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Have you thought about things to make and sell as a profitable business idea?
You could be crafty, a great decorator, a budgeting queen, or a fashionista that leaves people breathless- no matter your skill set, there are undoubtedly items you can make and sell.
Making and selling things is a great way to earn extra money, but it can be tough to know where to start creating a craft business and making products.
This article will show you 47 DIY ideas for all sorts of items you could make on your own and sell online, at craft fairs, at local stores, or even at your farmer’s market.
47 DIY Ideas For Things To Make And Sell In 2022
What handmade items sell best? You can do your own research on great DIY ideas for best sellers on Etsy, but let’s give you a headstart with our research!
We’ve got creative ideas for everything from pet treats and clothes to custom t-shirts and spa goodies, so there’s sure to be something that will inspire you with minimal upfront investment.
You don’t need any experience, special skills, or a business license to make money selling on an online marketplace. All it takes is an idea, some time, and effort- and we have plenty of inspiration here just waiting for you to discover it!
A Savvy Couple tip: Etsy is one of the most popular places for selling handmade goods online, where millions of people browse and shop online every day. We also recommend creating a seller account on Shopify since you can personalize your page and sell handmade products with ease.
1. Printables
Printed merchandise is affordable and easy to make and sell, making it an excellent idea for people looking to make some extra money.
One place to start making money selling printables is on Shopify. Shopify is an e-commerce platform that allows you to set up a sales page for digital products with zero prior coding knowledge or experience.
Check out this FREE eBook that tells you the best products to make each month so you can start selling profitable product ideas. It also tells you the best ways to make money with digital products and seasonal trends!
2. Stickers
Stickers are a fantastic side business idea for those looking to supplement their income.
There are several ways to make stickers, but the easiest is to use a design program like Canva Pro and then print and punch them out yourself.
Once your stickers are made, you can sell them online or at craft fairs. You can also put them in your Etsy shop or on other marketplaces. There are several ways to sell stickers, and you need to find the right one for you.
3. T-Shirt Business
Making and selling t-shirts is a viable business opportunity and a great way to make money, especially if you have a creative flair.
There are many ways to create unique t-shirts, so you can be as creative as you want. You can print your own designs or use images and quotes from popular culture.
Places you can sell t-shirts are:
Design your t-shirts and sell them on apps like Teespring or through an Etsy shop.
Set up an online store with Shopify.
Sell printed t-shirts in person at local markets, craft fairs, or festivals.
Create t-shirts and sell them on your website through BlueHost.
4. YouTube Videos
Making money on YouTube is a popular side hustle for many reasons. You can make money through ads, sponsorships, or selling products and services.
First and foremost, you need to build a following of viewers. Create exciting and engaging content. Your content should be original and interesting so that viewers will watch your videos.
Playing video games is a popular category of YouTube videos, as are cooking, beauty, and DIY clothes tutorials. People like it when they can learn a new skill or watch something that matches their interests, so pick something you know well and are passionate about.
Want to learn how to make quality content on YouTube? Take the Mastering YouTube course to gain a following and make thousands per month from your channel.
5. Makeup
Making and selling makeup is a great and fun way to make money without a typical desk job. You can become your own boss if you start your beauty products line.
You can start a small business by creating a website or selling through social media. You can also sell at local or online marketplaces.
Another option is to make beauty videos. As most beauty YouTubers have a large following already, this can be a way for viewers to engage with your content and learn more about the products you’re using.
6. Pet Treats
Pet owners love homemade pet treats, especially homemade dog treats, for their furry friends. Not only are they affordable, but they are also often healthier than store-bought options.
You can find a variety of recipes for homemade dog treats online. Once you have a recipe or two, you can start making them in large batches and selling them to pet owners online or at local markets.
7. Kitchen Gadgets
Making kitchen gadgets is a fun and rewarding way to make a little money. Not only is it enjoyable to come up with new ideas for gadgets, but it’s also satisfying to see them come to life and be used by happy customers.
Kitchen gadgets don’t need to be complicated to be successful. Many of the most popular gadgets are relatively simple in design.
Start with a basic idea, like salt and pepper shakers, utensil holders, and cheese boards, and perfect it before moving on to more complicated designs.
8. Pet Supplies
If you’re an animal lover, there are many ways to make money by turning your passion into a business. One option is to create and sell pet supplies. This could include toys, beds, clothing, and food dishes.
So many product ideas can be customized to fit your customers’ needs. They’re an excellent option for a side hustle for stay-at-home moms, students, retirees, or anyone really who has time on their hands for a profitable business idea.
