38 Profitable Things to Make and Sell From Home

Ready to cash in on your creativity? Check out these 38 thrilling ideas for making and selling things from home and watch your passions turn into profit!
By Cassie Smith - Financial Advisor
30 Min Read
Profitable things to make and sell from home

If you’ve been dreaming about creating and selling products from the comfort of your own home, you’re in good company. I’ve been there too! 

I know the thrill of imagining your own creations in the hands of happy customers and the nerves that come with figuring out how to make it all work.

Starting a home-based business comes with its fair share of challenges, but if you do not start now, you are wasting a huge opportunity to grow financially. 

To help you take that first step, we’ll look into a variety of creative ideas that you can craft and sell without ever leaving your house. 

These options cater to different skills and interests, so there’s something for everyone, no matter your experience level!

1. Handmade Candles

Handmade candles

The candle market is booming and is expected to reach $16.9 billion by 2031. That’s a lot of wax!

Creating your own candle line can be a fun and aromatic engagement. 

Set things in motion by preparing wax, wicks, fragrance oils, and containers. Then, experiment with different wax types, such as soy, beeswax, or paraffin. Each has its own properties and benefits. 

Websites like CandleScience offer starter kits that include everything you need.

Additionally, you can try exploring unconventional scents and distinctive designs. Lavender and vanilla for relaxation? Citrus for energy? The options are wide open!

As your candle business grows, consider eco-friendly options like reusable containers or locally sourced ingredients to appeal to environmentally conscious customers.

2. Signs

Signs have become increasingly popular in the era of home decor enthusiasm. Handmade signs, in particular, shine with their personal touch and appeal, making them highly sought-after.

To start, you’ll need some basic tools like a saw, sandpaper, paint or stain, and your choice of material. Wood is popular, but metal and acrylic are good options too. 

If you have a Cricut machine, even better, as it can help you create intricate designs with ease.

Popular themes include inspirational quotes, family names, or seasonal decor. You should consider offering customization options. People love personalized items. 

You could charge anywhere from $20 to $100 or more, depending on the size and complexity of your signs.

Etsy is a great platform to sell your handmade signs, but don’t overlook local craft fairs or even approaching local boutiques to stock your products. 

3. Restored Furniture

Restored furniture

Furniture restoration is not only a profitable craft but also a great way to make money while reducing waste. Plus, with the rising interest in vintage and upcycled items, the market is ripe for beautiful, restored pieces.

Start by searching thrift stores, yard sales, or even Facebook Marketplace for potential projects. 

Look for solid wood pieces with good bones. They’re often the best candidates for restoration.

Then, it’s important to invest in some basic tools like sandpaper, paint, brushes, and a good set of screwdrivers.

Furthermore, you need a business-minded vision. Can you see the potential in that worn-out dresser? With some sanding, a fresh coat of paint, and new hardware, it could become a stunning statement piece.

You could buy a piece for $50, put in some elbow grease, and sell it for $300 or more!

With regard to selling, consider platforms like Facebook Marketplace or local consignment shops. 

4. Art

If you have the craftsmanship, use that talent to generate additional income! 

Regardless of whether you specialize in painting, digital art, sculpture, or another form of artistic expression, a market exists for your work.

It’s essential that you focus on developing your original style.

You can play around with different techniques and subjects until you find what resonates with you and potential buyers.

When addressing sales, you have multiple options. Online platforms like Etsy or Society6 are great for reaching a global audience. These sites handle the logistics of printing and shipping, allowing you to focus on creating. 

For original pieces, consider setting up your own website or using platforms like Saatchi Art.

You can also promote your art using social media platforms like Instagram.

In terms of pricing, research similar artists and consider factors like material costs, time invested, and your level of experience. As you build your reputation, you can gradually increase your prices.

5. E-books

If you have a story to tell or knowledge to share, creating e-books might be the best way to become a published author without the hassle of traditional publishing.

You can write about literally anything – from fiction to how-to guides, cookbooks to self-help manuals.

First, you need to choose a topic you’re passionate about. Then, write your content using a simple word processor. Format it for e-readers using software like Calibre (it’s free!). 

