Etsy tags: The ultimate guide to boost your shop's visibility

Etsy tags are a powerful tool to boost your shop's visibility and attract more potential buyers. By leveraging the right tags, you can significantly improve your product listings' searchability and drive more traffic to your store. 

Whether you're a seasoned seller or just starting, understanding how to use tags effectively can make a difference.

In this guide, we'll delve into the mechanics of Etsy tags, explore best practices, and show you how to find the ideal tags for your unique products.

• As an Etsy seller, understanding the role of Etsy tags can significantly boost your shop's visibility by aligning with the Etsy search algorithm.

• Optimized Etsy tags combine relevant keywords, a mix of broad and specific tags such as separate tags, niche tags, and more, and long-tail keywords to draw in diverse traffic.

• Regular updating and reviewing tags keeps your listings relevant and competitive in Etsy's dynamic marketplace.

• Utilizing seasonal, trending keywords, synonyms, and alternative spellings can capture a wider audience and keep your shop in demand year-round.

• Using Gelato's integration with Etsy enables seamless production and sales of custom products, enhancing your store's operations.

Etsy tags are descriptive keywords that sellers attach to their product listings to help match their items with buyers' search queries. By selecting relevant and specific tags, you enhance your product's visibility on Etsy search results, making it easier for potential customers to find what they're looking for in your shop.

Etsy tags match your product listings to relevant buyer searches. This means Etsy matches tags in listings with keywords from searches based on the same root word. These tags, up to 13 per listing, serve as keywords that Etsy's algorithm uses to connect your items to potential customers.

Using tags increases your listing page visibility and ensures you reach the right audience. Here’s why Etsy tags are crucial for your shop's success: 

• Enhances SEO: Well-chosen tags improve your shop's search volume ranking on Etsy, driving more traffic and potential sales.

• Targets specific audiences: Using specific and relevant tags ensures your products reach the customers looking for them.

• Supports marketing strategies: Tags enable brands to capitalize on seasonal trends and popular search terms, boosting a shop's relevance.

Absolutely, Etsy tags are crucial for your shop’s SEO. They help Etsy’s search algorithm understand your listings and match them with relevant user queries. 

Here's how Etsy search works with the right tags and SEO efforts:

• Optimize search matching: Tags work hand-in-hand with your product titles and descriptions to match your listings with buyer searches.

• Increase relevance: Relevant tags make it easier for Etsy to prioritize your listings for queries that closely match what you’re selling.

• Boosts discoverability: The more accurately your tags match popular search terms, the better your chances are of being discovered by new customers.

Finding the best Etsy tags for your shop involves research, creativity, and strategic thinking. Here’s how you can effectively identify the top tags that will enhance your shop’s visibility: 

• Use Etsy’s search bar: Start typing keywords related to your product in the search bar to see what suggestions come up. This will give you an idea of popular search terms.

• Research competitors: Look at similar successful shops and note their tags. It can give you inspiration and insights.

• Google Keywords Planner: This tool helps identify popular search queries. Although it’s for Google, it can still offer valuable clues about what people are searching for.

• Analyze Etsy stats: Utilize Etsy’s analytics to see which of your current tags bring the most traffic, then double down on those themes.

• Fashion and trends: Stay updated with current trends relevant to your products. Timely and trendy tags can attract more clicks.

Mastering tag incorporation is essential to maximizing your Etsy shop's visibility. Follow these best practices to ensure every listing taps into Etsy's powerful search algorithm, driving more traffic and boosting your sales effectively.

1. Incorporate relevant keywords

To maximize the effectiveness of your Etsy tags, it’s crucial to incorporate relevant keywords. Here's how:

• Product specifics: Include detailed product descriptions, such as material, size, color, and style. For example, if you sell handmade wool scarves, use “handmade wool scarf,” “knit scarf,” and “winter scarf.”

• Target audience: Consider who would be interested in your product. Use tags like “gifts for men,” “women’s accessories,” or “baby shower gifts” to attract the right customers.

• Common search terms: Utilize keywords that are commonly searched for on Etsy. Tools like Etsy's search bar, Google Keyword Planner, and other keyword tools can help you identify popular search terms for your product.

• Unique selling points: What sets your product apart? If your item is eco-friendly, vegan, handmade, or customizable, make sure to highlight these traits in your tags.

• Use analytics: Check your Etsy shop's analytics to see which keywords are already driving traffic to your listings, and make sure these keywords are included in your tags.

2. Mix broad and specific tags

To maximize the reach of your Etsy listings, it's crucial to balance broad and specific tags. Here's how you can effectively mix broad and specific tags: 

• Broad tags: These are general terms that many users might search for. Examples include "jewelry," "art print," or "home decor." Broad tags can increase your listings' chances of appearing in high-traffic searches.

