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In today’s blog, I have listed 24 popular digital products to sell on Etsy which is currently one of the profitable categories to sell on the platform.
Digital downloads are printables (like PDF, JPG, PNG, etc) or templates (in MS Word, MS Excel, Google Sheets, etc.) that your customers buy, download, and print themselves.
Selling digital products is a good passive income source as you create the product once and you can sell it multiple times.
WHY SELL DIGITAL PRODUCTS ON ETSY?
Etsy is a popular online platform for buying and selling handmade, vintage, and craft supply items with over 90 million active buyers (2023). However, the popularity of digital products has exploded in the recent years.
As would be seller, you might only have a limited budget and still testing if this side hustle is the right one for you.
Etsy offers a relatively low cost for listing an item ($0.20/listing) and a transaction fee (6.5%) when you make a sale. You can even get 40 Free listing when you use this link.
Moreover, there are lots of graphic design software out there that you can use for creating digital products that require minimal or almost no upfront investment.
You can start designing even without any graphic skills and sell your digital items in a few days.
And with Etsy’s built-in audience, you will have a better chance of finding success if you choose the right digital product to sell.
WHAT ARE THE PROS IN SELLING DIGITAL PRODUCTS ON ETSY
As a seller, I am more inclined to sell digital products on Etsy which offers several advantages compared to selling physical goods.
- Low overhead cost: No inventory storage, packaging materials, or shipping expenses.
- Sell it multiple times: Sellers can sell multiple copies of the same product to different customers.
- Instant Delivery: Customers can instantly download digital files directly from Etsy or receive them via email.
- Global reach: Global audience of customers without geographical limitations.
- You can easily scale: Sellers can scale their business without the constraints of physical inventory or production capacity.
- Passive income potential: Sellers continues to generate revenue over time with minimal ongoing effort or maintenance.
WHAT ARE THE CONS IN SELLING DIGITAL PRODUCTS ON ETSY
Selling digital products on Etsy offers many advantages, there are also some challenges to consider.
- Possible market saturation: The digital marketplace on Etsy can be highly competitive, and standing out in a crowded marketplace and gaining visibility can be challenging.
- Intellectual Property Concerns: Digital products are vulnerable to piracy, unauthorized distribution, and copyright infringement.
- Dependency on the platform: Sellers are subject to the policies, fees, and changes implemented by the platform.
Although these disadvantages exist, many digital product sellers successfully navigate them by leveraging their creativity, marketing skills, and strategic approach to selling on Etsy.
25 POPULAR DIGITAL PRODUCTS TO SELL ON ETSY
There is a plethora of digital products to sell on Etsy, and here are some ideas and inspiration to get you started.
1. Printable Wall Art
Printable wall art is a digital artwork that is designed specifically to be printed and displayed on walls.
It ranges from photographs, illustrations, graphic designs, quotes, and patterns that can be printed and displayed as decorative pieces.
Potential Customers: homeowners, interior designers, gift buyers, offices/businesses, and individuals interested in DIY projects.
Popular file types: PDF, PNG, JPEG, SVG, EPS
2. Digital Planners
Digital planners are electronic versions of traditional paper planners, designed to be used on devices such as tablets, computers, or smartphones.
They typically offer features like interactive calendars, to-do lists, goal tracking, and customizable layouts.
Customers can organize their schedules, tasks, and notes digitally, providing convenience, flexibility, and the ability to easily sync across devices.
Potential Customers: individuals seeking organization tools, students, entrepreneurs, freelancers, tech-savvy individuals, digital nomads, and those who value customization options and the ability to sync across devices.
Popular file types: PDF, GoodNotes, JPEG, PNG, PowerPoint, Google Sheets
3. Digital Invitations
Digital invitations are electronic versions of traditional paper invitations, often designed for events such as weddings, birthdays, parties, or special events.
Typically, people send them via email, messaging apps, or social media platforms, eliminating the need for physical mailing.
