When to Use Shopify: A Quick Guide for Artists, Makers, and Small Shops

Shopify is one of the most powerful e-commerce platforms out there, but not everyone needs it. If you're selling products online, it's worth understanding when Shopify is the best fit, and when a simpler setup (like Squarespace or Etsy) might be enough.

What Shopify Does Really Well:

• Built specifically for selling online

• Handles inventory, shipping, taxes, and product variants with ease

• Integrates with payment processors, POS systems, and third-party logistics

• Scales well if your business grows quickly

• An extensive app marketplace to customize your store

Who Shopify Is Best For:

• Artists or makers with a large or growing inventory

• Businesses that sell across multiple channels (e.g., online, in-store, Instagram, wholesale)

• Shops with complex product options, shipping needs, or tax rules

• Anyone serious about e-commerce who wants room to scale

When You Might Not Need Shopify:

• If you only have a few products and don't need advanced tools, Squarespace might be simpler and more affordable

• If you're just getting started and want a built-in marketplace, Etsy can be a great low-commitment option

• If you need a portfolio site plus a small shop, Squarespace often hits the sweet spot

Cost Considerations:

• Shopify plans start at around $39/month, with add-on costs for themes and apps

• You may also pay for third-party apps to get the features you need

• It’s a worthwhile investment if you're doing regular sales, but overkill for a lightweight shop

My Take: Shopify is best when selling is your main focus. If you're an artist or brand with big e-commerce goals, it's worth it. But if your shop is just one piece of your site, or you're selling a few limited items, there are simpler (and cheaper) ways to get the job done.