Turning Your Woodworking Skills Into Income

Not all woodworking projects are created equal. Some are fun but hard to sell, others are practical, in-demand, and surprisingly profitable. Here’s how to narrow your focus.

Start with a few small, fast-to-produce items to test the waters:

• Cutting boards

• Wooden coasters

• Rustic wall shelves

• Handmade toys

• Simple plant stands

Once you get feedback, lean into a niche.

Specialization helps you:

• Stand out in saturated markets

• Build a recognizable style or brand

• Streamline production with templates and repeatable processes

• Utility – Things people can use in their home daily

• Giftability – Small items that make great presents

• Customization – Personalized names, dates, or designs

• Aesthetic – Think farmhouse, mid-century modern, or minimalist

Basically if it photographs well and solves a problem, it’s a strong candidate.

You don’t need to be a designer to start. Thousands of plans are already available online. Many are free, and others are definitely worth paying for.

Tip: Use free plans to hone your skills, but don’t hesitate to invest in a paid resource once you know your niche or are keen to ensure tried and tested quality.

Once you've made a few pieces you're proud of, it’s time to show them off.

Online Methods (Your work is visual, so use that)

• Instagram or Pinterest: Post high-quality photos with hashtags like #woodworkingcommunity or #makersofinstagram

• Etsy shop or Gumroad: Great for beginners, but be mindful of fees

• Facebook Marketplace: Useful for local sales and test launches

A basic website (even a free one via Carrd or Wix) gives you credibility, especially if you want to attract commissions.

And don't forget: Offline still works too.

• Craft fairs and maker markets: You’ll meet customers face-to-face and hear real-time feedback

• Local coffee shops or boutiques: Ask if they’ll display a few pieces on consignment

• Word of mouth: Do good work. It spreads faster than you’d think

Best approach?

Do both. A customer may see your booth at a fair (and maybe pick up a purchase), then later visit your site to place a custom order. Win - win.

Step 4: Don’t Skip the Legal Stuff - Protect Your Work

If you’re designing original items—especially toys or signature furniture pieces—consider copyright protection. It's not mandatory, but it can:

• Deter copycats

• Support your pricing power

• Signal professionalism

Also consider:

• Registering a business: Often simple and cheap for sole proprietors

• Basic liability insurance: Especially if you sell children’s items or attend public markets

• Tracking income/expenses: Even a free spreadsheet or app like Wave is better than nothing

Step 5: Price for Profit, Not Just to Sell

Pricing is where most beginners trip up.

Don’t just cover materials and call it done.

Use This Simple Formula: (Material costs + time x your hourly rate) + 10–30% for overhead and margin = price

Examples:

• A cutting board that costs $15 to make and takes 2 hours at $25/hour = $65–75 retail

• Add more for uniqueness or customization

Bonus: Bundle products (e.g., coaster set + board) to increase order size.

Step 6: Join the Community - It Pays Off

Craft fairs and woodworking meetups aren’t just for sales, they’re goldmines for insight.

You’ll be able to:

• Talk shop with experienced makers

• Learn what sells in your area

• Get direct feedback from customers

• Discover new tools, finishes, or trends

And if nothing else, you’ll walk away more motivated and inspired than when you arrived.

Final Thought: Don’t Wait Until You’re an “Expert”

You don’t need a massive workshop or years of experience. You just need to start small, be consistent, and keep improving. The most successful makers aren't necessarily the most talented, but they will be the most persistent and smart about how they market themselves.

Start simple.

Specialize.

Show your work.

Price fairly.

And keep building.