Potential Customers: individuals planning events such as weddings, birthdays, baby showers, and corporate gatherings, event planners, party organizers, and businesses looking for customizable and cost-effective invitation options.
Popular file types: PDF, JPEG, PNG, PSD, AI, DOCX, SVG, Canva, Templett, Corj
4. Ebooks
Ebooks are electronic versions of printed books that are readable on devices such as e-readers, tablets, and smartphones.
They offer the same content as traditional books but in a digital format. They cover various topics such as self-help, recipes, and fiction.
Ebooks provide readers with convenience, portability, and the ability to access a vast library of titles instantly.
Potential Customers: avid readers who prefer the convenience of digital reading, students, professionals, travelers, and individuals interested in niche topics or specialized knowledge.
Popular file types: PDF, EPUB, MOBI, Canva
5. SVG Cut Files
SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) cut files are digital designs used for cutting machines like Cricut or Silhouette.
Vector-based shapes comprise them, allowing scaling without losing quality.
SVG cut files are popular for crafting projects such as vinyl decals, paper crafts, and fabric appliques.
Potential Customers: crafters and hobbyists, small business owners specializing in personalized or handmade products, designers, educators, and individuals interested in DIY projects for home decor or gifts.
Popular file types: SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics), DXF (Drawing Exchange Format), PNG, EPS, AI
6. Digital Clipart
Digital clip art is electronic images or graphics that are often used for decorative or illustrative purposes in various digital and print projects.
These items provides users with a convenient and versatile way to enhance their designs, presentations, websites, and other creative projects without the need for traditional physical media.
Potential Customers: graphic designers, artists, crafters, educators, bloggers, small business owners, individuals creating digital or print materials, web developers, social media managers, marketers, and anyone in need of visual elements to enhance their projects.
Popular file types: JPEG, PNG, SVG, EPS, AI, PSD
7. Social Media Templates
Social media templates are pre-designed layouts or graphics used to create visually appealing content for various social media platforms.
They often include templates for posts, stories, covers, banners, and ads, featuring consistent branding elements such as colors, fonts, and logos.
Potential Customers: businesses, entrepreneurs, influencers, bloggers, marketers, and individuals seeking to enhance their online presence, social media managers, digital marketers, and agencies responsible for managing social media accounts for clients.
Popular file types: PSD, AI, Canva Templates, JPEG, PNG
8. Printable & Digital Stickers
Printable stickers are digital designs that can be printed onto sticker paper or adhesive sheets for various uses.
Digital stickers are graphics or images in a digital format that are commonly used in messaging apps, social media platforms, digital planners, and other digital environments.
They often feature colorful graphics, illustrations, or decorative elements suitable for (digital) planners, (digital) journals, (digital) scrapbooking, and crafting projects.
Potential Customers: planner enthusiasts, journalers, scrapbookers, crafters, teachers, students, small business owners, individuals seeking customized and decorative elements for personal or professional projects, party planners, event organizers, and anyone interested in DIY projects or handmade goods.
Popular file types: JPEG, PNG, SVG, PDF, AI, PSD
9. Digital Patterns
Digital patterns are electronic templates or designs used for various crafting, sewing, crocheting, or DIY projects.
They offer convenience, versatility, and the ability to customize projects according to individual preferences and specifications.
Potential Customers: sewing enthusiasts, quilters, crafters, DIY hobbyists, fashion designers, costume makers, home decor enthusiasts, small business owners who create handmade products, educators, and individuals seeking unique and customizable patterns for personal or commercial projects.
Popular file types: PDF, PNG, JPEG, SVG, AI, PSD
10. Budget Planners
Budget planners are tools used to track income, expenses, and savings to manage finances effectively.
They typically include sections for recording various financial transactions, setting financial goals, and monitoring progress toward those goals.
Budget planners help individuals or households maintain financial discipline, prioritize spending, and achieve financial stability or goals.
Potential Customers: individuals looking to take control of their finances, and anyone interested in organizing their finances and saving money effectively. Also, small business owners, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to track income, expenses, and cash flow for their ventures.