For cover design, you can use user-friendly tools like Canva or hire a designer from freelance platforms like Fiverr.

When it comes to selling, Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing is a popular choice. It’s free to use and gives you access to millions of potential readers. 

Other platforms like Smashwords or your own website are also great options.

Also, to market your e-book, you can use social media, start a blog, or even create a podcast.

6. Digital Printables

Design and sell printables on Canva

Designing digital printables offers both excitement and the prospect of significant profit.

I started by creating a simple weekly planner template, and in no time, I was designing everything from budget trackers to wall art prints.

One of my best-selling items is a set of customizable labels for pantry organization. 

It aligns with the current home organization trend and provides customers with a means to achieve that Instagram-worthy pantry look.

Digital printables only require minimal ongoing effort. Once you’ve created a design, you can sell it indefinitely without additional work. It’s the ultimate passive income stream!

I personally use Adobe Illustrator, but Canva is a great, user-friendly alternative for beginners. 

You can start by identifying a niche, such as wedding invitations, classroom materials, or home organization tools.

You can sell your digital printables on Etsy. Simply set up your shop, upload your files, and you’re ready to start.

Pro Tip: Stay on top of trends and seasonality. Creating themed printables for holidays or current events can lead to sales spikes. 

7. Videos and Courses

Have you ever considered sharing your knowledge with the world? Creating videos and online courses is a great way to do just that while also earning extra income. 

The e-learning industry is exploding, with experts predicting it to reach a whopping $325 billion by 2025!

Platforms like Teachable or Udemy are great places to host your courses. They handle the technical side of things, leaving you free to focus on teaching.

You could begin by identifying a skill you excel at – maybe it’s cooking, digital marketing, or even juggling. Once you’ve pinpointed your area of expertise, start planning your course content. 

Break it down into digestible modules, create engaging video lessons, and voila! You’ve got yourself a product.

Pro Tip: If you’re a teacher seeking to earn extra cash aside from creating courses, check out my article on 16 profitable side hustle ideas for teachers

8. Homemade Dog Treats

Homemade dog treats

Have you ever considered catering to our four-legged friends? Crafting homemade dog treats can be both satisfying and lucrative.

The pet industry is booming, with Americans spending a staggering $64.4 billion on pet food and treats in 2023 alone. 

Pet parents are increasingly concerned about what goes into their furry companions’ food, making natural, homemade treats highly desirable.

When making dog treats, you need to research dog-friendly ingredients and consult with a veterinarian to ensure your treats are nutritious. 

Popular options include peanut butter biscuits, sweet potato chews, and frozen yogurt pops. 

When dealing with sales, consider platforms like Etsy or your local farmer’s market. You could also approach local pet stores to stock your products. 

Note: You need to check local regulations regarding the sale of pet food products. Some areas may require special licenses or certifications.

9. Bath Bombs

Bath bombs offer a vibrant and aromatic addition to the beauty market, combining creativity with indulgence. 

These products have taken the self-care world by storm, offering an easy way to turn an ordinary bath into a luxurious experience.

Creating bath bombs is simple. You just need baking soda, citric acid, Epsom salts, and your choice of essential oils and colorants. 

Then, mix the dry ingredients, add the wet ones, pack the mixture into molds, and there you have it. You’ve got yourself a bath bomb.

Platforms like Etsy, local boutiques, and spa shops are great avenues for reaching a wide audience.

Bath bombs typically sell from $5 to $15 each, and at the same time, the cost of materials is relatively low. 

Pro Tip: In making bath bombs, form unique shapes, unexpected color combinations, or even hidden surprises inside the bombs. 

Apart from that, you can release themed collections like holiday specials. 

Looking for other ideas to earn extra cash during the holiday season? Read my article on 30 ways to make extra money for the holidays

10. DIY Body Products

DIY body products

DIY body products are gaining popularity as people seek natural and personalized options for their skincare routines. 

From luxurious body scrubs to nourishing face masks, there’s no limit to what you can create!

One popular item to start with is body scrubs. 

