We welcome serious metal artists to apply. In jurying, we look at the following criteria: metalwork, shop setup, photography, professional behavior, originality, and overall quality of work. Once a member is accepted, active participation in the group is required. To be considered, send an Etsy conversaion via the "contact" link at http://etsymetal.etsy.com. Our application (updated for June 2008) is available here.

Etsymetal's membership includes craftspeople who manipulate metal using smithing techniques to fashion decorative and useful objects. Their metalwork employs the use of techniques such as fabrication, forging, heat-joining, cutting, etching, engraving, stone setting, enameling, and casting of their original designs. Applicants who are skilled in multiple metal forming and fabricating techniques will be considered strong candidates for membership. Shops must have at least 15 items at the time of jurying, and 75% of them must incorporate at least one metalworking technique.

We look for shops with a professional setup, including appropriate pricing, complete descriptions, and clear shop policies. Photos must be clear, well-lit, consistent, and show multiple views of the item. Professional behavior (following Etsy's terms of use, behaving respectfully toward other users and the public, and earning primarily positive shop feedback) is important to us, as is originality (cohesiveness, sense of creative direction) and overall quality of work (no visible flaws in workmanship).

In addition to dues paid twice yearly in an amount to be determined by the group each year ($30 total for 2008) Etsymetal requires active participation from its members. In order to maintain their links on the Etsymetal web site, blog and Teams page, members must post at least once per month in the Etsymetal Forum and participate in jurying and voting. Members are encouraged to contribute something to the group in their areas of expertise. All new members are given mentors in order to help them to participate in the group. Members can always take a leave of absence, if for whatever reason they're unable to participate for a period of time.