How rubywebbs 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?

I am Joni, the crochet pattern designer behind the shop Ruby Webbs on Etsy. My crochet patterns are easy to read and include many step-by-step photos and YouTube tutorials. I began crocheting back in 2010, when my daughter Ruby was just a toddler. I was really just wanting to create cute little hats for her to wear. After watching a YouTube tutorial, I made my first hat. I immediately fell in love with crochet and made a few more hats. I started experimenting with different yarns and patterns. I decided to try listing a few hats on Etsy later that year, with Ruby as my model. I loved the whole experience of selling and interacting with my customers. As my crochet skills improved, I started designing and selling my own crochet patterns to customers around the world.

Favorite items

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

The Chrislyn Cardigan Pattern is one of my favourite sweater patterns and one of my biggest sellers. This cosy cardigan is beginner-friendly and works up very quickly with super bulky yarn.

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Another big seller and favourite pattern of mine is the Diamond in the Puff Pillow Pattern. Pillow patterns are great for any time of the year! This adorable pillow pattern is easy to make with worsted-weight yarn. Who doesn’t love a good throw pillow?

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The Juliette Crochet Top is another favourite and one of my biggest sellers in the warmer months. This top is very easy to make and has a feminine look to it. It can be worn by itself or layered under a cardigan.

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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?

I began selling soon after I opened my shop in 2010. Many of my customers are repeat customers. I believe the combination of strong customer service, easy-to-read crochet patterns, and advertising on social media has really helped my business grow. I have gained many customers through Instagram (@rubywebbscrochet) and also through Pinterest advertising.

Managing rubywebbs

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 sole owner and employee at Ruby Webbs. I highly recommend the Etsy seller app. I am notified immediately when I make a sale or receive a message from a customer.

Advice for new sellers

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

It is very simple to set up an Etsy shop. It is important that you offer a unique, quality product. Your photos and the price tag will be what first draw customers in. Great customer service will help ensure that your customers return. Advertising on social media platforms such as Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram will help you gain new customers.

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.