To begin, Hayes recommends using Sales Samurai, a tool that provides search volume and competition metrics for keywords. By typing a general term like “pet” into Etsy’s search bar, you can analyse predictive phrases and filter results by low competition (e.g., under 10,000). Hayes demonstrates how sub-niches such as “custom pet portrait pop art” can lead to lucrative opportunities with over 10,000 searches but limited competition.
Additionally, Hayes suggests exploring related searches on Etsy and using the Sales Samurai web tool for deeper keyword analysis. For instance, phrases like “ugly dog portrait” combine high demand (21,000 searches per month) with low competition, making them perfect for niche targeting.