How to Make Money Woodworking (9 Easy Ways)

Last updated on 5th July, 2024 at 02:57 pm

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Have you ever felt the itch to put your woodworking skills to good use and turn those piles of lumber into cash? I get it. You’re the kind of person who loves staying at home, crafting away in your workshop.

It’s your haven of peace and creativity. But while you’re great at woodworking, you might be scratching your head, wondering, “How to make money woodworking?“

You’ve got the passion and the skills, but that pile of handmade furniture isn’t going to pay your bills on its own. You’ve probably heard the endless chatter about online woodworking success stories while thinking, “How’s that going to work for me?” It’s frustrating, right? All this talent, all this wood, and you’re not sure how to turn it into a bankable craft.

But hey, we’ve all been there, feeling stuck in a cycle of questions, doubts, and uncertainty. Can your woodworking hobby really pay off? The short answer: Absolutely. And that’s why I’m here to guide you through it.

I won’t overwhelm you with jargon or pie-in-the-sky promises. Instead, I’m going to show you nine straightforward ways to turn your woodworking passion into a source of income.

Before we dive in, if you’re hearing the word “woodworking” for the first time, let’s take a moment to understand what it’s all about.

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Essential Tools for Beginners: Your Must-Have Starter Kit

If you’re interested in getting started with woodworking, one of the first things you’ll need to do is invest in some essential tools. These tools will not only help you create quality projects but also make your woodworking experience more enjoyable.

Here are some of the must-have woodworking tools:

• Saws: A good set of saws is essential for any woodworking project. A circular saw, a miter saw, and a jigsaw are great tools to start with.
• Clamps: Clamps are used to hold pieces of wood together securely while you’re working on them. They come in various sizes and shapes, and having a few different types in your arsenal will be beneficial.
• Power Drills: A power drill is another indispensable tool for woodworking. It will help you drill holes and drive screws quickly and effortlessly.
• Screwdrivers: Having a set of screwdrivers, both manual and powered, is crucial for woodworking. They will come in handy when assembling furniture or making adjustments to your projects.
• Measuring Tools: Accurate measurements are key to successful woodworking. Invest in a tape measure, a combination square, and a level to ensure your projects are precise.

Wood Carving Tools

If you’re interested in adding intricate details to your woodworking projects, wood carving tools are a must-have. These tools will allow you to carve, shape, and create beautiful designs on your wooden pieces. Some common wood carving tools include:

• Chisels: Chisels are essential for removing wood material and creating fine details in your projects. They come in different sizes and shapes to accommodate various carving needs.
• Gouges: Gouges are curved chisels that help you create concave or convex shapes in your woodwork. They are particularly useful for creating curves or making hollow areas in your projects.
• Knives: Wood carving knives are versatile tools that enable you to make precise cuts and intricate patterns. They come in various shapes and sizes, and having a few different types in your collection will give you more flexibility.
• V-Tools: V-tools are specialized carving tools that have a V-shaped cutting edge. They are excellent for creating deep grooves, lettering, or decorative lines on your woodwork.

As you progress in your woodworking journey, you may find the need to add more specialized tools to your collection. However, starting with these essential tools will give you a solid foundation and allow you to tackle a wide range of projects. 

Best Places to Buy Wood

When it comes to buying wood for your woodworking projects, you have several options to consider. It’s important to choose the right wood that fits your project’s requirements and budget.

Here are some places where you can find quality wood for your woodworking needs:

• Local Home Improvement Stores: Check your local Home Depot, Lowe’s, or other home improvement stores. They usually have a variety of softwoods like pine and cedar, which are great for beginner projects and more affordable compared to hardwoods.
• Wood Specialty Stores: Look for specialty wood stores in your area. These stores often carry a wide range of wood species, including hardwoods and exotic woods. They may have a higher price point, but you can find unique and high-quality wood for more advanced woodworking projects.
• Online Suppliers: Explore online platforms that specialize in selling wood for woodworking. Websites like Woodworkers Source and Rockler offer a wide selection of wood species, sizes, and grades. Make sure to read reviews and check the reputation of the online supplier before making a purchase.
• Local Sawmills: If you prefer to source wood directly from the mill, look for local sawmills in your area. Sawmills often have a variety of wood species available and can provide you with custom-cut boards or unique cuts that you may not find at other retailers.

