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ETSY CLOSED MY SHOP - Lesson Learned 😞
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- Опубликовано: 7 окт 2023
- So this is why I disappeared from RUclips and Instagram for a few months - What an utter disappointment on myself
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I think I just needed to talk it out - Thank you for listening / watching beautiful YT family.
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Ultimately, yes, it was my own fault. My intention is not to throw a pity party, I just needed to get it out and sort of backtrack and somehow justify why I made the decisions that I made,
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Thank you all who have been following me for a while
To clarify:
1 - I DID NOT steel someone else's design and put it on my Shirts -- It was SONG Lyrics with MY designs on it -- Does it make it okay to use someone else's song lyrics? ABSOLUTELY NOT - I fully own that and I am sorry I did that.
2 - This will seem like the argument of a toddler, BUT there are entire Etsy Shops EXCLUSEVILY selling Taylor Swift merch with thousands of sales. Did I get tempted to also gent into TS niche and have a "successful" shop before Q4? YES, I own that mistake too
Please pin to the top❤
Sorry this happened.
Etsy closed mine as well, so sorry this happened to you!
Sorry, but it is still wrong to use song lyrics, someone else wrote that song. Just try again and just use your own designs.
Make your own website. You will be fine.
I had the same thing happen to me. My store was making about $6000 and I had seen hundreds of the same products in other shops and they are still open 3 years later. It's the Universe letting you know that you are doing an amazing job and other shops find you a threat and reported you. Etsy has good alternatives and also make your own shop and probably FB and Instagram shop and promote, promote and you will be set my sales doubled.
Hey listen, I had 7 failed Etsy stores before I finally had my first and then second successful shops. I had failed at affiliate marketing and at Amazon KDP before that. All I wanted was to escape the 9-5 grind. Take your break and then KEEP PUSHING. Keep going. You’ll get there. Sometimes the universe tests our resolve. I’m very sorry this happened to you though.
You got it! 😂 oh YEAH!
Wow 7 failed Etsy stores? Did you get permanently banned but open up new Etsy accounts somehow? Well done on your determination 👍
@@Gina0151 Thanks! No bans, it was a mixture of not doing my research and giving up too soon. But Etsy is a great platform, you just need to stick with it. My first successful shop was doing terrible for the first year, but I just kept adding products and doing my research and things turned around. I think I got better at making listings in general. 7 failed stores gave me a lot of practice lol
Alexis, thank you so much for sharing your experience, I will take some time to re-group and bounce back with this lesson learned - it was definitely a tough one to go though, but I'll be okay in the end - New shop probably coming in the next year :)
I needed to read your comment, too. Thank you for sharing your journey here. Failure isn't failure unless you stop trying.
GIRL! Working on Etsy was crazy as hell. We need to start a damn support group. They closed 3 of my most profitable stores on BLACK FRIDAY! I am with you girl. Giving hugs ! You are NOT a failure ..... Keep going!
What why the hell did they do that. That’s crazy. I only ask bc I’ve been torn between starting on Etsy or shoptify
love the support group idea, you are on to something.
NO! what she did was illegal!!!!
@@Uniquely-You I can't even lie. I found a good untapped market right before it got nuts. Small steady stream for about a month. It was harder to get started on Shopify, but had more control.
Right. They don’t want people having side hustles. They want everything supplied and made in China, also.
The universe is trying to tell you that ETSY isn't the place for you. Keep going! You've got this girl!!
Encouraging someone to give up ain't it.
@@kodeviciousummm what? How is that telling someone to give up? Etsy is horrible and even lawyers are telling people to not even try. Stopping etsy isn't given up... its moving up.
@kodevicious Stop projecting! That's NOT what she neither said nor meant! Kinda funny you didn't go after or come for the other commentor who basically said the same thing: to get OFF Etsy reliance & Create her OWN website that she won't get banned or canned from! I couldn't agree MORE‼️✔️💯
@@marikiemarie7622Exactly‼️✔️💯
Yes!! I was going to say the same thing! Find another platform. Start your own website. Just keep trying. You are so talented!
Not a closed door....just a lesson to LISTEN to your gut. Play it safe and create your own things. You've got this!!! Thank you for sharing your slips. Now get back up and SHINE! ❤
It’s not a failure it’s a life lesson… Remember when one door closes another door opens…. In the end everything will work out… ❤
Randi, thank you so much for your words of encouragement, I will try again soon, for now, I need to give this business thing a break - thank you so much for watching :)
@@LoveLetterstoMilo Please don't give up now, it's time for Q4 and you don't want to miss that.
She's right! Don't stop now! I heard during q4 etsy will have live help, via a phone#and live chat! Get on that shit ! No breaks during q4!!!
You know how to do it, you have had success with it. You can do it again. Remember, it’s business, it’s not about you. ❤
Things change all the time. Safeway used to be a big chain store as well as Kmart Shopko Smith's Albertsons came in and started pushing them out (Competition) Here comes Wal-mart And Target. On line shopping. Don't let Etsy push you to stop.
I just randomly stumbled upon your video/page for the first time, and I have to say, your work is gorgeous. People like you are one of the main reasons I fight so hard in Etsy forums/facebook groups trying to educate people on trademark/copyright issues because what happens is new sellers see so many other sellers making big bucks selling copyrighted/trademarked stuff, and they start too, and ultimately end up getting caught and lose their shop and/or end up in court. I know you likely were one of the ones that truly didn't know any better and just had the misfortune of getting caught before you learned the error of your ways.
Looking at your art, I genuinely think you could make a move to Shopify and really do well. You're clearly very talented, you just have to do your due diligence and make sure you're doing your research. It's okay to be sad for a bit, but please don't give up just yet. The world needs your art ❤
I liked her designs, too! So cute!
All of this comment. None of us are lawyers and we are all learning how to do this.
You're so sweet, thank you :)
yeah, well I got caught up on all the "etsy success" stories on youtube and I made obvious mistakes along the way - Even though I just needed to kind of talk it out, I also thought it would be a little insightful for new shops that are also desperate to have an Etsy "success" story and not make the same mistakes I made - RUclipsrs are always showing the Success part of the business, but never the dark side of it - thought it would help some :)
Agree! I love your stuff, and I learned something. Thank you for saving me the headache!
