Podcast Episode 210: The Hottest Etsy Trends for 2026

WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/xmyVvDbi6Jo 

EPISODE SUMMARY:  

In this episode of "How to Sell Your Stuff on Etsy," I, Lizzie Smiley, dive into a variety of topics that are essential for anyone looking to launch, grow, or scale their Etsy shop. I start by sharing a personal update about my family's Thanksgiving, which was unexpectedly spent at home due to illness. Despite the setback, I reflect on the importance of making the best of any situation.

As we transition into the holiday season, I discuss the excitement surrounding Black Friday and the evolving strategies for sales promotions. I suggest that next year, we should consider doing a dedicated episode on Black Friday strategies, as I believe there's a lot to unpack regarding how consumer behavior has changed.

In a fun twist, I introduce a new project I'm working on with my daughter: creating a pet influencer account featuring our pets, including our new hedgehog named Pecan (also known as Wanda). This endeavor not only allows us to share our love for animals but also serves as a teaching moment for my daughter about marketing and social media.

I also announce that I'm looking for podcast guests for 2026. I encourage listeners who have made at least 100 sales on Etsy and have valuable insights to share to apply to be on the show. I emphasize that many of you are more qualified than you think and that I want to hear your stories.

Next, I remind listeners about my upcoming FAQ episode, inviting them to submit their questions through a dedicated link to ensure I can address them effectively.

The main focus of this episode is a comprehensive trend report, sponsored by my Trendspotting membership. I share insights from extensive research on projected trends for 2026, including color palettes and overarching design movements. I discuss the significance of embracing AI in design, the rise of naive design characterized by hand-drawn elements, and the resurgence of heritage revival aesthetics.

I also explore the neo-minimalist trend, which emphasizes thoughtful simplicity, and the boldness of maximalism, which celebrates vibrant colors and layered patterns. Additionally, I touch on retrofuturism, blending nostalgia with futuristic elements, and the cozy charm of Grand Macor, which brings back traditional crafts with a modern twist.

Throughout the episode, I encourage listeners to embrace these trends in their own shops, highlighting the importance of authenticity and emotional connection in design. I conclude by inviting everyone to join my Trendspotting membership, where they can access weekly trend reports, listing ideas, and coaching calls.

Thank you for tuning in! I appreciate each of you for being part of the "How to Sell Your Stuff" community. I can't wait to see you next week when we welcome back Becca, who will share an exciting update on her digital product shop. Until then, go make something awesome!

EPISODE DETAILS 

It's time for another Etsy Trends episode!!!! Today we’re exploring the design shifts shaping buyer behavior as we head into 2026. These are the cues that can help you plan smarter, design intentionally, and create products that really resonate with shoppers in the year ahead.

**“How to Sell Your Stuff on Etsy” is not affiliated with or endorsed by Etsy.com 

STUFF I MENTIONED: 

⭐ Try Trendspotting: https://www.howtosellyourstuff.com/offers/JxNYgLnw

Use code KEEP20 to try your first month for just $17, rebills at $37/month

Upcoming Trendspotting Bonuses:

🗓️ Dec 15 - Evergreen Niche List

🗓️ Dec 22 - 2026 Goal Setting Guide

🗓️ Dec 29 - The Hottest Fonts of 2026

🗓️ Jan 5 - Complete Digital Planner (that you can resell)

🗓️ Jan 12 - Mockup Bundle for Digital Products (with prompts)

🗓️ Jan 19 - Design Templates

🗓️ Jan 26 - Recorded SEO Masterclass

🦔 Petfluencer handle for Insta/TikTok: @TailsofTwoHomes

🎙️Apply to be on the Podcast: https://sprw.io/stt-xfsV5fhDxxT3NJGVBghmWp

💡 Submit your questions for the upcoming FAQ episode:

 https://sprw.io/stt-dEeCxhdfYaf3eqBYohD7fZ

Colors of the year:

Benjamin Moore:  Silhouette AF-655 

Rich espresso brown with notes of charcoal

https://www.elledecor.com/design-decorate/color/a69034685/benjamin-moore-color-of-the-year-2026/

Behr: Hidden Gem-- A smoky jade green

https://www.behr.com/consumer/inspiration/2026-color-of-the-year/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=brand&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=14432388671&gbraid=0AAAAADkfjhVbFdqCzMYil1rMqa0P7oQqN&gclid=Cj0KCQiAubrJBhCbARIsAHIdxD8OnS65zRJdwoStdexqwO0nKCjVyzoeDlDKfB4PBdmqQQf6ia14gzAaAieuEALw_wcB

PPG has named Secret Safari—a yellow green with lime undertones

https://www.ppg.com/en-US/industrialcoatings/color/coty

Sherman Williams is projecting a few different palettes including:

Icy cool toned pastels

Bold warm fiery colors like natural clay, buttery yellow

Sophisticated dark nocturnal colors—think dark neutrals with a moody edgy

Foundational neutrals (interesting—it seemed like other sources are saying they’re out)

https://www.sherwin-williams.com/en-us/color/color-collections/colormix-forecast/2026

GREAT TREND RESOURCES:

➡️ https://datumcp.com/top-graphic-design-trends-to-watch-in-2026

➡️https://www.kittl.com/blogs/graphic-design-trends-2026/

➡️https://www.hemispheredm.com/latest-trends-in-graphic-design-defining-2025

➡️https://elements.envato.com/learn/graphic-design-trends

FAN FAVORITE RESOURCES:

🎙️Apply to be on the Podcast: https://sprw.io/stt-xfsV5fhDxxT3NJGVBghmWp

✅ 2,000 Digital Product Prompts (only $17): https://lizziesmiley.samcart.com/products/2000-digital-product-prompts

 🎉 Lizzie’s Coaching Group (one time fee = life time access): https://www.howtosellyourstuff.com/lizzie-smiley-s-coaching-group

➡️ Beginner Course: Six Figure Secrets to Getting Started on Etsy: https://www.howtosellyourstuff.com/six-figure-secrets  

Use code SAVE50 to save $50

➡️Trendspotting Membership: https://www.howtosellyourstuff.com/offers/JxNYgLnw  

Use code KEEP20 to save $20 on your first month

Get weekly emails with a trend report, over 200 high demand listing suggestions (POD/Digital), and a monthly group coaching call!

➡️ Lizzie’s AI Workshops: https://www.howtosellyourstuff.com/ai-workshops  

Save $50 with code SAVE50

----------------------

FIND LIZZIE:

Find me on Instagram and TikTok @HowtoSellYourStuff 

Apply to be on the Podcast: https://shorturl.at/skDBs

HOW TO SELL YOUR STUFF WEBSITE: https://www.howtosellyourstuff.com/ 

HOW TO SELL YOUR STUFF SHOWNOTES: https://www.howtosellyourstuff.com/blog/210