Top 14 Woodworking Projects for a Lucrative Side Business in 2024

In this article, we’re about to embark on an exciting journey into the realm of wood projects that sell like hotcakes. 

Key Takeaways

14 Profitable Wood Projects: 

1. Picture Frames
2. Kitchen Utensils
3. Boxes
4. Children’s Toys
5. Planters
6. Birdhouses
7. Chopping Boards
8. Shelving
9. Wine Racks
10. Benches
11. Jewellery Boxes
12. Bath Trays
13. Personalised Signs
14. Coffee Tables

What Are Wood Projects? 

Wood projects are all about getting creative and practical with wood as your main material. They can be anything from straightforward, useful stuff to intricate, artistic masterpieces. 

When you work on wood projects, you’re using a variety of techniques like cutting, shaping, joining, finishing, and decorating pieces of wood. People who love woodworking, whether they’re pros or just enjoy it as a hobby, dive into wood projects to craft furniture, decorations, structures, and other handy items.

The cool thing is, many wood projects don’t need you to be a total expert. Handmade wooden goods are a hit online because folks dig their distinct style and finish. 

How Profitable Wood Projects Are?

The global market for wood products has been booming, hitting a whopping $690.04 billion in 2022, and it’s growing at a speedy 9.3% every year. This also means there’s a big demand for wood products and skilled woodworkers. 

14 Profitable Wood Projects

1. Picture Frames

Crafting picture frames is a top-notch choice if you’re looking to dive into woodworking for profit. These little beauties are versatile – you can fashion them from any kind of wood you fancy, be it oak, mahogany, pine, or something in between. When it comes to displaying art or cherished photos, the right frame makes all the difference.

Unlike the hefty planks that go into furniture and cabinets, making picture frames is a breeze and doesn’t require much wood. They’re a quick and straightforward project, ideal for both newbies and seasoned crafters. 

Plus, these frames are built to last, and they’ve got that timeless appeal that keeps folks coming back for more. With picture frames, you’ve got a year-round winner that can help attract customers to your woodworking venture. 

2. Kitchen Utensils

When it comes to making a tidy profit at flea markets, woodworking fairs, or any gathering of craft enthusiasts, look no further than kitchen utensils. Wooden kitchen creations offer endless possibilities, whether you’re aiming for a charming simplicity with wooden coasters and cutting boards or delving into the realm of intricate wooden utensils. 

Dreaming bigger? How about crafting a classy wooden serving tray or a chic wine rack? Kitchen goodies have consistently ranked among the most sought-after items, and here’s why.

Among the speediest and easiest wooden kitchen utensils to whip up are the grand spoons and ladles, not to mention the stylish salad tongs. Not only do they serve their functional purpose with flair, but they also make for captivating conversation starters at fancy dinner gatherings. It’s no wonder they’re a constant hit, always in demand, and a smart addition to your woodworking repertoire.

3. Boxes

Wooden boxes are a brilliant choice when it comes to crafting wood projects that are not only practical but also highly sellable. The rising trend of decluttering and the growing preference for sustainable living have propelled the demand for wooden storage options. These versatile boxes serve a dual purpose – they help tidy up living spaces and contribute to an eco-friendly lifestyle.

Picture this: wooden storage boxes stylishly accommodating clothes, books, DVDs, and various odds and ends. With the right design, you can meet the demands of a wide range of storage needs. And here’s the beauty of it – whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or just dipping your toes into woodworking, crafting wooden storage boxes is a smart move.

You’ve got options aplenty. If you’re leaning towards simplicity, go for classic crates and no-nonsense storage boxes. Feeling a burst of creativity? Channel it into crafting decorative shelving units or exquisite jewelry boxes. 

Armed with a dab of wood glue and your imagination, you can conjure up some truly captivating boxes that will surely capture the hearts of your customers.

4. Children’s Toys

Wooden toys possess an ageless charm and an unmistakable allure that sets them apart from their mass-produced counterparts. In an era dominated by technology, the enchantment of a handcrafted toy holds a unique place. 

While children may not always show immediate favor for wooden playthings, the real admirers are the parents. Around the globe, parents are actively seeking toys that blend entertainment with safety and a toxin-free promise.

From miniature dollhouses to robust rocking horses and the ever-enticing building blocks, a splendid assortment of wooden treasures awaits your creative touch. The key takeaway here is that you can harness the potential of cost-effective wood to craft a diverse collection of kid-friendly wonders, all primed for fetching a delightful profit. 

