How To Create & Sell Printables on Etsy

Looking to start a digital download business on Etsy? This tutorial on creating printable greeting cards on Canva is just what you need.

You’ll learn step-by-step how to design the front and back of a greeting card using Canva, as well as how to create mockup images and a printable file for customers to download. The video also mentions the option of using commercial licensed graphics from platforms like Creative Fabrica.

So if you’re ready to dive into the world of selling printable greeting cards on Etsy, this tutorial has got you covered.

Selling printable greeting cards on Etsy can be a profitable venture, and this Canva tutorial will show you exactly how to get started. The video covers everything from designing the cards using Canva’s free or pro features to creating mockup images and uploading listings to your Etsy shop.

With the help of commercial licensed graphics and a step-by-step process, you’ll be well on your way to selling printable greeting cards on Etsy in no time. So grab your creative hat and let’s create some amazing cards to sell online!

Introduction to selling printable greeting cards on Etsy

If you’re looking for a creative way to make some extra income, selling printable greeting cards on Etsy is a fantastic option. Not only can you tap into the huge market for personalized and unique greeting cards, but you also have the opportunity to showcase your creativity and design skills. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of creating printable greeting cards using a user-friendly design tool called Canva, and then selling them on Etsy.

Benefits of selling printable greeting cards

There are numerous benefits to selling printable greeting cards online. Firstly, the market for printable cards is growing exponentially, as more and more people are embracing digital products. This means that you have a vast potential customer base who are actively seeking customizable and downloadable cards. Additionally, selling printable cards eliminates the need for physical inventory and shipping, making it a cost-effective and low-risk business model. It also allows you to reach a global audience and sell your cards 24/7, without any geographical restrictions.

Tools needed for creating printable greeting cards

Before we dive into the process of creating printable greeting cards, let’s make sure you have all the necessary tools.

The primary tool you’ll need is Canva, an online graphic design platform that offers a wide range of templates, fonts, and design elements. Canva is user-friendly and requires no prior design experience, making it perfect for beginners. You can use Canva for free, but for more advanced features, such as the ability to save images with transparent backgrounds, you may want to consider upgrading to a premium account.

Additionally, you’ll need access to high-quality graphics. Don’t worry – we’ll cover how to obtain commercial licensed graphics later in this guide.

Obtaining commercial licensed graphics

When creating printable greeting cards for sale, it’s important to use graphics that you have the proper licensing for. This ensures that you’re not infringing on any copyrights or facing any legal issues down the line. One popular website for obtaining commercial licensed graphics is Creative Fabrica.

They offer a vast library of high-quality graphics, fonts, and design elements that you can use for your greeting cards. Creative Fabrica offers both free and premium options, so you can choose based on your budget and requirements. It’s always a good idea to read the licensing terms before using any graphics to ensure you comply with the usage restrictions.

Overview of Canva and its features

Canva is a powerful design tool that allows you to create stunning graphics, including printable greeting cards, with ease. The platform offers a wide range of features and design elements to help bring your ideas to life. With Canva, you can choose from pre-designed templates for various occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and more. You can also customize the fonts, colors, and graphics to match your creative vision. Canva’s drag-and-drop interface makes it incredibly easy to use, even for those who have no prior design experience.

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Step-by-step guide to designing the front of the greeting card

Now that you have a basic understanding of Canva and the tools needed, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of designing the front of a printable greeting card.

1. Choose a template: Begin by selecting a greeting card template from Canva’s library. You can search by occasion, style, or theme to find the perfect starting point for your design.
2. Customize the text: Replace the default text on the template with your own personalized message. Experiment with different fonts, sizes, and colors to make it visually appealing.
3. Add graphics and images: Enhance your card by adding graphics or images that complement the occasion. Canva offers a variety of shapes, illustrations, and stock photos that you can easily drag-and-drop onto your design.
4. Play with backgrounds and colors: Experiment with different background designs and colors to create a cohesive and visually appealing card. Canva provides a wide range of options to choose from.
5. Personalize the design: Make the card uniquely yours by adding personal touches, such as your logo, signature, or additional embellishments. This will help establish your brand identity and make your cards stand out.
6. Review and finalize: Once you’re satisfied with the design, take a moment to review it and make any necessary adjustments. Double-check for spelling errors and ensure that all elements are aligned and visually pleasing.

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Step-by-step guide to designing the back of the greeting card

Now that the front of your greeting card is complete, let’s move on to designing the back.