Whatever you do, don’t give up! It’s a lesson learned but we’ve all been there. Start selling on a different platform and just stay positive. Don’t look at it as failure, but an opportunity to start a new adventure outside of Etsy. You’re the author of your story, not Etsy. Give yourself a best seller! You got this, girl.
Great point, what other platforms do you recommend?
Honestly I gave up on Etsy years ago. It's a toxic situation. These corporate assholes are literally chocking small businesses out of business. Make your own website and steer clear of Disney completely because they literally shut down a girl for making a crochet pattern for baby Yoda a few years ago.
You are not alone and you are not a failure. You are a victim of corporate greed.
Obviously you are an artist. Focus on your art and don't give up. I send you all my high vibration of success and love
Yes exactly because if the corporations cooy us little people it a hard battle -now any spoken words so simple are copyrighted -its not like a poetic line please😂
Where they draw the line is what keeps me scratching my head. I mean do they own every written word ever committed to paper? It's just greed and unchecked corporate nonsense. Ever since citizens united , which had nothing to do with citizens and rights I might add. Lol, was passed in the supreme court we have had garbage like this happening. Corporations are not people and they wield unbelievable power to crush small businesses like yours. We have become corporate states of America instead of the United States. Something has to change and I don't know what to do other than go to law school at this point to run a simple business in this country. Lol I mean geezzzzzus
Copying smth from someone is not called being an artist
I am sorry that this happened to you. Thank you for sharing. I think it is valuable to have this information come from someone who has actually been through it. Also, Etsy isn’t the only fish in the sea. There are other platforms, so don’t give up. The lesson you learned should be seen as a positive and a guide in what not to do moving forward. Chin up, lady!!!😊
Great point, what others do you suggest?
I'm so sorry this happened to you. I was super careful, I make all custom designs and I STILL made some mistakes when selling on Etsy. It's easy to make mistakes on there. Don't let this bring you down! You're far from the only one that has had this happen.
The copyright issues have gone over the top. Pretty soon we won’t be able to use basic words like car or even a picture of one. I’m sorry this happened. Your right, it’s not fair. I’m tired of those who scream the loudest are always right. Spin this story to use it as your aha moment instead. Something good can come out of this. Use your creative mind to figure out a way to use this as a stepping stone to the next endeavor. You totally got this!
TRUTH!
agree 100%!
It's only those without talent who don't understand/accept copyright laws and then use exaggerated arguments to justify their opinions. Their thick skulls just cannot comprehend an artist "working" to create song lyrics for a living. Like sharks, they snatch someone else's work and feel justified making money off something they did NOT create. Thank goodness for laws to keep thieves at bay.
You can't use basic pictures for some stuff anymore. If you make things for BBQ themes and use a 3 legged grill then it can be taken down. It relates to Weber and trademarks. There's something with electric stand mixers too... trademark/copyright stuff is complicated and people need to be very careful. Some colors are also trademarked - Cadbury purple, Barbie pink, Caterpillar yellow, etc. etc.
@@jaymelee23 Absolutely outrages that one is allowed to take possession over a color that simply exists in nature and no other person on the planet would be allowed to use it. How can you ask a painter to not use "tiffany" blue, if he needs that color in his painting, he, like everyone else, should be able to use and enjoy it. This is ridiculous.
You are not a failure. You are on this platform and you might save other people who don’t even know they could be in trouble. The biggest mistake I made was only relying on a paycheck instead of making my own money. Keep pushing.
The fact that you came on here to share your experience rather than bottle it up and resort to emotional decline is commendable. That shows courage. Courage to admit your wrongs, willingness to learn and openness to future possibilities. I agree with the same sentiment as others. What may appear as a setback is very likely a setup for success. Your value is in your talent. Etsy can't take that from you. FAILURE. First Attempt In Learning. Use it to your advantage. Keep posting youtube videos I'd imagine many of us are excited to see your progress. Get your shopify store up. I'm not sure why your video came across my feed. I have been on and off etsy for a few years and just made a sale after a couple days of being back so maybe divine algorithm intervention. I totally understand the entrepreneurial hurdles and really hope you stay encouraged because it's not for the faint at heart. The only way to failure is to stop trying. Keep going. I'm a Web Designer who has built many Shopify websites including my own. Reach out if you'd like.
That’s so kind of you to offer your ear and support to Angelica ❤. I’m an artist, crafter and vintage reseller and I watch a LOT OF YT. I find it so heartwarming that with all the haters, craziness and even danger there is in the world today, that here on YT, in spite of stupid trolls, there is an island of sanity, warmth, goodness and a community of support…and it’s here in America 🇺🇸 and all over the world 🌎 I truly believe it may have even saved people’s lives or helped them hang in there through illness, emotional stresses and mental health struggles. I know it’s helped me when I’m feeling down. It really is quite a phenomenon. We won’t always know how our “random acts of kindness” may ever be recognized or used, but that’s not what matters, right? What matters is the offering. God bless and you take care. ❤
That’s so very true!! This took an enormous amount of courage. 💔💔
First off, I want to say that I am sorry you lost your Etsy. That is a huge blow. I know my comment will probably get a lot of hate. But please know that I am a fan. The world would be less rich without your art in it.
That said, as someone who's run an online shop before and had friends in the small business community, I have to say that you got off pretty light all things considered. Copyright/trademark infringement is no joke. I had my own personal battle with it when someone sued me over my TM. I won my legal battle but it was at the expense of my entire nest egg. Afterwards, I was unable to continue operation because protecting your TM is only the first step in a long string of legal actions that have to happen when someone else chooses to not respect your copyright/trademark. Basically, they tried to sue me because they wanted my company name, lost, and then continued to use my TM anyways.
And then... I lost my trademark anyways. Why? Because they continued to use it and I had no more money to force them to legally stop. When you can't legally protect your trademark it can be considered contested.
If you leave your TM contested you can, and probably will lose your TM and it doesn't matter how much money you spend up to that point. Because the other people had more money to throw at the problem, they started the process of obtaining my trademark after I lost it. All because I couldn't stop them from using it after they lost the initial lawsuit. I was out of money.
So why am I saying all this? It is a lot of info, I know. I just want you to understand why it is so important for small businesses to not infringe on someone else's property. Yes, companies like Disney will absolutely rake you through the coals... because they have the money to do so. And because you profited from someone else's copyright you could have stood to loose everything financially if a big entity chose to make an example out of you.
