How to Create Private Listing on Etsy As a Seller

Last Updated on February 20, 2025 by Himanshu Rawat

Selling on Etsy is an exciting adventure for anyone who loves creating unique products. While most of your listings are visible to everyone, there are times when you need a little privacy—this is where private listings on Etsy come in. Whether it’s a custom order requested by a client or an item made exclusively for a specific individual, private listings are a powerful tool for Etsy sellers. In this guide, we’ll explore what private listings are, why you should use them, and how to create one step-by-step.

Table of Contents ​What Are Private Listings on Etsy? Why Should You Create a Private Listing on Etsy? ​How to Create Private Listing on Etsy? ​Tips for Using Private Listings on Etsy Wrapping Up FAQs

What Are Private Listings on Etsy?

A private listing on Etsy is a special type of listing that only one person can see. It doesn’t show up in your shop or in Etsy search results. Instead, you create the listing and share a link with the specific customer who requested it. Only they can view and buy it.

Private listings are perfect for:

• Exclusive deals for loyal customers
• Custom orders (like a personalized necklace or a custom painting)
• Special gifts (so the surprise isn’t ruined)

Why Should You Create a Private Listing on Etsy?

Creating an Etsy private listing comes with several benefits that can enhance your customer experience and streamline your sales process:

1. Personalized Service: You can create exactly what the customer wants, which makes them happy and more likely to come back.
2. Less Hassle: Instead of going back and forth with messages, you can put all the details (like price and description) in one place.
3. Keep Your Shop Tidy: Private listings don’t clutter your shop with one-off items that don’t fit your usual products.
4. More Sales: Some customers might not find what they’re looking for in your shop, but they’ll buy if you offer a custom option.
5. Privacy: If someone is buying a gift, they might not want it to be public. Private listings keep things discreet.

Pro-tip: To boost your shop’s visibility on Etsy, optimize your listings by using relevant keywords in your titles, descriptions, and tags. This can drive more traffic and increase your sales potential.

How to Create Private Listing on Etsy?

Creating a private listing on Etsy allows you to cater to specific customer requests for custom or unique items. Here’s how you can set it up:

• Start by signing into your Etsy account, then Go to Shop Manager.
• Click Settings.
• Click Options.
• Under Selling Options, find Custom order requests.

• Select Enabled.
• Click Save at the bottom of the page.

Once the private listing is created, Etsy will generate a unique link for the listing. You can then share this link directly with the intended buyer through Etsy messages or email, allowing only them to view and purchase the item.

Tips for Using Private Listings on Etsy

Here are some tips to make the most of private listings on Etsy:

1. Be Clear About Details: Make sure the customer knows exactly what they’re getting, including the price and how long it will take to make.
2. Set Realistic Deadlines: Custom orders can take time. Be honest about how long it will take so the customer isn’t disappointed.
3. Use Good Photos: Even though it’s a private listing, use clear, high-quality photos to show the product.
4. Keep Track of Orders: Write down the details of each private listing so you don’t forget anything.
5. Let Customers Know You Offer Private Listings: Mention in your shop announcement or product descriptions that you take custom orders. This can bring in more sales.

Looking for inspiration? Check out our guide on the Best Selling Items on Etsy to boost your shop’s success!

Wrapping Up

Creating a private listing on Etsy is an excellent way to provide tailored products or services to specific customers while keeping your shop’s offerings discreet. Whether you’re crafting a unique item for a friend, offering a personalized gift, or giving a special deal, private listings allow you to meet individual requests without exposing your items to everyone.

With the straightforward steps mentioned earlier, you can effortlessly create a private listing on Etsy and manage who has access to your products. Remember to communicate clearly with your buyers, sharing the link quickly and providing any necessary details they may need.

By utilizing private listings, you enhance your customer experience and build stronger relationships with your buyers. Best of luck with your Etsy shop!

FAQs on Create Private Listing on Etsy

1. Can you create a private listing on Etsy?

Yes! You can create a private listing on Etsy for custom orders or special requests. Only the person with the link can see it.

2. Can you make a hidden listing on Etsy?

You can’t completely hide a listing, but you can save it as a Draft or make it private for one customer.

3. How to make Etsy private?

You can’t make your whole shop private. But, you can:

• Keep some listings as drafts or private.
• Share private links with certain people.
• Limit your personal details in your shop settings.

4. Can I hide my shop on Etsy?

You can’t hide your shop completely, but you can close it or put it in vacation mode. This stops people from seeing your products or buying anything while you’re not active.

5. Can you block someone from seeing your Etsy shop?

Etsy doesn’t let you block someone from seeing your shop, but you can block them from messaging you. Just go to their profile and click “Block this person.”