Naturally, adhering to stringent quality standards and safety guidelines is paramount when producing toys that are tailor-made for children.

5. Planters

When it comes to housing your beloved plants, plastic or clay planters might fall short on aesthetics. Clay can be delicate, and plastic tends to lack that touch of elegance. This is where the charm of handmade wooden planter steps in – a true companion to showcase your flowers in all their glory. 

Crafting planters is surprisingly uncomplicated, much like creating fruit bowls. The wood of your choice can be transformed into these exquisite pieces, as long as you pay heed to the finishing touches.

Simple they may be, but here’s the secret: invest a tad more time into fashioning a plant box that exudes sophistication, and you’ll effortlessly outshine the competition. 

Once you’ve mastered the art of curating flawless planter designs that captivate potential buyers, you’ll find yourself at the forefront of the market. And guess what? You can set your prices a notch higher – the DIY gardening realm is an immensely profitable venture, and your beautifully crafted planters are bound to bloom with success.

6. Birdhouses

Enriching your yard or garden with a wooden birdhouse brings a touch of allure while extending a warm invitation to our avian friends. Creating a safe haven for these delightful creatures is not only fulfilling but also contributes to the beauty of your outdoor space. 

Among the myriad birdhouse options available, the wooden ones stand as a prime choice for bird enthusiasts. Yet, the snag lies in their price tag – these seemingly simple wooden shelters often carry a hefty cost, even in local stores.

Here’s the thing – a birdhouse is essentially a handful of wooden pieces, thoughtfully assembled with a charming front opening. By crafting your very own birdhouse, you can embrace cost-effective and uncomplicated materials, even making use of leftover bits from previous projects. 

And guess what? Selling your handcrafted birdhouses can fatten your wallet with a satisfying profit. If you opt for scrap wood in your woodworking ventures, you’re essentially doubling your investment – that’s the art of being savvy and economical.

7. Chopping Boards

Unveil the potential of wooden pallets by transforming them into practical marvels for your kitchen – the humble chopping boards. Upcycling at its finest, these boards offer a delightful fusion of utility and creativity. Crafting chopping boards isn’t a complicated feat and the best part? They fetch impressive price tags in the market.

Here’s the trick: with a bit of finesse, those wooden pallets can metamorphose into sleek wooden slices, ripe for the transformation into elegant cutting boards. The beauty lies in the simplicity – you don’t need an arsenal of intricate tools to whip these up.

Want to give your customers an array of options? Dive into crafting chopping boards of varying sizes, and consider bundling them into enticing multi-buy sets. Elevate the charm by incorporating personalized touches – think engraved initials or meaningful phrases – transforming these culinary companions into thoughtful and unique gift choices.

8. Shelving

Imagine the endless possibilities that wooden shelves bring to the table – from neatly housing your cherished book collection to proudly showcasing knick-knacks or even cradling your TV. These timeless pieces are the epitome of functionality and charm, seamlessly fitting into any room of your home. 

The secret behind their enduring appeal lies in their construction. Crafted primarily from sturdy hardwoods like oak or maple, these shelves are built to withstand the test of time, ensuring your possessions are securely displayed.

9. Wine Racks

For those who savor the delights of wine and other bottled beverages, the quest for an appealing storage and display solution is ever-present. Enter the realm of wooden wine racks – a seamless blend of style and functionality.

Wood, renowned for its durability and timeless appeal, takes center stage in crafting these exquisite racks. What sets them apart? Their swift creation process. Designing and crafting wine racks is a swift and satisfying endeavor, making them a prime choice for lucrative woodworking projects. 

Here’s where it gets interesting – you can sprinkle a dash of personalization magic by offering customized options, be it engraving the customer’s name or their favorite quote.

10. Benches

Benches come in all shapes and sizes – and for a variety of purposes. A splendid addition to patios and gardens alike, these versatile creations open the door to boundless possibilities.

Whether you’re inclined towards intricate designs that showcase your woodworking prowess or prefer the allure of simplicity, wooden benches have got you covered. Harness the charm of crafting with pallet wood and pressure-treated timber to whip up these remarkable seats. From cozy garden nooks to inviting patio retreats, your woodworking journey can take you to an enchanting world of bespoke bench designs, tailored to your skill level and imagination.

11. Jewelry Boxes

The allure of wooden jewelry boxes and organizers is unceasing, with an evergreen demand that continues to captivate. These treasures come in a plethora of styles, designs, and shapes, tailored to safeguard an array of precious jewelry pieces. From delicate necklaces suspended in smaller organizers to spacious boxes partitioned for earrings and rings, the possibilities are as endless as your creativity.