Living in a litigious society sucks. Believe me, I get it more than most folks. Moving forward, I hope you do more due-diligence. Saying you
"didn't think something was copywritten" will only end up hurting you in the long run. You need to protect yourself from something much worse than having your shop taken down. Additionally, try to be super careful of even small business' TM/copyrights. They have as much to lose as you do if they have to try and protect their name/slogan from another artist.
I don't think you're a bad person. Did you make mistakes? Yes. The biggest thing you should question from this is why you didn't do a complete overhaul on your shop after the first one or two removals due to your copyright infringement. Most people aren't given so many chances to learn from their mistake. A lot of people end up in huge legal trouble for less. So, learn from this and move on. I really do hope you continue with your art journey in the future and I wish you the best of luck.
Oh goodness! thank you so very much for your comment. I truly appreciate it. I am sorry you had to go through all that legal trouble. I now know that the whole trade mark and copyright is such a huge deal.
I can try to justify my actions all I want, but you are 100% right, I should have known better than to copy someone else's work (aka, lyrics) - I will say one thing though - Etsy really doesn't care or does their due diligence in checking if a trademark is dead or if the trademark is exclusively for Pet products, or candles, or whatever and your shop is placing it on tshirts - they think of it a trademark is a trademark, which is not fair - for example - the word Merry & bright is an exclusive trademark of PetSmart for all kinds of pet products - nowhere id it say that I could not sell sweatshirts with the words Merry and Bright - This is where my frustration lies - Again, I understand your point and 100% agree with you, but there is a tiny fraction of Entitlement on Etsy's part and their unfair copyright/trademark practices. - Thank you so much for watching my video and taking the time to comment - many blessings to you and hope you don't have to deal with trademarks ever again
@@LoveLetterstoMilo I am wondering if someone who got there first with putting Merry and Bright on the t shirt then complained to Etsy with infringement, even if they don't have a TM. I have heard that Etsy takes down those listings without notice. I heard as well that one particular shop who had their item listed first, had this happen by another Etsy seller, so Etsy took her listing down, so she went ahead with proof that it was her's, and Etsy put it back up, and then the other shop did it again and again to her and Etsy kept taking it down, putting it up, taking it down, and all the while the other seller was able to continue selling the product that they were basically lying about. If that was your 3rd time, maybe you could fight that one if this was the case.
Yes! You said it all perfectly. ❤
@LoveLetterstoMilo the problem is that something doesn't necessarily have to be registered to be copyrighted. You also have intellectual property that comes into play. It gets really really complicated and there is no sure way to search and find out if something is copyrighted. If someone used the slogan before, chances are it belongs to them.
I think you said this beautifully. I hope going forward she does her research. Infringing on CR & TMs is a big deal and can be costly. I might be wrong but I was under the impression phrases can not be copyrighted. I'm always thinking of ways to change words to use and copyright. My dad who was a songwriter would write a song then he would type it out put it in an envelope addressed back to him so there is documentation of the date he mailed it for copyright purposes and never opened it. So now I have my dad's copyrighted music and songs that I have no idea what to do with. There is a song title I would love to make a t shirt for, maybe one day soon. I wish this young lady the best, she is very talented and will do just fine when she finds her platform. ♥️
Failure is part of the process. Quitting now would be a mistake for sure. This is a great lesson in diversification of your income streams and never giving someone else control over your store. You have an amazing talent. Leverage those skills and build your own brand. It will take time but YOU will own it. You earned a subscriber from this video. Im looking forward to watching you overcome this and build something great.
Setting up an Etsy shop requires time and effort. Despite my months-long attempt, I have yet to complete the process. I apologize for the loss of your shop. I can only imagine the emotions you are experiencing. Please know that your tears are not in vain. Take heart, for I believe that you will rise again.
Don't you dare stop!!!!! You didn't fail!!!!! You just learned what not to do close to copy write crap.. GIT IT GIRL...U GOT THIS👑
Thank you for being so open and honest in this video. It takes so much courage to post a video like this. I'm so sorry you're going through this. Sending positive thoughts and vibes to you.
This is definitely NOT a failure - it's a hard lesson, yes, but not a failure. You are incredibly talented, so I hope that you continue forward in a different platform to share your designs. ❤
Unfortunately you are not alone in this . I had my Etsy shop shut down twice for the same reason, it is very tempting to use copyright material, we just got to move on. Now I sell on FB, Mercari, Shopify, and local. We just have to do extra work to promote our stuff. You’ll get this eventually just don’t give up, it hurts but it’s a learning lesson.
I get it for copy writing on characters images maybe celebrity names but words bs that’s insane and we shouldn’t have ever allowed that ever. People have the same names and use words it’s absurd to me
Ok first off I’m sorry about your shop but you are not a failure. It’s just a lesson. Etsy Schmetchy. They suck!!! Get your own site. Create your own art and keep trying. You are brave, you are worthy and you have bigger things ahead of you. Much love.
Thank you so much Leanna - I am definitely trying my hardest to be brave and not let this be such a set back, but it hurts so much in my heart because I was trying so hard trying to balance my 9-5 and this business and I wanted so desperately to be a "successful" shop - I own my mistake and I feel terrible about it, but I will get back to my own designs soon. Thank you again
This is the part of the process we lose sight of. Failure or lack of traction can be devastating. I'm sorry to hear what happened to you. It's worse when you feel like you've done your due diligence and devote so much time and effort to your passion. You clearly have the right creative mind to compete in this business, so don't give up!
This was so vulnerable of you to create this video. It is greatly appreciated. Etsy is so hard...I have not been at it for long and haven't had the success you had...but the stress to be successful is so strong. I'm a stay at home of three and my husband just had a wage decrease and hours cut at work. We won't be able to make ends meet within a few months if I can't bring in an income. I haven't been in the work field for 11 years and have no skills. So Etsy seems like a good place for someone like me....but its a lot of work and even with all the work I'm putting in...I'm not seeing sales and I'm feeling like a failure. Its so hard to always be so hard on ourselves. I just wanted to let you know that most of us are struggling in some way...and its nice to know that we aren't alone. You are not alone. Hang in there!
I am so sorry about this. I feel like things that are two or three words should not be able to be trademarked. Believe it or not, you are an inspiration to many. There are many of us who are too scared to even try to sell our work.