These exfoliating treats are simple to make and customizable to suit various skin types. A basic recipe might include sugar or salt, a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba, and your choice of essential oils for fragrance.

Another option is homemade soap. While it requires a bit more skill and safety precautions, handcrafted soaps can command premium prices. 

When venturing into this market, focus on natural, organic ingredients. Many consumers are willing to pay extra for products free from harsh chemicals. 

Also, research proper preservative methods to ensure your products stay fresh and safe.

As for selling, online selling platforms, craft fairs, and farmers markets are great places to start. You can interact directly with customers and get immediate feedback. 

11. Sweets

The market for homemade sweets is always hungry for new treats, especially those with a unique twist.

One trend that’s gaining traction is healthier alternatives to traditional sweets. Think vegan truffles, keto-friendly brownies, or gluten-free cupcakes. 

By catering to dietary restrictions, you could capitalize on a growing niche market.

When starting out, create a few signature recipes using local ingredients. Emphasize that your products use “locally sourced ingredients” as this is a powerful selling point.

With the average American spending $646.79 on candy and treats annually, there’s plenty of room for your sweet creations in the market. 

Note: Be sure to follow local regulations regarding home-based food businesses.

Many areas have “cottage food laws” that allow for the sale of certain homemade goods, but requirements can vary.

12. DIY Kits

People love the satisfaction of creating something with their own hands, but many lack the time or knowledge to gather all the necessary materials. That’s where DIY kits come in. 

They offer a convenient solution by providing all the materials and instructions needed in one package, making it easy for anyone to jump into a new hobby.

To make your DIY kit stand out, include clear, step-by-step instructions that guide users through the process. 

Adding some extra materials for practice or mistakes can also enhance the experience. A personal touch, like a handwritten note or unique tips, can make the kit feel even more special.

For example, candle-making kits can sell from $35 to $50, and a well-curated kit often commands a higher price than the sum of its parts.

This approach can turn a simple hobby into a profitable side gig.

13. Gift Baskets

Make Christmas gift baskets

I haven’t met anyone who doesn’t love receiving a beautifully curated gift basket! This timeless present has stood the test of time for good reason – it’s versatile, customizable, and always appreciated. 

As a business endeavor, gift baskets offer an extraordinary chance to flex your creative muscles while leveraging various markets.

Thoughtful curations appeal to clients. You can create themed baskets — such as a ‘Movie Night’ basket with gourmet popcorn and candy or a ‘Spa Day’ basket with homemade bath products.

When sourcing items for your baskets, look for rare, locally-made products. 

This not only supports other small businesses but also gives your baskets a special touch that can’t be found in mass-produced versions.

Additionally, invest in high-quality baskets, cellophane, and ribbons. Your packaging should be as impressive as the items inside. 

The average price of a mid-range gift basket hovers around $50 to $100, and luxury baskets fetch even more. 

14. Jewelry (Necklaces, Earrings, Friendship Bracelets)

Handmade jewelry is a constant favorite among all crafts. From delicate necklaces and statement earrings to colorful friendship bracelets, there is always demand for these creations.

It’s important that you focus on a specific type of jewelry. 

Mastering one area before expanding will help you create high-quality pieces consistently. 

For materials, consider sites like Fire Mountain Gems or Rio Grande, which provide a wide range of supplies at wholesale prices.

When setting your prices, a general guideline is to charge at least four times the cost of materials. Be sure to also account for your time and skill in the pricing process.

You can market your products on Instagram and Pinterest, which are excellent platforms for showcasing your pieces. 

15. Coasters

Coasters

Coasters are home accessories that are often overlooked, yet they play a significant role in protecting our surfaces from unsightly water rings.

Creating coasters can unleash your creativity while producing something genuinely useful. It’s possible to make rustic wooden designs or elegant ceramic pieces. Your creativity knows no bounds!

You could even experiment with unconventional materials like resin or recycled materials for an eco-friendly twist.

When it comes to designs, think beyond the basic square. Hexagons, circles, or even asymmetrical shapes can add a distinctive flair to your coasters. 

