Etsy sellers send quotes when a buyer asks for something custom, a large quantity, or a wholesale price list before committing. Buyers often compare your quote to a listing price, other makers, or mass-produced options, so the quote needs to explain what makes the piece custom and how long it will take.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
Create an invoice for payment collection
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Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
Specific details prevent the buyer from imagining a different finish, thickness, or shade than what you plan to make.
Shows how the per-unit price changes at higher volumes and helps buyers decide whether to order more.
Defines character limits, number of lines, fonts, and placement so extra changes can be priced fairly.
Limits unpaid design time and sets the price for additional rounds.
Lead time starts at deposit and proof approval, not when the quote is sent, which matters for event deadlines.
Bulk and fragile orders can have shipping costs that change the total, so state whether it is estimated or fixed.
Spells out what is refundable and what happens if there is a production defect or a late change by the buyer.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Custom design or proof fee (new artwork, layout, mockup) | flat fee | $15-75 |
| Hourly rate for commissioned handmade work | per hour | $20-60 |
| Personalized item (name, monogram, engraving add-on) | per item | $3-15 |
| Bulk order discount (events, corporate gifts, 25+ units) | percent off retail | 10-20% |
| Wholesale price to retailers | percent of retail | 45-55% |
| Rush production surcharge | percent of order | 25-50% |
| Custom or branded packaging (boxes, inserts, ribbon) | per item | $1-5 |
| Domestic shipping on bulk or oversized orders | per box (actual cost) | $8-45 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Add materials with a waste allowance, labor at your target hourly wage, packaging, and fees, then add margin. Quoting from a total rather than guesswork keeps custom orders from becoming unprofitable.
Showing prices for 25, 50, and 100 units lets buyers choose and often increases order size, while your setup time is spread across more pieces.
Material costs and your schedule change. A 7 to 14 day validity period keeps you from honoring old prices or holding a production slot indefinitely.
List the standard timeline and price, then a faster option with its surcharge. Buyers can see the cost of speed without feeling surprised later.
Simple quotes are normally free. For complex custom designs that require sketches, samples, or mockups, many sellers charge a design fee that is credited toward the order if the buyer proceeds.
Seven to fourteen days is typical. Shorten it if your materials have volatile prices or your production calendar is nearly full.
Put a clause in the quote that pricing is valid until a stated date and applies only to the described specifications. If the buyer changes the design or quantity, send a revised quote.
You can, but most sellers set a minimum order value or unit count, such as $150 to $300, so that packing, shipping, and account setup are worthwhile.
Use the Etsy Seller invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Etsy Seller invoice template