How FreeStylesJewelry got started

Introduce your Etsy shop and tell us your story. How did you begin and decide on what to sell on Etsy, and how do you create your products?

Hi, I am Nadine, and I am the owner and artist of FreeStyles Jewelry. I specialize in copper wire-wrapped and woven stone jewelry. I’m not exactly sure how I got started in jewelry making, but I’ve always been into one kind of craft or another and have been rockhounding since I was a little girl. I started selling simple earrings and pendants made of craft wire. I love the flexibility and fluidity of wire. It inspires creativity. I make each piece by hand, with long lengths of weaving wire and beautifully handcrafted stones.

Favorite items

What are your favorite items? What makes these so special? Why do you think these items might be selling well?

I sell one-of-a-kind pieces, so my favorite is always changing. I have found it difficult to predict what will sell; sometimes the ones I like the least sell first. Labradorite seems to be a favorite, anyway.

Moonstone pendant, Wire Wrapped White Rainbow Moonstone Necklace, Copper Moonstone Pendant, Stone Pendant, Wire Wrapped Jewelry, FreeStyle
Wire Wrapped Pietersite, Wire Woven Pietersite Necklace, Copper Pietersite Necklace, Wire Woven Pendant, Wire Wrapped Jewelry, FreeStyles

Getting sales on Etsy

How long did it take for you to earn your first sale and how do you currently attract customers to your Etsy shop?

My first sales were actually pretty quick; friends on Facebook were probably my first customers. To attract customers, I try to post regularly on social media, but I am terrible at remembering to use hashtags. Number signs in my day.

Managing FreeStylesJewelry

How do you manage your shop? Are you running solo or do you have any team members? What tools or services do you use to run your shop and how do you handle fulfillment?

I am the only one behind the scenes, and my orders go out the next day (note that I am not a mass seller). I use the shipping option provided through Etsy; it saves me time and money. Additionally, I can request package pickup for the next day. Photography is a big part of selling online! I tried fancy set-ups and lighting. I now use my iPhone (series 11), natural lighting, and the Adobe Photoshop Express app. The $5 monthly fee is well worth it, as it can really help you showcase your product.

The future of FreeStylesJewelry 

What goals do you have for your shop in the future?

With the economy the way it currently is, I just hope to keep operating and making more jewelry.

Advice for new sellers

What’s your advice for a new seller starting an Etsy shop?

For me, slow and steady are winning the game. Realistic expectations are important. A lot of sellers quit in their first year. It takes time to find your customers. Key words are vital. Good photographs are necessary for sales.

Alura Team
Alura Team

Alura is your all-in-one platform for selling on Etsy. With more $500.000+ gross sales over four years selling on Etsy, Alura is built by experienced sellers for sellers. Start with a free account and explore all the features you need to start, run, and grow your Etsy shop.