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Want to make extra money from home by creating and selling handmade items? You’re in the right place. Many moms find themselves searching for ways to contribute to the family budget without sacrificing precious time with their children. It’s a common challenge, standing in craft store aisles with a smartphone in hand, wondering if those creative ideas could actually turn into profit.
Balancing family life and earning an income often feels impossible. Regular jobs frequently require long hours away from home, while many side businesses need specialized skills or expensive equipment. It’s enough to make anyone feel discouraged before even starting.
But there’s good news. The handmade market is thriving, and you can be part of it. This guide will introduce you to 22 in-demand items you can easily make and sell, all while working around your family’s schedule. From aromatic candles to organizational digital downloads, these DIY crafts not only appeal to customers but could also be the answer to your financial goals. Are you ready to transform your kitchen table into a small business headquarters? Let’s get started.
1. Scented Candles
Who doesn’t love a good-smelling candle? With some wax, wicks, and your favorite essential oils, you can create batches of delightful scented candles. Try different scents and container styles to make your product line unique.
Also See: Best Candle Ideas to Sell
2. Personalized Jewelry
Handmade jewelry is always in demand, especially when it’s customized. With just a few basic supplies like beads, wire, and charms, you can create beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces that customers will adore.
3. Decorative Plant Pots
Indoor plants are having a moment, and stylish pots are in high demand. Take plain terracotta pots and give them a makeover with paint, decoupage, or even some trendy macramé wrapping.
4. Printable Wall Art
If you have a knack for graphic design, creating printable wall art using Canva can be a lucrative venture. Design motivational quotes, cute illustrations, or trendy patterns that customers can instantly download and print at home.
5. Customized Tote Bags
Eco-friendly and practical, tote bags are a hit with shoppers everywhere. Grab some plain canvas totes and decorate them with fabric paint, iron-on transfers, or embroidery. You can create themed designs for different occasions or offer personalization options.
6. Handmade Soap
Natural, handmade soaps are increasingly popular as people become more conscious about what they put on their skin. With a few key ingredients and some creative molds, you can craft beautiful, skin-nourishing soaps in various scents and colors.
7. Upcycled Furniture
Give old furniture pieces new life with some paint and creativity. Upcycled furniture is not only eco-friendly but also adds unique character to homes. Start with small pieces like side tables or shelves before moving on to larger DIY projects.
8. Custom Pet Accessories
For all the pet parents out there, personalized pet accessories are a great market to tap into. Think custom collar charms, bandanas, or even pet portraits if you have some artistic skills.
9. Homemade Bath Bombs
Bath bombs are fun to make and even more fun to use! With some simple ingredients like baking soda, citric acid, and essential oils, you can create luxurious bath bombs in various colors and scents.
10. Seasonal Wreaths
Wreaths aren’t just for Christmas anymore! Create beautiful, seasonal wreaths using artificial flowers, ribbons, and other decorative elements. These make great gifts and home decor items year-round.
11. Digital Products
If you’re tech-savvy, consider creating digital products like printable planners, budget trackers, or meal planning templates. These are easy to distribute and can generate passive income.
12. Handmade Greeting Cards
Put your creative skills to work by making unique greeting cards. Use techniques like stamping, watercolor, or collage to create one-of-a-kind cards for all occasions.
13. Knitted or Crocheted Items
From cozy scarves to cute baby booties, knitted or crocheted items are always popular. These projects are perfect for working on while watching TV or waiting at soccer practice.
14. Polymer Clay Jewelry
Polymer clay is versatile and an easy thing to work with. Create trendy earrings, pendants, or even cute figurines. The possibilities are endless!
15. Customized Phone Cases
With the right equipment, you can create custom phone cases with unique designs or personalized with names or photos. This is a great option for tech-loving crafters.
16. Handmade Bookmarks
For the book lovers out there, handmade bookmarks are a simple yet charming craft. Use materials like leather, felt, or even create laminated designs.
17. Painted Glassware
Transform plain glasses into beautiful, hand-painted works of art. These make great gifts and can be customized for weddings or other special events.
18. DIY Hair Accessories
From cute hair clips to stylish headbands, handmade hair accessories are always in style. This is a great low-cost craft to start with.
19. Homemade Jam or Preserves
If you love spending time in the kitchen, consider making and selling homemade jams or preserves. Just be sure to check local food safety regulations first.
20. Customized Cutting Boards
With some wood and a bit of creativity, you can make beautiful, personalized cutting boards. These make great gifts for weddings or housewarmings.
21. Handmade Pillowcases
Sew unique pillowcases using fun fabrics or add embroidery for a personal touch. This is a great way to use up fabric scraps too!
22. Eco-Friendly Reusable Products
Tap into the sustainable living trend by creating reusable products like beeswax wraps, cloth napkins, or reusable makeup remover pads.
Pricing
Now that we’ve covered some great craft ideas, let’s talk about how to price and sell your creations. When setting prices, think about the cost of materials, the time it takes to make each item, and what similar products are selling for. Don’t undervalue your work – remember, people are willing to pay for quality handmade items!
As for selling, there are plenty of options. Online marketplaces like Etsy or Amazon Handmade are great places to start. You can also set up your own website or sell through social media. Don’t forget about local opportunities, too – craft fairs, farmers’ markets, and even local boutiques might be interested in carrying your products.
Marketing your handmade items doesn’t have to be complicated. Take good photos of your products, write clear descriptions, and use relevant keywords to help customers find your items online. Social media can be a powerful tool for showcasing your work and connecting with potential customers.
Wrapping Up
Starting your handmade business journey can be as simple as choosing one or two ideas from this list and experimenting. Begin with crafts that match your interests and skills, then refine your techniques as you go. The flexibility of this approach allows you to adjust your efforts based on your family’s changing needs and your available time.
While pricing and selling might initially seem challenging, research and persistence will guide you. Look into what similar items sell for, account for your time and materials, and value your work appropriately. Choose a selling platform that feels comfortable to you, whether it’s an online marketplace or a local craft fair. The most important step is to start creating and get your items out there. Your creativity and effort could very well transform into a rewarding business. It’s time to gather your supplies and turn those craft ideas into reality.