Crafting wooden jewelry  boxes unveils a realm of choices, with a medley of wood types at your disposal. Each piece carries a distinct personality, an identity woven from the likes of cherry, maple, and oak – the very essence of nature transformed into exquisite storage.

12. Bath Trays

For those in pursuit of uniqueness, venture into the realm of wooden wonders with bath trays as your muse. Bathtime luxury takes on a new form with these wooden gems, a rarity in the market that’s bound to capture attention and admiration. Crafting bath trays is your ticket to offering something delightfully distinct and a touch unconventional.

Picture this: a wooden bath tray, a haven for relaxation, poised to elevate bath time to an exquisite experience. It’s not just about woodworking; it’s about curating a slice of tranquility that’s both functional and enchanting.

13. Personalized Signs

The world of handmade wooden signs takes on a distinct identity, tailored to grace indoor and outdoor spaces alike. A symphony of shapes and sizes, these signs seamlessly weave into diverse occasions – be it a birthday bash, a festive Christmas celebration, or simply a heartwarming gesture of affection. The personalized sign arena stands as a goldmine of opportunity, ready to be harnessed, especially if you wield the art of engraving wood.

What sets these wooden wonders apart is their uniqueness – they’re more than mere signs, they’re eloquent expressions etched in timber. Beyond their aesthetic charm, they play an unexpected role – that of an eloquent word-of-mouth ambassador for your brand. 

Imagine this: a striking wooden sign adorning a neighbor’s gate, a beacon that piques curiosity and triggers the timeless question, “Where did that exquisite sign originate?”

14. Coffee Tables

Coffee tables, though substantial in size, hold immense potential for success in the market. Here’s the magic: the fusion of leftover wood and reclaimed treasures, an upcycling escapade that breathes new life into these functional gems. Diverse sizes and designs await your artistic touch, ready to be transformed into coffee table masterpieces that resonate with discerning customers.

The beauty of crafting wooden coffee tables lies in their simplicity. They’re a joy to produce and ship, translating to minimal production costs for online sales. Coffee tables are more than furniture; they’re a staple, an essential piece in every household. 

With households often boasting not one, but multiple coffee tables, there’s a continuous demand for stylish replacements that offer upgraded aesthetics and functionality. 

How to Sell Wood Projects Online: A Quick Step-by-Step

Here’s a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you succeed in the world of online woodcraft sales.

Step 1: Choose Your Stellar Creation

• Before you embark on your online selling adventure, pinpoint the woodworking project that will captivate buyers. You might already have a project in mind, or you could be starting from scratch. 
• Begin by drawing inspiration from the diverse array of projects mentioned above. 
• Once you’ve made your selection, embark on a test project to ensure your creation not only delights you but entices potential customers too. Whether it’s a simple cutting board or a more intricate masterpiece, the possibilities are boundless.

Step 2: Identify Your Audience

Now that you know what you’re crafting, it’s time to determine who’s yearning for your handiwork. Engage in market research by:

• conducting a competitive analysis, 
• delving into social listening, and 
• studying industry trends. 

This crucial step will help you understand your potential buyers and their preferences.

Step 3: Build Your Online Haven

Creating an ecommerce website is your passport to control and freedom. Unlike third-party platforms, your website grants autonomy over pricing, promotion, shipping, and fulfillment. Fear not, as you don’t need coding expertise. Platforms like Shopify or Wix offer user-friendly website builders, enabling you to craft your digital storefront with ease.

Step 4: Showcase and Set Prices

• Prepare to dazzle online shoppers by capturing stunning product photos and crafting compelling descriptions. 
• List your creations on your website, and consider expanding your reach through third-party marketplaces like Amazon or Etsy. 
• When pricing, strike a balance – cover your expenses and time while ensuring affordability for potential buyers.

Step 5: Draw the Crowds

With your online store live, it’s time to channel visitors your way. You can:

• Employ both organic and paid marketing strategies to entice prospective customers. 
• Leverage social media, content marketing, and online ads to drive traffic and generate interest.

Step 6: Analyze and Enhance

As time progresses, insights from your analytics will be your guiding light. Platforms like Shopify offer comprehensive dashboards that illuminate sales, orders, and visitor data. You can embrace these insights to uncover strengths, weaknesses, and potential avenues for growth.

How to Sell Wood Projects Online: FAQs

The bottom line

So, why not start diving into these remarkable wood projects that sell and redefine your journey to prosperous craftsmanship from today?