Embark on an artistic journey into ecommerce platforms. Unleash your creativity and tap into the lucrative world of online business. Unlock new horizons and let your unique vision merge seamlessly with the digital marketplace.
For every artist, the canvas extends beyond just the physical or digital medium - it includes the vast landscape of online marketplaces and ecommerce platforms. If you're an artist aspiring to transform your creative passion into a thriving business, this series of blog posts is your compass. We'll dive into the pivotal steps of not only venturing into the realm of ecommerce but also meticulously selecting the perfect platform to showcase your artistry. From brushstroke to pixel, we'll guide you through the process of curating a brand and crafting a digital storefront that resonates with your audience and converts visitors into ardent patrons. Join us as we unravel the secrets to seamlessly melding art with entrepreneurship and discover how to navigate the spectrum of ecommerce platforms to find the one that harmonizes with your creative vision and business aspirations.
Most ecommerce platforms with an integrated website builder have one defining limitation, no transferability. While choosing a platform, you need to consider the requirements to migrate your website, art products, and customer information to another platform. Recently, ecommerce platforms now allow you to export your product data and even some web page content. Many platforms start with a monthly service charge. There are only a few that offer a free version with ecommerce capabilities included.
There are several ways to establish your online architecture. One option is to create a portfolio website to display your gallery and then have an online store as an independent application. This approach allows you to switch ecommerce platforms without the need to recreate your entire website. The store can be routed to a subdomain like store.mysite.com and accessible from your portfolio website. If you aim to have a dedicated portfolio page, then a low-cost or free ecommerce web page may be ideal. Another option is to build your entire website, including a portfolio, ecommerce store, and even a blog, on a single platform if you find one suitable for your business.
Online infrastructure is probably the last thing on your mind but is an important operational and cost consideration as you expand your business. We will look at two platforms that provide a free version and focus on the website builder, ecommerce features, and payment options of the free tier.
Square Online is a solid choice for artists with small businesses seeking to establish an online presence. Its strengths lie in its simplicity, integration capabilities, and the familiarity it offers to those already using Square for in-person transactions. The drag-and-drop website builder makes it easy to create visually pleasing online stores without coding knowledge, and the platform's mobile responsiveness ensures a smooth experience for customers on various devices.
One of the standout features is the integration with Square's point-of-sale system, allowing artists to seamlessly manage both online and offline sales from a single dashboard. This can be particularly advantageous for artists who participate in events or markets, as it streamlines the entire sales process.
There are some limitations to consider. While Square Online provides customization options, it might not offer the same level of design flexibility as some other platforms. Additionally, while the basic version of the platform is cost-effective, transaction fees can add up over time, impacting profitability for higher-volume sales. The platform's app ecosystem is also less extensive compared to some competitors, which might limit the ability to add certain advanced functionalities.
Square Online is a user-friendly and emphasis on simplicity make it a convenient choice for artists and small businesses looking to establish an online store. Its integration with Square's point-of-sale system makes it a simple for physical selling locations. This is a great platform for low-volume sellers, but we would recommend a more scalable platform for artist with high-volume sales.
Big Cartel stands out as a niche platform tailored specifically for artists and makers. Its strengths lie in its simplicity and artist-friendly features. The platform's user interface is intuitive, making it easy for artists to set up and manage their online stores without the need for extensive technical expertise. The focus on customization allows artists to showcase their unique brand and aesthetic, which is crucial in the creative industry.
The affordability of Big Cartel is another advantage, particularly for artists who are just starting their ecommerce ventures. The free plan allows users to list a limited number of products, making it an excellent option for testing the waters or for artists with smaller inventories. The platform's commitment to fostering a community of artists adds a sense of camaraderie, which can be motivating and supportive for creative entrepreneurs.
Big Cartel has its limitations. As an artist-focused platform, it might not offer the same advanced ecommerce features as larger, more comprehensive platforms. Artists looking for complex product variations, extensive analytics, or robust marketing tools might find some of their needs unmet. Additionally, the customization options, while artist-friendly, might be limiting for those seeking highly specific designs.
Big Cartel is a valuable platform for artists and makers who prioritize simplicity, customization, and community in their online selling journey. Its ease of use and affordability make it a great starting point for emerging artists, but those with more advanced ecommerce needs might need to consider the platform's limitations in terms of features and scalability.
Horacio Bermudez