1. Start a new page: Create a new page or copy the design from the front page to the back page of your greeting card template.
2. Add necessary information: On the back of the card, include essential details like your brand name, website, social media handles, and a brief copyright statement. This will help customers remember and find your brand easily.
3. Choose a design layout: Decide on the layout you want for the back of the card. You can opt for a simple design with a solid color background or incorporate additional graphics and patterns.
4. Add any finishing touches: Consider adding a dashed line or a thick border weight around the edges of the card to give it a professional and polished look.
5. Proofread and double-check: Before finalizing the design, carefully proofread all the text and ensure that it is clear and error-free. Pay attention to fonts, sizes, and colors to maintain consistency throughout the card.

Creating a downloadable file for customers

Once you have completed both the front and back designs of your greeting card, it’s time to create a downloadable file for your customers.

1. Export as a PDF: In Canva, select the “Download” option and choose PDF as the file format. This will ensure that your customers can easily download and print the card without any issues.
2. Set the resolution and quality: Make sure to set the resolution and quality to the highest possible settings to ensure that the printed card looks crisp and professional.
3. Double-check the file: Open the downloaded PDF file to check that all elements, fonts, and graphics are intact and appear as you designed them.

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Creating mockup images of the printable

To showcase your printable greeting cards effectively on Etsy, it’s important to create mockup images that give potential customers a realistic preview of what they’ll be purchasing. Fortunately, Canva makes it easy to create these mockup images.

1. Choose a background template: Select a background template that complements your greeting card design. It could be a clean desk, a cozy living room, or a festive holiday setting – choose one that suits the occasion.
2. Upload your greeting card design: Import your already created greeting card design into Canva and position it within the mockup scene. Adjust the size and perspective until it looks natural and visually appealing.
3. Add additional elements: To enhance the mockup image, consider adding complementary elements such as envelopes, ribbons, or props relevant to the occasion. This will give potential buyers a better idea of the final product.
4. Customize and save: Once you’re satisfied with the mockup image, customize it by adding your logo or watermark for branding purposes. Save the image in a high-resolution format, such as JPEG, for optimal quality.

Using Creative Fabrica Spark for design

While Canva offers a wide range of design elements, you may want to explore other options for graphics and fonts to make your printable greeting cards truly unique. Creative Fabrica Spark is a great alternative resource for finding additional design assets.

1. Sign up for a Creative Fabrica Spark account: Head over to Creative Fabrica’s website and sign up for a free account. This will give you access to their extensive library of fonts, graphics, and design resources.
2. Browse and select desired assets: Explore the different categories and collections available in Creative Fabrica Spark. Choose fonts, graphics, or even complete design bundles that align with your aesthetic and the specific occasion you’re designing for.
3. Download and import into Canva: After selecting the assets you want, download them and import them into Canva. Simply drag and drop the files into your design to use in your printable greeting cards.

Designing a standard US letter-size greeting card

While greeting cards come in various sizes, the standard US letter size (8.5″ x 11″) is a popular choice. Let’s now delve into the process of designing a standard US letter-size greeting card in Canva.

1. Create a new custom design: In Canva, select “Custom dimensions” and input the dimensions 8.5″ x 11″. This will set the canvas size to match the standard US letter size.
2. Choose a greeting card template: Browse through Canva’s library and choose a greeting card template specifically designed for the standard US letter size. This will give you a starting point to work with.
3. Customize the template: Once you’ve selected a template, customize it by following the steps outlined in the earlier section on designing the front and back of the card.
4. Save and export: Once you’re satisfied with the design, save the file in Canva and export it as a PDF file, as we discussed earlier.

Setting the dimensions and layout of the card

When designing a printable greeting card, it’s essential to set the correct dimensions and layout to ensure that it prints accurately. Here’s how you can do it in Canva.

1. Open a custom design: Start by creating a new custom design in Canva and enter the desired dimensions for your greeting card. Make sure to input the dimensions in inches or millimeters if you’re targeting a specific size.
2. Adjust the layout: Canva provides layout options like landscape, portrait, and square. Choose the layout that best suits your design and the occasion you’re creating the card for.
3. Set the bleed area: If you plan to include elements that extend to the edge of the card, you’ll need to set a bleed area. This is an extra bit of space beyond the card’s final dimensions that ensures a clean print without any white borders.

Creating a dashed line border and thick border weight

To give your greeting card design a professional touch, consider adding a dashed line border and increasing the border weight. Here’s how you can achieve this effect in Canva.

