50 Easy and Profitable Things to Make and Sell

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into a world of creativity and opportunity! Whether you aim to build a side hustle, add a unique touch to your gift-giving, or simply seek the satisfaction of crafting something beautiful with your hands, you’ve landed in the perfect spot. Our carefully curated list of 50 incredible craft projects doesn’t just promise hours of crafting joy; it also opens the door to exciting possibilities for generating extra income.

From sparkling handmade jewelry that catches the eye to aromatic candles that set the mood and from cozy knitted treasures to upcycled masterpieces, there’s something for every skill level, interest, and entrepreneurial spirit. So, whether you’re a DIY novice or a seasoned pro, these ideas are bound to inspire, motivate, and potentially pad your wallet. Let’s unleash your creativity and explore how you can transform your crafty inclinations into lucrative ventures!

The Quick List of Things to Make and Sell

According to printify, Many Etsy sellers earn between $100-$500 per month as a side hustle. And Full-time sellers often make $1,000-$5,000 per month. Furthermore, top performers in popular niches can generate $10,000+ monthly revenue. A typical profit margin for handmade or custom items on Etsy ranges between 20% and 50%.

Art and Decor

According to Gelato, Top performers in the art and collectibles category can make over $65,000 per month.

1. Illustrated Prints – Art prints for home decor.
2. Macrame Home Decor – Wall hangings or plant hangers.
3. Wooden Signs – Personalized or with quotes.
4. Glass Art – Stained glass, fused glass pieces, or blown glass.
5. Photography Prints – Your own work printed for display.
6. Custom Portraits – Commissioned art of people or pets.

Clothing and Accessories

7. Knit or Crochet Items – Scarves, hats, blankets, and sweaters.
8. Personalized T-shirts – Unique designs or custom orders.
9. Handbags and Totes – Fabric or leather.
10. Leather Goods – Wallets, belts, bracelets.
11. Embroidered Items – Clothing or decorative pieces.
12. Customized Phone Cases – Unique designs or images.
13. Enamel Pins – Various designs for accessories.
14. Silk-Screened Items – Applied to clothing or bags.

Jewelry and Beauty

15. Handmade Jewelry – Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings.
16. Beauty Products – Natural skincare items.
17. Perfumes and Colognes – Crafted with essential oils.
18. Aromatherapy Products – Essential oil blends or diffusers.

Home Goods

19. Scented Candles – Various scents and jars.
20. Pottery – Ceramic items for the home.
21. Upcycled Furniture – Refurbished items.
22. Terrariums – Miniature landscapes.
23. Ceramic Plant Pots – Handmade, possibly personalized.
24. Stickers and Decals – For home decor or personalization.

Food and Kitchen

25. Gourmet Sauces or Jams – Homemade and bottled.
26. Homemade Pasta – Fresh, maybe flavored.
27. Spice Mixes – For cooking.
28. Herbal Teas – Dried herb and flower blends.
29. Organic Baby Food – Homemade nutrition.
30. Plant-Based Snacks – Healthy homemade options.
31. Homemade Bread – Artisan loaves or specialty bread.

Crafts and DIY

32. Bath Bombs – Various scents, colors.
33. Soaps – Handcrafted with natural ingredients.
34. Wooden Toys – Durable children’s toys.
35. Pet Toys – Fun and durable.
36. Custom Bookmarks – Various materials.
37. 3D Printed Items – Gadgets or decor.
38. Seed Bombs – For easy flower or herb planting.
39. Hand Puppets and Dolls – Unique designs.

Stationery and Office

40. Planners and Notebooks – Handbound or decorated.
41. Greeting Cards – Handmade or printed.
42. Custom Stationery – Personalized paper goods.
43. Custom Jigsaw Puzzles – From personal photos.

Unique Services and Kits

44. Digital Artworks – Sold as digital files.
45. Embroidery Kits – For beginners or projects.
46. Subscription Boxes – Curated themed items.
47. Vintage Finds Restoration – Restored antiques or collectibles.

This numbered list should give you a comprehensive overview and categorization of different items you can make and sell, organized neatly under various headings to cater to various interests and skill sets.

1. Illustrated Prints

What They Are: Illustrated prints are unique pieces of art transformed into physical or digital formats for sale. These usually encompass various subjects, from intricate animal illustrations and serene landscapes to whimsical character art or detailed architectural sketches. The magic of illustrated prints lies in their ability to turn a blank space into a statement piece, giving individuals a chance to own and display art that resonates with them personally or enhances their living space.

How to Create and Sell Illustrated Prints:

Developing Your Artistic Concept:

• Start with a concept or theme that you are passionate about. For instance, if you love wildlife, you might focus on creating a series of detailed animal illustrations. This specialization can help you stand out in the market.

Creating the Illustration:

• Decide on your tools. While digital tools like Adobe Illustrator and Procreate offer undo options and easy alterations, traditional mediums like ink, watercolor, or graphite can appeal to those who appreciate hand-drawn art’s tactile feel and authenticity.
• If working traditionally, ensure your final piece is on high-quality, heavyweight paper that won’t degrade or yellow over time. This step is crucial for the longevity of your prints.
• For digital artists, work in a high resolution (at least 300 DPI) to ensure your printed artwork maintains its clarity and detail.

