How to Download Files from Etsy: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

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You’ve just purchased a digital download from Etsy, but are so frustrated because you cannot figure out how to access, download, and actually use them! Let’s fix that.

Are you struggling to figure out how to download digital files from Etsy?

Well, look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the process step-by-step, both on your computer and through a mobile browser, so you can easily access your instant download from Etsy.

IMPORTANT: THE ETSY APP DOES NOT ALLOW YOU TO DOWNLOAD DIGITAL FILES. YOU MUST USE YOUR MOBILE WEB BROWSER, DESKTOP, OR LAPTOP COMPUTER.

Don’t Have an Account? (Checking Out as a Guest)

Before we dive into the step by step instructions of accessing the downloads page, let’s talk about guest checkout. The instructions outlined below are for those who already have account on Etsy. 

If you are checking out as a guest, keep reading. 

When checking out as a guest, you will be asked to enter your email address. This is where your download link will be sent to. 

On your receipt email that is sent once the payment has cleared, you will get access to your digital purchase. If you bought made-to-order items, the files will be delivered once the Etsy seller has completed the project. 

If for some reason you no longer can log into the email that you provided, you will need to reach out to the Etsy shop owner to let them know so they can update your order. 

This is one reason that it is a good idea to go ahead and create an account. That way, all of your files can be stored in one place and are easily accessible later versus having to constantly look for your download notification email. 

Downloading Files from a Computer

Downloading digital files from Etsy on your desktop computer is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to get started:

• Open a compatible browser on your computer and navigate to the Etsy website.
• Log in to your Etsy account using your credentials.
• In the top right corner of the Etsy homepage, click on your profile icon to open a dropdown menu.

• From the dropdown menu, select “Purchases and reviews.”

• You will be redirected to a page displaying all your past purchases. Locate the item you want to download and click on it.
• On the item’s page, you will find a “Download” button. Click on it to initiate the download.

• Depending on your browser settings, you may be prompted to choose a location to save the file. Select an appropriate folder on your computer and click “Save.”
• Once the download is complete, you can open and access the downloaded file on your computer.

Downloading Files from a Mobile Browser

Downloading digital files from Etsy using a mobile browser is a fairly straightforward process. Follow the steps below to successfully download your desired files:

Step 1: Open the Etsy Website

Launch your preferred mobile browser, NOT THE MOBILE ETSY APP and navigate to the Etsy website.

Step 2: Sign in to Your Etsy Account

If you haven’t already signed in, tap on the “Sign in” button located at the top right corner of the site. Enter your login credentials and tap “Sign in” to access your account.

Step 3: Access Your Files

Once your purchase is complete, navigate to your account’s “Purchases & Reviews” section. Find the order containing the file download and tap on it to access the files. You may need to provide additional verification, such as logging in again or confirming your purchase.

Note: It’s important to remember that digital download files cannot be accessed directly from the Etsy mobile app. To download files, you must use a mobile browser as outlined above.

Accessing Downloads That Are in a Zip File

Sometimes sellers may bundle your downloads together, instead of having multiple downloads in your purchase area.

A zip file is a compressed archive that contains one or more files or folders. It’s used to save space and make it easier to send multiple files as a single package.

How to Extract a Zip File

On a PC (Windows):

1. Locate the zip file on your computer.
2. Right-click on the zip file.
3. Choose “Extract All” from the context menu.
4. Select the destination where you want the extracted files to be saved.
5. Click “Extract.”

For Mac Users (macOS):

1. Locate the zip file on your Mac.
2. Double-click the zip file.
3. The Mac’s built-in Archive Utility will automatically extract the contents to the same location as the zip file or a new folder.

When using Android and Apple products (such as iPhone and iPads), the downloads will go to the files folder. If they are stored in a zip file, you may receive an error and they cannot be opened because an additional app is required. You can explore your app marketplace to find the best software if you absolutely have to use the files on your smart phone or tablet. 