1. Select the line tool: In Canva, select the line tool from the toolbar on the left.
2. Create the dashed line: Click and drag on the canvas to create a horizontal or vertical line. To create a dashed line, adjust the line style by clicking on the “DASHES” option and selecting a suitable dash pattern.
3. Increase the border weight: To increase the thickness of the border, simply adjust the “Weight” slider in the toolbar. Experiment with different weights to find the perfect balance for your design.
4. Apply the border to the card: Position the dashed line border along the edges of the card, ensuring it fully encloses the design. Make any necessary adjustments in terms of positioning and length.

Centering and locking the design in place

Centering your design within the card is crucial to ensure a visually appealing and professional result. Here’s how to center and lock your design in place in Canva.

1. Use the alignment tool: Select the elements of your card design by holding down the Shift key and clicking on each element. Once selected, click on the “Alignment” tool in the toolbar and choose the appropriate alignment option. This will center the elements on the canvas.
2. Lock the elements: To prevent any accidental movement or misalignment, select all the elements again and click on the “Lock” option in the toolbar. This will lock the elements in place, ensuring they stay centered.

Repeating the design for the back of the card

To maintain consistency and a cohesive design, it’s a good idea to repeat elements from the front of the card on the back. Here’s how you can do it in Canva.

1. Create a copy of the front: If you’re designing the back of the card on a separate page, simply copy and paste the entire design from the front of the card to the back page.
2. Adjust and edit as needed: Make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the elements fit correctly within the designated space on the back of the card. It may require resizing or repositioning certain elements.
3. Add relevant information: Include any additional information that is specific to the back of the card, such as your brand name, website, or copyright statement. Make sure these additions complement the front design and don’t overwhelm the overall aesthetic.

Saving the design as a PDF file

To make your greeting card printable and downloadable for customers, it’s essential to save the design as a PDF file. Here’s how to do it in Canva.

1. Click on the “Download” button: In Canva, locate the “Download” button at the top of the screen and click on it. This will open the download options menu.
2. Choose PDF as the file format: From the download options menu, select the PDF option. Canva will convert your design into a PDF file, ready for download.
3. Set the desired quality: Adjust the quality settings to ensure that the PDF file maintains the highest possible resolution and quality. Remember, a crisp and clear print is crucial for customer satisfaction.
4. Download and save the file: Once you’re satisfied with the settings, click on the “Download” button, and the PDF file will be saved to your device.

Creating JPEG files for printable images

In addition to the PDF file, it’s recommended to create JPEG files of your greeting card design. This allows you to provide potential customers with high-quality printable images. Here’s how you can do it in Canva.

1. Click on the “Download” button: Similar to saving as a PDF, click on the “Download” button in Canva to open the download options menu.
2. Choose JPEG as the file format: From the download options menu, select the JPEG option. Canva will export your design as a JPEG file.
3. Adjust the quality settings: Just like saving as a PDF, adjust the quality settings to ensure the JPEG file is of high resolution, suitable for printing.
4. Download and save the file: After adjusting the settings, click on the “Download” button to save the JPEG file to your device. This file can then be used for preview images or other promotional purposes.

Using elements like background, envelope, text, and ribbon for image creation

To create visually appealing images of your greeting cards, you can incorporate various elements such as backgrounds, envelopes, text, and ribbons. These elements help give potential customers a better idea of what the final product will look like. Here’s how you can use these elements in Canva.

1. Choose a suitable background: Select a background template that complements the theme or occasion of your greeting card. This could be a simple solid color, a textured pattern, or a themed background.
2. Add an envelope: Search Canva’s library for envelope templates and select one that matches the style and size of your greeting card. Position it in a way that mimics how a physical card would be inserted into an envelope.
3. Insert text placeholders: Depending on the design, you may want to add text placeholders to showcase a personalized message or to highlight specific features of the card. Experiment with different fonts, sizes, and colors to find the perfect combination.
4. Enhance with ribbons and embellishments: Consider adding ribbons, bows, or other embellishments to enhance the overall look and feel of the card. These elements can be placed strategically on the front or used as accents on the envelope.

Downloading the images as JPEG files

Once you’ve finalized the design of your greeting card with all the elements in place, it’s time to download the images as JPEG files. These high-quality images will be the ones you use to showcase your printable greeting cards on Etsy.

1. Select the design: Open your greeting card design in Canva.
2. Click on the “Download” button: Locate the “Download” button at the top of the screen and click on it to open the download options menu.
3. Choose the JPEG format: From the download options menu, select the JPEG option. Canva will convert your design into a high-resolution JPEG file.
4. Adjust quality settings if needed: Depending on the intended use of the image, you can adjust the quality setting to your preference. Higher quality settings may result in larger file sizes.
5. Download and save the file: After adjusting the settings, click on the “Download” button to save the JPEG file to your device. Repeat this process for each image variation or mockup scene you’ve created.