When buying wood, consider factors such as moisture content, grain pattern, and wood stability. Choose wood that is smooth, without cracks or knots, and properly dried to avoid warping or other issues.

Remember to plan ahead and buy more wood than you need, as mistakes or unexpected changes in your project may require additional materials.

9 Easy Ways to Make Money Woodworking

So, if you’re ready to transform your woodworking skills into a lucrative venture without sacrificing your cozy time at home, let’s dive into the world of “How to Make Money Woodworking.” Get ready to carve your path to financial success, one skillful cut at a time.

1. Create and Sell Hand-Made Furniture

One of the most popular ways to make money in woodworking is by creating and selling handmade furniture. Whether you’re a skilled woodworker or just starting out, there is a market for all types of wooden furniture.

From small and basic pieces like shoe racks and coffee tables to larger projects like picnic tables and wood designs, the possibilities are endless.

Create Unique Designs

When selling furniture, it’s important to offer something unique and eye-catching. Consider incorporating different wood species, intricate designs, or personalized touches to make your pieces stand out. Custom furniture and unique wood art pieces are in high demand, as customers are often looking for one-of-a-kind items to add character to their homes.

Focus on Quality and Craftsmanship

Quality and craftsmanship are key factors that customers consider when purchasing wooden furniture. Ensure that your pieces are well-made, sturdy, and built to last. Take your time to sand, finish, and stain the furniture to perfection. By providing high-quality furniture, you’ll build a solid reputation and generate repeat customers who appreciate the value of your work.

Market Your Furniture

To successfully sell your handmade furniture, it’s important to market yourself and your creations. Utilize social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your furniture pieces and engage with potential buyers. Participating in local craft fairs, farmers markets, or artisan events can also help you reach a wider audience and make valuable connections within your community.

Keep in mind that selling furniture takes time and effort. Keep refining your skills, learning new techniques, and staying up-to-date with current design trends to stay competitive in the market. With dedication and passion for woodworking, you can turn your hobby into a profitable business venture.

2. Flipping Furniture

Flipping furniture is an exciting and profitable way to make money from woodworking. By refurbishing old furniture and giving it a fresh new look, you can turn a profit while showcasing your creativity.

Garage sales, thrift shops, and online platforms are great places to find hidden gems at affordable prices. When selecting furniture to flip, look for pieces that are structurally sound but may need some TLC.

Once you have your furniture, it’s time to get to work. Start by thoroughly cleaning the piece and making any necessary repairs. Sanding down the surface will remove any imperfections and create a smooth canvas for painting or staining.

Choosing the right paint or finish is crucial in transforming the furniture’s appearance. Consider trendy colors or techniques that will appeal to potential buyers.

Add the finishing touches to your flipped furniture by replacing hardware or adding decorative elements. Upholstering or reupholstering cushions can also enhance the overall look. When pricing your pieces, take into account the cost of materials, your time and effort, and the market value of similar items.

Remember to market your flipped furniture effectively, whether through social media, local advertisements, or word-of-mouth recommendations. By putting your creativity and craftsmanship to work, furniture flipping can be a lucrative venture in the world of woodworking.

Tips for Successful Furniture Flipping:

• Research current design trends and popular color schemes to ensure your flipped furniture appeals to a wide range of buyers.
• Consider offering customization options for your flipped furniture, such as the choice of colors, finishes, or fabrics.
• Network with local interior designers or home stagers who may be interested in purchasing your flipped furniture for their projects.
• Document the transformation process with before and after photos to showcase the quality of your work and build trust with potential buyers.
• Stay organized and track your expenses to ensure you’re making a profit on each flipped furniture piece.

Flipping Garage Sale Items

Garage sales can be treasure troves for furniture flippers. Look for items that have good bones but may be outdated or in need of a refresh. Negotiating prices at garage sales is common, so hone your bargaining skills to secure the best deals. Keep an eye out for unique or one-of-a-kind pieces that can attract higher prices.

Extra Tip: The key to successful furniture flipping is to breathe new life into old pieces and create something that buyers will be eager to take home.

3. Start a Woodworking Blog

If you’re passionate about woodworking and want to share your knowledge with others, starting a woodworking blog can be a great way to do so. Not only can you showcase your projects and skills, but you can also monetize your blog and make money from your passion.

Why Start a Woodworking Blog?

