Etsy Isn’t Handmade Anymore. But These 8 New York-Based Makers Are
Etsy Isn’t Handmade Anymore. But These 8 New York-Based Makers Are
Etsy, once celebrated for its focus on handmade and artisan-crafted goods, has evolved into a marketplace that now features mass-produced items. As a result, small, local artisans are facing challenges standing out amidst mass production. However, some New York-based creators continue to uphold the tradition of genuine craftsmanship, especially in sectors like natural skincare and wellness. Here are eight New York-based makers who still deliver authentic, handmade goods, many using natural, eco-friendly ingredients.
The Evolution of Etsy: From Handmade Hub to Marketplace Megastore
Founded in 2005, Etsy began as a digital marketplace for independent artists and crafters to showcase and sell one-of-a-kind, handmade items. However, recent years have seen a shift toward mass-produced products from overseas manufacturers, which has diminished the handmade reputation Etsy once held. According to recent reports, over 90% of Etsy’s top sellers now rely on third-party production, leaving smaller artisans to fight for visibility.
This trend has fueled a demand for local makers who produce truly handcrafted items. These artisans maintain transparency, source materials responsibly, and contribute to sustainable production practices, thus helping to preserve the community-driven nature of handmade goods.
Why Local Makers Matter
Choosing local artisans over mass production offers several benefits:
Transparency: Know exactly where your products come from and the materials used.
Sustainability: Local creators often use eco-friendly materials and production techniques.
Economic Impact: Supporting local businesses helps maintain a thriving community, as nearly 50% of each dollar spent locally stays within the community compared to just 14% when spent with larger corporations.
8 New York-Based Makers Who Champion Handmade Goods
Here are some artisans based in New York who continue to create products the old-fashioned way—using natural ingredients and maintaining a personal connection to the craft.
Brooklyn Candle Studio (Brooklyn, NY)
Specializes in hand-poured, eco-friendly candles made with 100% soy wax and natural fragrances.
Website: Brooklyn Candle Studio
Fort Makers (Brooklyn, NY)
Known for art-inspired furniture, lighting, and home goods crafted in small batches by local artisans.
Website: Fort Makers
Goods for the Study (New York, NY)
Offers custom-made stationery and writing tools crafted with care and traditional methods.
Website: Goods for the Study
Fferrone Design (New York, NY)
Specializes in hand-blown glassware, each piece meticulously created to reflect minimalist designs.
Website: Fferrone Design
CW&T (Brooklyn, NY)
Makers of precision-crafted pens, tools, and small gadgets that last a lifetime.
Website: CW&T
Haptic Lab (Brooklyn, NY)
Creates hand-stitched quilts and kites using traditional craftsmanship methods.
Website: Haptic Lab
Katie Kimmel (Queens, NY)
Handcrafts quirky, pop culture-inspired ceramics that are both functional and artistic.
Website: Katie Kimmel
Alder New York (Brooklyn, NY)
Known for plant-based skincare products, including handmade formulations crafted in small batches.
Website: Alder New York
The Challenges of Competing with Mass Production
Despite the growing popularity of handmade goods, local makers still face significant challenges:
Rising Fees: Etsy's fee increases make it difficult for smaller sellers to compete.
Competition with Mass Producers: Many larger companies dominate the market with lower-priced, mass-produced items.
Customer Expectations: With fast shipping and low prices becoming the norm, many local artisans find it challenging to maintain profitability.
Supporting Local Artisans and Handmade Goods
If you’re interested in supporting genuine handmade items, here are a few tips:
Shop directly from maker websites to ensure that more profit goes to the artisans.
Attend local maker fairs or visit markets to meet the creators and see their products firsthand.
Look for detailed product descriptions, which offer insights into the materials, process, and inspiration behind the products.
By supporting small, local creators, you help maintain the integrity of the handmade movement and encourage sustainability.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Authentic Craftsmanship
As Etsy continues to evolve, local artisans in New York and beyond uphold the spirit of true craftsmanship. For those looking for natural, handmade wellness products, there are still plenty of makers who offer goods made with care, attention to detail, and plant-based ingredients. One such product is Pain Solve by Jane The Rebel—a 100% natural pain relief cream formulated with CBD, menthol, arnica, lavender, and white willow bark to help alleviate discomfort naturally. Discover Pain Solve here.
