Article: SEO for Crafters: How to Get Found on Google, Etsy, and Social Media

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Apr 3, 2025

SEO for Crafters: How to Get Found on Google, Etsy, and Social Media

Many craft business owners struggle with visibility online. Without the right search engine optimization (SEO) strategies, products can get lost in the crowded marketplace, making it difficult to attract new customers.

SEO is the key to increasing visibility on Google, Etsy, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest, allowing potential buyers to find products more easily. This guide will break down how to optimize listings, websites, and social media content to drive traffic and increase sales.

What is SEO and Why Does It Matter?

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is the process of making products easier to find in search results.

On Etsy, SEO helps listings rank higher when someone searches for “custom sublimation tumbler.”
On Google, SEO helps websites appear when users look for “personalized baby gifts.”
On social media, SEO ensures posts are discoverable when people search for related keywords.

Etsy reports that 80% of its sales come from search traffic, meaning sellers who optimize their listings are more likely to attract buyers actively looking for handmade products.

Step 1: SEO for Etsy

Etsy’s search algorithm matches keywords in product listings with what buyers are searching for. Optimizing Etsy SEO increases the chances of appearing in search results.

Find the Right Keywords

Use Etsy’s search bar to see auto-suggestions for commonly searched phrases.
Research trending Etsy keywords using free tools like eRank and Marmalead.
Analyze competitor listings to identify commonly used keywords in titles and descriptions.

Optimize Titles and Tags

Use specific, descriptive titles instead of generic ones.

Example:

Poor title: Personalized Mug
Optimized title: Custom Name Coffee Mug – Personalized Gift for Mom, Teacher, Best Friend

Use all 13 tags provided by Etsy to maximize visibility.
Repeat important keywords naturally in product descriptions without overloading.

Improve Product Descriptions

The first sentence is the most important for Etsy’s search rankings.
Instead of writing: "This is a cute mug for coffee lovers,"

Try: "This personalized coffee mug makes the perfect gift for moms, teachers, or anyone who loves a custom touch to their morning routine."

Update descriptions and tags every few months to stay relevant.

Step 2: SEO for Google and Websites

For sellers with a Shopify, Wix, or other website, Google SEO is essential for driving traffic.

Select the Right Keywords

Use Google’s search bar to find commonly searched terms related to products.
Try free keyword tools like Ubersuggest and Google Keyword Planner for keyword research.

Example:

Instead of saying "Custom Shirt," use "Personalized Name Shirt – Funny Graphic Tee for Women."

Optimize Website Pages

Title Tags & Meta Descriptions:

The homepage title should include the main product keyword.
The meta description should be short, compelling, and include relevant keywords.

Product Page Optimization:

Product names and descriptions should contain long-tail keywords.
Instead of "Baby Onesie," use "Funny Personalized Baby Onesie – Custom Newborn Gift."

Image Optimization:

Add alt text to images so search engines can read them.
Describe images with relevant keywords, like "Sublimation tumbler with custom design for teachers."

Blogging for SEO

A blog can boost Google rankings by providing valuable content and linking back to products.

Example blog post: "Top 10 Personalized Gifts for Dog Lovers" with links to related products.

Step 3: Social Media SEO

Social media platforms act as search engines, so optimizing content with keywords can increase discoverability.

Instagram SEO Tips

Use keywords in the bio (e.g., “Custom Tumblers & Personalized Gifts”).
Optimize captions by including searchable phrases in the first three lines.
Hashtag strategy:

Use a mix of broad and niche hashtags, such as #SmallBizOwner, #CustomTumblers, #SublimationGifts.

Example Caption:

Poor: "Look at this cute mug I made!"
Optimized: "Need a gift for a coffee lover? Our personalized coffee mugs make the perfect gift for birthdays, teachers, or anyone who needs caffeine!"

TikTok SEO Tips

Use searchable keywords in captions since TikTok functions as a search engine.
Add text overlays with keywords to videos for better searchability.
Use trending sounds to increase visibility.

Example:
Instead of only showing a product, add a voiceover or text like:

"Three reasons why this personalized tumbler is the perfect teacher gift!"

Pinterest SEO Tips

Pinterest is one of the best platforms for SEO, as pins appear on Google searches.

Use long-tail keywords in pin titles and descriptions.
Create pins that answer common search queries, such as “Best Christmas Gifts for Teachers.”
Link pins directly to Etsy or website listings to drive traffic.

Action Steps to Improve SEO Today

Update Etsy Listings – Add relevant keywords to titles, descriptions, and tags.
Optimize Website Content – Ensure product pages use search-friendly keywords.
Improve Social Media Profiles – Use searchable terms in Instagram and TikTok bios.
Leverage Pinterest SEO – Create five new pins linking to products.

By applying these SEO strategies, handmade business owners can increase search visibility, attract more customers, and drive more sales.

Written by Vik Patel