Explaining the process of adding a listing to an Etsy shop

Now that you have your printable greeting card designs ready, it’s time to add them as listings to your Etsy shop. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of the process.

1. Sign in and go to your shop: Log in to your Etsy account and go to your shop’s homepage.
2. Click on “Add a listing”: On your shop’s homepage, look for the “Add a listing” button and click on it. This will take you to the listing creation page.
3. Add listing photos: Upload the JPEG images you created earlier as listing photos. These images will serve as previews for potential customers.
4. Provide relevant information: Fill out the listing details, including the title, description, price, quantity, and any variations or options you offer. Be clear and concise, highlighting the features and benefits of your printable greeting cards.
5. Set the appropriate category and tags: Select the most relevant category for your listing to ensure it appears in appropriate search results. Additionally, choose tags that accurately describe your greeting card, making it more discoverable.
6. Determine shipping options: Since your greeting cards are digital downloads, you won’t need to worry about physical shipping. Select the appropriate options that indicate your cards as digital downloads.
7. Review and publish: Take a final look at your listing to make sure all details are accurate and error-free. Once satisfied, click on the “Publish” button to make your listing live on Etsy.

Uploading images and providing relevant information

When adding a listing to your Etsy shop, it’s essential to upload high-quality images and provide relevant information to entice potential customers. Here’s how you can do it effectively.

1. Select captivating images: Upload the high-resolution JPEG images you created earlier as listing photos. Aim to capture the essence of your greeting card designs and showcase them attractively.
2. Show multiple angles and variations: Consider including multiple images that showcase various angles, close-ups, and mockup scenes, allowing potential customers to see different aspects of your greeting cards.
3. Write a compelling description: Craft a descriptive and engaging description for your printable greeting cards. Highlight their unique features, the occasion they are designed for, and any customization options you offer.
4. Provide accurate dimensions and details: Clearly state the size, format, and any additional details about your greeting cards. This will help customers understand the product they are purchasing and ensure it meets their requirements.
5. Specify the printable file format: Indicate in the information section of your listing that the files are in PDF format for easy printing. This will eliminate confusion and ensure that customers are aware of the file type they will receive.

Pro tips for enhancing the listing and customer experience

To stand out from the competition and provide an exceptional customer experience, consider implementing these pro tips for your Etsy listing.

1. Offer customization options: If feasible, provide customization options for your greeting cards, such as the ability to add personalized messages or change colors. This allows customers to make the cards truly unique and tailored to their needs.
2. Include printing instructions: To assist customers who may not be familiar with printing digital downloads, include clear and concise instructions on how to print the greeting cards. This can be in the form of a PDF guide or simply included in the listing description.
3. Offer multiple file formats: In addition to the standard PDF format, consider providing alternative file formats, such as JPEG or PNG. This accommodates customers who may prefer different file types or have specific printing requirements.
4. Provide exceptional customer support: Be responsive and attentive to customer inquiries and concerns. Maintain a positive and professional communication style, and aim to resolve any issues promptly and satisfactorily.
5. Offer value-added bonuses: To further differentiate your greeting cards, consider offering value-added bonuses. This could include matching envelopes, bonus graphics, or even printable gift tags that complement the card design. These extras can help drive sales and enhance the overall customer experience.

Recommendation for accessing royalty-free images through a free Creative Fabrica trial

To access a wide range of royalty-free images for your greeting cards and enhance your design options, we recommend trying out Creative Fabrica’s free trial.

1. Sign up for a free Creative Fabrica trial: Visit Creative Fabrica’s website and sign up for a free trial. This will give you access to their library of high-quality graphics, fonts, and design resources.
2. Explore and download assets: Once you’ve signed up, explore the different categories and collections available on Creative Fabrica. Download the assets you need for your greeting card designs, ensuring that they are within the usage terms of the trial.
3. Incorporate the assets in Canva: Import the downloaded assets into Canva to incorporate them into your greeting card designs. Experiment with different fonts, graphics, and design elements to create unique and eye-catching cards.

By taking advantage of Creative Fabrica’s free trial, you can elevate your greeting card designs and provide customers with visually stunning and engaging products.

Selling printable greeting cards on Etsy can be a rewarding and profitable venture. With the right tools, like Canva and Creative Fabrica, along with a bit of creativity and attention to detail, you can create beautiful cards that customers will love. Remember to continually refine and improve your designs, stay responsive to customer feedback, and promote your listings effectively to maximize your chances of success. Good luck and happy designing!

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