Making and selling things for profit is a great way to make a side income. It can be a lot of fun coming up with new ideas for things to make and sell, and it can be rewarding to see the profits add up.
Not only that, but it’s satisfying to make something on your own and watch it be enjoyed by others. Here are 25 popular things to make and sell for profit.
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25 Things You Can Make for Profit
There are a ton of popular things you can make and sell for profit. Here are 25 different things. Choose one that looks most interesting to you and get started.
1. Pottery
Making and selling pottery can be a great way to make a side income. It can be a lot of fun coming up with new ideas for pottery to make and sell, and it can be rewarding to see the profits add up. Not only that, but it’s satisfying to make something on your own and watch it be enjoyed by others. Here are some tips for making and selling pottery for profit.
2. Soap
Making and selling homemade soap is an excellent way to make a side income. It’s easy to find the materials you need, it’s relatively inexpensive to make, and you can get creative with the types of soaps you create. Plus, it’s satisfying to make something that people will use and enjoy. While soap-making can seem intimidating to some, it’s actually quite simple and a great way to make money.
3. Candles
Candles make a great gift, and making and selling them can be a great way to make money. It’s easy to get started, as you can find the materials you need relatively easily and inexpensively. Plus, it’s fun to get creative with different types of candles that you make. Once you have your candles made, it’s easy to market them online or locally.
The steps to making candles includes: gathering supplies, measuring wax, mixing scents and colors, pouring the wax into a container or mold and let it cool, cutting the wick, labeling and packaging the candles, and advertising them.
4. Jewelry
Making and selling jewelry can be a great way to make money. It’s easy to find the materials you need, it’s relatively inexpensive to make, and you can get creative with the types of jewelry you create. Plus, it’s satisfying to make something that people will enjoy wearing. One thing to remember about making jewelry is that it takes time and practice to get good at it, so don’t give up if you don’t get instant success.
5. Clothing
Making and selling clothes can be a great way to make money. It’s relatively easy to find materials, and it’s fun to get creative with different types of clothing you make. Plus, it’s satisfying to make something that people will enjoy wearing. When making clothes, make sure to select high-quality materials, as this will help you get better results and make more money.
To get started making clothes, start out with simple items like t-shirts and hats, as they are easier to make. Once you get the hang of it, you can move from your t-shirt business on to more complicated items like dresses and pants.
6. Baskets
Making and selling baskets can be a great way to make money. It’s easy to find the materials you need, it’s relatively inexpensive to make, and you can get creative with the types of baskets you create.
To get started with making baskets, first select a material to work with. Then, start experimenting and creating different types of baskets. Some of the baskets that sell well are gift baskets, laundry baskets, and picnic baskets.
In addition to making and selling baskets, you can also make and sell basket-making kits. This is a great way to introduce others to the craft of basket-making and help them get started.
7. Glassware
There are a few things you will need to get started in making your own glassware. The first is a furnace. You can buy or build your own, but it needs to be able to reach temperatures of at least 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The second is a crucible, which is the container that holds the molten glass. You can buy crucibles or make them yourself from fire clay.
The other essential item you will need is a blowpipe. This is the pipe that you use to blow into the molten glass and shape it into whatever you want it to be. You can make your own blowpipe from metal tubing, or you can buy them ready-made. Finally, you will need some basic tools, such as tweezers and files, to help you shape and finish your glassware.
Once you have the materials and tools, it’s relatively easy to make and sell glassware. You can get creative with the designs you come up with, or even collaborate with other artists to create unique pieces of glassware. Plus, it’s satisfying to make something that people will enjoy using or displaying in their homes.
8. Wooden Bowls and Utensils
There are a few things you need to know in order to get started making wooden bowls and utensils. For one, you’ll need some basic tools like a saw, chisel, and sandpaper. You’ll also need to select the right type of wood to use for your project.
Poplar is a great choice for beginners because it’s easy to work with and doesn’t require any specialized tools or techniques. You can find poplar at most hardware stores or lumberyards. Be sure to select boards that are straight and free of defects.
Once you have the right materials, it’s time to start cutting! Use the saw to cut your boards into the desired shape and then use the chisel to shape the edges. Finally, use the sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots and make your bowl or utensil look nice and finished. Wooden products make great gifts and can provide a source of extra cash.