I am so sorry, this is exactly why I stopped making videos about Etsy digital designs. I had a hard time backing a company that would do something like to someone and you are not the only one. I’m currently re-branding myself, took a 1 year break from RUclips and preparing for my big comeback, but with all things work from home, entrepreneurship and side hustles. I’m over Etsy! Hang in there!
Thank you for being honest and humble. We all make mistakes and this is a sign and a hard lesson for everyone. Etsy is not worth the hassle of copyright/trademark lawsuits. This situation could be a lot worse. You can get sued in court if you’re not careful. So starting over is going to be hard, but in reality it takes years to grow a business and Etsy is not the end all be all; it’s just a 3rd party platform. You absolutely can refresh, start a new chapter, and refocus on your business. Also, there no shame working for someone else as an employee while running your own business too. Self care and love 💕
Girl be glad that they only closed your shop. You can get sued by companies for doing things like this especially because you were making money.
As it should be 🤷🏼♀️
I don't know if you have been sued by the owners of these trademarks/copyrights. If you haven't, I consider it very lucky to that the seemingly only legal/policy repercussion from this is a permanently deactivated Etsy account and not lawsuits.
Yes! This girl is kinda stupid as following the crowd in millions of illegal shops sales on Etsy! She knew after the FIRST sale.😂
Not sure about the universe telling you things, but if I were her lawyer, I'd have STRONGLY advised her not to make this video, which amounts to an admission. Someone from Universal or elsewhere has it all on video now. 6,000 dollars in sales in September for things that you knew were copywritten eh? If and when they decide to take their cut of that month's profit, I don't think they going to care about tears or how hard she was trying.
@@laradavenport903that's nothing compared to admitting it all on RUclips and talking about specifics about thousands in profits. I'm sure Universal's legal team will never see this.
I stumbled upon this video and just have to reassure you that you’re not a bad person. You haven’t hurt anyone! The big wigs want to keep their money for themselves - imagine claiming ownership over such phrases! Merry and Bright FFS.
It sounds like you’ve really got into the swing of being a business owner so take those skills and your new lesson to a couple of the other POD websites - I really like Zazzle, it’s family-run and it gets better and better over there in terms of resources.
I am so sorry this happened to you. I think its a sign from the universe that your efforts should be put on something bigger than the etsy store! Sending you love and hugs.
Aww, thank you so much for the encouraging words Joy. Once I recover, I am going to put as much energy and effort - and even more! - into something that I truly own. thank you again for the support
exactly.. this happened to me as well and i opened my own store with my own domain and started learning how to market that... when you rely on these platforms like etsy and ebay you give them the power to do whatever whenever...
I'm sorry this happened, it really is unfortunate and unfair. I did have a look at your art and social media, and I've noticed that you have dropped the ball on instagram in the last couple of years, you stopped posting there regularly. You essentially tried to go full-etsy, becoming a trendy etsy seller instead of an artist with a following that loves your art and follows you on any shop you open. The problem with that first approach as you saw, is that only one entity holds the keys to your kingdom, and can take it away any time they want. I'd suggest you start painting again more complex, narrative whimsical scenes (rather than simple flowers or designs that don't fly anymore with the IG crowd as it was used to), and then opening either your own store, or going with Society6 or RedBubble, Spoonflower, or all of the above. Never put all your eggs in one basket, that's what the Etsy situation teaches us.
Good point!
you are 100% right, I 100% dropped my art and my following chasing the "Etsy Dream", I know, I am disappointed in myself for doing that as well. Instagram became hard to keep up with, but I should have stuck with it, my art and my beautiful community. Once I heal from this lesson learned, I will come back to my community - Thank you again for watching and taking the time to comment.
That's great advice. Do your art from the heart, not from the world.
Yes, this. 100%!
You are a phenomenal artist, why are you relying on other people's designs? Do your own thing. Create your own designs. BE the one no one else dares to copyright infringe upon. Take a deep breath and realize that YOU are not a failure by a longshot. The only way you can fail in this is if you fail to heed the lesson. Show Etsy, and the world, that you are unstoppable! You got this!!!
Etsy is ridiculous! You're taking accountability for your part which is commendable. I hope this setback doesn't derail you from accomplishing your goal. There are other seller platforms besides Etsy and I sincerely hope you're able to find that strength and courage to try again. It is absolutely okay to sit and feel and process what has just happened. Let yourself feel the feels! Afterwards I truly hope you're able to then continue on with all the knowledge you've just acquired and have more success and growth. Your designs are beautiful and you're extremely talented. Sending lots of positive vibes 😊
I feel your pain just listening to you. I am so sorry this happened to you. On the bright side, there are millionaires on RUclips who say they failed forward quite a bit until they hit it rich. You are young, you are intelligent, you can have success to, whatever that looks like for you. Every failure gets you that much closer to the win. Keep going!
I know exactly how you felt, 5 yrs ago I was making so much money on Etsy, I had designer inspired designs in my store, I was warned several times, but I did not listen, they closed my store I was so heartbroken but I had no one else to blame but me. I wish u success in opening ur Shopify store, it’s going to be success ❤
they have threatened me too. can i ask what you did instead or did you set up a new etsy store?
Girl! You are stronger than this. You will recover and thrive. You are not a failure love. Praying for you. You need your own website . Champions do fall and get up. Get up girl! You are fine… keep going
Thank you for telling us your experience so we can learn from it. I know it wasn't easy to share. You will overcome this! Keep going! ❤
I felt every tear, it was like I was listening to myself in your video. That's wild that you can't even use something like "spooky season" or like that TS quote. People use celebrity quotes all the time. 😑 My shop was actually shut down last month (Nov) as well. Same situation- my designs weren't making many sales so I decided to try adding other items. I chose wholesale drop shipping items though. Apparently they just changed their rules, so you can only sell "handmade" things. Even though my sales picked up A Lot, and my shop had great ratings (and despite the fact that SO many other Etsy shops are selling the Exact same items *at Way more expensive prices than I was*) they shut my shop down. The weird part was that it happened the day after I complained about (more like just questioned) an automatic refund on an order that I was already trying to work with a customer on to get my item back so that I could refund their payment. Etsy refunded the order and I never got my item back. 😒 Trust me, I feel your pain. It was already a VERY rough month for me in my personal life, so that didn't help at all. I'm trying to figure out how to move forward now too. I hope you are able to pick up and move on to do great things and I wish you much success. 💜
You are a very talented artist & I love your art & tutorials. You are truly not a failure, even if that is how it feels right now. You tried and that is so brave. Somethings just don’t work out. Please remember you are talented, brave and you are delightful. Please keep your spirits up & believe in yourself. We believe in you. ❤
You are so sweet, thank you so much! I know that I well past this one, but right now it hurts very deep because i was trying really hard and at the same time taking very un-necessary risks and I should have known better. Lesson learned the very hard way :/
Because of your experience with Etsy your next business will be Amazing and completely your own, this is part of your journey to your future success... and story. Don't Give Up!
