A Question For Those Who Etsy...

I ordered a really cute purple and glass elephant the other night off of etsy. I wrote about it here. I paid $3.50 for it, and it had free shipping. Now, let me say right now that I actually look for free shipping when deciding to buy something, because some people have pretty hefty shipping charges. I also don't buy from overseas for that reason. I am cheap, and I know it.

So last night I get a message through etsy from the seller, saying that she is going to mail it today, and depending on the shipping cost, might need me to reimburse her.

What?

If you offer free shipping, then shipping is free...right? Am I missing something here? This afternoon I got another message, saying:

Hi again, I just shipped the package and it was $2. If you would be so kind to send an addtl. $1-2 via paypal I would greatly appreciate it. My paypal addr. is ************* if you agree please send whatever you deem fair as a "gift". I would really appreciate it as I do offer free shipping some times due to distance the shipping is greater than expected and after fees' and all I don't really make much on the sale.
Its up to you how you'd like to handle my request.
Enjoy the elephant!

Is this weird to you guys? I know etsy charges a fee for sales and listings, so is this her way of getting around that? Why not just charge shipping in the first place?

Is it wrong that I do not want to send her any money, because it was not part of the original agreement?

What would you do?

Etsy

I have been doing some reviews of etsy shops on my craft blog. I have so much fun visiting different shops, because there is so much beautiful stuff out there. This is causing me a problem, though. I find myself drawn to shops that have elephants. I also love jewelry, especially earrings and bracelets, and there are so many options.

This is where you can help me. Do you have a favorite etsy shop? Can you recommend a shop you think I would enjoy? Do you have a shop I should check out?

Etsy

I am loving etsy! I'm not selling anything in my shop, but I sure am buying from others. Last night I found the cutest little necklaces for the girls for Christmas, and they were only $5 each! I am so excited! I have seen so many bracelets and earings I would love to have fo myself, but I will wait until after the holidays to spend money on me. The talent and creativity of people amazes me. I also bought some gift tags the other night that are adorable! Head over to kristin's blog to peek at them, cause I bought them from her!

Shipping Solution

Did you know that many online stores and ebay sellers do not ship internationally? I know with my etsy store I don't ship overseas. If you happen to live somewhere other than the US and find that have to have item, mail forwarding can help you make arrangements to get that product to you. You buy the item, and have it shipped to Shipito's warehouse in California. They will then forward the package to you, using super low USPS and FedEx rates. They can even offer assistance with payment if you do not have a credit card. They have two different programs, depending on how often you order things. There is no start up costs. This is a great way for sellers to offer overseas shipping.