9. Knitted items
There are a lot of great resources out there for getting started with knitting. One of our favorites is this video tutorial from the Yarnspirations website. It’s a beginner’s guide to knitting, and it covers all the basics you need to know in order to get started. You can also find helpful tips and tricks for knitting on websites like Ravelry and KnittingHelp.
Once you’ve learned how to knit, the sky’s the limit! There are so many different projects you can try, from simple scarves and hats to more complicated sweaters and shawls. And don’t forget about accessories – there are tons of cool knitted items you can make, like hats, scarves, mittens, and even jewelry pieces. Plus, it’s satisfying to make something that people will enjoy using or wearing.
10. Crocheted Items
There are a few things you’ll need in order to start making crocheted items:
A crochet hook. This is the tool you use to “hook” the yarn and create stitches. They come in different sizes, and it’s important to use the correct size for the project you’re working on. For most basic projects, a size H or I crochet hook should do the trick.
Yarn. You’ll want to choose a type of yarn that is appropriate for the project you’re working on. For example, if you’re making an afghan, you’ll need a thicker yarn than if you’re making a baby hat. Yarn also comes in different colors and textures, so be sure to pick the one you like best!
A pattern. Patterns are important for crocheting because they tell you which stitches to use and how to combine them in order to create the desired item. You can find patterns for all sorts of crocheted items online, from hats and blankets to purses and scarves.
Once you have the materials and a pattern, it’s time to start crocheting! It may take some practice, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it. Plus, it’s so satisfying to make something that will be enjoyed by others – and maybe even worn or used in their everyday lives. Even pet owners would be interested in crocheted pet supplies.
11. Quilts and Bedspreads
There is no one definitive answer to this question. Every quilter has their own way of doing things, and what works for one person might not work for another.
That said, here are a few general tips that might help you get started:
1) Choose fabrics that coordinate well together. This will make the overall quilt look more polished and professional.
2) When piecing your quilt top, try to use even seams and make sure all of the fabric edges line up correctly. This will give your quilt a neat and tidy appearance.
3) When quilting your top, use a consistent stitch length and tension throughout the project. This will help keep everything looking neat and tidy and will ensure that the quilt holds its shape over time.
4) Finally, take your time and enjoy the process! There’s no rush when it comes to quilting, so savor each moment and be proud of the finished product.
Making a beautiful quilt or bedspread can be a labor of love, and with the right supplies and techniques you’ll have something that lasts for years to come.
12. Rugs and Carpets
Making rugs and carpets is a great way to use up leftover bits of yarn and fabric. It’s also a fun project for people who enjoy crafting, and it can be a great way to add some personality and character to your home.
The first step in making a rug or carpet is to decide on the size and shape that you want. You can find some helpful tutorials online that will show you how to create different shapes, or you can simply trace out the shape of the rug on cardboard and then use that as your guide.
Once you have your shape figured out, it’s time to start piecing together your rug or carpet. This can be done by knotting individual pieces of yarn or fabric together, using a thick needle and thread, or by using a latch hook.
Finally, you’ll want to make sure that your rug or carpet is reinforced and secure. This can be done by adding a non-slip backing or using a sewing machine to stitch the edges of your rug together.
Creating a rug or carpet may seem like a daunting task, but with the right materials and techniques it can be something that you can do in just a few hours. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with it! The end result will be something that you can enjoy for years to come.
13. Wreaths and Dried Flower Arrangements
There are a few things you’ll need to get started with making wreaths and dried flower arrangements:
- Floral wire (or any type of wire, really)
- Wire cutters
- Scissors
- Ribbon or twine (optional)
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks (optional)
- Dried flowers, leaves, berries, etc. (see below for tips on where to find these)
Once you have the necessary supplies, it’s simply a matter of choosing the right materials and technique for the specific project you want to create. For example, if you want to make a simple homegrown wreath using fresh flowers and greenery from your garden, all you need to do is gather the items you want to use, secure them to some floral wire using a hot glue gun or by tying off knots with twine or ribbon, and then twisting the wire into a circular shape.
For more intricate dried flower arrangements, you’ll want to look for a variety of interesting textures and colors, such as dried leaves, berries, or grasses. You can find these materials at most craft stores and even at some home improvement stores. Once you’ve collected the items you want to use, arrange them into a pleasing composition and then secure them together with floral wire and wire cutters.
Making wreaths and dried flower arrangements is a great way to get creative and add a unique flair to your home decor. With the right materials and techniques, you’ll be able to create beautiful pieces that will last for years to come.
