In this blog post, I will share my experience of setting up an Etsy store using AI tools. As someone who often dedicates time to side projects, I decided to explore generative AI in my latest venture. The idea was to determine whether AI could be used to create products faster and more efficiently. I set up a print-on-demand business through Etsy, which meant that all picking/packing, production, inventory, and fulfillment could be achieved remotely. My goal was to create designs, pay both Etsy and Printables for their services, and make a profit from the sales.
The Creation of Morley Space
For my store name, I wanted to incorporate the steampunk aesthetic that I had in mind. While playing the game Dishonored, I came across the name Morley, which I thought suited the theme perfectly. I used ChatGPT and MidJourney to create the store's identity. I asked MidJourney to generate a 1940s style color cartoon of a steampunk era artist studio for my banner. Although I didn't like the first set of pictures it produced, I was able to get variants that I eventually incorporated into the banner with Photoshop. It only took around 30 minutes to get my banner designed thanks to MidJourney's assistance.
Next, I needed a slogan for the store and asked ChatGPT to generate 20 snarky slogans for a company named Morley Space. It came up with "Because the final frontier is just too darned far," which I found fitting. For the owner's name, I asked ChatGPT for Victorian-era British first names and settled on Thomas and Elizabeth. I wrote a 250-word bio for Thomas Morley, including details about Elizabeth, and used it for the store description on the home page.
AI Art Tools
AI art tools like ChatGPT and MidJourney were essential in setting up my Etsy business. The ability to create designs quickly and efficiently was crucial to the success of my venture. With these tools, I was able to create a unique aesthetic for Morley Space. The print-on-demand model of Etsy also meant that I didn't have to worry about inventory or packaging. I could focus on designing and let the service providers handle the rest.
Conclusion
Overall, using AI art tools like ChatGPT and MidJourney, I was able to launch my Etsy business quickly and efficiently. With their help, I created a unique aesthetic for my store and didn't have to worry about the logistics of fulfillment. These tools were crucial in making my venture a success, and I highly recommend them to anyone wishing to start their own Etsy business.