You can recover. Build a Shopify store and "own" your data. Find a niche, don't use copyrighted material, drive traffic, and build a business "on your own land". I've never sold on Etsy, and if I ever do, I will never try to depend on it. I'll just use it as a marketplace to extend my core business. Best wishes and you can recover from this. As someone who has solely sold on Shopify for the past 7 years, there's lots of hope for you. Time to pivot and upgrade your skillset for the next journey.
Very solid advice!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
shopify also close account those days
Hi Angelica, so sorry to hear your story, I used to draw since childhood and your water colours inspire me so much because I believe its one of the most expressive forms of art. There is something called the "Pareto Principle", which basically states that only 20% of all our efforts in life will ever produce 80% of everything we need, an example would be a company like Apple, which makes cellphones, watches, ipads, computers etc.., and yet the iphone alone brings apple nearly 50 percent of all its revenues. In other words, we may fail often only to succeed only once, even the king of the jungle, the lion, does not succeed out of each and every hunt, but the few times its able to catch its prey is enough to sustain its lifetime. May this be the chance of your lifetime to produce art that is truly uniquely you
Oh, dear, Henry! thank you so much for your kind words. I love your example of the "Pareto Principle" I want to read more about it :) It's just so hard to fail so massively some times. I felt like I was okay with little mistakes here and there, but this one really hurts. I will recover from this one and will try again. :)
Indeed, your artwork is beautiful, most likely you will find a niche market just for you, all the very best @@LoveLetterstoMilo
You are so talented! Etsy is just like social media and look how that went . Start your own website and sell there . If the universe is trying to tell you something it’s that you need to get away from these corporate platforms not stop creating . Look at everything you’ve already accomplished that most only dream about !
Girl, I was crying with you! I feel sooo sad for you! Please, don't give up on your dreams! I don't think for one moment, you're destined to just be an employee for the rest of your life! You are talented, gifted, and blessed! If you focus on the things you did make work and on ALL the successes you achieved, you can do it again on any platform you choose to rebuild your business on! You are NOT a failure...you failed at listening to what you knew in your own heart was right! NEVER allow yourself to become so desparate for success that you comprise your integrity and value! Look at this as a life/business lessons for the next business! NOW you know what NOT to do and it's only up from there! I am praying for you and the restoration of your business and your healed broken heart! You got this, girl! Never give up on YOU or your DREAM! People NEED what you have to offer! Blessings!🙏🏾💖
Hang in there 🤗. I appreciate you and your being real with your challenge and sharing it with us. Many people gloss over the challenges and make it seem like YT and Etsy and other forms of online marketing are so easy, but this isn’t the truth. Keep creating, keep trying new things. ❤ happy to hear you’re going to do some playing tennis 🎾 and getting away for a bit. Exercise does wonders!
Change can be so frightening. I truly feel for you. Please don't feel defeated. Etsy isn't the only venue out there. Just keep up on social media and go to other platforms to sell. You can start your own website and get it established. Then you sell without any of them. You are more than good enough.
I'm almost 75 and I opened an etsy store in May! I had to learn how to use the computer first, then all the apps that had to be hooked up and connected to etsy, it was a huge deal for me, and I"m not selling yet, but I'm not stopping !
@@openyoureyes4799I’m 70 and am considering learning to design digitals and sell them on Etsy or another venue. Thanks for the encouragement and inspiration.❤
I find this whole trademark and copyright thing a little (very much) absurd, but anyway, you were using a third-party platform, so they can make the rules as they like, change them whenever they want (and they do that!) and there's not much you can do. Take it or leave it. But please please please don't take it as YOU being a failure, that is just wrong! Don't give them that much power. F them!
Aww Milena, thank you so much for your support - I know failure is such a strong word, but between failing to follow my intuition, I also feel horrible for using someone else's song lyrics - 100% my fault
And as much as I hate Etsy right now because yes, it feels very unfair - I own my mistake of using song lyrics and using generic phrases like Merry and Bright - I should have stuck to my own designs. Once I bounce back I will exclusively focus on my own designs :) thank you again for your support and taking the time to comment.
How is it absurd for a business to protect their property and rights?
Simple words like this should not be copyrighted! You can’t have Spooky Season or Merry and Bright on anything? You’re right @milenabdesign it is absurd!
@@mindysalmons she didn’t infringe on simple words. But that’s business. People have a chance to object. Most don’t and then cry.
@@SophiaRoseApothecary It's just gone too far, IMO. What should be a protection against foul play became a suing industry. So no one can write merry and bright? I think this so ridiculous I can't even explain if you can't see it.
Your life lesson here is to not build a business using platforms that can ban you at a moments notice! It could be worse, imagine if your revenue was 100k month. These platforms rely on people like you doing all the work, they have rules and policies to protect themselves and they also make judgmental mistakes. Platforms that encourage creators to sell on their platforms are nothing more than leeches that prey on the hopes and dreams of people that are struggling to find a better way. Moving forward it really is simple to build your own website that you have full control of and learn how to get traffic. I wish you every success and never, ever give up!
Bless your heart. You made mistakes ( you didn't murder anyone) STOP beating yourself up and START again, with the new knowledge you have and the creative talent you have, that is SO special to you! I wish you all good things moving forward! Maddi x
The moment any artist creates anything, it is instantly copyright whether it is music, photography, watercolors, film scripts. The bigger issue is that people don't want to create from themselves, they want to live in the sunlight of other creators. You, my dear, can create your own. You don't need people outside yourself - stand in your own power. You can create and once you do the copyright belongs to you. I'm a retired commercial photographer. I've other people lift my images off of Google and utilize for their business. It's gut wrenching to have people steal your work. Again, you have the power within your own life to create. This is a singular lesson, you will remember and you will prevail going forward. Be Strong!