You have to seal your creations properly to ensure they can withstand condensation from cold drinks.

The price of your coasters will largely depend on the materials used and the complexity of your designs. 

A set of four handmade coasters can be sold for $20 to $40 on platforms like Etsy. With material costs often under $5 per set, there’s a great chance for a return on investment. 

16. Kitchen Utensil Holders

Even the most organized kitchens can struggle with a clutter of utensils on drawers or countertops. Kitchen utensil holders address this issue, combining both functionality and style.

Crafting these holders allows you to enter the growing market for stylish kitchen accessories.

Wood is a popular choice for utensil holders, offering warmth and durability. 

If you’re handy with woodworking tools, you could create beautiful holders from reclaimed wood for an eco-friendly angle. 

Don’t limit yourself to traditional cylindrical designs. You can produce holders with multiple compartments for sorting utensils or add hooks for hanging items like measuring spoons. 

The more functional your design, the more appealing it will be to potential buyers.

When pricing your utensil holders, weigh on the time and materials involved. 

Handcrafted wooden or ceramic holders usually sell from $30 to $60 on platforms like Etsy or at local craft fairs. Material costs are only under $10 per piece. 

17. Soap Dispensers

Stepping into the bathroom, let’s focus on an item that’s both practical and stylish: soap dispensers. 

Making soap dispensers blend functionality with aesthetic appeal. From sleek glass bottles to rustic mason jars, the design possibilities are vast. 

You could even upcycle interesting containers to create one-of-a-kind pieces.

All that is needed is to source pumps and containers. Websites like SKS Bottle and Packaging offer a variety of options. 

Personalization is essential in this market. You can develop both countertop and wall-mounted designs to cater to different preferences. 

Furthermore, offering custom engravings or painted designs can set your products apart. 

When it comes to pricing, handmade soap dispensers generally cost between $15 and $30. Selling these dispensers can be profitable, as material costs usually remain below $5 per piece.

18. Perfume

Perfume making is a centuries-old craft that merges creativity and chemistry, enabling you to bottle beautiful fragrances for others to enjoy.

With the global fragrance market projected to reach $91.17 billion by 2025, there’s plenty of room for handcrafted scents. 

You can begin by educating yourself about fragrance families and how different scents interact. Resources like The Institute for Art and Olfaction offer online courses.

When crafting your perfumes, focus on using high-quality essential oils and carrier oils. Websites like Eden Botanicals offer a wide range of organic and sustainably sourced ingredients. 

Keep in mind that packaging plays a crucial role in the perfume industry. 

Hence, there is a need to invest in attractive bottles and labels to make your products distinctive. 

Pricing in the perfume market can vary widely. Handcrafted perfumes often sell from $30 to $100 for a 30ml bottle. While ingredient costs typically range from $5 to $15 per bottle.

19. Bookmarks

DIY bookmarks

As an avid reader, I’ve always had a soft spot for bookmarks. I started making them for myself and my friends, simply as a way to add a personal touch to our reading experiences.

One popular trend to work on is resin bookmarks, where you can embed dried flowers, glitter, or small trinkets for a unique look.

To launch your bookmark business, first choose your medium.

If you’re into paper crafts, invest in a good paper cutter and some high-quality cardstock. For fabric bookmarks, a small embroidery hoop and some embroidery floss can go a long way. 

Adding a tassel or ribbon can give them an extra touch of elegance.

When it comes to designs, assess your target audience. Literary quotes are always popular among book lovers. You could also create themed sets based on different genres or famous book series. 

In my experience, handmade bookmarks commonly sell between $5 and $15 each, with material costs often under $1 per piece.

20. Stationery Pouches

There’s still a distinct charm to stationery and along with it, there’s a growing need for stationery pouches. 

These practical yet stylish accessories are perfect for keeping pens, pencils, and other small items organized.

You can start with simple designs using cotton fabrics, then progress to more complex patterns or materials like leather or canvas as your skills improve.

When choosing fabrics, consider durability as well as aesthetics. Websites like Spoonflower offer a wide range of artist-designed fabrics that could make your pouches exclusive. 