Popular file types: PDF, JPEG, PNG, Excel or Google Sheets Templates, GoodNotes
11. Resume Templates & Cover Letters
Resume templates and cover letters are pre-designed layouts or formats to create professional resumes and accompanying cover letters.
They typically feature organized sections for personal information, work experience, skills, and education, providing a structured framework for job seekers to showcase their qualifications.
Potential Customers: job seekers, recruiters, human resources professionals, and career coaches.
Popular file type to use: Microsoft Word or Google Docs, Canva templates
12. Digital Wallpapers
Digital wallpapers are electronic images or designs used to decorate the background of computer screens, smartphones, or other digital devices.
They often feature various themes, such as nature, abstract patterns, or artistic illustrations, and come in different resolutions to fit different screen sizes.
Potential Customers: individuals looking to personalize their digital devices, interior designers, decorators, artists, businesses, offices, and event planners.
Popular file types: JPEG, PNG, SVG
13. Digital Journal Templates
Digital journal templates are pre-designed layouts or formats used for digital journaling on devices such as tablets, computers, or smartphones.
They often include sections for writing entries, adding images, organizing thoughts, and tracking goals or habits.
Digital journal templates provide users with a structured framework for journaling, offering convenience, customization options, and the ability to document thoughts and experiences digitally.
Potential Customers: individuals who enjoy journaling, writers, students, businesses or professionals, anyone interested in documenting their thoughts, memories, or creative ideas in a digital format.
Popular file types: GoodNotes or Notability Files, Notion Templates
14. Recipe Cards
Recipe cards are small cards used to record cooking instructions and ingredient lists for specific dishes.
They typically include space for the recipe title, ingredients, preparation steps, and sometimes additional notes or tips.
Recipe cards offer a convenient and organized way for cooks to collect and share their favorite recipes.
Potential Customers: home cooks, culinary enthusiasts, food bloggers, chefs, cooking instructors, individuals who enjoy collecting and sharing recipes, businesses in the food industry (restaurants, catering companies, and cooking schools).
Popular file types: PDF, JPEG, PNG, PSD, AI, DOCX, Canva, Templett
15. Customizable Media Kits
Customizable media kits are professional documents used by individuals or businesses to showcase their brands, services, or products to potential collaborators, sponsors, or clients.
Media kits typically include sections such as company overview, audience demographics, past collaborations, testimonials, and pricing information, and are designed to be easily customized with specific branding elements and content.
Potential Customers: influencers, content creators, bloggers, vloggers, podcasters, small businesses, startups, freelancers, professionals seeking to collaborate with brands or attract sponsors, marketing agencies, public relations firms, event organizers, and individuals involved in branding or promotional activities.
Popular file type: Canva templates
16. Printable Party Decorations
Printable party decorations are digital designs that can be printed and used to decorate for various events and celebrations.
These printables often include banners, signs, cupcake toppers, invitations, and other decorative elements themed to match the occasion, such as birthdays, weddings, or holidays.
Printable party decorations offer convenience, affordability, and customization options.
Potential Customers: party planners, event organizers, parents hosting birthday parties or baby showers, brides-to-be planning weddings or bridal showers, individuals hosting holiday gatherings, businesses organizing corporate events or promotional parties, DIY enthusiasts, crafters, and anyone looking to add a personalized touch to their celebrations.
Popular file types: PDF, JPEG, PNG, SVG, Canva, Corjl
17. Printable Gift Tags
Printable gift tags are digital designs that can be printed and attached to gifts to add a personalized touch.
Most often feature various themes, designs, or messages suitable for different occasions, such as birthdays, weddings, holidays, or other special events.
Printable gift tags offer convenience, affordability, and customization options.
Potential Customers: individuals who enjoy giving personalized gifts for various occasions, crafters, DIY enthusiasts, party planners, event organizers, and businesses looking to add a special touch to their gifts or products.