You could also make and sell accessories like collars, leashes, and tags. Pet lovers are always looking for new and unique items to spoil their furry friends, so there is potential in this niche market.
9. Slime
Slime is one of the most popular trends for children and adults alike. If you’re looking for a fun way to make money, why not make and sell slime?
Making slime is easy to make and can be customized in various ways. There are many recipes out there, so you’re sure to find one that fits your style, or you could create your own unique recipes.
10. Essential Oils
Selling essential oils can be a great way to make some money, and it’s a great way to promote a healthy lifestyle. There are many different types of essential oils, and each one has its own unique properties.
If you are interested in making and selling these oils, be sure to do your research first. If you don’t know how to make and sell essential oils, look online for DIY tutorials.
11. Subscription Boxes
A subscription box business is a trendy way to make extra money each month.
There are all kinds of DIY ideas when it comes to subscription boxes. You can put just about anything in them, from dog treats and toys for a pet box to homemade pasta and sauces for dinner boxes.
Choose products that are relevant to your skill set and meet the needs of your target audience. This will ensure that your subscribers are interested in what they receive and keep sharing and talking about your box.
12. Magnets
Magnets are a fun and easy way to make money by selling your creations.
You can make magnets from various materials, including wood, metal, and polymer clay. For best results, use a strong adhesive to attach the magnets to the backs of your creations.
You can sell magnets online in an Etsy shop or craft fairs. Magnets make great souvenirs or gifts, so be sure to stock up on various designs and colors.
13. Body Scrubs
Great profit can come from DIY ideas like body scrubs! They’re a great gift for any holiday or event, from Christmas and Mother’s Day to baby and wedding showers.
Not only are they easy to make, but they also sell quickly due to their popularity. You need essential oils, coconut oil, or whatever kind you prefer, and then some kind of scrub, like salt, sugar, or even coffee.
Some popular DIY body scrubs on Etsy are:
Oatmeal, Milk, and Honey Sugar
Cherry Coconut Almond Sugar
Lavender Vanilla Sugar
Coffee or Green Tea Sugar
14. Bath Bombs
Bath bombs are another popular item that can be made and sold. They’re easy to make and come in various scents and colors.
When it comes to bath bombs, the sky’s the limit when it comes to creativity. You can add just about anything to bath bombs, from dried flowers to essential oils.
You can sell bath bombs online and in stores. You can also put them in your own store or shop on websites like Etsy. Be sure to stock up on various scents and colors, so your bath bombs appeal to a wide range of customers.
15. Enamel Pins
Enamel pins are a fun and unique way to show your personality and style. And best of all, they’re a great way to make some money.
Start with a unique design, then use high-quality materials to ensure your pins look great and last long.
Use high-quality materials like metal, hard enamel, and copper, then market your pins online or at craft fairs.
16. Candles
Candles are an excellent option for making and selling because most people want good-quality ones that smell great and last a long time.
You can make candles with various scents to ensure that you have something for everyone. Customers usually look for simple candles in design and made with natural materials.
Although there is a lot of competition, many candle makers get good reviews on their products because the price is right and the scents are delicious.
17. Personalized Cards
Is your hobby making personalized cards for people? Did you know you can turn your hobby into a moneymaker?
Create unique designs and use various materials, including paper, fabric, and metal. Be sure to use high-quality materials to ensure your cards look great and last long and add customizable options for an extra profit option!
18. Holiday Ornaments
If you’ve been looking for a way to make some money this holiday season, consider making your holiday ornaments and selling them in an Etsy shop.
With just a little bit of time and supplies, you can create personalized ornaments that are sure to bring joy to everyone on your list.
The best part is that these ornaments take very little space and don’t require any power source! You can use the materials at home, which means no need for expensive equipment like kilns, ovens, etc.
19. Nails
Handmade products are unique and customizable, so people will be interested in the endless possibilities nail art provides!
Nails are a great way to make money, and there is an endless supply of great ideas to make them new and exciting for a variety of clients.
If you have a steady hand and some artistic talent, you can create beautiful designs that people will love. If you have good quality nails, the shelf life will be long, and people appreciate durable products like that.
20. Gift Baskets
If you want to start an online business, consider selling gift baskets. They are a popular item, and there is a lot of demand. You can create unique gift baskets for all occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, and more.
21. Body Lotions
Body lotions are a popular way to pamper oneself. They can be used for regular maintenance or when skin feels dry and chapped and help keep your skin looking healthy and glowing.
Some people make their own at home with natural ingredients such as coconut oil. It takes mere minutes to whip up a batch of your body lotion, and it will cost pennies on the dollar compared to what you would purchase at a department store or beauty shop.
