A family tree store is a retail business—online or brick-and-mortar—that sells genealogy products and services, such as pre-designed pedigree charts, blank family tree templates, custom-made wall art, and DNA testing kits. These stores range from general marketplaces like Etsy and Amazon to specialized genealogy companies like Ancestry or MyHeritage, which bundle software, records access, and DNA tests under one roof.
What a Family Tree Store Actually Sells
Most family tree stores fall into one of three categories, and knowing the difference helps you pick the right one for your project.
- Physical products: Printed pedigree charts, framed trees, poster-size blank templates, and scrapbook-style kits. These are popular for gifts or family reunions.
- Digital tools: Software (e.g., Family Tree Maker, RootsMagic) and subscription-based websites that let you build, store, and share your tree online.
- DNA testing kits: Autosomal, Y-DNA, or mitochondrial tests sold directly by companies like 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and FamilyTreeDNA, often bundled with database access.
Some stores also sell niche items like genealogy workbooks, archival-quality sleeves for old photos, and books on how to trace your family. A few offer custom design services where you send them your family data and they create a decorative tree for you.
How These Stores Work
Online stores typically let you choose a template, enter names and dates, and then either download a digital file or order a printed copy. For custom trees, you usually fill out a form with your family information or upload a GEDCOM file—a standard genealogy data format—and the store’s designers format it into a visual chart.
DNA tests work differently: you order a kit, provide a saliva sample, and mail it back. The company analyzes your DNA and then links the results to your online tree, suggesting relatives who share segments of DNA. Most stores that sell DNA tests also host the databases where your matches appear, so the store and the service are the same entity.
If you buy from a general marketplace like Etsy, the “store” is often an individual seller who creates templates or custom art. In that case, you are not buying a genealogy database—you are buying a design service, and you must supply the family information yourself.
How to Choose the Right Store for Your Needs
Before buying, ask yourself what you actually want to do with your family tree. That answer determines which type of store you need.
- For a simple visual chart: Look for a store that offers blank or fillable templates. Check the number of generations included—most standard charts show 4 to 6 generations, but some go to 10 or more.
- For ongoing research: Choose a genealogy website with a large record database (Ancestry, MyHeritage, FamilySearch). These stores are really subscription services, and the “tree” is a digital tool, not a printed item.
- For DNA matching: Buy directly from a major testing company. Be aware that your data will be used for matching, and read the privacy policy before purchasing.
- For a custom gift: Check customer reviews and ask about turnaround time. Custom tree stores often require you to verify spelling and dates before printing.
If you are new to genealogy, start with free tools like FamilySearch or a blank template from a cheap store. Upgrade to paid services only when you hit a research wall.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
The most frequent complaints about family tree stores involve incorrect data, poor print quality, and hidden costs.
- Wrong names or dates: Always double-check your information before ordering a custom print. A single typo in a great-grandparent’s name can ruin a gift.
- Low-resolution images: If you buy a digital template, make sure it is vector-based or high-resolution (300 DPI) so it prints clearly at large sizes.
- Subscription auto-renewal: Genealogy websites often renew automatically. Set a calendar reminder to cancel if you only wanted a month of access.
- DNA privacy concerns: Some users worry about how their genetic data is stored. Check whether the company allows you to delete your data after testing, and whether they share data with third parties.
Reading recent reviews on independent sites like Trustpilot can help you avoid stores with a pattern of late deliveries or poor customer service.
Comparing Major Family Tree Stores
Here is a quick comparison of the most well-known options, based on their public offerings.
- Ancestry: Largest consumer DNA database and a huge collection of historical records. Best for researchers who want records and DNA in one place. Subscription required for most records.
- MyHeritage: Strong international records, especially for European and Israeli research. Offers photo-enhancing tools and a free basic tree.
- FamilySearch: Completely free, run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Has billions of records, but some are indexed by volunteers and may contain errors.
- Etsy sellers: Great for custom art and printable templates, but you are buying design, not research. No records or DNA.
- FamilyTreeDNA: Specializes in Y-DNA and mitochondrial DNA tests, useful for deep paternal or maternal line research. Smaller autosomal database than Ancestry.
No single store is best for everything. Many serious genealogists use FamilySearch for free records, Ancestry for its database, and a separate store for printed charts.
Costs and What You Get for Your Money
Prices vary widely depending on the product type.
- Blank printed charts: $10–$50 depending on size and paper quality.
- Custom designed family tree art: $50–$300, depending on complexity, number of names, and framing.
- Genealogy software: One-time purchase of $30–$80, or a subscription of $5–$10 per month.
- Online record subscriptions: $20–$40 per month for premium access, with discounts for annual plans.
- DNA testing kits: $60–$200, depending on the type and whether it includes a subscription to the company’s records.
Watch for hidden fees: shipping for large posters, framing costs, and “premium” features that are not included in the base price. Some DNA companies charge extra for advanced tools like chromosome browsers or health reports.
Safety and Privacy Considerations
When you buy a DNA test or upload your tree to a website, you share personal and genetic data. Here are basic precautions.
- Read the privacy policy: Look for whether the company shares your DNA with law enforcement, researchers, or third-party advertisers. As of 2024, most major companies require a warrant before handing data to law enforcement, but policies change.
- Use a pseudonym for your tree: If you are concerned about privacy, you can use initials for living people or keep the tree private.
- Download your data: Most companies allow you to download your raw DNA data, but you may lose access if you cancel your subscription. Check the terms.
- Be cautious with public trees: Avoid posting birth dates or locations of living relatives. Identity thieves can use that information.
For physical products, there is little risk beyond sharing family names with a designer. Still, ask the seller how they handle your data if you upload a GEDCOM file.
Alternatives to Buying from a Store
If you do not want to spend money, you have several free options.
- Free genealogy software: Programs like Gramps (open source) or the free version of MyHeritage let you build a tree offline.
- Handmade charts: Print a free blank template from a website like FamilySearch or use a poster board and markers.
- Library resources: Many public libraries offer free access to Ancestry Library Edition or similar databases. You just need a library card.
- FamilySearch Family Tree: A fully functional online tree with no subscription fee, though it is collaborative—anyone can edit your ancestors’ profiles.
These alternatives lack the polish of a paid custom chart, but they are excellent for beginners or those on a budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy a DNA test to use a family tree store?
No. DNA tests are optional. You can build a tree using only records and family interviews. Many stores sell charts and software without any DNA component.
Can I transfer my tree from one store to another?
Yes, in most cases. You can export your tree as a GEDCOM file from sites like Ancestry or MyHeritage and import it into another service. Some stores charge a fee for export, and not all features (like photos or notes) transfer perfectly.
What is the best family tree store for a beginner?
Start with FamilySearch (free) to learn the basics, then consider a paid subscription to Ancestry if you need more records. For a printed chart, buy a simple blank template from a reputable Etsy seller with good reviews.
How accurate are custom family tree charts?
They are only as accurate as the information you provide. The store does not verify your data. Double-check every name, date, and place before ordering.
Is it safe to upload my DNA to a family tree store?
It is generally safe with major companies, but you should read the privacy policy first. Never upload DNA to a service that does not clearly state how your data is stored and shared.
Can I buy a family tree chart for someone else as a gift?
Yes, but you need their family information. If you do not have it, consider buying a blank chart they can fill in themselves, or a gift card to a genealogy website.
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