Most videos/posts I’ve seen to date note that in order for Pinterest affiliate marketing to be successful you need a website. However, building a website is time consuming and I did see some social media posts about doing it without a full blog or website. So, I wanted to find out a bit more about this. I started by watching this tutorial:
The video breaks down realistic steps for beginners, and it convinced me to give it a go—without a personal site for selling products (yes I have this website but it’s not related to actual products). Here’s my honest experience so far, including what worked, the hurdles I hit, and tips to help you get started safely and effectively.
Why Pinterest Affiliate Marketing Without a Blog Is Possible (But Tricky)
Pinterest is a visual search engine with millions of users in a “shopping mindset”—people browse for ideas, products, and inspiration. The platform allows affiliate links directly in pins, making it a great spot for affiliates.
That said, many experts (including the video) recommend having at least a simple website or blog. Why? Some affiliate programs require one for approval, and it gives you more control and flexibility long-term. However, it’s definitely possible without one if you choose the right programs and follow Pinterest’s rules strictly.
A quick Google search for “affiliate programs no website required” reveals options like ClickBank, certain Rakuten merchants, or Awin that accept social profiles. Amazon Associates (my starting point) often asks for a website or app during signup, so I had to navigate that by using this blog.
Key Rules to Stay Safe on Pinterest and Avoid Spam Flags
Pinterest cracks down on spammy behavior, so compliance is non-negotiable:
• Use full affiliate links — No URL shorteners, cloakers, or redirects. Pinterest flags these and may limit or ban your account.
• Disclose affiliate links — It’s the law (FTC guidelines and Pinterest rules). Add “#affiliate” or “This post contains affiliate links” in the pin description or on the image itself. Make it obvious!
• Create original, valuable content — Don’t just copy-paste product photos from Amazon. Use them in collages, add your own text overlays, lifestyle shots, or short videos. Adding your perspective builds trust and boosts reach.
• Preferred method: Product tagging — If available in your country (it’s in the UK, US, CA, and many others), tag products directly in Pinterest. This makes pins feel native, includes built-in disclosure, and often performs better.
• Direct links as fallback — If tagging isn’t an option, add the full affiliate URL in the pin’s destination field—as long as you follow disclosure and originality rules.
The video emphasizes these best practices and links to Pinterest’s official guidance for affiliate links.
My Setup Process Step-by-Step
1. Created a Pinterest Business Account
I switched to a free business account for analytics and richer pins. Follow me, it’s a bit quiet: hustlingandbustling0679. Join and say hi—I’d love some followers to get the ball rolling.
2. Joined Amazon Associates
I applied through Amazon’s program. The form asked for a website or app, so it wasn’t as “no-site” friendly as hoped. Some regions or accounts get approved with strong social presence, but I suspect a basic site might help “play the algorithm” for approval. Once in, linking was easy—open the Amazon app, share a product, and grab your affiliate link (example: https://amzn.to/3LXUnDt).
Note: For payouts in real money (not just Amazon credit), set up a dedicated bank account. I used Revolut—quick to open and keeps things separate from personal finances.
3. Created My Pins
I’ve made four pins so far:
• Two saved directly from Amazon product pages – not recommended by the above video but it’s quick and easy so I thought it’s worth a try. This is also the kind of thing I’d pin on my personal account rather than the canva type images:
• Two custom ones in Canva. I added text, different visuals, and my own spin e.g. why I like the product:
4. Uploaded my pins:
I clicked on the create pin button and I filled out the form, with a title, then a description (I used Grok to help me write this, to include keywords, SEO and hashtags), plus most importantly I added my affiliate link disclosure. This is an image of what you might see:
Follow this link to see how it views on Pinterest itself https://pin.it/7BtztICF5
Early Results and What I’ve Learned
After 6 days:
• Total Pinterest stats: 79 views and 10 clicks across the four pins.
• Amazon Associates: 45 product clicks—but zero sales yet 😭.
Amazon commissions are on the lower side (especially for beginners), so I’m planning to explore higher-paying programs like digital products on ClickBank or niche merchants.
The key takeaway? Consistency matters. Pinterest rewards regular, high-quality pinning. One-off pins won’t gain traction—aim to add more weekly.
Next Steps and Final Thoughts
I’m going to create more pins (mixing Canva designs and direct product images), test other affiliate programs, and focus on niches with better commissions. Persistence is everything—don’t get discouraged by slow starts.
If you’re thinking of trying Pinterest affiliate marketing without a blog, start with the video I linked—it gave me a clear roadmap. Follow the rules, create value, and be patient. But perhaps create a very simple website, just to give you a few more affiliate programme options.
I’ll update this post in a month with progress, sales (hopefully!), and any new tips. Have you tried Pinterest affiliates without a site? Drop your experiences below!