Also, think about functionality when designing your pouches. Multiple compartments, a clear window for easy viewing, or a loop for attaching to notebooks could all be key features. 

Handmade stationery pouches usually sell for $15 to $30, while fabric costs are often less than $5 per pouch.

21. Notebooks

With their versatility and timeless appeal, notebooks remain one of the most sought-after items for note-taking, journaling, and personal expression.

You can start with simple staple-bound notebooks, then progress to more complex methods like perfect binding or Japanese stab binding as you gain experience.

When it comes to materials, experiment with different paper types – smooth for writing, textured for sketching. 

For covers, you could use anything from handmade paper to fabric or even leather. 

Websites like Paper Source offer a wide range of bookbinding supplies to get you started.

Small, simple notebooks might sell from $10 to $15, while larger, more intricate designs could bring in $30 up to $50 or more, with material costs around $5 per notebook. 

22. Coloring Books

Are you ready to unleash your inner artist? Designing coloring books could be your ideal business project!

Crafting a coloring book starts with deciding on a theme. Nature scenes, mandalas, or quirky characters – the possibilities are endless. 

Once you’ve settled on a concept, it’s time to start sketching. Don’t worry if you’re not a master illustrator; simple, bold designs often work best for coloring.

To turn your sketches into a book, you’ll need some digital know-how. Scan your drawings and use software like Adobe Illustrator to clean them up and create crisp, black lines. 

If you’re new to digital art, Canva offers user-friendly tools to help you get started.

As for printing, consider print-on-demand services like KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing). They’ll handle the printing and shipping, leaving you free to focus on creating. Plus, you’ll avoid the upfront costs of bulk printing.

Most self-published coloring books on Amazon range from $6.99 to $12.99. 

Given that printing costs range from $2 to $3 per book, there’s significant potential for a strong profit margin.

23. Pillowcases

Pillowcases

This simple yet essential bedding item offers a world of creative possibilities. From soothing solids to wild patterns, there’s a pillowcase design for every bedroom aesthetic.

To start your pillowcase-making journey, you’ll need some basic sewing skills and a reliable sewing machine. 

Don’t fret if you’re a beginner – pillowcases are one of the easiest sewing projects to master. There are websites like Sew4Home that offer free tutorials to help you get started.

When choosing fabrics, consider both comfort and style. Cotton is a popular choice for its breathability and ease of care. You may check out Fabric.com, as it offers a wide range of options, from crisp percale to silky sateen. 

Handmade pillowcases can be sold for $15 to $30 per case. With material costs often under $5 per case, there’s room for profitability.

Pro Tip: Try adding special touches such as French seams for a polished look, contrasting cuffs for a pop of color, or even embroidered monograms for a personal touch. 

These details can justify higher prices and set your products apart.

24. Soap Bar Dishes

These often-overlooked bathroom accessories are making a comeback as more people embrace solid soaps in an effort to reduce plastic waste.

There are tons of soap dish designs waiting to be created. You just need to ensure proper drainage to keep the soap dry between uses.

For ceramic soap dishes, take some pottery classes to learn the basics. Wheel-thrown or hand-built, you’ve got lots of options. 

On the other hand, if woodworking is more your style, naturally water-resistant woods like teak or cedar are excellent choices.

While creating your soap dishes, think of uncommon arrangements. Leaf shapes, geometric patterns, or even animal-inspired designs can add a touch of charm to the bathroom. 

Handmade soap can be priced between $15 and $40, factoring in production costs that usually amount to $5 per bar. 

25. Sharpie Mugs

Sharpie mugs

Let’s talk about a craft that combines creativity with caffeine – Sharpie mugs. These personalized cups are a fun and easy way to add a touch of delight to anyone’s morning routine.

Creating Sharpie mugs is surprisingly simple. All you need are plain white ceramic mugs, oil-based Sharpie markers, and an oven to set the design. 

Its remarkable trait is the low barrier to entry — simple designs like polka dots or geometric patterns can still look stunning, even if you’re not an artist.

