Become an Etsy Explorer: 5 Tricks for Discovering Hidden Gems

One of the greatest joys of shopping on Etsy is the feeling of discovery—the thrill of stumbling upon a small shop with a unique point of view or finding an item that feels like it was made just for you. Etsy is like the world’s largest artisan market, but it’s easy to feel like you’re only seeing the stalls at the front gate. The site’s algorithm is designed to show you what’s popular, but that can often mean you miss out on the undiscovered gems.

If you’re ready to venture off the beaten path and find items that none of your friends will have, you need to think like an explorer. Here are five simple tricks to look beyond the bestsellers and discover the true heart of Etsy.

1. Think Like a Human, Not a Search Engine

The search bar is your primary tool, but you need to give it better clues. Instead of using simple, generic keywords like “blue vase” or “gold necklace,” try using more descriptive and evocative language. Think about the style, mood, or material. For example:

• Instead of “blue vase,” try “moody ceramic vessel” or “minimalist stoneware ikebana.”
• Instead of “gold necklace,” try “delicate art deco pendant” or “brutalist brass choker.”

Using more artistic and specific terms will help you find sellers who describe their work in a more creative way, instantly surfacing items that are far from generic.

2. Filter by Location to Shop Local (or Global)

The “Shop location” filter is one of the most underutilized discovery tools on the platform. You can use it in two powerful ways. First, type in your own city or state to find and support local artisans in your community, which can also lead to faster shipping times. Second, use it to “travel the world.” Looking for authentic linen? Filter for shops in Lithuania. Want beautiful, traditional ceramics? Try filtering for Portugal or Japan. This allows you to tap into regional craft specialties from around the globe.

3. Follow the “Etsy’s Picks” Badge

While you’re scrolling through search results, keep an eye out for items with a small badge that says “Etsy’s Pick.” This means a real-life style expert from Etsy’s curation team has hand-selected that item for its quality and uniqueness. It’s a seal of approval from a human, not a machine, and it’s a fantastic way to identify shops that are doing something special. You can also find curated collections on the Etsy homepage and blog that are full of these hand-picked items.

4. Dive Into a Seller’s “Favorites”

Here’s a pro-level tip: when you find a shop whose style you absolutely love, navigate to their main profile page. On the left-hand side, you’ll see a tab for “Favorites.” Clicking on this will show you all the other items and shops that this particular seller has personally favorited. Artists and curators tend to have incredible taste, so this is like getting a personal list of recommendations from someone you already admire. It’s a brilliant way to spiral into a whole new world of shops with a similar aesthetic.

5. Browse Other People’s Collections

Just like you can view a seller’s favorites, you can view the public collections of other shoppers. When you find an item you like, look below the main photo for a section that says “Also in people’s carts.” You’ll also see how many “collections” it’s in. Clicking on these collections can show you how other people with similar taste are grouping items, leading you to new products and shops that fit your personal style.

The best part of Etsy isn’t just buying something; it’s the thrill of the hunt. By using these simple tricks, you can step beyond the front page and start discovering the truly unique, personal, and passion-driven work that makes it such a special marketplace. Happy exploring!