Printing Your Artwork:

• Research printers to find one that offers the color accuracy and paper quality your art deserves. Consider local print shops with fine art printing capabilities or online services specializing in giclêe prints for their ability to produce high-quality, archival-standard prints.
• Select a paper that complements your work. For vibrant, color-intensive designs, a glossy finish might bring out the richness of your colors, while a matte finish could better suit delicate, detailed line work or black-and-white illustrations.

Marketing and Selling Your Prints:

• Build a portfolio website showcasing your range of work, making it clear that these illustrations are available as prints. Include details about the print process, paper quality, and shipping to inform potential buyers.
• Use social media platforms, especially visually oriented ones like Instagram and Pinterest, to build an audience. Regular posts featuring your creation process, finished pieces, and occasional behind-the-scenes looks can engage followers.
• Consider platforms like Etsy for a ready-to-go marketplace, where art collectors often look for unique finds. Ensure your shop has a cohesive look and feel, using your art style to influence your shop design and product photography.
• Attend local art fairs or markets where customers can see the quality of your prints in person. This venue can also provide direct feedback on your work and pricing.

Packaged With Care:

• Your packaging can make a significant impression. Use sturdy mailers or tubes and include a personal touch, such as a thank-you note or a certificate of authenticity for your prints, which can encourage repeat business and positive reviews.

Developing a collection of illustrated prints requires artistic skill and a thoughtful approach to presentation and marketing. By focusing on your unique style and utilizing various platforms to reach your audience, you can create a successful venture that celebrates your artistic vision.

2. Macrame Home Decor

What They Are: Macrame home decor includes wall hangings, plant hangers, curtains, and even intricate furniture pieces, all made using the macrame technique of knotting cords and strings into patterns. These chic and bohemian creations can transform indoor and outdoor spaces, adding a touch of warmth and personality. Macrame decor is highly sought after for its handmade, detailed craftsmanship, appealing to those seeking to add both texture and character to their homes.

How to Create and Sell Macrame Home Decor:

Developing Your Macrame Skills:

• Begin by mastering the basic knots. Resources are abundant online, with tutorials covering everything from simple square knots to more complex patterns. Practice these techniques with various cord types and thicknesses to understand their unique effects on the finished product.

Designing Your Pieces:

• Draw inspiration from current home decor trends, nature, or your own creativity to design pieces that are both beautiful and functional. Seasonal variations, like lighter colors for spring or leaf patterns for fall, can help your items appeal year-round.
• Experiment with different materials, incorporating beads, wooden rings, or even dyeing your cords to add color and texture.

Crafting Your Macrame:

• Invest in quality supplies. Good-quality cords, a steady supply of accessories like beads, and sturdy hanging apparatuses can elevate the overall appearance of your macrame pieces.
• Create in batches to streamline your process, especially if you’re making smaller items like keychains or coasters. For larger, more complex pieces, focus on one at a time to ensure quality and detail.

Marketing and Selling Your Macrame:

• High-quality images are key. Showcase your macrame’s textures and details with clear, well-lit photos that capture the artistry of your work. Lifestyle shots, where your decor accents a living space, can also help potential buyers visualize the items in their own homes.
• Leverage social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, which are visually oriented and perfect for showcasing handcrafted items. Engage with your community by sharing your process or offering macrame tips, which can help build your brand.
• Consider setting up a shop on platforms like Etsy, which is known for its unique, handmade, and vintage items. Ensure your shop policies, shipping details, and item descriptions are clear to potential buyers.
• Attend craft fairs and local markets to display your work. Direct customer interaction can provide invaluable feedback and help spread the word about your creations.

Presentation and Packaging:

• Packaging your products thoughtfully can make a big difference. For larger items like wall hangings, ensure they are safely packed to avoid tangling. Include care instructions and, if possible, a small kit for easy hanging.
• Personal touches, such as a thank-you note or a brief story about the inspiration behind the piece, can enhance the unboxing experience and connect the buyer to your craft meaningfully.

Creating and selling macrame home decor is not just about knotting cords together; it’s about weaving passion into every piece and sharing it with the world. You can turn your macrame skills into a thriving business with creativity, a knack for trends, and an engaging online presence.

3. Wooden Signs

What They Are: Wooden signs encompass a wide range of creative and functional pieces that serve as decor for homes, offices, gardens, and events. From welcome signs that greet guests with warmth to personalized nameplates for nurseries and even inspirational quotes to adorn living room walls, the versatility of wooden signs makes them popular and cherished items. They can vary in complexity, from simple painted plaques to intricately carved masterpieces, each reflecting the maker’s skill and artistic vision.

How to Create and Sell Wooden Signs:

Developing Your Woodworking Skills:

• Start with understanding the basics of woodworking, including choosing the right type of wood, understanding grain direction, and mastering cutting, sanding, and finishing techniques. Pine, cedar, and plywood are popular choices for their ease of use and affordability.
• Experiment with different styles, such as rustic, modern, or vintage, to find your niche. This could involve learning techniques like distressing wood for a weathered look or using stencils for precise lettering.