14. Sewn Window Treatments
Window treatments can really make a space feel finished and pulled together, but they can also be a big investment. Here are some tips on how to get started with making your own:
Decide what type of window treatment you want. There are many different types to choose from, so do some research and decide what will work best in your space.
Measure the windows accurately. This is key, as getting the measurements wrong can result in window treatments that don’t fit properly or look awkward.
Choose fabric and style that you love. Window treatments can add a lot of personality to a room, so make sure you select something you’ll be happy with for years to come.
Think about the hardware. This isn’t always necessary, but if you’re looking for a more polished look adding some decorative rods or rings can really tie everything together.
Gather the basic supplies you will need: fabric, thread, scissors, measuring tape, and a sewing machine (or needle and thread if you prefer).
When it comes to sewing window treatments, take your time and read the instructions carefully. Remember that practice makes perfect and soon enough you’ll be a pro!
15. Earrings
There are a few different ways that you can make earrings. One way is to use a type of metal clay, such as PMC (precious metal clay), to make the earrings out of. Another way is to use wire and/or beads to create the earrings. There are also kits available that include everything you need to make a pair of earrings, including the findings (earring posts and backs).
The most important thing when making earrings is to make sure that the findings (the posts and backs) are properly secured in place. You’ll also want to make sure that the earrings are sturdy and will not easily fall off. In order to do this, you can use strong adhesive or epoxy, depending on the material of your earrings.
When it comes to design and materials, the possibilities are endless! You can use metal, wire, beads, and stones to create beautiful works of art. You can also use different shapes and textures to add dimension and interest. With a little bit of practice, you can make earrings that will be the envy of all your friends.
16. Necklaces
Starting out with making necklaces is a great way to get into the jewelry-making scene. It’s a relatively easy process that can be done with minimal tools and supplies, and it results in a wearable product that you can show off to your friends and family.
The first step is to gather up all of your supplies. This includes chain, beads, clasps, and jump rings. You’ll also need a pair of pliers (wirecutters work great for this project) and a ruler. Once you have everything gathered together, it’s time to get started.
Measure out the desired length of chain for your necklace and then cut it with the wirecutters. If you’re using a clasp, attach it to one end of the chain with a jump ring. Then begin stringing your beads onto the chain until you reach your desired length. Once you’re finished, attach the other end of the chain to the clasp with a jump ring.
Voila! You now have a beautiful necklace that you can wear or give as a gift. With practice, you can make all sorts of necklaces with different designs, materials, and colors. So get creative and enjoy the satisfaction of making something beautiful with your own hands!
17. Bracelets
There are a few things you’ll need in order to get started making bracelets:
- Beads. You can buy beads in a variety of colors and styles at most craft stores.
- Wire. I like to use 20-gauge wire, but any gauge between 18 and 26 should work.
- Jump rings. These are the little circles that you use to connect the ends of the wire together. You can buy jump rings in different sizes and colors at most craft stores as well.
- Chain nose pliers. These are helpful for holding onto jump rings and closing them shut once your bracelet is finished.
- Round nose pliers. These help to create loops at the end of your wire.
Once you have all of the supplies, it’s time to get started. Begin by measuring out a length of wire and then stringing your beads onto the wire. Once you reach the desired length, create a loop at one end of the wire with the round nose pliers, and then attach a jump ring to the other end.Now you can attach the ends of the wire together with another jump ring and close it shut with the chain nose pliers. You now have a unique bracelet that you can wear proudly!
18. Rings
There are a few things you’ll need to get started with making rings: a ring mandrel, jeweler’s saw, blades, bench pin, and ring clamp. You can find most of these items at your local craft or jewelry supply store.
The first step is to cut a piece of metal to the desired size. You can use a ruler or measure tape to determine the circumference of the ring you want to make. Next, attach the blade to the jeweler’s saw and tighten it in place. Place the metal against the saw blade and hold it firmly in place with your fingers. Gently guide the saw back and forth around the metal until it is cut all the way through.
Now that you have your metal cut, you’ll need to shape it into a ring. Place the metal on the ring mandrel and use the ring clamp to keep it in place. Using a mallet or hammer, gently tap the metal until it is shaped into a circle.
Once your ring is completely formed, you can add any decorations or embellishments that you like. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be making gorgeous rings in no time.
19. Hair Bows
There are a few different ways that you can make hair bows. You can buy a hair bow making kit, or you can use materials that you already have at home.
