How I did it: Step One: Find your passion. 
My passion in life is recycling.  Before I throw anything away, I try and divert it from the landfill,  which drives my husband nuts. 
Step Two: Find out what you can do with that passion. 
I took that passion and found that I could make things out of things people didn't need anymore.  Things like magazines, file folders, old chipboard got "upcycled" into punched out hearts, envelopes, and journal backings. 
Step Three: Set up your shop and be prepared to wait. 
Don't worry if nobody is "favoriting" your item.  Edit it, do some research and see what sells.  If someone e-mails you, e-mail them back, promptly, and be available and friendly to your customers. 

Lessons & tips: Tip 1: Really take the time to find your passion.  There are a lot of etsy shops out there and the competition is steep.  The least you can do is to sell something you love to make!  If you're not doing at least that, you're kind of wasting your time! 
Tip 2: Market, market, market.  If your item sells, make sure to add a business card with the order.  Don't be afraid to jump at the opportunity to plug your website! 

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Aug 28, 12:04AM PDT | 1 comment | 15 cheers