• Specific tags: These are detailed descriptors that narrow down the search. Examples are "boho chic earrings," "watercolor galaxy print," or "rustic farmhouse decor." Specific tags help you attract buyers looking for exactly what you offer.

• Combine both types: For best results, combine broad and specific tags in your listings. For instance, if you sell handmade bracelets, you might use "jewelry" (broad) and "handmade silver bracelet" (specific).

3. Utilize long-tail keywords

When used strategically, long-tail keywords help you target niche markets and attract more qualified traffic to your listings. Here’s how you can effectively utilize long-tail keywords in your Etsy tags: 

• Be descriptive: Instead of "jewelry," consider "handmade silver gemstone necklace."

• Think like a buyer: What specific terms would your potential customer use to find your product? For instance, "vintage boho wall art" instead of "wall art."

• Combine multiple aspects: Merge different features and benefits into one long-tail keyword, such as "eco-friendly natural cotton baby blanket."

• Check keyword variations: Use tools like Google Keyword Planner or EtsyRank to discover variations and related long-tail keywords, such as "rustic wedding decor ideas."

4. Integrate brand keywords

Integrating brand keywords into your Etsy tags is a powerful way to enhance your shop’s visibility and reinforce your brand identity. Here's how:

• Use your shop name: Including your shop name as a tag can help loyal customers find your store and increase brand recognition among new shoppers.

• Highlight branded product lines: If you have specific branded collections or product lines, use those names as tags to drive targeted traffic.

• Include flagship products: Tagging your best-selling or signature items can draw attention to what your brand is known for, making it easier for buyers to discover popular products.

• Promote collaborations: If you’ve partnered with other brands or influencers, include their names as tags to maximize exposure across different audiences.

5. Incorporate seasonal and trending keywords

Staying on top of seasonal and trending keywords is a must to keep your Etsy shop relevant to potential customers. Here's how to effectively create trending Etsy tags: 

• Stay updated on trends: Monitor social media platforms, fashion blogs, and even Google Trends to identify what’s gaining popularity. This will help you update your tags accordingly.

• Capitalize on holidays and events: Use keywords associated with upcoming holidays or events. For example, in November, your tags could include "Thanksgiving decor" or "Black Friday deals."

• Utilize trending phrases: Sometimes, phrases or hashtags become viral. Integrating these into your tags can make your products discoverable to a larger audience searching for those terms.

• Monitor competitor tags: Check what your competitors use in their listings during specific seasons. This can provide inspiration and ensure you're not missing out on key terms.

6. Include synonyms and alternative spellings

Including synonyms and alternative spellings in your tags is a strategic way to maximize your visibility. Here's how:

• Common misspellings: Don't overlook the impact of common misspellings. If your product name or keyword is frequently misspelled, include that variation as a tag (e.g., "jewelry" and "jewlery").

• Synonyms: Consider alternative words that customers might use to describe your product. For example, for a "throw blanket," you might also use "couch blanket" or "sofa throw."

• Regional spellings: If your market includes international buyers, consider regional spellings. For instance, use "color" and "colour" to accommodate different English-speaking customers.

• Alternative terminology: Different people might use different terminology. For example, some call these "earrings," while others refer to them as "ear studs" or "hoops."

7. Adhere to guidelines

Following Etsy's guidelines is essential when incorporating tags into your Etsy listings. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Do not overstuff tags: Avoid cramming too many keywords into one tag. Each tag should be concise and relevant.

• Use all 13 tags: Maximize your reach by filling in all 13 available tag slots. This gives you more opportunities to be discovered.

• Consider the character limit: Each tag has a 20-character limit. Choose your words wisely to make the most impact.

• Avoid repetitive tags: Do not use variations of the same keyword repeatedly. Diversify your tags to cover different search terms.

8. Regularly review and update tags

Keeping your Etsy tags fresh and relevant is crucial to maintaining your shop's visibility in search results. Here's how:

• Monitor seasonal trends: Refresh tags and titles, especially at the start of a new season or before major holidays. This helps capture increased search traffic during peak times.

• Analyze shop stats: Regularly check your shop stats to identify high-traffic listings and consider updating tags for those performing poorly. This can provide insights into what's working and what needs improvement.

• Stay informed on algorithm changes: Etsy's search algorithms are continually evolving. Keeping up with these changes ensures your listings are always optimized.

• Review competitors: Look at how successful shops similar to yours tag their products. This can provide inspiration and show you what's trending in your niche.

