Woodworking is more than just a hobby—it’s a craft that can turn your passion into a profitable side hustle or even a full-time business. If you’ve got a knack for working with wood and a few basic tools, small woodworking projects are an excellent way to start earning money. These projects are quick to make, require minimal materials, and have a broad appeal, making them perfect for selling online, at craft fairs, or through local markets.
In this article, we’ll explore 25 small woodworking projects you can sell for profit. From rustic home decor to functional everyday items, these ideas are designed to inspire you and help you build a thriving woodworking business. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned woodworker, there’s something here for everyone. Plus, we’ll share tips on how to maximize your profits and market your creations effectively. Let’s get started!
Why Small Woodworking Projects Are Perfect for Profit
Before we dive into the list, let’s talk about why small woodworking projects are such a goldmine for profit. First, they’re manageable—most can be completed in a few hours or a weekend. Second, they use affordable materials like scrap wood or reclaimed lumber, keeping your costs low. Finally, their size makes them easy to ship or display, appealing to customers looking for unique, handmade goods.
Small projects also tap into trending markets like Etsy, Pinterest, and local artisan fairs, where buyers seek personalized, high-quality items. With the right approach, you can turn these creations into a steady income stream. For more inspiration on scaling your woodworking into a business, check out resources like WoodProfits, which offers practical advice for turning your skills into a lucrative venture.
Now, let’s explore the 25 small woodworking projects you can sell for profit!
1. Wooden Coasters
Profit Potential: $5–$15 per set
Wooden coasters are a perennial favorite. They’re simple to make with a miter saw or jigsaw, and you can customize them with stains, engravings, or epoxy resin for a modern twist. A set of four can sell for $10–$15, and they’re perfect for gifting or home decor.
How to Make It: Cut 4×4-inch squares from hardwood scraps, sand them smooth, and add a finish like polyurethane. For extra flair, burn a monogram or design with a wood-burning tool.
Selling Tip: Bundle them with matching napkin rings for a higher price point.
2. Rustic Picture Frames
Profit Potential: $10–$25 each
Handmade wooden picture frames have a timeless appeal. Use reclaimed barn wood or pallet pieces for a rustic look that’s trending on Pinterest. Add a distressed finish or metal accents for uniqueness.
How to Make It: Cut four pieces to size, miter the edges at 45 degrees, and glue them together. Attach a backing and glass pane (optional).
Selling Tip: Offer custom sizes or family name engravings for personalization.
3. Wooden Keychains
Profit Potential: $3–$10 each
Keychains are small, portable, and highly customizable. Carve them into shapes like animals, initials, or geometric designs, and finish with a keyring attachment.
How to Make It: Use a scroll saw to cut shapes from thin wood scraps, sand, and seal. Drill a small hole for the keyring.
Selling Tip: Sell in bulk packs (e.g., 5 for $20) to boost sales.
4. Cutting Boards
Profit Potential: $20–$50 each
A well-crafted cutting board is both functional and decorative. Use hardwoods like maple or walnut, and experiment with end-grain or edge-grain designs for variety.
How to Make It: Glue wood strips together, plane them flat, and sand to a smooth finish. Seal with food-safe mineral oil.
Selling Tip: Market them as charcuterie boards for a premium price.
5. Wooden Jewelry Boxes
Profit Potential: $30–$75 each
These small boxes are perfect for storing rings, earrings, or trinkets. Add velvet lining or a hinged lid to elevate their value.
How to Make It: Cut a box shape from a wood block, hollow out the center with a router, and attach a lid with hinges.
Selling Tip: Offer engraving options for birthdays or anniversaries.
6. Wooden Spoon Sets
Profit Potential: $15–$30 per set
Hand-carved wooden spoons are a kitchen staple with a handmade charm. Use cherry or birch for durability and a smooth finish.
How to Make It: Rough out the shape with a carving knife, refine with sandpaper, and treat with food-safe oil.
Selling Tip: Pair with a matching spatula for a complete set.
7. Floating Shelves
Profit Potential: $20–$40 each
Floating shelves are minimalist and trendy. They’re easy to make with a single plank and hidden brackets.
How to Make It: Cut a board to length, sand, and stain. Attach a hidden cleat for mounting.