When selecting mugs, opt for high-quality ceramic blanks. Websites like Discount Mugs offer a variety of options at wholesale prices. 

As for markers, Sharpie’s oil-based paint markers are the go-to choice for their durability.

The price of custom Sharpie mugs typically ranges between $12 and $25, depending on the design’s intricacy as well as the material costs, which are generally under $3 per mug.

26. Clipboards

Office supplies don’t have to be boring, and clipboards are the perfect canvas to prove it! 

Transforming plain clipboards into eye-catching accessories is easier than you might think. 

Start with basic wooden clipboards, which you can find in bulk from office supply stores. 

Then, paint, decoupage, or even apply wood-burning techniques to transform these organizers into artistic creations.

In the process of designing, explore different themes or styles. Floral patterns for the nature lover, motivational quotes for the go-getter, or sleek minimalist designs for the modern professional. 

You can price your decorated clipboards between $15 and $30. Don’t forget to factor in production costs which are often under $5 per clipboard.

27. Tote Bags

Tote bags

Tote bags are the go-to choice for a wide range of uses, from carrying groceries and books to serving as a chic everyday handbag.

As demand for reusable bags rises, launching your own line of totes could be a successful home business.

All that is required is some basic sewing skills and a sturdy machine. The rest is all about your vision.

When choosing materials, consider both durability and style. Canvas is a popular choice for its strength and paintability. 

For a more upscale look, faux leather or waxed canvas can add a touch of sophistication. Websites like Fabric.com offer a wide range of options to get you started.

Handmade tote bags generally sell from $20 to $50, while material costs are under $10 per bag. There’s certainly revenue potential!

28. Sunglasses Cases

Sunglasses cases are more than just practical accessories; they offer a stylish way to protect your eyewear. 

Entering the business of selling sunglasses cases allows you to capitalize on a market that values both functionality and fashion.

You just have to create something that not only protects the glasses but also looks great when pulled out of a bag or pocket.

First, consider your material options. Felt is popular for its durability and ease of use, while leather offers a more luxurious feel. 

For rigid cases, you might explore working with wood or even upcycling old hardcover books. 

When planning your designs, consider both functionality and aesthetics.

A microfiber lining can help keep lenses scratch-free, while a clip or loop can make the case easy to attach to a bag. 

Moreover, you can add personalization options like monograms or custom designs to increase appeal.

You can price your handmade sunglasses cases between $15 and $40. To determine a reasonable price, factor in production costs, which are often under $5 per case.

29. Coat Hangers

Who said organizing can’t be stylish? Let’s explore how coat hangers can be transformed into a work of art!

For wooden hangers, you’ll need some basic woodworking tools and skills. If you’re more into fabric-covered hangers, a glue gun and your favorite textiles will do the trick. 

As you craft your coat hangers, you may add special features like extra hooks for scarves or a bar for pants to increase functionality.

Handcrafted coat hangers can range from $15 for a simple design to $50 or more for elaborate pieces. Typically, production costs are at least $5 per hanger.

30. Mittens

Mittens

Mittens offer both warmth and a touch of style for cold weather. 

By designing mittens, you can provide an eye-catching, handcrafted option for those looking to stay cozy and fashionable during the winter months.

To kick off your mitten-making side gig, you’ll need to select your materials. 

For knitters and crocheters, websites like LoveCrafts offer a wide range of yarns and patterns. If sewing is more your style, look for soft, warm fabrics like fleece or wool. 

As you design your mittens, ensure they provide essential warmth. 

Additionally, consider incorporating decorative elements such as pom-poms or embroidery. 

You could even create convertible mittens with a flap that folds back to reveal fingerless gloves – perfect for texting on chilly days!

Handmade mittens generally fall within the price range of $20 to $50, influenced by the choice of materials and the level of complexity in their design. 

31. Hats

Crafting hats allows you to explore various techniques and materials. 

Knitting and crochet are popular choices for winter hats, while sewing is perfect for creating structured sun hats or trendy bucket hats. Each method has its own charm and learning curve.

Though it may seem overwhelming initially, you can begin by mastering a single technique.

