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Should I add a drawing timelapse video to Etsy print-on-demand hoodie listings?

Anonymous • tomorrow • 1 answer

I just opened an Etsy shop with a few print-on-demand hoodie listings that feature my own illustrated designs. I’m deciding what kind of listing video to add.

Would a timelapse of me creating the artwork be appropriate and helpful for POD listings, or is it usually better to show the finished hoodie (for example, worn by a person) so buyers can judge fit and print quality?

Answers

Hi! For a print-on-demand hoodie listing, the most helpful Etsy listing video is usually one that shows the finished hoodie (on-body if you can, or at least a clear “real-life” mockup), because buyers are mainly trying to judge fit, fabric weight/drape, and how the print looks in normal lighting. An artwork timelapse can still be a great add-on for trust and storytelling—but it typically works best as a secondary video (or used in your shop’s About/brand content) rather than the only listing video.

If you can only pick one video, I’d prioritize the finished hoodie:

  • On-body clip (best): quick front/side/back, natural movement, and a closer pass over the print so people can gauge size/placement and “hand feel” visually.
  • If you can’t film a real sample: use the best mockup you have and make it feel real (slow pan/zoom, show multiple angles, include a close-up of the design area). Just avoid anything that looks misleading compared to what POD customers will receive.

Where the artwork timelapse shines:

  • It signals “this is original art” (helpful in crowded POD niches).
  • It builds connection and can improve conversion for buyers who care about supporting artists.
  • It gives you extra content for Etsy updates/social, and it can reduce “is this stolen/AI?” skepticism if your style is detailed.

A simple combo that works well (if you’re able to make two videos across your listings over time):

  1. Primary listing video: finished hoodie (fit + print close-up).
  2. Secondary/rotating video: 5–10 seconds of timelapse + 1–2 seconds of the final hoodie image at the end (so it still answers the buyer’s main question).

One important tip: whichever route you choose, make sure your Etsy listing photos also clearly show print size/placement (front/back), and include a size chart in the images/description, since POD apparel returns can be tricky if someone orders the wrong size.

If you tell me which POD provider/blank you’re using (like Bella+Canvas, Gildan, etc.) and whether you have a physical sample in hand, I can suggest a super simple shot list that fits that hoodie style.

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