I Keep things simple.What you have to realize is the fact that there are thousands of ebayers all on a feedback quest.
This is what i do to build all my new accounts.
I buy a pack of 25 or 50 papermates (pens) per week. I list one as a private auctions starting at 1 penny per piece free shipping. Category office supplies.
Normally Bidders on the quest for feedback will bid each pen up to 1.00 or so.Upon closing I send second chance offers to all bidders.So off each pen listing i sell around 8 on average.
Each listing gets a quick 5 feedback since the bidders want the same as you a quick reputation.
Since the auctions are private no one will ever see what you sold or how much for they will only see the feedback.
Make sure you list also other things non-private so there is a balance and you do not raise any flags.
For a very minimal investment you can gain steady feedback and also balance your DSR just in case you get any negs along the way.
This system has worked for me for many years. You are not limited to pens and you can use your imagination.
These are some of my regulars on all accounts
I have sold pens, pencils
shaped paperclips and call the paper clip sculptures
under art
Garden seeds
my own photography-Digital delivery
plant cuttings
sheets of paper with cute scribbles-My childs art
BS
string spools, sewing needles
screws, nails and so on
jewerly beads. You can buy a huge pack anywhere and sell as randomly picked art beads
Grocery coupons Normally free at all supermarkets
THE KEY IS THERE IS AN UNDERSTANDING THAT PEOPLE WHO BUY AND SELL THESE THINGS DO IT FOR FEEDBACK.Search and you will find many many powersellers do this.
Hope this helps