Websites like Yarnspirations offer free patterns for knit and crochet hats, while Sew4Home has tutorials for sewn hats. 

Stay on top of current fashion trends and seasonal needs! 

For instance, a slouchy beanie is ideal for fall, while a wide-brimmed sun hat can be a summer staple. 

Pricing for handmade hats can vary widely, from $25 for a basic beanie to $100 or more for a detailed sun hat. 

Given that material costs are typically under $10 per hat, you can expect to earn an impressive amount of income!

32. Scarves

Since they’re perfect for any season, scarves offer limitless possibilities for innovativeness and customization. 

Knitting and crochet are popular choices for winter scarves, while weaving can produce lightweight summer wraps. 

For those who prefer sewing, infinity scarves made from beautiful fabrics can be a quick and profitable project.

To launch your scarf-making experience, select a technique that appeals to you. Websites like Craftsy offer online classes in various fiber arts. 

For sewers, The Spruce Crafts has tutorials on making different types of scarves. 

Once you’ve mastered the basics, experiment with different yarns, fabrics, and patterns to create your style.

The price of handmade scarves generally falls between $30 and $100 or higher

33. Enamel Pins

Enamel pins are small pieces of art that have quickly become a popular accessory, providing a fun and collectible way to showcase personal style.

While the manufacturing process typically requires professional equipment, as a designer, your role is to design engaging visuals that people will want to pin to their jackets, bags, or pinboards.

If you’re new to digital design, websites like Skillshare offer courses to help you get started.

When planning for your designs, you have to think about current trends and niche interests. Funny sayings, cute characters, or symbols representing specific hobbies or fandoms can all make great pin designs. 

Once you have your designs, you’ll need to find a manufacturer. Companies like PinLord specialize in producing enamel pins and can guide you through the process. 

While there’s an upfront cost for production, the per-pin cost decreases with larger orders.

Enamel pins usually cost between $8 and $15, with the price varying based on factors like size and design complexity.

It is important to mention that production costs are around $2 to $4 per pin for a medium-sized order.

34. Felt Sleep Masks

Felt sleep masks

Looking for a product to sell that’s both comforting and creative? Felt sleep masks offer a practical option for customers seeking relaxation. 

These handmade masks, which effectively block out light, also make for thoughtful gifts.

Crafting felt sleep masks is less complicated than some of the other items on our list, even for beginners. All you need is some soft felt, elastic, and basic sewing skills. 

When it comes to comfort, adding a layer of silk or satin on the back of the mask is highly recommended. This luxurious touch can help prevent hair creases and feel soothing on the skin. 

Handmade sleep masks usually range in price from $15 to $30, depending on the complexity of the design and production costs, which are under $3 per mask. 

35. Software Programs

If you’ve got digital skills ready to be flexed, creating and selling software programs might be the tech-savvy side hustle you’ve been searching for.

Developing software requires a solid foundation in programming. 

If you’re new to coding, start by learning languages like Python or JavaScript. Websites like Codecademy offer free courses to help you get started. 

Once you’ve got the basics down, you can specialize in areas like mobile app development or web applications.

When brainstorming software ideas, think about problems you could solve. Maybe it’s a productivity tool for remote workers or a game concept. 

It’s necessary that you find a niche that’s not oversaturated but has a dedicated user base.

As you develop your software, consider using platforms like GitHub for version control and collaboration. 

For testing, services like TestFlight (for iOS apps) or Google Play Console’s beta testing (for Android) can be invaluable.

To market your software, leverage platforms specific to your product type. For example, if you’ve created a WordPress plugin, you could list it on CodeCanyon

For mobile apps, optimize your listings on the App Store or Google Play Store. 

Note: Create a website for your software to showcase its features and benefits, offering potential users a clear view of what it has to offer and how it can meet their needs.

36. Keychains

Ideal for everyday use or as gifts, keychains can be a profitable and enjoyable item to craft and sell from home.

You could build them from materials like polymer clay, resin, wood, or even upcycled items. Each medium offers its own set of challenges and rewards, so choose one that aligns with your skills and interests.