Popular file types: PDF, JPEG, PNG, SVG, Templett, Canva, Corjl
18. Digital Fashion Illustrations
Digital fashion illustrations are artistic representations of clothing designs created using digital tools such as graphic design software or tablet applications.
They often showcase garments, accessories, and fashion concepts with intricate details, colors, and textures.
Potential Customers: fashion designers, clothing brands, fashion bloggers, stylists, illustrators, artists working in the fashion industry, individuals interested in fashion.
Popular file types to use: JPEG, PNG, PSD, AI, Procreate or Clip Studio Paint Files
19. Printable Coloring Pages
Printable coloring pages are digital designs or outlines that can be printed and colored by individuals of all ages.
They often feature various themes, such as animals, nature, mandalas, or popular characters, providing entertainment and relaxation through creative expression.
Printable coloring pages offer a convenient and accessible way for people to enjoy art therapy, mindfulness, and leisurely activities at home or on the go.
Potential Customers: parents, teachers, individuals interested in art therapy or stress relief, seniors engaging in cognitive stimulation and relaxation exercises, artists, hobbyists, and crafters.
Popular file types: PDF, JPEG, PNG
20. Printable Affirmation Cards
Affirmation cards are small cards featuring positive affirmations or empowering statements intended to inspire and uplift individuals.
They often include motivational messages, quotes, or affirmations that promote self-love, confidence, and personal growth.
Affirmation cards are used for daily reflection, meditation, or as reminders to cultivate a positive mindset and achieve personal goals.
Potential Customers: individuals seeking daily inspiration, motivation, or encouragement; individuals practicing mindfulness, self-care, or those looking to cultivate a positive mindset; therapists, counselors, coaches, educators, and wellness professionals.
Popular file type: PDF, PNG, JPEG, Canva Templates
21. Printable Games
Printable games are digital versions of various traditional or themed games that can be printed and played at home or in group settings.
They often include board games, card games, puzzles, and trivia games designed for entertainment, education, or social interaction.
Printable games offer convenience, versatility, and the opportunity for customization, allowing players to enjoy fun activities without the need for specialized equipment or materials.
Potential Customers families looking for fun and educational activities to enjoy together, teachers, party hosts, individuals interested in DIY projects, game enthusiasts, home schooling parents, childcare providers, and event planners.
Popular file types: PDF, PNG, JPEG, PowerPoint or Keynote Files, Canva Templates
22. Classroom Printables
Classroom printables are educational resources designed for teachers to use in classroom instruction or activities.
They often include worksheets, flashcards, posters, charts, and other materials tailored to specific subjects, grade levels, or learning objectives.
Classroom printables offer teachers a convenient and customizable way to enhance lesson plans, engage students, and reinforce learning concepts in various academic areas.
Potential Customers: teachers, educators, homeschooling parents, tutors, childcare providers, school administrators, curriculum developers, and educational institutions
Popular file types: PDF, PNG, JPEG, PowerPoint or Keynote Files, Canva Templates
23. “Thank You” Cards
“Thank you” cards are small notes used to express gratitude and appreciation to someone for a kindness, gift, or gesture.
They typically feature a brief message of thanks along with decorative elements such as illustrations, patterns, or designs.
Potential Customers: individuals looking to express gratitude; businesses and organizations aiming to thank clients, customers, or employees for their patronage or contributions; event planners, brides and grooms, party hosts, and anyone organizing special occasions.
Popular file types: PDF, PNG, JPEG, PSD, AI, DOCX, Canva Templates
24. Branding Package
A branding package is a comprehensive collection of design elements and assets that represent a brand’s identity and image.
It typically includes a logo, color palette, typography choices, brand guidelines, and various marketing materials such as business cards, letterheads, and social media graphics.
A branding package provides consistency and coherence across all aspects of a brand’s visual identity.
Potential Customers: startups, small businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals looking to establish or revamp their brand identity; established businesses seeking to rebrand or refresh their visual identity; marketing agencies, freelancers, and graphic designers offering branding services.