22. Art Prints
Making and selling art prints is a great way to turn your art into a business. All you need is a printer, some paper, and some basic design skills.
If you paint or create other art, you can create prints of your artwork or photographs. Your art can be sold in many sizes, giving people the option to use them as a card or wall art.
23. Home Decor
There are many different types of home decor to make to sell, so you can find a niche that you are interested in and specialize in that type of decor.
You can also create or use preexisting designs to create your spin on them. Home decor is a great way to express your creativity while making money.
24. Treats
Making and selling treats for others is such an easy way to make money that it’s hard not to want to jump in head first! Whether you have a kitchen or just have access to one, there are so many different types of desserts you can make from scratch.
From brownies or cookies, iced sugar cookies with frosting and sprinkles on top, or even layer cakes like red velvet cake or carrot cake-the possibilities are endless.
25. Phone Cases
One of the most popular products right now is phone cases. With so many people carrying around their phones wherever they go, these little accessories can help show off your personality while protecting your device from scratches and dings.
From abstract paintings to watercolor landscapes, if you have a specific idea in mind, you can find a template or shape on which to put it. If you have some painting skills, you can offer custom services too to create whatever people want.
26. Posters
Making posters is one of the easiest and most versatile ways to make money from home. You can do it as a hobby or earn money on the side.
Either way, you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to go from idea to finished product in just a few simple steps. All you need are some basic materials and your imagination!
27. Paintings
One way to make some money is by creating some paintings and sell online! You can paint on canvas or wood panels or use found objects like wine corks or buttons.
You could also put up some inexpensive frames from an art supply store or thrift shop for extra impact. Paintings are a great way to tap into your creativity while earning some money.
28. Clothing
Making your clothes to sell can be a fun and profitable way to make some extra cash. You can create clothing items from scratch or adapt existing designs to make them your own.
There are endless possibilities for creating clothing, so you can let your imagination run wild. Whatever route you choose, be sure to have a clear goal of what you want your end product to be.
29. Crochet Items
Have you ever gotten a handmade hat or gloves from a loved one and thought it was such a thoughtful gift?
Crochet is a great way to make money because you can create many different items. There’s a crochet item for every season and every style, from hats and scarves to blankets and sweaters.
And best of all, crochet items are in high demand, so they sell quickly online and in stores.
30. Wood Cutting Boards
Cutting boards are a kitchen staple and can be creative. From simple designs to intricate carvings, you can create your personalized cutting board that looks great and practical.
Each cutting board can be decorated with milk paint, hand-carved into intricate designs, or other creative methods. Depending on the board you choose to work with, some wood like cedar can be left natural while others like maple will need an application of sealant.
31. Photos
Photography is a great way to make money. You can use your camera or phone to capture the world around you and sell online as stock photos, social media, or even at events like weddings.
You can also sell your pretty photos on stock photo sites to make more money passively.
32. Wooden Crafts
Wooden crafts are a fun way to make extra money. You can use wood to create games like chess, you can use wood etching to make jewelry boxes, and the list of ideas goes on!
You can find inspiration from everyday life for things to make and sell, such as magazines, newspapers, and nature walks. Draw shapes you see in your environment that inspire you on paper with a pencil.
33. Tote Bags
Turn your creative talents for making handmade items into some extra cash by making tote bags. They are simple to make, and there are endless possibilities for customization.
You can use various fabrics and design features to create totes that are both stylish and functional. Plus, people always need new totes, so there’s a good market for your creations.
34. Stuffed Animals
One of the best ways to make money in a business venture is by making something that people want. And if you’ve got a knack for sewing and love animals, then stuffed animals are just the handmade items to create an adorable side hustle.
All it takes is some fabric, stuffing, thread, and time. After all, we can never have enough cuddly critters around!
35. Accessories
Things like hats, mittens, sunglasses, and scrunchies are great to make and sell for extra money. With just a little bit of sewing and completing your handmade accessories, you can make and sell them for profit in no time.
Many websites may help you with pattern ideas and tutorials, so you can learn how to make some quickly and easily. Some Google searches will help you find popular patterns for things to make and sell and give you a few secrets to getting started in an online store.
36. Baby Blankets
A handmade blanket is an inexpensive gift that will be appreciated every day. If you crochet, quilt, or knit, you can make baby blankets to sell online. If you are new to these crafts, check out free patterns on Pinterest or YouTube.
Write an ad for your baby blanket and place it in a local Facebook group’s “For Sale” section or in an online store. Another way to sell them is by finding a market where moms buy handmade goods. You could also start selling crafts at local fairs.
