Etsy is cracking down on AI slop. Here’s what’s changing.

Etsy is tightening its rules around AI-generated content to prevent misrepresentation of products. Announced on October 22, the new policy bans AI-generated patterns, recipes, and instructions that buyers rely on to complete a product. Sellers must now provide a real example of their creation using those instructions in addition to any AI-generated images.

Etsy emphasizes AI should enhance, not replace, sellers' craft skills. For most listings, sellers will need to include at least one unedited photo showing the actual product against a real background. Digital, customized, and made-to-order items may have different requirements. Misleading listings could result in refunds, shop removal, or removal of individual listings.

While AI-generated art remains allowed with clear disclosure, AI-generated recipes, patterns, and functional guides are prohibited. Etsy aims to use technology to detect misleading images and provide guidance for appropriate AI use.