Hi...not sure how I stumbled into your feed. Just want to say I'm so sorry this happened to you. What I want you to know is that all the discipline you developed this time around is real. Your resolve is there. Your creativity and ability to see an opportunity to serve customers is there. It may feel like everything is closing down around you, but everything you did is yours to keep. Working with coaching clients for so long, I've seen this sort of thing happen in many ways. It looks and feels really bad, but really it moves you to a place that works better for you. Once you can take your sadness and move it into anger and then into resolve to get something else going, I know it will be easier this time around because that's how it works! Try to stay out of judgment and close the chapters on your past failures so they are not energized. Accept the lesson learned and move forward knowing you CAN be successful. You can! Look at all you did this time around....keep going and you can still have an amazing Q4! Channel your energy into creation and it will happen! Best to you! 💖💖💖💖💖💖
So sorry this happened to you. It must be crushing. The warning prompted me to go through my shop this morning and take out some things that were on that line (without using the actual words 😅😬). So many sellers rely on the income to support their families. From what I understand, not everyone is even fairly shut down or provided a reason or way to dispute the decision. It’s especially crazy because Etsy is 💯 in the know that some shops openly sell Disney products and violate their rules but if they’re not actually reported by Disney then it gets to stay. I wish Etsy was a bit more humanized so that sellers could try to resolve some issues a bit easier. Some trademarks and copyrights are really crazy too - like trademarks for popular phrases people have been saying for ages or commonly used words in our culture today. I received a copyright infringement notice for a word that was not trademarked and the design itself looked nothing remotely like the complaining party’s (another Etsy seller) . In cases like this, it’s very difficult to dispute or complain that someone is abusing the system and it puts shops in unnecessary danger of getting closed.
I love your sunflower! Etsy is not the only place to make a shop. Honestly I think you should consider making your own designs they are really beautiful.
Your designs are so amazing! Please don’t give up. Sending you hugs and good vibes! Sooner or later things turn around and your shop has business booming again.
I'm so SORRY 😔 I know you worked hard on your shop!
You're not going to be an employee forever, there's always another mountain to climb but you're going to make it! Take a break, relax, but don't quit! And thank you for your vulnerability!
Love your designs. You are definitely meant to be more than “just an employee”. Don’t give up. Keep moving forward.
Aww thank you Jean, you are very kind, I truly appreciate your words of encouragement. I'll bounce back with lessons learned (the hard way) - Much love to you
Sending many virtual hugs your way, my heart breaks for your shop!❤ When I began on Etsy I had one TM flag and learned from that quickly that I was lucky I hadn't posted anything more early on. I think the t-shirt & product based Etsy market is a tough place to be in as far as infringement goes and these are lessons we all learn as we grow as entrepreneurs. When I began I was about to create parodies out of lyrics and luckily didn't after the TM flag. I share this because you are not alone and a lot of people tend to do this when they begin, even myself. You are a blessing on a lot of people's shops in being humble to share your experience on a platform like RUclips. Best advice I can give is to second other commentors in to take a break, recoup, and get back out there once you're ready. Shopify or your own website is a great place to go and I've sold on there in the past that I think you could really make work with your background in social media and your designing and art. You have so much artistic talent here! You also have RUclips & social media and there are so many avenues to work with on RUclips. I'm sure something great is coming around the corner and, again, sending many hugs to you at this time! 💕
Oh Heather! I love your channel and tried to follow all your tutorials and steps, but clearly I missed the mark on the TM lesson :( Your words are very sweet and I truly appreciate the time you took to give me some encouraging words. I am trying my hardest to bounce back with lessons learned of course and look also into other products like you mention in your videos that are not JUST t-shirts :) - keep being sweet and amazing! thank you for all you do for us entrepreneurs = Many hugs your way
No, dear. You are NOT a failure. You see that future is going to be better. God bless you girl. Be brave. ❤
Katia, my dear, thank you so much for the kind words. I'm trying so hard to keep a brave heart and face, but it is a lot right now. I'll try again soon though, learning from my own mistakes the hard way :)
This was painfully honest and so strong of you to share your feelings. Don’t give up!! You are on the edge of something great. So many people “fail” so much before they succeed. Do your own designs! You can be successful; your work is beautiful. You don’t need someone else’s words or ideas.
You're an artist. Start coming up with catch phrases of your own, brainstorm ideas with friends if you need to. Pair your words with your art. And eventually copyright YOUR words. ❤
Omg I am so sorry! I think anyone can make these mistakes so I understand feeling like a failure. We all make mistakes and this is super deflating - especially for Q4 when you were so excited! I feel like there’s such a steep learning curve to being an entrepreneur like you said, RUclips is really hard, Etsy is really hard, it can sometimes feel like an uphill battle but I think the little bit of success that you found even if you had to take it all down showing you that you’re heading in the right direction believe it or not. You’ll just have to be super careful, of course with trademarks. These mistakes certainly teach us powerful lessons. But I want you to know I just opened a Shopify store and in two weeks I’ve made more money than I have in three years on Etsy. 😂😂 Don’t give up! You are incredibly talented and you can do this. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve cried swore I was giving everything up! ❤
I'm so sorry this has happened to you. That said, take this as a valuable lesson learned (and you aren't the only one on Etsy who has had this problem). You can sell your merchandise in many other outlets, so don't let this experience get you down. I believe in you and admire your products and talent.
I’m so sorry this happened to you. I can tell from just the few designs you showed in the video that you’re a talented designer! I’ve tried for almost a year and half now and haven’t come close to having a best selling design, so you have accomplished a lot. Keep your head up and you’ll find a way!
I’m in business 36 years. I left my brick and mortar’s. I opened on Etsy. It did me good for a while and it’s still sitting there. I decided to open my own website 2 1/2 years ago . It was the best decision I ever made (don’t give up ever. ) For the naysayers for the low numbers ,not for anything ,it’s a journey you’re in, not an accomplishment overnight . Keep the positive out there and stay on the journey . Good luck. 🍀
Sorry hun! Same thing happened to me today and I cried. I was only open for a week and permanently suspended without a warning or an explanation. I still don't know what I did wrong. I wish I knew. I'm just trying to make passive income so I can leave my 9-5 that I'm miserable at. Some people I guess aren't the "chosen ones." I don't get how some people on Etsy violate so many terms of services but still get to sell. Probably because they are making Etsy a ton of money. In my opinion it's all a scam..ughh..
