The Best Homewares to Source on Etsy
Spilling my sources: what to buy on Etsy by category and the shops to find it
I’d say one in three items in my home is sourced from Etsy (in the past month I got these striped candles, a vintage candle holder, and this fun rainbow necklace). That’s because the online marketplace has such a fantastic selection of unique items, the kind that add so much character and warmth to a home. You’ll find things you quite literally can’t find anywhere else (in America anyway), and they’re typically made better – in some cases custom.
Nevertheless, there’s so much on Etsy, it can be hard and time-consuming to sift through. Luckily for you, I’ve put in many, many hours navigating around Etsy and can recommend the best items for home (and some for the closet too) to source and exactly which shops to find them.
So let’s explore the best of Etsy, by category… (FYI I’m noting with an asterisk the shops I’ve purchased from and can vouch for)
Throw Pillows
Several shops make custom pillows with designer textiles – you can choose the size/shape and in some cases add trim. They’re pricey simply on account of the fabric and labor, but in my opinion, this is one of the most cost effective ways to add character and coziness to a home. For more affordable throw pillows that pack a punch, I’ve also bought artisan-made textiles, like suzanis and ikats, from global shops. Check out my styling guide to throw pillows to get inspiration and find curated pillows that ‘go together’.
Rugs
Think of Etsy like visiting a souk where you can pursue thousands of options loomed by hand. That’s where I found my sisal living room carpet that I adore. Etsy also has lots of richly patterned and colorful rugs to choose from, either vintage or new.
Lamp Shades
Outside of Europe I’ve found it’s very hard to find special lampshades (or they’re an absolute fortune), but there are a few shops on Etsy with options ranging from pleated fabric to intricate cut paper to marbled designs.
Table Linens
Etsy is one of the most affordable places to buy quality table linens. I especially like linens from Lithuania and Indian block print textiles. You can also find custom embroidery and vintage linens. I’ve seen straw table accents at several stores, but the shop below has the best selection anywhere.
Wood Pieces
Etsy is my first stop for simple woodwork pieces, like shelves and pegs. The prices are competitive with the mass brands, but the quality is like out of a woodworking studio — because it is.
Candles
While there are lots of places to buy basic tapers, I turn to Etsy for candles with unique shapes or designs. They’re great for a gift or to change up seasonal decor.
Art & Wall Decor
I’ll admit, you have to dig a little deeper to find good art on Etsy, but it’s there. I especially love the options for kids; several pieces from my recent post Art for a kid’s room that’s charming not cheesy came from Etsy. Etsy is a great source for textiles, many of which work well as wall hangings. Unique frames can be used to elevate photos, homemade art, or cards.
Curtains & Blinds
Etsy has both custom and off-the-shelf options for curtains and blinds. All of the curtains in my home are from Etsy (one is even used as a “headboard”). I was delighted when a prominent interior designer confirmed her chik blinds are from Etsy. You can also find shower curtains, cafe curtains, and even cupboard curtains.
Ceramics
I look for ceramics on Etsy that are not common stateside including slipware, mochaware, Moroccan tamegroute, Romanian Horenzu pottery, and some Italian tableware. I’ve come across hand-painted pieces by artists too.
Vintage Decor
I don’t have one shop per se that I’d recommend for vintage. I find unique pieces all over. The best way to approach is search Etsy with very specific terms (and filter by location too).
Clothes & Accessories
There are lots of niche clothing and accessories shops on Etsy (see Courtney Grow for a comprehensive guide). I really like it for accessories, specifically colorful pareos, bags, and fun jewelry to wear to the beach or jazz up casual outfits.
Can you tell I spend a lot of time on Etsy? What can I say, I love it. There’s just so much to discover. I hope you find this list useful for finding unique pieces to style your home or your outfits.
This week my Substack hit #27 Rising in Design! I want to personally thank you for your support in making that possible. All of the likes, substacks, shares, and subscribes are making a difference.
Until next time!
x Melissa
I am the maker of the striped beeswax candles — thank you so much for featuring them!! Love all of your finds :)
The joss graham chik blinds are my favourite!