How to open your Etsy affiliate account

Etsy's affiliate programme runs through the Awin affiliate network. You need to create a free Awin account first, then apply to join the Etsy programme within Awin.

Commission Rates

Etsy offers a commission on qualifying sales made through your affiliate links. Key details:

Commission rate: Typically 4% on qualifying sales
Cookie window: 30 days (you earn a commission if the customer buys within 30 days of clicking your link)

The 30-day cookie window is significantly longer than Amazon's 24-hour window, making Etsy a valuable addition for many niches.

Step-by-Step: Opening Your Account

1. Create an Awin account

Awin is the affiliate network that manages the Etsy programme. Visit the link below and sign up for a free publisher account:

🔗 https://www.awin.com/

During signup you will need to provide:

Your name and contact details
Your website URL (use your FreshStore URL)
A description of how you plan to promote products
Your payment details for receiving commissions

Awin charges a small refundable deposit when you sign up (usually $1/£1). This is returned to you once you reach your first payment threshold.

2. Apply to the Etsy programme

Once your Awin account is active, apply to the Etsy programme. Choose the link that matches your region:

USA: https://ui.awin.com/merchant-profile/6220
UK: https://ui.awin.com/merchant-profile/6091
Europe: https://ui.awin.com/merchant-profile/10723
Rest of the World: https://ui.awin.com/merchant-profile/10690

Click "Join Programme" on the Etsy profile page. Etsy will review your application, which can take a few days.

3. Wait for approval

You will receive an email when your application is approved. If you don't hear back within a week, check the status inside your Awin dashboard under "Programmes".

Tips for Getting Approved

Have a live store with content. Etsy is more likely to approve your application if your store has products and articles.
Describe your promotion methods clearly. Explain that you run an affiliate store and will link to relevant Etsy products.
Apply to the right region. Choose the Etsy programme that matches the country where most of your visitors are based.

Finding Your Tracking ID

Your Awin tracking ID (also called your publisher ID) is the same for all programmes you join on Awin. You can find it on the left-hand side of your Awin dashboard, underneath your account name:

🔗 https://ui.awin.com/user

Adding Your Tracking ID to FreshStore

Once you have your Awin publisher ID, add it to your store:

Log in to your store dashboard
Go to Store > Settings > Affiliate Settings
Find the Etsy section and enter your Awin publisher ID
Click Save

For a full walkthrough of adding tracking IDs for all merchants:

🔗 How to add your affiliate tracking IDs

Which Niches Work Well with Etsy?

Etsy specialises in handmade, vintage, and unique products. It works especially well for:

Home decor and interior design
Jewellery and accessories
Wedding and event planning
Art and prints
Crafts and DIY supplies
Personalised and custom gifts

If your niche includes unique or artisan products that aren't available on Amazon, Etsy can be a great additional merchant.

Questions and Troubleshooting

My application was rejected

Make sure your store is live with quality content and try again after a few weeks. Adding more articles and products will improve your chances.

Can I use one Awin account for multiple stores?

Yes. Your Awin publisher ID works across all your FreshStore stores.

How do I get paid?

Awin pays monthly once you reach the minimum payment threshold. You can set up bank transfer or other payment methods inside your Awin account.