Woodworking isn’t just a relaxing hobby—it can be a solid income stream, even in tough economic times. During a recession, people may cut back on luxury spending, but they continue buying items that are practical, personal, or handmade with care.

This is where woodworking shines.

In this detailed guide, we’re diving deep into the top 5 wood projects that consistently sell, even when the economy dips. These aren’t just passing trends. These are evergreen, in-demand products that sell well on Etsy, Facebook Marketplace, craft fairs, or even your own website.

We’ll cover why they sell, how to build them, what tools and materials you need, and tips to market them successfully.

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1. Rustic Wooden Shelves

💡 Why They Sell

Shelves are both decorative and functional. Rustic or floating wooden shelves match popular design trends like farmhouse, industrial, and minimalist décor.

👥 Who Buys Them

• First-time homeowners
• Interior decorators
• Apartment renters
• Etsy shoppers looking for rustic style

📦 Best Types to Sell

• Floating wall shelves
• Live edge natural wood shelves
• Reclaimed wood shelves

🛠 Tools Needed

• Miter saw or circular saw
• Orbital sander
• Drill/driver

🧰 Materials

• Pine, oak, or reclaimed wood
• Wall brackets
• Wood stain and sealer

💵 Profit Potential

• Cost to make: $10–$30
• Selling price: $40–$120+
• Bonus: Easy to sell in sets of 2 or 3

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2. Handcrafted Cutting Boards

💡 Why They Sell

These are giftable, usable, and beautiful—the triple threat. Everyone needs a cutting board, and handcrafted versions with custom touches are super popular.

👥 Who Buys Them

• Gift shoppers
• Food lovers
• Newlyweds
• Real estate agents (for housewarming gifts)

📦 Best Types to Sell

• End-grain boards
• Edge-grain boards
• Personalized boards with names or logos
• Charcuterie boards

🛠 Tools Needed

• Planer or jointer
• Table saw
• Router
• Sander

🧰 Materials

• Hardwood: maple, walnut, cherry
• Food-safe glue (Titebond III)
• Mineral oil or cutting board wax

💵 Profit Potential

• Cost: $15–$40
• Selling price: $50–$200+
• Tip: Offer engraving for $10–$30 more

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3. Custom Pet Furniture

💡 Why They Sell

Pet owners are notoriously loyal. They don’t skimp when it comes to their furry friends. From pet beds to feeders, custom wood projects sell fast.

👥 Who Buys Them

• Dog and cat lovers
• Pet boutiques
• Gift buyers
• Pet influencers

📦 Best Types to Sell

• Pet beds with storage
• Cat trees made of real wood
• Elevated feeding stations
• Doggy steps for older pets

🛠 Tools Needed

• Circular saw
• Drill
• Sander

🧰 Materials

• Plywood, solid wood
• Pet-safe stain/paint
• Hardware for bowls or cushions

💵 Profit Potential

• Cost: $25–$70
• Selling price: $80–$300+

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4. Entryway Organizers & Coat Racks

💡 Why They Sell

Great for decluttering, these are high-function + high-style pieces perfect for homes and apartments. Many buyers want unique, rustic organizers.

👥 Who Buys Them

• Families
• Apartment renters
• Airbnb hosts
• Home decorators

📦 Best Types to Sell

• Wall-mounted racks with shelves
• Coat racks with key holders
• Entryway mirrors with hooks

🛠 Tools Needed

• Table saw
• Sander
• Drill/driver

🧰 Materials

• Wood planks
• Hooks and screws
• Finishing materials

💵 Profit Potential

• Cost: $20–$80
• Selling price: $75–$250

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5. Outdoor Furniture (Benches, Chairs, Planters)

💡 Why They Sell

People still invest in making their outdoor spaces beautiful—even in a downturn. Benches, swings, and planter boxes are classic bestsellers.

👥 Who Buys Them

• Homeowners
• Gardeners
• Airbnb hosts
• Café/shop owners

📦 Best Types to Sell

• Adirondack chairs
• Porch swings
• Raised garden beds
• Picnic tables

🛠 Tools Needed

• Circular saw
• Drill
• Sander

🧰 Materials

• Pressure-treated lumber or cedar
• Exterior-grade fasteners
• Outdoor stain/sealant

💵 Profit Potential

• Cost: $40–$120
• Selling price: $150–$500+

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🔥 Want to Go Pro? Download 16,000+ Plans Now

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✅ Check out Ted’s Woodworking Plans — a library of 16,000+ plans, including:\n- Sheds\n- Furniture\n- Toys\n- Home décor\n- Outdoor projects\n- And more!

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📈 How to Sell Your Projects Faster

Here are tips to help you sell more and build your brand:

1. Use High-Quality Photos

Stage your products in real homes. Natural light, clean backgrounds, and close-ups make a huge difference.

2. Post on Multiple Platforms

Etsy, Facebook Marketplace, Instagram, Pinterest, and your own website give you broader reach.

3. Offer Customization

Monograms, sizes, and finishes give your products a personal touch buyers love.

4. Collect and Showcase Reviews

Happy customers attract new ones. Ask for photos and testimonials.

5. Build a Social Presence

Document your process. Behind-the-scenes content builds trust and keeps people engaged.

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✍ Affiliate Disclosure

Some links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I trust, and these commissions help support my content.