37. Planters
One great way to make and sell something is to create intricate and beautiful planters. There are a few ways to go about this:
You could make pots from scratch.
You could use recycled materials to make planters.
You could even upcycle old pots and baskets by painting and creating new designs.
Whichever route you choose, be sure to add a personal touch so that the planters you make and sell stand out from the rest.
38. Soaps
Making soap is a great way to get into the homemade products business and make money on Shopify. It’s relatively easy to do, and there are a variety of recipes and techniques that you can use to create unique soaps.
Once you’ve found a recipe that you’re happy with, start experimenting with different scents, colors, and textures. You can add herbs and other natural ingredients to give the soaps you make and sell an extra boost of health benefits.
Get creative with your packaging and branding, making your soap stand out from the competition.
39. Keychains
Making keychains are popular things to make and sell in your own business. You can use various materials, including metal, wood, and plastic.
You can also get creative with the designs, making them as simple or complex as you want. Keychains are a great option if you’re looking for a fun and easy project.
40. Jewelry
One of the most popular craft businesses is jewelry. You can create all sorts of different pieces, from earrings and necklaces to bracelets and rings.
And because there are so many different materials you can work with, the possibilities are endless for making very unusual gifts.
41. Coasters
Do you know that small, circular piece of wood or other material that you put on top of a drink to protect the surface of your table? They’re really popular as handmade gifts, and people love to collect them in all sorts of different designs.
Coasters are easy things to make and sell, can be customized with your art or design, and they sell pretty well.
42. Wedding Decor
If you’re good with paper and flower crafts, then wedding decorations may be the perfect things to make and sell. You can create several items, such as centerpieces, boutonnieres, flower girl baskets, and more.
You can also create custom banners, signs, and other decorations for the big day. The best part is that wedding decor is always in high demand, so you can likely charge a reasonable price for your creations.
43. Wedding Stationery
Making wedding stationery can be a great way to make money. Not only is there a high demand for it, but the process of making it can be pretty fun and creative.
There are many different types of wedding stationery that you can create, from save-the-dates to invitations to thank-you cards. You can make stock designs, create custom pieces to match color schemes, change up the style of your stationery, and choose from various materials and finishes.
44. Ceramics
Ceramics is a fun and creative hobby that can turn into a profitable craft business. There are many ways to sell crafts online, including an online marketplace and local art galleries.
People love home decor items that they can use around the house or give away as gifts.
You’ll need to invest in pottery supplies like clay and glaze, but once you’ve got your stuff, you can get creative with this craft idea and make some beautiful, profitable pieces!
45. Pottery
Pottery is a great hobby that can also bring in more income, and anyone can learn pottery-making skills with patience and practice.
There are so many options out there for aspiring artists and entrepreneurs alike, from hand-thrown pots, wheel-thrown pots, mold-made clay products, and slip-cast ceramics.
The best way to start is by finding an art school near you or an online class for beginners. There are many different potteries, so find one that suits your interest best!
46. Personalized Gifts
Personalized gifts are a great side hustle for moms. It’s a fun and easy way to make money, and there is a large market for it. You can create personalized items for any occasion, from birthdays to weddings.
There are a variety of materials and designs to choose from, so you can create unique and customized gifts that will stand out from the rest. If you’re looking for a creative and profitable side hustle selling crafts, personalized products may be the perfect option for you.
47. Professional Courses
If you have the creativity and knowledge to teach a skill, you can use your expertise to make money selling online courses. You can make and sell instructional videos, pamphlets, or even an e-book, but online courses are in huge demand now!
For example, if you know how to cook well but not sew clothes well, consider teaching cooking classes for those who sew clothes but do not cook.
FAQs For Selling Online
Now that you’ve got some great ideas for what to make and sell let’s go over some frequently asked questions to get your shop off the ground.
How do I find popular items that are selling online?
Finding the best items to sell online can be challenging, but don’t fret! There are many resources that you can use. One of those is Google Trends, which allows users to find out what’s currently popular and create reports based on their own data.
Look for interest trends on Google Trends in specific items, such as baby clothes or home decor. You can also use Google Shopping to get an idea of what is being sold and at what price. Once you have an idea of what is popular, start brainstorming ideas for products you could make and sell yourself.
You also have access to various retailers like Etsy and Amazon for finding products that might be selling for a premium on these sites due to limited supply or innovation in design. Alternately, you could try your hand at arbitrage or reselling surplus or over-stock from markets like Walmart or Costco!