First, you’ll need some basic supplies. 

For resin keychains, purchasing a good quality resin and silicone mold is encouraged. 

If you’re leaning towards polymer clay, brands like Sculpey have a range of colors and tools. 

In terms of designs, pop culture references, cute animals, or personalized options can all be big hits. You can also offer customization. People love seeing their names or initials on accessories.

The price for handmade keychains usually falls between $8 and $20. Material costs are typically under $2 per keychain.

37. Greeting Cards

Crafting greeting cards allows you to explore various techniques. You might enjoy watercolor painting, calligraphy, collage, or even digital design printed on high-quality card stock. 

Simply find a style that sets your cards apart in a crowded market.

To start off, invest in quality materials. Acid-free card stock, archival inks, and good adhesives are essential for creating cards that last. 

You can check out Paper Source for a variety of supplies to get you started. 

Handmade greeting cards generally cost between $5 and $15 each, with the price varying based on the design’s intricacy and the material costs often under $1 per card.

38. Pacifier Clips

Pacifier clips

Lastly, let us consider a craft that, while small in size, offers significant practicality: pacifier clips.

These handy accessories are a lifesaver for parents of young children, keeping pacifiers clean and within reach.

You’ll need some basic supplies to get started: fabric or ribbon, clips, and sturdy clasps that meet safety standards. All these are typically available on Carasupply.

When crafting your clips, safety is your top priority. Ensure all components are securely attached and that the finished product is no longer than 8 inches, as per safety guidelines. 

Some parents might prefer simple, gender-neutral designs, while others might love bold, themed clips that match their diaper bags.

Pricing for handmade pacifier clips commonly ranges from $8 to $15. With material costs often under $2 per clip, there’s room for a tidy profit. 

Where to Sell Your Handmade Crafts

Now that you’re bursting with ideas for things to make and sell, you’re probably wondering where to actually sell all your awesome creations.

Well, let’s dive into some great options!

Here are some great places to sell your homemade items:

  • Etsy: A haven for handmade goods with millions of buyers looking for unique, handcrafted items.
  • Amazon Handmade: Amazon’s answer to Etsy. More exclusive, but offers access to Amazon’s massive customer base.
  • eBay: Great for selling creations, especially if they’re vintage-inspired or unique.
  • Instagram: Perfect for showcasing your products visually. Use relevant hashtags and engage with followers.
  • Facebook Marketplace: Ideal for reaching local customers. Join Facebook groups dedicated to handmade items.
  • Pinterest: While not a marketplace, it can drive significant traffic to your online store or website.
  • Your own website: Consider platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce for full control over your brand and customer experience.
  • Craft Fairs: Great for meeting customers face-to-face and getting immediate feedback.
  • Farmers Markets: Many now welcome artisans and crafters.
  • Local Boutiques: Approach local shops about stocking your items on consignment.

Remember, you don’t have to stick to just one selling channel. Mix and match to find what works best for you and your products.

Pro Tip: Wherever you choose to sell, make sure your product photos are top-notch. In the online world, your photos are your storefront, so make them shine.

Final Thoughts

There’s no shortage of ways to turn your skills and interests into a profitable venture from home. 

You just have to focus on what excites you and fits your lifestyle and remember, success often comes from persistence and adaptation.

I began with just a few digital printables, and soon enough, I was running a thriving online shop. It was a learning process, but each small success helped build the business I have today.

These home-based activities allow you to turn your hobby into a source of income while maintaining the flexibility to work on your own terms. 

So, see where your artistic vision takes you.

If you have any questions or feedback related to making and selling items from home, please drop a comment below. Our community would appreciate your input!

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By Cassie Smith Financial Advisor
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Hey there! I'm Cassie Smith, the founder of Love to Finance. With a bachelor's degree in finance, I share insights and tips on personal finance, frugal living, budgeting, and other financial advice that can make a difference through this blog. My aim is to make finance approachable and fun for everyone. Outside of the blog, you'll find me hiking with my rescue dogs, Lucy and Frankie, enjoying the simplicity and beauty of nature.
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