Oh my goodness !! I am so sorry this happened to you as well - Hope you were able to recover your account. sending you hugs.
This is my first time coming across your channel. I love that you have put yourself out there and have shown your emotions ❤. You have a dream, and you will succeed, this is just a bump.
It’s unfair to think that simple words such as ‘Spooky Season’ or a super cute Ghost could be off limits. I adore the designs that you have shown in this video.
Hugs
Don’t ever give up! You have good product ideas. Continue with your own designs, your watercolor art in prints, clothing and even cups. If you want to be your own boss you put your mind and energy into your art work. You’ll succeed. Don’t let anyone or anything stop you from your goals! 🤗
The universe is telling you to build your own website that you have control over. It means keep going, you aren’t failing, you are learning. You have done more than most. Take a break and then keep going, keep learning. It’s ok to fail.
That sucks but you knew the risks and still took them to try and gain traction. I know there are tons of Disney and music items on Etsy that seem like they are getting away with copyright infringement. It's only a matter of time before they get caught and get sued. I heard someone sold Disney items in their shop and they took her house. Copyright is a huge deal. If you think something is copyrighted don't even touch it. I know you will learn from this and grow. Thank you for having the courage to share your story with others.
As a graphic designer I'm fully aware of copyright law and I've been tempted to sell my Jack and Sally fringe earrings. I'm thinking just one won't hurt. But I listened to my gut and didn't list them. Then I see tons and tons of nightmare b4 Xmas stuff and I think, what the heck, how are they getting away with this? But merry and bright? Holy crap, I would've never guessed.
Listening to you though, Lesson learned. At least you didn't have to pay them from your profits.
Listen, you're exhausted. Take a break, breath, paint for yourself and yourself alone with no commercial aims for a few days. Then, when you're rested, find a free website/shop platform where you can put whatever you want to sell and put that link in your social media accounts.
Milena, thank you so much for your encouraging words - you are right, I am exhausted from trying so hard and I really need to take time to go back to my art and paint - my heart feels warm and soft when I paint. I need to recharge and re-group. Thank you again
I’m so sorry 😢 It’s heartbreaking to put so much effort into our future and have something like this take place. The worst part is there’s really nobody to talk to on these platforms, they just deactivate. If only they knew how that affects someone.
My best friend had almost 1M followers on FB when they deactivated her account. She was so absolutely devastated but the one lesson learned was not to put all of your eggs in one basket!
Please don’t quit, you are not a failure. You can pick this back up and start over. I know that sounds terrible but I’m sure you are much more knowledgeable and quicker at your listings than in the beginning.
My one piece of advice is to definitely post on other platforms as well and maybe even your website so that if one platform shuts you down you still have other avenues.
You got this and I’m rooting for you! ❤🎉
I don't sell anything but copyright is a big deal. Unless your designs are super super unique it's probably already taken. I'm a massage therapist and tried dozens of names and all were taken. Finally I just used my name.
Business can be cruel at times your artistic skills speak for themselves.
Give yourself time to recover while it’s still raw.
Then pick yourself up dust yourself down and you will come back stronger and wiser
Thank you so much John, I will take some time to re-focus and re-group with my true passion which is my art, learning, exploring and creating - thank you so much for watching and for your kind words :)
You're not a failure. You went on there and tried. Pick your head up, be proud of yourself for the accomplishments you've made, the steps you are taking forward to pick yourself up and get back out there and try again. You got this.
No common words found in the dictionary should be allowed to be copyrighted, even in phrases. What irks me is that food preparers can get away with it and they're not penalized, but other types of media are hunted down and punished. Why, because the evidence can be eaten?
I see some sellers put a link to their online store that's located outside of Etsy in their shop. You could try to establish your own website. Your work is beautiful.
Not the words alone that are copyrighted it's the contacts in which the words are used. If you use popular words, because if its connection to a famous person for example, and you throw it on a sweatshirt under the assumption that you're going to be able to gain profit because of who it is connected to that's when it becomes a copyright issue because at that point, you're now making money off of someone else. At that point, you're not creating anything original, you're not making a product that is inspired from your own creativity. In general, words and phrases cannot be copyrighted, but when people do this, they arent just using general words and phrases. They're taking a phrase from a very specific context for profit,
I’m new to your channel…
I think you should definitely try again! I see sooo many copyrighted things on Etsy! Idk how they select who to ban.. it’s crazy!
Those shirts and sweaters are soooo cute!! 🥰
I think Shopify might be the way to go… I hear so many bad things about Etsy.. maybe this was a blessing in disguise!! Hope everything works out!💛💛💛💛
Its not Etsy that selects who to ban for copyright per se. The owner of the IP has to file a formal complaint and then Etsy has to remove it. And Etsy does make it clear in their TOS that they take this stuff seriously and the consequences🤷🏾♀️ All those people with copyrighted and trademarked items will eventually get caught. They are taking a huge risk too. Just a couple months ago I saw where the company that owns the smiley faces did a mass sweep of Etsy and is suing over 800 sellers for copyright infringement. Even earlier this year there was a big story about Disney suing someone😩 Btw Shopify is not immuned from the infringement takedowns either, if the owner of the intellectual property files a formal complaint, Shopify has to do something about it. Only upside is that Shopify may not have closed her store/banned her from selling outright.
Sorry for your loss. Praying that your next endeavor is successful! This is just a lesson learned. Stay positive and move onward!
Get an LLC, rebrand take what you learned and move forward. You’ve got this. The best is yet to come.
You are crying because you copyrighted infringed on someone else’s work? Girl. Bye.
It does not matter that other people do it. YOU did it and YOU got caught.
A tough lesson. Hopefully you won't repeat it. I think you got of lightly and were lucky not to be sued, so you should be grateful for that at least. Definitely not a fail, just a learning experience. You said you knew, however you did it anyway 😮 Always go with your gut instinct. Stop crying n get back up.
All of these online business opportunities need to have a business 101 and trademark/copyright 101 mandatory courses before you can start selling. With lots of example across all crafts and arts. This is the area where folks get caught up the most.