If you want to make a simple hair bow, cut a strip of fabric about 2-3 inches wide and 8-10 inches long. Fold the fabric in half so that the short ends meet, and sew along the edge. Turn the fabric inside out so that the seam is on the inside. Attach a clip to one end of the folded fabric, and your hair bow is ready to wear!
If you’re feeling a bit more creative, you can make a hair bow with multiple layers. Cut several strips of fabric in different sizes and colors. Sew them together in the center, and then attach a clip to one end. You can also add decorations such as rhinestones or beads to give your hair bow an extra sparkle.
20. Aprons
Aprons are a great way to protect your clothes while you’re cooking, and they can be a lot of fun to make too. Here are a few tips for getting started with making aprons:
- Choose a pattern. There are lots of different patterns available for aprons, so choose the one that best suits your style.
- Measure yourself. You’ll need to measure your waist and hips to ensure that the apron fits properly.
- Cut the fabric. Cut out the fabric according to the pattern instructions. Be sure to leave enough room for the ties or straps on the back of the apron.
- Sew the pieces together. Sew all of the pieces together according to the pattern instructions.
- Add embellishments. Embellish the apron with lace, buttons, or other decorations to give it a unique look.
Now that you have the basics down, you can start creating your own designs and show off your apron making skills.
21. Kitchen Towels
There are a few things you’ll need to get started with making kitchen towels: fabric, scissors, pins, thread, and a sewing machine (or needle and thread). You can use any type of fabric you like for your kitchen towels – cotton, linen, terry cloth, etc.
To begin, cut your fabric into squares or rectangles that are about 18″x18″. Then fold the fabric in half so that the two shorter ends meet and pin them together. Sew along the pinned edge using a zigzag stitch.
Once you’ve sewn all of the edges shut, it’s time to create the towel’s hanging loop. To do this, cut a piece of fabric that is about 6″x2″ and fold it in half lengthwise. Place the folded fabric at one end of the towel and sew along the long edge with a straight stitch.
Finally, turn the towel right side out and press it with an iron to make sure all of your seams are nice and flat. And you’re done! Now you have a beautiful kitchen towel that is ready to use.
22. Dishcloths
Dishcloths are an essential tool for any kitchen and they’re really easy to make. All you need is some cotton fabric, a pair of scissors, a sewing machine (or needle and thread), and some matching thread.
To begin, cut your fabric into squares or rectangles that measure about 10″x10″. Fold the fabric in half so that the two shorter ends meet, and pin them together. Sew along the pinned edge using a zigzag stitch.
Once you’ve finished sewing, turn the cloth right side out and press it with an iron to make sure all of your seams are nice and flat. And you’re done! Now you have a beautiful dishcloth that is ready to use.
23. Straw Hat
Straw hats are a great way to keep the sun out of your eyes while still looking stylish. Here’s what you’ll need to make one: straw or raffia, scissors, glue gun, and a needle and thread.
To begin, cut out a circle of straw that is about 14-16 inches in diameter. Using a needle and thread, stitch the ends of the circle together and turn it right side out.
Next, you’ll need to make the brim of the hat. Cut a strip of straw or raffia that is about 2 inches wide and long enough to go around the circumference of the circle. Attach it to the hat using a glue gun and let it dry.
Once the brim is attached, you can decorate the hat however you like. You could use ribbons or flowers to dress it up, or even paint it with a design.
24. Garden Signs
Garden signs are a great way to add personality to your outdoor space and attract customers to your store. Here’s what you’ll need to make garden signs: wood, paint, stencils (if desired), and a drill.
To begin, cut the wood into rectangles or squares that are about 18″x12″. Drill two holes at the top of each sign, and then paint your desired design or message onto the sign.
Once the paint has dried, you can use stencils to add extra detail or images to the sign. Finally, add a piece of twine or rope through the holes at the top and hang your garden signs in your shop or garden.
25. Leather Goods
Leather is a great material to work with and it can be used to make lots of different items. Here’s what you’ll need to get started: leather, scissors, a hole punch, needles and thread.
To begin, place the leather on a flat surface and measure out your desired size. Cut the leather accordingly and then use a hole punch to create holes along the edges of the leather, depending on what type of item you’re making.
Next, thread a needle with a matching color of thread and stitch along the edges of the leather, using a whipstitch. Once you’ve finished stitching, add any other details such as buckles or laces and you’re done. Now you have a beautiful leather item that is ready to be sold.
