One Little-Known Trick I Use To Grow My Etsy Shop Faster

Etsy is fiercely competitive platform, where sellers are constantly looking for ways to stand out.

Apart from this blog, I also sell linen sets (think comfy shorts, trousers, tops, skirts, and dresses) on Etsy, I dropship globally from Portugal.

While TikTok, Instagram, and other social media platforms can serve as part of your marketing strategy, it’s important not to forget about good, old-fashioned cards/booklets – aka printed materials to send in the post.

I’ve learned that offering something special in the post—beyond the product itself—can make a big difference.

One strategy that has helped my business grow faster is including printed booklets and a unique approach to discounts.

Why print marketing still works

It may seem counterintuitive to use print marketing in an age where social media and email dominate.

But the truth is, something tangible—like beautifully designed booklets—can surprise and delight customers in ways digital methods can’t.

When my customers open their package, not only do they find their new linen set, but they also discover a high-quality booklet showcasing my entire range of styles.

It’s a physical reminder of the variety I offer, and it stays with them long after the unboxing experience is over.

My booklet includes:

* Professional photos of my linen sets, styled in different ways for inspiration

* Descriptions of new and upcoming collections

* Care instructions for the linen, which adds value to the product and ensures longevity

But the real game-changer?

My discount strategy: why I offer discounts on second orders, not first

Most online businesses offer discounts to new customers to encourage that first purchase.

I take a different approach.

Inside the booklet, I include a special discount—but it’s only there for their second valid order.

Here’s why it works:

✔️Avoiding the discount trap

Offering a discount upfront often attracts bargain hunters who may not be interested in the product itself. By delaying the discount to the second order, I’m attracting customers who are genuinely interested in my linen sets and are likely to become repeat buyers.

✔️ Building trust first

When customers make their first purchase, it’s usually based on product images, reviews, or descriptions. By offering a discount for the second order, I’m encouraging them to make that first purchase without focusing too heavily on price. It allows them to fall in love with the product and the quality, creating a positive experience before offering any discount.

✔️ Incentivising loyalty

Once they’ve received their first order and experienced the product firsthand, the booklet serves as a gentle nudge to return for more.

With the discount tucked inside, they’re more likely to order again sooner, turning first-time buyers into loyal customers.

Why it’s so effective

Including print marketing, like booklets, in my shipments has noticeably accelerated my sales. By tracking the special code used by first-time buyers on their second and third purchases, I can clearly measure the impact of this strategy.

It gives me a precise way to see just how effective my print marketing efforts are.

The booklet offers inspiration on how to style the linen sets and a behind-the-scenes look at my brand.

Also, the delayed discount adds an element of anticipation. Instead of the discount devaluing the initial purchase, it enhances the customer’s experience and appreciation for the product before luring them back for more.

How you can apply this strategy

The principles behind this strategy can be applied to any Etsy shop or small business.

Here’s how you can do it:

✔️ Design a booklet with a clear purpose

Ask yourself: What do you want your catalogue to achieve? Are you promoting a new product line? Offering a limited-time discount? Or simply introducing your brand to a new audience?

Identifying this goal early will help shape the content and layout, as well as how you approach the entire project, so it’s important to go into the design with a clear sense of purpose. Everything from here on out needs to point back to your objective—whether it’s boosting traffic to your shop or increasing sales.

Use Canva, You Love Print services, or hire a graphic designer to create a mini catalog or booklet. Showcase your products, provide styling or usage tips, and include any special care instructions that add value.

✔️ Use high-quality imagery

When it comes to selling products, the visuals you use are exceptionally important. Aside from the fact that people need to be able to clearly see your products, this is your opportunity to really shine and show off your talent for crafting.

You don’t need to organise professional product shoots. These days you can use AI tools like Midjourney.

Lighting and composition is important too. Make sure the photos you choose match the style and spirit of your business, and remember that a picture is worth a thousand words…but in any printed media, it’s often worth a lot more than that.

✔️ Create a cohesive brand experience

The booklet shouldn’t feel like an afterthought. It should reflect your brand, from the colors to the tone of voice, making it a seamless extension of the online shopping experience.

By combining the tactile nature of print with a strategic discount plan, you can create a powerful marketing tool that builds customer loyalty and increases sales without devaluing your brand. Give it a try—it’s the one little-known trick that’s helped my Etsy shop grow faster.