Since I create printable artwork and sell it on Etsy, I get asked the “how to print digital downloads from Etsy” question all the time. It is a fairly straightforward process, but there can be a few little idiosyncrasies that can cause some hiccups along the way. To make things easier and to have a written record, I created the below ‘How-To’ guide so there would always be a place to look for any questions that arise.
This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something though these links, we may earn a commission. Thanks!! Featured image source from left to right: Undeniable by NLS Design – Abstracts on Etsy and Neutral Beach Grass by NLS Design
What is an Etsy Digital Download?
First, what exactly is an Etsy digital download? An Etsy digital download is any electronic file that you save to your computer. It is not a physical product. Digital downloads usually come as JPEG, PNG, SVG, DOC, or PDF files. You will see one of these markers at the end of the file name. In my case, I sell artwork as JPEG files in several sizes. You will see listings on Etsy that are labeled digital download, instant download, printable, digital printables, etc….
Benefits of Etsy Digital Download Printables
Why on earth would anyone want a printable file instead of an actual printed product? The main benefit to printable digital downloads is that they are a lot less expensive. You can get high quality artwork, planners, invitations, organizers, etc… for a lot less than you would if the artist did the printing and sent it to you – and there are no shipping charges. No one likes shipping charges.
The second benefit is that you then own the file. You can reprint it until your heart is content. You can also print it in different sizes or formats from your own computer or any photo printing place. If the printed version gets wrecked for any reason, no worries, print it again.
How to Download Etsy Digital Printable Files
So, you’re on Etsy and you find an instant download that you like and want to buy. I always recommend creating an Etsy account, it’s free, so that way you always have a clean record of what you’ve bought. It makes finding things a lot easier. I also recommend doing this all on a computer since it is easier. If you want to purchase and download using your smartphone or tablet, do not try and use the Etsy app. Bypass the Etsy app and go to Etsy.com in a browser and purchase and download as if you were on a computer.
Once you have your account and you’re all signed in, purchase the digital download like any regular purchase you do online and/or on Etsy. Once your transaction is approved and payment is cleared (wait a minute or two for Etsy to catch up), you will have access to your file instantly. Navigate to your Etsy account (under your name/avatar icon in the upper right-hand side of your screen) and go to Reviews and Purchases. You will then see your purchase and the download button to all the files you have purchased to the right.
If you don’t have an Etsy account, or even if you do, Etsy will also be sending out an email with a download link. If you cannot find your download, not to worry, message the seller and ask them to send you the file over email or through messages.
Once you click the download button, your file(s) will save to your computer or smart device, usually under documents or files, wherever you have it set up to save. You are now in possession of your files!
Where can I Print Digital Download from Etsy?
Once you have the file, you are going to want to get it printed. For simple Word files, organizers, planners, etc… that are the standard 8.5×11, I would simply print them on your home computer if you have one. If you purchased artwork or larger size files, I would recommend a professional photo printing place online. Any place where you usually get photos printed is a good bet. You can also go with professional photo labs if you want a very high quality look or specialty paper.
If you would like one of my images, you can buy them through my shop with Fine Art America. You can also have them matted and framed right through there as well.
If you buy a different printable image, a few places that I have tried myself or that I have heard good reviews from my customers:
If you want to have your images printed, framed and/or matted all in one swoop, I would look at one of these:
Printique (formerly AdoramaPix)
How to Print Digital Downloads from Etsy
The last step is the easiest. If you are choosing a retailer to print your images, you can do it very easily online in one transaction. Simply navigate to your online retailer of choice and follow their instructions. Look for a photo prints and/or enlargements link/button, upload the file that you saved to your computer, choose the size you would like, paper, and finish. I always recommend a matte finish photo paper or giclee print for printable artwork. Once your image is ready, you can either pick it up or have it shipped to you. All done!
How to Frame Printable Artwork
For those that want to frame and even matte a piece of printable art, see my recommendations above for online retailers. This can be a little pricier, but if your budget allows, it can save you time. You can also easily buy your frames and mattes separately. A lot of frames come in standard sizes with mattes included or easily purchased in the same location. I have had good luck with hobby stores like Michael’s and big box retailers like Bed Bath and Beyond and Amazon.
For more ideas on hanging and framing printable artwork, check out my post How to Hang Artwork Without Nails or Damaging Walls.
Learning how to print digital downloads from Etsy is not a long or difficult task, but it can seem a little overwhelming for those who have never done it before. Printable artwork and digital files are easy to use, can save you a ton of money on your home décor budget and are a lot of fun to use once you get the hang of it.
