So, you’re finally ready to start your online jewelry or handmade crafts shop. That’s amazing! Whether you’re stringing bead necklaces or pouring soy candles, you need a great website to show off your creations and sell them. But with so many website builders out there, how do you pick the right one?
TL;DR: For creatives and makers, the best website builders are easy to use, look amazing, and include ecommerce features. Shopify is top-tier if you’re all in on selling. Wix is super flexible and fun. Squarespace gives glossy, artsy vibes. Big Cartel keeps things simple for indie creatives. Stick with a builder that matches your goals, budget, and creative spirit!
What Makes a Good Builder for Jewelers and Crafters?
Let’s keep it simple. As a jewelry or handmade business, you need:
- Visual appeal – your work is art, so your site should be too.
- Ecommerce tools – so you can sell directly.
- Ease of use – you’re a creator, not a coder.
- Affordability – you want profit, not crazy costs.
There are several top choices to help you get online fast and look pro.
1. Shopify – Best for Dedicated Sellers
Shopify is like that string that holds all your beads together—strong and reliable. It’s the go-to ecommerce builder for serious sellers. You can manage lots of products, take payments, and track orders easily.
Why it’s great:
- Very beginner-friendly
- Amazing ecommerce tools
- Works well on mobile
- Plenty of jewelry-focused themes
Drawbacks: Monthly cost starts higher than others. Some themes and apps cost extra too.
But if you’re planning to run a full-time jewelry shop, it’s worth the investment.
2. Wix – Best for Flexibility and Fun
Wix is perfect if you want more freedom to play. You can drag-and-drop elements anywhere. There are tons of beautiful templates, especially for crafts and jewelry businesses.
Why it’s great:
- Full creative control
- Offers free plan to start
- Amazing marketplaces and form options
Drawbacks: Too much freedom can be confusing. And the ecommerce features aren’t as deep as Shopify’s.
Still, for side hustlers and design lovers, Wix feels like crafting a digital dream board!
3. Squarespace – Best Aesthetic for Artists
Squarespace is probably the chicest place to showcase your artistry. Its templates are modern, minimal, and simply stunning. Think museum-quality displays for your handmade works.
Why it’s great:
- Beautiful designs crafted for creators
- Good ecommerce tools
- Great support for portfolios and blogs
Drawbacks: Slight learning curve. Design limits when customizing deeply.
If your jewelry or crafts are truly unique and you want a gallery-type display, Squarespace is a gem.
4. Big Cartel – Best for Indie Makers
Big Cartel is like the cozy craft fair stand of the internet. It’s lovingly made for smaller creators and indie artists trying to sell their work simply.
Why it’s great:
- Free plan (up to 5 products!)
- No tech skills needed
- Built for makers and artists
Drawbacks: Limited tools. Not great for big expansions.
Perfect for low-key sellers who just want a sweet, simple shop online.
5. Etsy + Pattern – Best for Built-In Audience
Etsy itself isn’t a website builder, but it has Pattern, which turns your shop into a standalone website. You also get Etsy’s massive customer base without rebuilding from scratch.
Why it’s great:
- Instant audience of 90M+ shoppers
- No product upload limits
- Auto-syncs with your Etsy listings
Drawbacks: Marketplace fees. Less design control with Pattern.
Best as a starter or supplement to your own branded site.
6. Weebly – Best for Simple Selling
Weebly is another user-friendly option, especially since it was bought by Square. It has simple ecommerce features, clean designs, and good value for money.
Why it’s great:
- Super easy to use
- Integrates with Square POS
- Low pricing plans
Drawbacks: Not ideal for fancy styling or scaling up.
If you just want to set it, forget it, and sell your goods—Weebly delivers.
Tips for Choosing the Right Builder
Struggling to choose? Here’s how to narrow it down:
- Volume: Selling lots? Go Shopify or Squarespace.
- Design freedom: Like playing with layouts? Try Wix.
- Low on time/skills: Keep it super simple with Big Cartel or Weebly.
- Already loving Etsy: Pattern could be your next move.
Also, think long term. Can this platform grow with you as your business blooms?
Features You Should Always Look For
Regardless of the builder, make sure you get these basic features:
- Mobile-friendly design (so phone shoppers don’t miss out)
- Secure checkout (goodbye fraud worries!)
- Inventory management (yes, even for one-of-a-kinds)
- Image galleries (your photos = key to sales)
- SEO tools (so customers can find your glittering goods)
Final Sparkle
There’s no one-size-fits-all website builder for creators, but the good news is, there are lots of beautiful options. Whether you’re selling wire-wrapped crystals or watercolor prints, the right platform will make your work shine online.
Just remember: you’re the artist. Pick the canvas that lets your work dazzle. 💎