Designing Your Signs:

• Inspiration for your designs can come from anywhere—nature, typography, architecture, or even popular home decor trends. Consider incorporating elements like intricate borders, layered wood for a 3D effect, or combining wood with other materials like metal or glass.
• Use design software to create mockups of your signs. This can help you plan the layout and visualize the final product before cutting.

Crafting Your Wooden Signs:

• Safely using power tools will be crucial in cutting and shaping your signs. Equipment like saws, drills, and sanders can speed up the process, but safety must always be prioritized by wearing protective gear and following manufacturer instructions.
• Choose finishing techniques that enhance the wood’s natural beauty and protect your sign from wear and tear. Depending on the desired look and the sign’s intended environment, these could include staining, painting, varnishing, or sealing.

Marketing and Selling Your Wooden Signs:

• High-quality photos that showcase the detail and craftsmanship of your signs are essential for online sales. Use natural lighting and showcase your signs in a styled setting to appeal to potential buyers.
• Establish your brand on social media, particularly on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, where visual content reigns supreme. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your process, engage with your followers through comments and stories, and use relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience.
• Online marketplaces like Etsy are ideal for reaching customers looking for unique, handmade items. Ensure your shop is well-organized, with clear categories and detailed descriptions for each listing.
• Local craft fairs and artisan markets can be an excellent way to sell your signs and interact directly with customers. Plus, these events often attract shoppers looking for unique, locally made gifts.

Presentation and Packaging:

• Packaging your signs for shipment requires care to avoid damage. Use bubble wrap or foam padding for protection and sturdy boxes that fit your signs snugly.
• Include care instructions for your signs, especially if they’re intended for outdoor use, to ensure they last a long time. A personalized thank-you note can also add a thoughtful touch, encouraging customers to return or recommend your work to others.

Turning your passion for woodworking into a successful business making and selling wooden signs requires creativity, skill, and strategic marketing. By offering a range of designs and custom options, you can appeal to a broad audience and create a niche for your handcrafted signs.

4. Glass Art

What They Are: Glass art pieces are stunning, intricate works created through various techniques, including stained glass, glass blowing, fusing, and engraving. They can range from functional art, like beautifully crafted bowls and vases, to decorative pieces such as suncatchers, ornaments, and sculptures. Each creation showcases the unique qualities of glass, from its translucency and color vibrancy to the play of light and shadow, making them highly sought after by collectors and decorators alike.

How to Create and Sell Glass Art:

Developing Your Glassworking Skills:

• Begin by familiarizing yourself with the different forms of glass art and the skills each requires. Community college courses, workshops, and online tutorials can provide a foundation in techniques like cutting, fusing, and molding glass.
• Practice is key. Start with small projects to build your confidence and gradually work your way up to more complex pieces. Safety is paramount in glasswork, so always wear protective gear, including goggles, gloves, and sleeves.

Designing Your Pieces:

• Seek inspiration for your glass art from the world around you. Nature, architecture, and even abstract concepts can translate beautifully into glass. Sketch your designs or use digital tools to plan the colors, shapes, and textures of your projects.
• Experiment with different types of glass (e.g., borosilicate, soft glass) and techniques to find your niche. Incorporating metals, stones, or other materials can also add uniqueness to your pieces.

Crafting Your Glass Art:

• Source high-quality glass and supplies from reputable dealers. The quality of the materials can significantly impact the final product’s appearance and durability.
• Techniques such as glass blowing may require access to specialized equipment. Collaborate with local studios or artist collectives to use their facilities until you can invest in your own.
• Patience and precision are crucial, especially with techniques that involve multiple firing or annealing steps to ensure the glass cools and sets properly without stress fractures.

Marketing and Selling Your Glass Art:

• Photograph your glass art in a way that highlights its best features. Use natural, indirect light to avoid glare and capture the true colors of the glass. Showing your art in various settings can help potential buyers visualize it in their own spaces.
• Build an online portfolio and use social media platforms like Instagram to showcase your work. Engaging with the glass art community and potential customers through these platforms can build interest and drive sales.
• Consider selling your work on artisan-focused online marketplaces like Etsy, or create your own website with an e-commerce platform to maintain control over your brand and sales.
• Participate in art shows, craft fairs, and other local events to display your work. Interacting with customers face-to-face allows you to share the story behind your pieces, which can add value and connect emotionally with buyers.

Presentation and Packaging:

• Given the fragile nature of glass, invest in quality packaging materials to protect your art during shipping. Custom foam inserts, bubble wrap, and double-boxing can prevent damage.
• Include care instructions and any information about the piece, such as the inspiration, techniques used, and any care or display recommendations. This will enhance the buyer’s appreciation and understanding of their purchase.
• Personal touches, like a signed note or a certificate of authenticity, can make the unboxing experience memorable and encourage repeat business and referrals.

Creating and selling glass art combines technical skill with artistic vision. It offers a unique opportunity to express creativity through a medium that captures the beauty of light and color in unparalleled ways. With dedication to honing your craft, a thoughtful approach to marketing, and a commitment to creating an exceptional customer experience, you can build a successful business around your glass art creations.