Popular file types: AI or EPS (logo), PDF (letterhead, marketing material), PSD, PNG, Canva Templates
TOOLS FOR CREATING DIGITAL PRODUCTS TO SELL ON ETSY
You might be wondering how or where you can create your digital products.
Here are the lists of popular tools to help you design your digital downloads:
- Canva: It comes with free and paid version. It’s a great option for beginners.
- Corj: Use for customizable designs.
- Templett: Use for customizable designs.
- Adobe Illustrator: Comes with Free trial. Great for creating graphic elements, logos, icons, etc…
- Adobe Photoshop: Comes with Free trial. Great for editing photos or images with complex colors.
- Inkscape: Free. Like Adobe Illustrator, it is great for vector files.
- Gimp: Free. Comparable to Adobe Photoshop for editing raster files.
- Affinity Designer: Comes with free trial. Comparable with Adobe Illustrator for raster and vector files.
- PlaceIt: Comes with Free trial. It offers easy to use templates.
- PicMonkey: Comes with free and paid version. Comparable to Canva and great for creating raster and vector files.
- Google Docs/ MS Word: Used for creating worksheets, documents and printables.
- Google Sheets/ MS Excel: Used for creating spreadsheets, charts and printables.
FILE TYPES USED FOR ETSY DIGITAL DOWNLOADS
When selling digital downloads on Etsy, it’s important to provide files in formats that are widely compatible and easy for customers to use.
Here are some common file types:
PDF (Portable Document Format) are widely used for documents, templates, and printables. They preserve the layout and formatting of the original document.
JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) are commonly used for images and photographs.
PNG (Portable Network Graphics) are ideal for images with transparent backgrounds, such as logos, icons, and graphics.
SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) are used for vector graphics and scalable illustrations. They can be resized without losing quality.
ZIP (Compressed File Archive) are used for bundling and compressing multiple files into a single archive.
Other file types supported by Etsy are:
- .bmp
- .doc
- .gif
- .mobi
- .mpeg
- .mp3
- .psd
- .rtf
- .txt
- .ePUB
- .iBook
- .eps
WHERE CAN YOU PROMOTE YOUR DIGITAL PRODUCTS?
Etsy
If you have done your Keyword Research properly and by completing the essential sections of your listing (photos, descriptions, tags, etc.), you will have the best foot forward.
Your Own Blog/ Website
If you have a blog, you can direct your visitors from your Etsy shop to your website and vice versa.
It will be a win-win since Etsy have much larger audience and it can drive traffic to your website as well.
This is one of my favorite places to share my blog posts or products. Once you create pins, it will stay in your account forever.
Social Media Platforms
You can join Facebook groups related to your products, but don’t spam. Other popular platforms are TikTok, YouTube, Instagram & X (former Twitter).
CONCLUSION
In summary, selling digital products on Etsy offers numerous advantages for sellers, including lower overhead costs, instant delivery, global reach, scalability, sustainability, flexibility, and passive income potential.
For aspiring digital product creators, I invite you to explore the vast potential of the digital marketplace on Etsy.
Take the plunge by unleashing your creativity, starting small, and believing in yourself.
Although there will be challenges along the way but learn as much as you can, stay persistent, and trust in your abilities.
Remember, every successful journey begins with a single step so, don’t hesitate to take that leap of faith and embark on this exciting adventure of digital entrepreneurship on Etsy.
ACTION PLAN
1. Do your own Keyword Research, you can use ERank.
2. Decide on the digital product/s you want to sell. Tip: Niche down.
3. Design your digital products on Canva or any other designing tool. Tip: check bestseller of your competition for inspiration.
4. Decide the size and file type you would use. Tip: check your competition.
5. Create your mock up photos for your listing. Tip: you can also use Canva.
6. Open your store and list your item. Tip: check out my post on how to start selling on Etsy.
7. Promote your listings.
8. Add more listings and improve daily.
