The Best Tools for Beginners Starting an Etsy, YouTube, or Online Business (Including My Favorite AI Secret)
Starting an online business sounds exciting until you realize how many tools, platforms, and decisions you have to make just to get going.
When I launched my Etsy shop, started posting on YouTube, and explored affiliate marketing, I quickly learned that simplicity and affordability matter. I didn’t have a big budget or a big team, just big goals and a lot of motivation.
Here are the beginner-friendly tools I actually use and recommend, including one that still feels like a cheat code.
1. Canva (Design Everything Without Stress)
If you’re building a brand, visuals are everything, and Canva makes that part easy.
From Pinterest pins to Etsy mockups, YouTube thumbnails to lead magnets, Canva gives you drag-and-drop templates that look clean and professional. You don’t need any design skills, and the free version is solid.
Pro tip: Use Canva to create high-quality Pinterest pins and even mini landing pages to link out from your bio.
2. InstaDoodle (The AI Video Tool That Feels Like Magic)
This is one of the most underrated tools out there, especially for anyone who wants to make content without showing their face or editing for hours.
InstaDoodle uses AI to create whiteboard-style and animated videos with your script. It’s insanely fast, and the end result looks like something that took hours to make.
Perfect for:
Affiliate product explainers
Etsy product promos
YouTube content
Blog and social media videos
3. Gelato (My Favorite Print-on-Demand Partner)
I use Gelato for my Etsy shop to create and ship custom items like wall prints, mugs, and phone cases without keeping any inventory.
It connects directly to Etsy, handles global fulfillment, and lets you scale without the stress.
If you’re looking to start a POD business without the upfront costs, Gelato is a great place to begin.
4. Gamma AI & Canva (Landing Pages Made Simple)
Instead of using clunky platforms for email signups and product pages, I use Gamma AI and Canva to create beautiful, simple landing pages.
Whether you're offering a freebie, promoting an affiliate product, or linking out to your Etsy store, both tools let you get up and running quickly without coding or stress.
You can even embed videos or use custom links to track what’s working.
5. CapCut (Short-Form Video for the Win)
For TikToks, Reels, and YouTube Shorts, CapCut is my go-to editor. It’s free, mobile-friendly, and surprisingly powerful. I use it to edit riddle videos, promos, and content across platforms.
If you’re new to video, this app makes editing way less intimidating.
Final Thoughts
If you’re just starting out, you don’t need a crazy budget or tons of experience. The right tools can help you move faster, look more professional, and stay motivated through the slow days.
And if there’s one tool that has helped me the most lately, it’s InstaDoodle. It saves time, creates engaging videos, and makes it look like I’ve got a team behind me—even when it’s just me.
Want a free list of all the tools I use to grow my Etsy shop and content channels?
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Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links. This means that if you click on the link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I truly believe in and think could benefit you. Your support helps keep this blog running and is greatly appreciated!
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