Looking for a creative way to pass the time at home while also earning some extra money? Crafting is not only a relaxing activity, but it also gives you the chance to create unique products that you could sell online or at local fairs. Here are four easy crafts you can make at home that could turn into a small business opportunity.
1. Wood Engraving
Wood engraving is not just a creative technique to personalize objects, but it also offers the opportunity to sell unique handmade items. You can engrave cutting boards, house signs, or decorative boxes. These personalized items are highly valued in the market for their originality and the artisanal touch they provide.
Materials:
- Wooden board
- Customizer tool or carving chisels
- Fine sandpaper to smooth the edges
Ideas to sell:
- Customized signs with names or inspiring quotes
- Hand-engraved coasters or kitchen utensils
Personalized wooden items are in high demand as gifts, especially for special occasions like weddings or anniversaries.
If you want to start making your own woodcrafts you can read our beginner's guide that will help you understand what you need to know to engrave on wood.
2. Stone Engraving
Stone engraving is another great option for crafting products to sell. Engraved stones are ideal as home or garden decorations, and there is a growing market for people seeking unique, handmade pieces. You can sell anything from personalized stones with names or phrases to decorative items like plant markers or paperweights.
Materials:
- Smooth stones (gathered from your garden or purchased)
- Chisels and hammer
- Sandpaper
- Acrylic paint or varnish (optional, to add color)
- The Customizer Stone Domain Kit
Ideas to sell:
- Customized paperweights
- Engraved plant markers for gardens
These products are popular in gardening and artisanal décor stores and also make great gifts.
3. Ceramic Crafts
Crafting with clay, especially air-dry clay, is a versatile way to create decorative or functional items you can sell. You can make planters, decorative figures, small cups, or plates. These one-of-a-kind handmade pieces often find a great market in craft fairs or online stores.
Materials:
- Air-dry clay or polymer clay
- Sculpting tools (you can improvise with household objects)
- Acrylic paints and sealant to finish
- Ceramic Sanding Bits
Ideas to sell:
- Custom decorative planters
- Handmade bowls and plates for decoration
Handmade ceramic products are highly sought after, especially by people looking for original, personalized décor items. You can also create themed sets to sell in packs.
4. Aluminum Engraving
Aluminum engraving is an excellent technique for creating detailed, delicate products that you can sell. Engraved aluminum sheets can be transformed into decorative plaques, ornaments, or even jewelry. These products, being lightweight and easy to personalize, have a solid market, especially for those seeking unique pieces or intricate designs.
Materials:
- Aluminum sheets
- Engraving tools like punches or burins
- Tape (to hold the sheet in place while you work)
- Paint or enamel (optional, to highlight the engravings)
Ideas to sell:
- Custom pendants
- Decorative plaques for doors or gift tags
These products are popular in gift shops or on platforms like Etsy, where buyers look for handmade, customizable items.