactive way to share your love for polymer clay while earning extra income. Plus, workshops can be less labor-intensive than making and selling tons of earrings yourself—especially if you’re already feeling burned out from production. Teaching is rewarding, and people love getting hands-on with clay!

If you’re looking to diversify your income and connect with others in your community, workshops are definitely worth considering. You can even make them part of your overall brand, turning your craft into a full experience for others.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This! 💪

Selling polymer clay earrings is an exciting journey, but it comes with its own set of challenges. From understanding the importance of quality tools to navigating taxes and platform choices, there’s a lot to consider. But don’t be discouraged! Every step you take is part of growing and learning. If we could do it, so can you.

And if you’re looking for more support along the way, why not join Clay Party Headquarters? We’re all about helping polymer clay artists build successful businesses and workshops, offering resources and a supportive community to help you thrive. Let’s make your polymer clay dreams a reality—together!