What are some of the most popular things to make and sell?
There are many different things that people make and sell, but some of the most popular include bath bombs, jewelry like double pearl earrings, and wall art. These items are popular because they are creative and unique, and people can make them themselves with a little bit of effort.
How much can I make selling DIY crafts?
It depends on what market you are going after and how many competitors you have. For some crafts, prices can go as high as you want. Other crafts may be lower priced items that fall under the “impulse buy.”
Some people do it as a side hustle and make $1,000 a month, whereas some sellers on Etsy make it their full-time job and make over $40,000 a year.
But if this is your goal and you are targeting a niche audience of collectors, your price points might be higher to reflect the quality and exclusivity of your product.
What are the best markets to sell my DIY crafts?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best markets to sell crafts will vary depending on what type of crafts you make.
Some people may prefer to buy things like pottery, ceramics, or art in person so get a feel for them, whereas printables, stickers, and clothes sell well online.
However, local craft fairs, flea markets, online marketplaces, and Etsy are good places to start- there’s nothing wrong with going in person and selling online simultaneously!
Is it possible that I may have a lot of online competition?
Yes, competition from other crafters will likely be an issue if you make similar crafts as them.
However, you can use this to your advantage by marketing your products differently and focusing on what sets yours apart from the others (for example, color or different shapes).
You can see what others do well or what they miss the mark on, plus you can use them as a helpful pricepoint for what customers want to pay.
Will I make more money online than at craft fairs?
Some crafts can fetch a high price online, while others may be lower-priced impulse buys at cons, festivals, or craft shows.
Generally speaking, you will make more money selling crafts online than at craft fairs due to the vast reach that the internet provides. You can reach more people typically.
But craft fairs are likely to be a bulk revenue day, where you sell a lot of stock in a day or two, all for the price of your time and the show’s tablespace.
You can look for craft fairs in your area and see if anybody selling your crafts is going- you could be a breath of fresh air and sell well!
Do I need an Etsy store for making and selling things online?
No, you don’t need an Etsy store.
You can sell things on your own website or other platforms like Shopify, eBay, Amazon, or Craigslist.
However, using Etsy can be a great way to get started because it’s a specifically designed platform for selling handmade items. It has a built-in audience of people interested in buying handmade products.
Is Etsy a reliable site to sell things on?
Yes, Etsy is a reliable site to use to sell things. It’s been around for a long time and has a large user base of people interested in buying handmade products.
Additionally, Etsy has numerous features that make it easy to sell things online, such as a payment processing system, shipping labels, and order tracking.
Do I pay sales tax with an Etsy shop?
Selling items online can come with its own set of tax implications, depending on the state you live in.
In most cases, you will be required to charge sales tax on the products you sell if you have a physical presence in that state. This is generally defined as having a business location or warehouse in the state.
You will also be responsible for collecting tax on sales to your customers and submitting it to the state government. However, a few states do not require collecting tax (these are called “nexus-free” states).
The best thing to do is talk to your accountant or tax advisor to better understand the laws in your state.
A Savvy Couple tip: Always record your expenses when making things to make and sell online. You can do this automatically with an online personal finance tool like Personal Capital or Mint.
How do I handle shipping on my online orders?
Shipping is an expense that you need to consider when making a product. Many people who sell online opt for fulfillment by Amazon, which handles the shipping process.
Many people offload this cost on their customers through the use of “free” shipping or high prices with low-cost shipping fees added in on top. Others offer flat, unlimited rates of $10-$35 while still others charge by weight ($10 per item) or size (see below).
How do I calculate shipping costs on the things I make and sell?
Shipping cost is based on weight, size, and distance. The same size box can have a higher cost when shipping shoes rather than a scarf.
To figure out your shipping charges, you’ll need to measure the dimensions and weight of your product. You can use a tool like ShipMatrix or UPS to estimate shipping rates.
Then, add these costs to the price of your product to get your total cost.
Our Thoughts
From wedding stationery to pottery to digital printables, there are many different options for those looking to make money with craft skills.
The sky is the limit when it comes to things to make and sell!
If you have a creative hobby or skill, consider turning DIY crafts into your own craft business. Even those who don’t have any previous craft skills are fully capable of making cash with a crafts business.
There are so many different platforms and channels to sell crafts and reach potential customers with your products, from an online business with Etsy or local craft fairs to Amazon and eBay or an eCommerce store with Shopify.
If crafting things to make and sell isn’t your thing, and you’re looking for more cool ideas on how you can make money at home, be sure to check out our blog post, “67 Best Side Hustle Ideas in 2022!”
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