Troubleshooting Tips

While downloading files from Etsy is usually a straightforward process, you may encounter some common issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you resolve them:

1. Slow or Failed Downloads: If your download is taking too long or fails to complete, ensure that you have a stable internet connection. A slow or intermittent connection can interrupt the download process. Refreshing the page or trying again later may also help.
2. Incompatibility with the Browser: Etsy recommends using the latest version of a compatible browser to download files. If you are experiencing issues, check if your browser is up to date. Clearing your browser’s cache and cookies can also help resolve any temporary issues.
3. Disabled Pop-up Blockers: Some browsers have built-in pop-up blockers that can interfere with file downloads. Make sure to disable any pop-up blockers before attempting to download files from Etsy. Consult your browser’s settings or extensions for options to disable pop-up blockers temporarily.
4. Unzipping or Extracting Files: If the downloaded file is in a compressed format (e.g., ZIP), you will need to extract the contents before accessing the files. Most operating systems have built-in tools for extracting zip files. Right-click on the downloaded file and select the appropriate option to extract the files.
5. Contacting the Seller: If you have tried the above troubleshooting steps and still cannot download the files, it is advisable to reach out to the seller for assistance. Sellers on Etsy are usually helpful and responsive. Use the “Contact” button on the listing page to send them a message describing the issue you are facing.

Additional Considerations

While downloading files from Etsy, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind:

1. Etsy App Limitations: It’s important to note that digital downloads cannot be directly downloaded from the Etsy app. To access and download digital files, you will need to use a computer or a mobile browser.
2. Etsy Download Restrictions: Sellers on Etsy may impose certain limitations or restrictions on file downloads. These restrictions could include a limit on the number of times you can download a file or an expiration date for accessing the files. Make sure to read the product description or contact the seller if you have any questions or concerns about these restrictions.
3. Alternative Methods: If the recommended methods for downloading files from Etsy do not work for your specific situation, there may be alternative options available. Some sellers may provide alternative download links or offer to send the files via email. Reach out to the seller for assistance and explore alternative methods if necessary.
4. Licensing: Before using your files, be sure you are aware of the licensing agreements. Not all sellers allow for commercial use when it comes to digital art prints, a digital planner, svg files, and other types of digital downloads. If the file is for personal use only, it’s noted in the Etsy listing and usually on the PDF that is sent afterwards. 

Common FAQs: Accessing Etsy Downloads

Can I download digital files from Etsy’s mobile app?

No, digital files cannot be downloaded directly from the Etsy mobile app. You will need to use either a computer or a mobile browser to download your purchased digital files from Etsy.

What do I need to download files from Etsy on a computer?

To download files from Etsy on a computer, you will need a stable internet connection and a compatible browser. Make sure your browser is up to date and supports the necessary file formats.

How do I download files from Etsy on a computer?

To download files from Etsy on a computer, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your Etsy account.

2. Go to your Purchases page.

3. Locate the purchased item and click on the download button.

4. The files will be saved to your computer’s default download location.

What if I want to download files from Etsy using a mobile browser?

If you prefer to use a mobile browser to download files from Etsy, follow these instructions:

1. Open a mobile browser on your device and visit the Etsy website.

2. Log in to your Etsy account.

3. Go to your Purchases page.

4. Locate the purchased item and tap on the download button.

5. The files will be saved to your device, typically in the Downloads folder.

What can I do if I encounter issues while downloading files from Etsy?

If you encounter any issues while downloading files from Etsy, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can try:

– Clear your browser cache and cookies to ensure a fresh connection.

– Disable any pop-up blockers that might interfere with the download process.

– If you’re experiencing slow download speeds, try connecting to a more stable and faster internet connection.

– If the issue persists, you can try using an alternative browser to see if that resolves the problem.

Are there any limitations or restrictions when downloading files from Etsy?

Yes, there may be certain limitations or restrictions imposed by Etsy for file downloads. Some sellers may set download limits or expiration dates for their digital files. Make sure to carefully read the item’s description or contact the seller if you have any specific questions regarding the download terms and conditions.

What should I do if the recommended download methods don’t work for me?

– Contact the seller directly and explain the issue you’re facing. They might be able to provide you with an alternative download method.

– Access your digital purchases through the Etsy website on a computer or mobile browser, as this might offer additional options for retrieving your files.

We recommend reaching out to the seller or Etsy support for further assistance if you continue to experience difficulties.

Takeaways

Now you should be able to download your Etsy files without any trouble. Remember, digital downloads from Etsy cannot be downloaded from the app. Instead, you can download them from a computer or a mobile browser. If you still cannot access your files, try reaching out to the seller.