Internet Store Recommendations?

[Kyrraven]

I'd like to have an internet-based shop (rather than using ebay) for both my own artwork/customs and for other toys/items I find that I know are sought after... but I don't know all the options out there or which are best. 

What I do know:

-etsy allows sales of art/customs/handcrafted items, art/craft supplies, and vintage items, and assesses a fee for each item listed (and maybe a sales fee?)

-I've heard of big cartel shops, but don't know much about them, other than that they're less expensive than etsy for the seller.

I've also noticed some arena members sell on other sites (like e-crater) or have their own blog or photo gallery they sell from... or a page on facebook.

What internet stores do you use or recommend, and why?  What, if any, do you avoid at all costs, and why?  Any you haven't used but have heard especially good or bad things about?

Thanks in advance for any info.   



~Kyrraven

[ponylady]

I personally myself prefer ebay. I am protected and they do a fine job of keeping all my sales information together and accurate. I can print my labels straight from there at a small discount. So it's worth the fees to me and the occasional deadbeat buyer.

I am sure someone with some of the other options you mentioned can be of more help. As I looked into other venues and always wound right back to ebay.

[lovesbabysquirmy]

Ebay is really the only one with protection through their system if you play by their rules.  Everyone else leaves it up to the small business to deal with the credit card companies themselves... NOT easy!

[Kyrraven]

Thank you both for your input, Ponylady and LovesBabySquirmy.  I've only just started selling on ebay (though I've sold occasional books on half.com for years) and wasn't sure if any of the other options were better/worse/comparable.

Does ebay work well for original art pieces and/or prints?  Or would those be the exception in terms of convenience and success?

[lovesbabysquirmy]

It can be another form of exposure but I would sell your artwork through mostly art channels - DA, galleries, etc.

[ponylady]

LBS has a fantastic idea there with your art. Because in all honesty I am not sure how well that type of thing does over on ebay.

But it seems on one of those venues people are strictly looking for art, so it makes more sense.