No matter which of these 25 things you choose to make, the key is to ensure that you put your time and effort into making the best product you can. Quality matters, and customers will reward high-quality items with repeat purchases and referrals.
Tips for Marketing & Selling Your Products
Once you’ve decided what you want to make, there are plenty of ways to market and sell it. Here are some great tips for making the most of your homemade goods business.
Start Small
Don’t try to tackle too much at once. Start with a few products that you can easily create and market, and then gradually add more products to your lineup. This will allow you to focus on refining each product and making sure it’s the best it can be.
Find a Niche Market
Do some research to determine who your target market is. This will help you tailor your products and marketing efforts in a way that speaks to your customers. A niche market is often easier to target and can be more profitable in the long run.
Brand Your Business
Creating a recognizable brand is essential for any business. Choose a name and logo that represent your values and mission. Your brand should be consistent across all of your marketing materials and social media platforms.
Set Fair Prices
It’s important to set fair prices for your products. Price too high and you may have trouble finding customers; price too low and you won’t make enough of a profit. Consider what other competitors are charging and adjust your prices accordingly.
Use Social Media Wisely
Social media is a great tool for reaching potential customers. Use it to showcase your products and engage with other people in your niche. It’s also a great way to get feedback and improve your products.
Get Involved in Local Markets
Joining local markets and events is a great way to create more awareness of your business. It also gives you the opportunity to interact with potential customers and get feedback on your products. Plus, you can often make more money selling at local markets than you would through other channels.
Start an Online Store
Setting up an online store is a great way to reach even more customers. You can use sites like Shopify or your own Etsy shop to start your own ecommerce store. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the costs of renting a physical store or dealing with customers in person with an online store.
Invest in Quality Supplies
Investing in quality supplies is essential for making high-quality products. Quality materials will lead to better results and happier customers, so it’s worth spending the extra money to get quality supplies for your handmade items.
Take Custom Orders
Taking custom orders to create personalized items is a great way to make extra money and offer customers something unique. Offer customization options for your products or create special items based on customer requests. This is a great way to get repeat customers and build a profitable home business.
Get Creative with Packaging
Packaging is an important part of your product and can be a great way to stand out from the competition. Choose packaging materials that are attractive, eye-catching, and eco-friendly. This is especially true if you offer subscription boxes or have a subscription box business.
By following these tips, you can create a successful business by making and selling your own unique products. Handmade items sell! Whether you’re selling locally or online, it’s important to focus on quality and customer service to ensure that your business thrives. Good luck!
Conclusion
With the right effort and dedication, you can turn your skills into a profitable business. Making and selling your own homemade goods is a great way to make money while doing something you enjoy. Use the tips above and you’ll be on your way to success! Good luck.
FAQ – Popular Things to Make and Sell
What are the most popular things to make and sell?
The most popular thing to make and sell is food. Food is the most essential human need and it has been a staple of human civilization for thousands of years. People have always been able to find ways to produce food, and there has always been a demand for it. Whether it’s through farming, animal husbandry, fishing, or gathering, people have always found ways to produce food and sell it in the marketplace with minimal upfront investment as a viable business opportunity.
What homemade item sells the most?
The most popular homemade item that sells is bread. There are a number of reasons for this, but the primary one is likely because bread is both affordable and easy to make. Bread also has a long shelf life, which makes it an ideal item to sell online or at farmers markets. Obviously, it’s not a good business idea to make and sell online, but it is a solid business idea to sell at local craft fairs so you don’t have any shipping costs.
What is the most profitable thing to make and sell?
It depends on the size of your business, but generally speaking the most profitable thing to make and sell is a product that has a high margin and a low overhead. For example, eyeglasses are a high margin, low overhead product. The cost of materials is very low, but the markup can be quite high. Another example would be an item like jewelry, which has a high margin and a relatively low production cost. Online courses, digital products, homemade dog treats, essential oils, bath bombs, stock photos, natural cosmetics, and digital printables are all good ideas for selling online.
What is the easiest thing to make and sell?
A product that is easy to make and sell is something that is high in demand, low in cost to produce, and can be sold at a fair price. Some products that fit this description include: basic clothing items such as t-shirts, jeans, and underwear; home goods such as sheets, towels, lamps, tote bags, handmade items, and furniture; food items such as breads, pastas, canned vegetables, and boxed dinners.