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How do I get an Etsy listing reinstated after it was wrongly deactivated as mass-produced?

Anonymous • tomorrow • 1 answer

I run an Etsy shop where everything is handmade, and I use my own original photos. One of my long-running best-selling listings was recently deactivated with a notice suggesting it might be mass-produced, even though it isn’t.

I’m not sure what Etsy typically needs to review in cases like this. Has anyone successfully had a listing reinstated after a mistaken policy flag, and what information should I provide to improve my chances?

Answers

Hi! Yes—people do get listings reinstated when Etsy flags them as “mass-produced,” but the appeal usually succeeds only when you give Etsy very clear, “process-level” proof that you made/designed it (not just pretty finished photos).

If your listing was removed under Etsy’s Creativity Standards, go to Shop Manager → Policy violations and open that listing. If you see View & appeal, submit the appeal there (it’s per-listing). In the appeal, Etsy typically wants to see how the item is made, step by step, plus who is involved in production.

What to include to improve your chances

  • A simple step-by-step workflow (bullet points are fine): materials → key steps → finishing → packaging. Be specific (tools, techniques, approximate time, what you do personally).
  • Process photos/videos (best evidence): raw materials, your workspace, tools, in-progress shots at multiple stages, and you actively making it. A short timelapse can help a lot.
  • “Behind the scenes” proof that matches THIS exact product: partially completed versions of the same design, batches in progress, components laid out, custom jigs/templates you use, etc.
  • If any part is outsourced, disclose it clearly: list every person involved (even family help) and any production partner. If you use a production partner (even for printing, casting, laser cutting, etc.), make sure it’s set up in your shop’s production partner settings and explain your role (design files, specs, approvals).
  • Supporting documents (optional but helpful): supply receipts/invoices for raw materials, sketches/mockups, design files/screenshots, communications with a production partner (if applicable). Anything that shows authorship and hands-on creation.

A few common mistakes that weaken appeals

  • Only uploading glamour shots of the finished item (Etsy usually treats that as not enough).
  • Saying “handmade” but the listing description/photos don’t show the process or your involvement.
  • Not mentioning outside help when there is any (Etsy can deny appeals if they think you’re hiding outsourcing).

Quick “alignment” check before you submit

  • Your listing’s “Who made it?” / category choice matches reality (made by you vs designed by you + production partner).
  • Your description doesn’t sound like a wholesale catalog (sizes/variants are fine—just avoid factory-style wording).
  • Your shop sections (About, photos, videos, FAQs) consistently show you making the work.

After you submit, Etsy typically emails a final decision after review. If you don’t see an appeal option for that listing, it usually means appeals aren’t available for that specific removal type in your account yet—then your best move is contacting Etsy Support and providing the same “process proof” in your message.

If you tell me what you sell and how it’s made (e.g., sewn goods, jewelry, printmaking, laser cut, 3D printed, etc.), I can suggest the most convincing 6–10 process shots/videos to upload for your specific production method.

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