Selling Tip: Sell in sets of two or three for a cohesive look.
8. Wooden Plant Stands
Profit Potential: $15–$35 each
Indoor plants are all the rage, and wooden stands add a stylish touch. Keep them small and simple for quick production.
How to Make It: Cut three or four angled legs and a circular top, then assemble with screws or glue.
Selling Tip: Market to plant lovers on Instagram with lush greenery photos.
9. Wooden Candle Holders
Profit Potential: $10–$25 each
Candle holders are a hot seller, especially around holidays. Turn them on a lathe or carve them by hand for a rustic vibe.
How to Make It: Drill a shallow hole in a wood block to fit a tealight or taper candle, then sand and finish.
Selling Tip: Bundle with artisanal candles for a gift set.
10. Wooden Phone Stands
Profit Potential: $10–$20 each
With everyone glued to their phones, a wooden stand is both practical and stylish. Add a slot for charging cables to stand out.
How to Make It: Cut a small block with an angled groove using a table saw, then sand and stain.
Selling Tip: Offer custom initials or logos for a personal touch.
11. Wooden Bookends
Profit Potential: $20–$40 per pair
Bookends are a great way to showcase your creativity. Shape them like animals, geometric forms, or minimalist slabs.
How to Make It: Cut two matching pieces, add weight with a metal base if needed, and finish with a clear coat.
Selling Tip: Target book lovers with literary-themed designs.
12. Wooden Napkin Rings
Profit Potential: $5–$15 per set
Napkin rings add elegance to dining tables. They’re quick to make and can be sold in sets of four or six.
How to Make It: Turn small rings on a lathe or cut them from dowels, then sand and stain.
Selling Tip: Pair with coasters for a matching table set.
13. Wooden Magnets
Profit Potential: $2–$5 each
Tiny wooden magnets are impulse buys with big potential. Carve them into fun shapes like stars, hearts, or animals.
How to Make It: Cut thin wood pieces, sand, paint or stain, and glue on a magnet.
Selling Tip: Sell in themed packs (e.g., “kitchen set” or “nature set”).
14. Wooden Wall Hooks
Profit Potential: $10–$25 each
Wall hooks are functional decor pieces. Use branches or dowels for a natural look, or sleek hardwood for modern appeal.
How to Make It: Cut a base plank, attach hooks with screws or glue, and finish with a stain.
Selling Tip: Market as entryway organizers or towel holders.
15. Wooden Trivets
Profit Potential: $15–$30 each
Trivets protect tables from hot pots and pans. Make them with slatted designs or solid wood for variety.
How to Make It: Glue wood strips together with gaps for airflow, or cut a solid circle and sand smooth.
Selling Tip: Highlight their heat resistance and rustic charm.
16. Wooden Ornaments
Profit Potential: $5–$15 each
Seasonal ornaments (e.g., Christmas trees, stars) are evergreen sellers. Use a scroll saw for intricate designs.
How to Make It: Cut shapes from thin plywood, sand, and add a string for hanging.
Selling Tip: Offer personalization for holiday gifts.
17. Wooden Pen Holders
Profit Potential: $10–$20 each
Desk organizers are in demand with remote work on the rise. Keep them small and sleek for easy shipping.
How to Make It: Drill holes in a wood block for pens, sand, and finish with a modern stain.
Selling Tip: Target students and professionals with minimalist designs.
18. Wooden Bottle Openers
Profit Potential: $10–$25 each
A wooden handle on a metal opener is both functional and eye-catching. Use exotic woods for a premium feel.
How to Make It: Shape a handle, drill a hole, and attach a metal opener with epoxy.
Selling Tip: Market to beer enthusiasts or as groomsmen gifts.
19. Wooden Hairbrush Handles
Profit Potential: $15–$30 each
Upgrade a basic hairbrush with a custom wooden handle. Focus on ergonomics and smooth finishes.
How to Make It: Carve a handle, sand it silky smooth, and attach brush bristles.
Selling Tip: Sell as eco-friendly beauty products.
20. Wooden Serving Trays
Profit Potential: $25–$50 each
Small serving trays are perfect for breakfast in bed or coffee table decor. Add handles for practicality.
How to Make It: Cut a rectangular base, attach sides and handles, and finish with a food-safe sealant.
