Your Guide to Printing Etsy Downloads

Found the perfect Etsy artwork? Here’s how to print it!

Etsy is your go-to for the ease of digital downloads, think artwork for Invitations to Art Prints. But what’s next after your purchase? Don’t stress! Printing your digital files is easier than you might expect!

By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to customise and confidently print your new designs. We’ll walk you through finding, editing and preparing your Etsy downloads for printing, step by step. Let’s get started!

@LittleBerryPrintable

Table of contents

What are Etsy Digital Downloads?

How to Find Digital Downloads on Etsy

Preparing Your Files for Printing

The Quick Checklist for Etsy Downloads

Popular Etsy Digital Downloads

Ready to Print Your Etsy Digital Downloads?

What Are Etsy Digital Downloads?

Etsy digital downloads are files you purchase instead of physical products. They’re an affordable and quick way to access unique designs you can print yourself.

There are two main types of Etsy downloads:

Instant Downloads

These files are ready for instant download after purchase, perfect for items like Art Prints or Posters that require no customisation.

In some cases, editable files are also available for products like Business Cards or Wedding Invitations. These allow you to make small changes, such as updating names, dates or addresses.

Made to Order Downloads

Made to order downloads are personalised by the seller after purchase. Ideal for Bespoke Wedding Invitations, Business Stationery or custom designs, the seller customises the file and sends it to you once it’s ready, no further updates needed from your side.

How to Find Digital Downloads on Etsy

Looking for Etsy artwork that is only available to download? Use Etsy’s “Digital Downloads” filter while browsing. It saves time by showing only items available to download, cutting out shipping costs and giving you the flexibility to personalise and print them yourself.

This can be found by heading to the ‘Filters’ option and then under ‘Item Format’ you can select ‘Digital Downloads’.

Preparing Your Files for Printing

Step 1: Download your files

After confirming your transaction, Etsy will email you a download link once payment is complete. If you don’t receive it, you can access your files by going to Your Account > Purchases in your Etsy account.

Note that downloads aren’t available through the Etsy app, use a desktop browser instead.

Step 2: Add your personalisation

This is the step where you can customise the design and add your personal touch. Many Etsy downloads come with editable templates, perfect for items like Invitations or Business Cards that need personal details added. These templates are often compatible with platforms like Canva or Templett, making it simple to adjust text, colours and graphics.

Before you buy, double-check the product description for software requirements. If you’re unsure, reach out to the seller to confirm compatibility. It’s always best to confirm upfront to ensure it will work with a software you’re comfortable using.

Step 3: Export ready for print

On most of our product pages, you can find free downloadable templates to help you set up your artwork in the correct size and format for print. They’re available in Illustrator, Indesign and PDF formats to suit the design software you’re working in. Our downloadable templates include key information for artwork set-up, as well as instructions on how best to export your print-ready PDF. 

If you are using other software like Canva, we recommend checking our Bleed and Safe Area requirements before exporting. Then selecting these three outputs before downloading your designs and sending them to print:

• PDF Print: Save out your file as PDF Print.
• Add Crop Marks: Select the ‘crop marks and bleed‘ box. This means you will avoid unintended white edges when printing to the edge of the paper.
• Colour Profile: Change the profile to CMYK. RGB is the colour mode you see on digital screens (laptop, phone) and CMYK is the colour mode for print. By selecting CMYK, your colours are going to be more accurate.

You can also watch us walk you through these recommendations here.

The Quick Checklist for Etsy Downloads

Before buying, check the following:

• Editable Templates: Can you customise the file?
• Size Options: Does it come in the exact size you need for printing (e.g. A5, A6, A7)?
• File Format: If you’re sending the file straight to print, look for high-quality PDFs.
• Delivery Method: How will you receive the file? It’s usually via email or your Etsy account.

Popular Etsy Digital Downloads

Let’s dive into some of the most popular types of digital downloads you’ll find on Etsy – you might be surprised by the variety and how much they can help simplify your life and projects!

Planners & Checklists

Who doesn’t love feeling organised and on top of things? Etsy is bursting with fantastic planners, to-do lists, and productivity templates. Whether you’re looking for a daily schedule, a weekly meal planner or a project checklist, these downloads are super versatile.

You can print them out as handy Desk Pads, pop them into binders or even turn them into large wall Posters to keep your goals front and centre. It’s a brilliant way to tailor your organisation system exactly how you like it!

@inSpecHome

Wedding Stationery

Planning a wedding can be a whirlwind, but using Etsy’s digital downloads can be a true lifesaver. Think beautiful Wedding Invitations, elegant Save the Dates, charming Wedding Signs for your venue and heartfelt Thank You Cards – all available as instant downloads.

The best part? They’re incredibly easy to personalise with your own details, colours and fonts, making your big day feel uniquely yours without the custom design price tag. It takes a little stress out of the planning, allowing you to focus on the fun parts!

@AmorWeddingTemplates

Business Cards

First impressions matter, especially for small businesses or freelancers. If you’re looking for a professional and polished way to introduce yourself, but don’t have a design background (or the budget for a graphic designer), Etsy’s customisable Business Card templates are a dream come true.

You’ll find a huge range of styles, from minimalist to bold, all ready for you to add your logo and contact info. It’s a quick, affordable, and effective way to elevate your brand.

@DIYPaperieShop

Cards & Invitations

From celebrating milestone birthdays to sending out holiday party Invites or even just a thoughtful Greeting Card, Etsy has a digital design for every occasion. These downloads make it incredibly simple to add a personal touch.

Just download, customise with your event details, and print them out as Postcards or Greeting Cards. It’s perfect for when you need a quick turnaround or want to create something truly unique that friends and family will cherish.

@Aoleta

Art Prints

Ready to refresh your living space or add some personality to your office? Digital Art Prints are an amazing way to do it without breaking the bank. You can find stunning digital artwork on Etsy and then have it printed exactly how you envision it.

Whether you’re dreaming of a gallery wall, a single statement piece, or a themed collection, you have the freedom to choose your preferred paper and printing technique. For a truly premium feel, consider Giclée Fine Art Prints, or go for classic Art Posters or even Canvas Printing for a different texture. It’s all about creating a space that feels distinctly you!

Want to make your life even easier? With our Framed Prints service, you can have your Etsy artwork printed and framed all at once, saving you valuable time. Each piece is thoughtfully finished by hand with FSC-certified wood frames and UV-protective, anti-scratch plexiglass. Plus, even more frame colours are available through our Bespoke Service.

@PinkaJam

Ready to Print Your Etsy Digital Downloads?

Etsy digital downloads make it simple to access and print beautiful designs for Business Cards, Invitations, Posters and Art Prints. With this guide, you’ll know exactly how to turn those files into high-quality physical products that meet your needs.

Whether you’re creating unique business materials, planning the perfect event, or decorating your space with stunning art, this step-by-step guide will help you bring your vision to life. Are you ready to transform digital designs into tangible creations that inspire and impress?