From Hobby to Hustle: 5 Easy Ways to Start Selling Your Woodworking Projects
- Lauren Twitchell
- Jul 8
- 2 min read
You’ve been cutting, sanding, painting, and sealing like a pro. Your friends and family love your work. And now…you’re wonder:
“Could I actually sell this?”
The answer is yes.
And you don’t need a full-blown business plan, a warehouse, or a website to get started.
At Third Shift Crafts, we believe small beginnings are powerful - and every handmade piece holds value. If you’re thinking about dipping your toes into selling, here are 5 easy, approachable ways to start.
Local Markets & Craft Fairs
There’s something magical about meeting people in person, sharing your story, and watching someone fall in love with your work.
Why it works:
Low startup cost
Direct feedback from customers
Great way to test different products
Start small: Look for seasonal events, church bazaars, or community pop-ups.
2. Facebook Marketplace
It’s free, easy to use, and full of local buyers who want custom, handmade pieces without shipping fees.
Great for:
Home decor (signs, shelves, planters)
Small furniture pieces
Custom orders from neighbors!
Pro tip: Use clear, bright photos and include size, price, and pickup location
3. Etsy Shop or Shopify Starter Page
Want to reach a wider audience without building a full website? Etsy is beginner-friendly and trusted by buyers looking for handmade items.
Try selling:
Wooden signs
Personalized gifts
Seasonal home decor
Bonus: Etsy handles payment processing, reviews, and shipping labels.
4. Friends, Family & Word of Mouth
Your personal circle is often your best starting point! You never know who needs a birthday gift, a new shelf, or a custom wedding piece.
Ideas to try:
Post photos of your work on social media
Offers a “friends & family discount”
Ask happy customers to tag you when they share
5. Pop-Up Booth at a Local Business
Partner with a coffee shop, boutique, or florist to display a few pieces. Offer them a small percentage or just ask for exposure.
Why it’s awesome:
Low pressure
Builds community relationships
Gives your products a real-world presence
You Don’t Need to Have It All Figured Out
You don’t need fancy branding, packaging, or a business license to start. You just need:
A product you believe in
A price that honors your time
A little courage to share your work
At Third Shift Crafts, we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way - whether you’re building your first table or launching your first stale.
You’re not “just” a hobbyist.
You’re a maker.
And you’ve already got what it takes.
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