Threads, one of the newest apps from Meta, launched in July 2023 and quickly attracted makers, artists, and small business owners. For many Etsy sellers—especially those in the fiber arts community—the app’s name alone sparked a wave of playful “thread” puns. Thanks to its connection with Instagram, millions of users joined with just a few taps, making the transition seamless for sellers and buyers alike.
Even in its early days, Threads stood out. With a minimalist interface and no ads, the app felt like a breath of fresh air. Sellers began using it not just to scroll, but to build community, test ideas, and connect with new audiences. Here’s how you can start using Threads as a valuable part of your marketing toolkit.
Keep It Simple!
Unlike Instagram, Threads is a text-first platform, where photos or videos are not required to craft a post. It’s much easier to ask for advice, share stories, and delve into deep discussions without the need for polished pictures and eye-catching graphics. In addition, short posts are easily digestible for people with busy schedules.
This gives businesses the ability to keep posting simple. Give quick updates about your day, share something you’re working on, or celebrate a milestone for your business. Not every post should be about promoting your product. You also want to share some behind-the-scenes about your process and life as a maker as well.
Use Your Topic Tag Wisely
Hashtags are quickly becoming a thing of the past on various platforms. Gone are the days when it was necessary to use every hashtag slot in an Instagram post in the hopes of connecting with the most users possible. On Threads, each post has only one (1) tag slot, labeled as a Topic. This helps reduce the hashtag clutter in posts, allowing the body of the post to take center stage. Threads also sorts posts by Topics, allowing feeds to be more relevant and personalized to a user’s interests.
Find a small handful of Topics that are relevant to your business and your target audience and use them to build community and help customers find you. For example, a candle maker might rotate between #ScentedCandles, #CozyVibes, and #HomeDecorSmallBusiness. In addition, the Threads search bar uses these Topics, so they’re a great way to extend your reach!
Engage with Other Posts
Threads is more than a place to promote—it’s a space to participate. Respond to related posts with a heart, comment on other people’s threads, or engage in a conversation related to your customers and niche. You can even help out other sellers, if you have expertise or a tip to share. Spending time within the threads of your target audience can inspire you to create new products, learn about potential pain points you can solve, or gain feedback on new ideas. Engaging with other posts is a great way for more people to find you and see that you are a maker who spends time and energy building community, instead of solely on self-promotion.
Remember: We’re all in this together, and a little kindness and thoughtfulness can go a long way.
Why Threads Works for Busy Etsy Sellers
With only a few lines of thoughtful text, Threads is a great platform for sharing updates, wins, and struggles, while also building your community. Removing the photo and video requirements makes this app more accessible and easier to manage on a day-to-day basis.
Use Topics wisely, join conversations, and most of all—show up as your authentic self. Threads makes it easier than ever to connect with others, grow your reach, and stay inspired as a maker.
Keep the creativity flowing—follow eRank on Threads and stay in the know!