Selling Tip: Pitch as hostess gifts or wedding presents.
21. Wooden Business Card Holders
Profit Potential: $10–$20 each
These are great for professionals and networkers. Keep them pocket-sized and sleek.
How to Make It: Cut a small block with a slot for cards, sand, and polish.
Selling Tip: Offer corporate branding for bulk orders.
22. Wooden Tealight Holders
Profit Potential: $5–$15 each
Tealight holders are quick to produce and sell well in sets. Add carved patterns for extra appeal.
How to Make It: Drill a hole in a wood scrap to fit a tealight, then sand and stain.
Selling Tip: Bundle with candles for a cozy vibe.
23. Wooden Drawer Pulls
Profit Potential: $5–$10 each
Custom drawer pulls can transform furniture. Make them in batches for efficiency.
How to Make It: Turn small knobs on a lathe or carve by hand, then drill for screws.
Selling Tip: Sell as cabinet upgrades or DIY kits.
24. Wooden Toy Cars
Profit Potential: $10–$20 each
Handmade toy cars are nostalgic and durable. Use non-toxic finishes for safety.
How to Make It: Cut a car shape, add wheels with dowels, and sand smooth.
Selling Tip: Market to parents and grandparents for kids’ gifts.
25. Wooden Wine Stoppers
Profit Potential: $10–$25 each
Wine stoppers are small, elegant, and easy to turn on a lathe. Use colorful woods for visual pop.
How to Make It: Turn a stopper shape, attach a cork base, and polish.
Selling Tip: Pair with bottle openers for a wine lover’s set.
Tips to Maximize Your Woodworking Profits
Now that you’ve got 25 small woodworking projects to sell for profit, here are some strategies to boost your earnings:
- Source Cheap Materials: Use scrap wood, pallets, or reclaimed lumber to keep costs low.
- Batch Production: Make multiple items at once to save time and streamline your workflow.
- Sell Online: Platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace are perfect for reaching buyers.
- Photography Matters: Take high-quality photos with good lighting to showcase your work.
- Add Value: Offer customization (e.g., names, dates) to justify higher prices.
- Learn from Experts: Resources like WoodProfits can guide you on pricing, marketing, and scaling your business.
How to Market Your Small Woodworking Projects
Marketing is key to turning your projects into profit. Here’s how to get started:
- Pinterest: Create pins with eye-catching images and keyword-rich descriptions like “DIY Wooden Coasters for Sale.”
- Instagram: Post process videos and finished product shots with hashtags like #WoodworkingForProfit.
- Craft Fairs: Set up a booth with a mix of these small items—coasters, keychains, and ornaments are easy to display.
- Word of Mouth: Give a few items as gifts to friends and family to spark interest.
- Etsy Shop: Optimize your listings with terms like “handmade wooden gifts” and “small woodworking projects.”
Tools You’ll Need to Get Started
You don’t need a full workshop to make these projects. Here’s a basic toolkit:
- Miter Saw or Jigsaw: For cutting wood to size.
- Sander: To smooth edges and surfaces.
- Drill: For holes and attachments.
- Clamps: To hold pieces while glue dries.
- Wood Finish: Stain, oil, or polyurethane for protection.
As you grow, consider investing in a lathe or router for more intricate designs.
Pricing Your Woodworking Projects for Profit
Pricing can make or break your business. Here’s a simple formula:
- Materials Cost: Calculate wood, hardware, and finishes.
- Labor: Estimate your time (e.g., $20/hour).
- Overhead: Add a small percentage for tools and electricity.
- Profit Margin: Aim for 50–100% markup.
For example, a $5 cutting board (materials + labor) could sell for $20–$30.
Final Thoughts
These 25 small woodworking projects you can sell for profit are just the beginning. With creativity, quality craftsmanship, and smart marketing, you can turn your woodworking skills into a thriving business. Start small, experiment with designs, and scale up as demand grows. Whether it’s coasters, cutting boards, or wine stoppers, there’s a market waiting for your handmade creations.
Ready to take it to the next level? Explore resources like WoodProfits for expert tips on building a woodworking empire. Happy crafting—and happy selling!
Affiliate Disclosure
This article contains affiliate links, including to WoodProfits. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support the creation of free content like this article. Thank you for your support!
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