This year brings forth new and exciting trends in Etsy tags that can help elevate your shop's visibility. Here are some tags to consider this year:

• Personalized gifts: Shoppers love unique and customized items. Tags like "custom name necklace," "personalized wedding gift," and "custom photo gift" are on the rise.

• Sustainable products: With growing awareness of environmental issues, tags such as "eco-friendly," "reusable," and "sustainable" are becoming very popular.

• Handmade jewelry: This classic category remains strong. Tags like "handcrafted earrings," "artisan jewelry," and "unique rings" are highly searched.

• Home décor: As people continue to invest in their living spaces, tags like "boho wall art," "handmade candles," and "ceramic vases" are trending.

• Vintage items: The charm of old-world items never fades. Tags such as "vintage clothing," "antique furniture," and "retro kitchenware" are popular choices.

• DIY supplies: Crafting continues to be a beloved hobby. Tags like "crafting kits," "DIY project," and "scrapbooking supplies" are frequently searched.

• Holiday themes: Seasonal items remain evergreen. Tags like "Christmas ornaments," "Halloween decorations," and "Easter gifts" can give your listings a timely boost.

Updating and adding Etsy tags to your listings is a straightforward process that can significantly impact your shop's visibility. Follow these simple steps to update or add new tags: 

• Navigate to Listings Manager: Log in to your Etsy account, go to Shopping Manager, and then to the Listings Manager section.

• Select the listing: Choose the product listing you want to update or add tags by clicking on it.

• Scroll to the tags section: Within the listing details, find the section labeled ‘Tags.’

• Enter your tags: You can add up to 13 relevant tags here. Make sure each tag is separated.

• Save your changes: After entering the new tags, don’t forget to save your changes by clicking the ‘Save’ button at the bottom of the page.

• Review and refine: Regularly return your tags to ensure they reflect your product's most current and relevant keywords.

Integrating Gelato with your Etsy shop provides seamless print on demand solutions that can significantly boost your visibility. 

Gelato's print on demand service handles everything from printing your designs on high-quality products to fulfilling customer orders and shipping them directly. This frees you up to spend more time on the creative and strategic aspects of running your Etsy shop to build a profitable business.

Here's how Gelato empowers Etsy sellers:

• Focus on what you do best: Unleash your creativity and dedicate more time to design and marketing, leaving the production hassles to Gelato.

• Expand your product range: Experiment with new product offerings such as custom hats, bio phone cases, sustainable tote bags, and more without worrying about upfront inventory costs.

• Reduce risk: Minimize financial risks associated with unsold inventory.

• Scale with ease: As your shop grows, Gelato's global fulfillment network scales seamlessly to meet your increasing demand.

Ready to take your Etsy shop to the next level? Sign up for Gelato and subscribe to one of the affordable plans to harness its innovative POD solutions.

What are good tags for Etsy?

Good Etsy tags should be specific and relevant to the product and include a mix of long-tail keywords and broad categories. They must capture potential search terms a buyer might use and consider seasonal or trending phrases. Avoid overly competitive tags and use brand keywords if applicable. Consistently update tags to reflect market changes.

What are the 13 Etsy tags?

Each Etsy listing can have up to 13 tags. These tags are short phrases or keywords that describe your products and help them appear in relevant searches. Utilize all 13 tags to maximize your shop’s visibility, including relevant, synonyms, and long-tail keywords. Regularly update these tags to align with changing trends and seasons.

Should you use all tags on Etsy?

Yes, you should use all 13 tags available on Etsy. Each tag is an opportunity to be discovered in a different search query, increasing your visibility. Ensure these tags are relevant and diverse, covering broad terms, specifics, and synonyms. Utilizing all tags maximizes your chances of attracting a wider audience to your shop.

How do you generate tags with an Etsy tag generator?

Using an Etsy tag generator simplifies finding the best tags by suggesting keywords based on your product description and niche. These tools analyze market trends and competitor tags, offering a comprehensive list of relevant tags. Enter your product details, and let the generator do the heavy lifting, helping you maximize your shop’s visibility.

Should you use all tags on Etsy?

Absolutely! Utilizing all 13 tag slots gives your listings the best chance to appear in various searches. Each tag represents a potential query from a buyer, so maximizing them increases your product's visibility. Remember, a combination of relevant keywords, broad and specific tags, and seasonal trends will help capture a wider audience on Etsy.

Can customers see Etsy tags?

Customers cannot see the tags you add to your Etsy listings. These tags are intended for Etsy's search algorithm to match your products with relevant search queries. This allows your listings to appear in search results, but the specific tags remain hidden from shoppers.