Are Your Etsy Finds Really Unique? You Might Be Getting Tricked By Temu Resellers
Etsy was once the go-to platform for finding unique, handmade, and vintage items from small businesses. But recent reports suggest that this might not always be the case anymore. Many shoppers could be unknowingly buying mass-produced items that resellers are marking up for a hefty profit.
According to Etsy’s guidelines, “reselling mass-produced items is not allowed” and “everything listed for sale must either be made, designed, handpicked, or sourced by” the sellers. However, TikToker and therapist Dr. Madison Perry (@drmadisonperry) recently shared a viral warning: some sellers are breaking these rules and misleading buyers. 
Perry’s video, with over 37,000 views, explains that some Etsy shops are reselling items from platforms like Temu and SHEIN—often at 10 times the original price. She highlights that shoppers who think they’re supporting small businesses may actually be buying from resellers who are flipping these mass-produced items for a massive markup.
Evidence from Buyers
Many viewers of Perry’s TikTok confirmed similar experiences. One user shared, “I saw a painting on Etsy for $85, then randomly found the same one on Temu for $2.50!” Another added, “I used to shop Etsy all the time until I realized the same items were way cheaper on Temu.”
This practice has left many feeling misled, as they thought they were purchasing unique, handmade products. Instead, some of these items are mass-produced and sold for a fraction of the price on other sites.
What is Etsy Doing About This?
Etsy CEO Josh Silverman addressed these concerns in 2023, announcing efforts to combat the misuse of the platform by resellers. One step the company has taken is implementing a filter to remove any items that are also listed on Temu.
“We’re very focused on suppressing visibility on items that are not handmade because the Etsy brand is about things that are made just for you, made by the maker,” Silverman explained.
How to Protect Yourself as a Buyer
Perry also shared advice on how to avoid getting duped. She suggests that if you find an item on Etsy, check to see if it’s available on Amazon or Temu at a lower price. For instance, Perry pointed out a bowl selling for $199 on Etsy, which could be found on Amazon for just $40, and even cheaper on Temu.
Supporting true artisans is still possible—just take a few extra steps to verify the authenticity of the items before making your purchase.