Please give yourself some grace. Sometimes we have to learn things the hard way and it leads us to an even better place. Clearly you are talented, creative and motivated.
Thank god for Etsy for finally taking down those copyrights violators.
People fail all the time, many times, learn from it, move forward. You don't need Esty to succeed nor do you need anyone's quotes. Your art is beautiful, be you ❤
Thank you so much for your kind words. I will get past this and move on, it's just a bit hard right now. but thank you for taking the time to watch :)
Trust me this is one of the hardest lessons to go thru. Ive been there and its not fun. It did wake me up to the reality that we are playing in their sandbox (Etsy, Amazon, Ebay, RUclips etc) and they can kick us out anytime and for any reason and not even care that we are legitimately trying to just make a living and not scam or violate anyones copyright. Take your time to grieve, heal or whatever you need to do but please don't give up. I believe the reason you started this journey was to be free from the "employee, 9-5 life" because it can be so draining and unfulfilling. Let this make you stronger (and wiser) for the next chapter of being and entrepreneur. These low times will make the high times even better and telling our complete stories, not just the highs, can encourage those who follow us when they face the same issues. Keep the dream alive we are in this together!
im so sorry sis, never give up tho. Universe is NOT Trynna tell you to be un employe !!! Sucess is failing and failing and failing over and over again WITHOUT the loss of entusiasm
Lol... you thought you were gonna quit your job from selling T Swift lyrics! 😂😂😂😂😂 Girl, quit playing. I laughed out loud so hard at this video that I had to show my boyfriend. Then he laughed too. You stated you knew it was wrong but did it anyway. You as an artist would have a better understanding of IP than a lot of folks. And if you didn't get star seller yet but making $6k in revenue then your shop is new at that. You thought you could make a quick buck off of someone else's IP then be like, "but why universe! WHY?!" I don't know why everyone in your comments is patting you on the back, but honestly, be lucky you didn't get sued. Maybe get back to your painting tutorials. You clearly have folks interested in that. But don't cry about stealing IP, making money off that IP, and then having to face the consequences once you got caught. Enjoy the free money you made from someone else's creativity.
LOL! 100% right - but a little empathy, humanity, and being kind goes a long way - people, humans, you and me girl, we make mistakes - I know what I did, I own it and I learned from it - I hope you look at your mistakes the same way - if you don't, I feel sorry for you - hope you get to practice empathy and kindness in your daily life.
Why would you laugh at somebody's pain?
@@LoveLetterstoMilo I have to say that I love your mature response. I hope she learns something from it. This right here tells me that you are going to do just fine going forward.
@crayonseatflesh Does it make you feel good to talk to someone this way? She is taking ownership of her mistakes and showing complete transparency. The reason you see so many comments “patting her on the back” is because those people see the value in being kind.
@@Bekind95 thank you love, lead with kindness 🙏🏽
Don't give up mija!! I just happened to come across this video and I so ❤ the passion you have. Don't give up. Take a break and keep on fighting. I'm rooting for you mija!!! Be blessed ❤
Make your own website...you'll be your own boss.
I've had MULTIPLE take down notices sent to me and I have never had my shop closed. Some of them were ridiculous, too.
Etsy claims to be for handmade items (which you did right) but, in the niche I'm working in, the Aliexpress dropshipped items definitely out number hand made units. I've heard rumours that Etsy will start governing this more closely and enforcing their rules but, so far, there is no evident movement. I'm also wondering if Etsy is, like many other marketplaces, becoming more saturated and more generic. Maybe it's just not that special anymore. The lesson: life isn't fair. We get knocked down, we get up and we move one. You will find a way.
The universe is saying learn form your mistakes, re-align and move forward. I wish you the best!
I believe if we stay focused on our vision through the tears and reach out for support. Yes, the universe will guide you. I had to restructure my business a few times. I not a failure, nor are you. Sending you much LOVE and SUPPORT. There is a bigger door opening for you
Please 🙏 just don’t give up, the universe is passing you through the rough time to build you up and make you stronger. Giving up is not the option, be strong and stand up stronger. I’m building my small business and it’s been rough trying to get customers in. But I just not giving up and I won’t.
Thank you for the insight and sorry this happend, keep the passion alive and never give in or up!
Success comes from lessons learned. Etsy has thousands above thousands of digital files with brands being used in their products. How? I’m new to this and barely starting and by people sharing their lessons learned we learn. Please educate us with all your mistakes and or knowledge. The “why’s “ are important. Sincerely and with respect. I commend you for your willingness to share and educate- that is success! Being honest and vulnerable is not easy. We all just do the best we can, we make mistakes and we learn. Anybody who thinks they know it all have a lot to learn. Thank you for teaching from your lessons learned! That is your calling and can be bigger than you know.
Girl, don't give up. Welcome to entrepreneurship. It's the wildest rollercoaster ride you'll ever take. You'll be tested, fail, and learn, but the key is to not give up. Yeah, you made mistakes, own them, and make the changes. It's your "oops" moment, but the universe is not telling you to give up. The universe is pointing you in the right direction. Focus on what YOU can give the world. Use their words as inspiration to create something else - You got this, don't give up. If you give up now, you'll never know if the next try is the golden egg. :) There are other places to sell; have you considered IG, TikTok, X, your own website...? If Etsy went offline tomorrow, what would you do? Always have your own sales channel in addition to the others; give them only partial control over your business. I'm sending good vibes and best wishes. 💜🤞🏼😉
Dear Mate, your experience... that was really great.. you can simply manage the situation with that experience... you can dear. Just re-start a new shop with your experience... I am a new one in Etsy... just starting my lap... cheers mate. Don't be down.
As an inventor, Edison made 1,000 unsuccessful attempts at inventing the light bulb. And then he was finally successful. Never give up! Learn the lesson and keep trying. I have faith in you! ❤
DONT GIVE UP! There are other online shops about to open. One of them is Michael's Stores. You'll see. Etsy has a big following after Ebay. Others are coming. I read what others said, and they're right. Etsy is just one shop. I battle with feeling like a failure, too. I compare myself to others, in this case, other Etsy sellers. Having your own website with ads on Google is one option as well. Sending you hugs and letting you know you are a great at what you do. NEVER GIVE UP!!! DON'T LET THEM WIN!!!