Should I show “updated version” comparison photos on an Etsy listing?

Hi! Yes—showing an “updated version” comparison photo is usually a net win on Etsy, as long as you present it clearly and briefly. It helps set expectations (which reduces “not as described” messages) and signals you listen to feedback, but you don’t want the old version to look like a second option or make shoppers think they might receive it.

The key is to make it unambiguous that the listing is for the new version only:

• Put your best, clean new-version photos first (cover photo + the next 1–2 images should be only the current colors).
• If you include a comparison, make it one image labeled clearly: “Previous (no longer sold) vs. Updated (current) — listing ships UPDATED version.”
• Avoid wording like “old vs new” without “no longer sold,” because it can read like a choice.

To reduce confusion (and protect you in messages/cases), add a short note in two places:

• Photo text overlay on the comparison image (1–2 lines max).
• First 2–3 lines of your Etsy listing description, e.g. “Updated colors as of [month/year]. Photos show the current version. Older version is discontinued.”

About past buyers feeling unhappy: most won’t notice, and the ones who do are often reassured by “updated based on feedback.” If you’re worried, keep the comparison photo later in the carousel (not near the front), and make sure it doesn’t imply their version was “wrong,” just “earlier palette.”

For the color expectations note, your instinct is right—just keep it specific and buyer-friendly: screens vary, lighting matters, and labels are approximate identifiers rather than exact floss matches. If you can, also show one “real life” photo in natural light so shoppers understand how the sticker sheet looks outside of perfect studio lighting.