Starting a woodworking blog allows you to connect with a larger audience who shares your interest in woodworking. You can share detailed tutorials, project ideas, tool reviews, and tips and tricks to help others improve their woodworking skills. By providing valuable content, you can attract readers and build a following.

Monetizing Your Woodworking Blog

There are several ways to monetize your woodworking blog. One option is affiliate marketing, where you promote woodworking tools, equipment, or products and earn a commission for each sale made through your referral link. Another option is sponsored posts, where you collaborate with brands in the woodworking industry to create content featuring their products or services. You can also create and sell your own digital products, such as woodworking plans, ebooks, or online courses.

Creating Quality Content

To attract and retain readers, it’s important to create high-quality content that is informative, engaging, and visually appealing. Use clear and concise language, include step-by-step instructions with accompanying photos or videos, and provide helpful tips and insights. Consistency is key, so aim to publish new content regularly to keep your audience engaged.

Starting a woodworking blog can be a fulfilling way to share your passion for woodworking while earning money. With dedication, valuable content, and effective monetization strategies, you can turn your woodworking blog into a successful venture and build a thriving online presence.

4. Sell Woodworking Plans

You can turn your woodworking skills into a lucrative business by selling detailed plans and blueprints. Creating and selling woodworking plans allows you to share your designs with others while earning money from your expertise.

When selling woodworking plans, it’s essential to create high-quality and easy-to-follow instructions. Provide step-by-step guidance, materials lists, and cutting diagrams to ensure that your customers can successfully complete their projects. By offering clear and comprehensive plans, you’ll attract more buyers and establish yourself as a trusted authority in the woodworking community.

There are several platforms where you can sell your woodworking plans online. You can start by creating your own website and setting up an online store. Alternatively, you can utilize popular online marketplaces such as Etsy or eBay to reach a broader audience.

Make sure to optimize your product descriptions and titles with relevant keywords like “woodworking plans” and “woodworking design ideas” to increase your visibility in search results.

Create Your Own Woodworking Plans Website

• Choose a domain name that reflects your woodworking niche or brand.
• Select a user-friendly website builder or content management system to create your site.
• Showcase your best woodworking plans and provide clear images of your finished projects.
• Include a brief bio or about section to establish credibility and build trust with potential buyers.
• Optimize your website for search engines by using relevant keywords throughout your content.
• Implement an e-commerce system to handle transactions securely and efficiently.
• Promote your woodworking plans through social media, woodworking forums, and email marketing.

By selling your woodworking plans, you can share your passion for woodworking with others while generating a steady income. With the right marketing strategies and a focus on delivering high-quality plans, you can establish yourself as a reputable woodworking plan seller and build a loyal customer base.

5. Share Your Woodworking Skills

If you’re passionate about woodworking and love sharing your skills with others, teaching woodworking classes can be a fantastic way to make money. Not only does it allow you to connect with fellow woodworking enthusiasts, but it also provides an opportunity to earn a steady income.

When teaching woodworking classes, you can choose to offer in-person sessions at a local community center or maker space, or you can create online courses to reach a global audience.

In-person classes provide a hands-on experience where students can learn directly from you and receive guidance as they work on their projects. Online courses, on the other hand, offer flexibility and the potential for passive income as students can access the material at their own pace.

Benefits of Sharing Your Woodworking Skills:

• Share your passion and knowledge with others
• Build a community of woodworking enthusiasts
• Earn a steady income from teaching fees
• Flexibility to choose the format of your classes
• Expand your reach through online courses

When designing your woodworking classes, focus on specific techniques or projects that you excel at. This will allow you to provide valuable and targeted instruction to your students.

Additionally, create a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their progress.

Advertise your woodworking classes through social media, local community boards, or even by partnering with local woodworking stores. Word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied students can also help attract new participants.

Teaching woodworking classes not only allows you to share your passion but also opens up opportunities for networking, expanding your skills, and learning from the creativity of your students. It’s a fulfilling way to make money while contributing to the woodworking community.

6. Sell Woodworking Products Locally

If you’re looking to connect with your local community and sell your woodworking creations, selling your products locally is a great option. Participating in craft fairs, farmers markets, or artisan events allows you to showcase your work and attract potential customers.

Set up an eye-catching display that highlights the unique features of your products and engage with shoppers to share the story behind each piece.

Craft Fairs:

• Research local craft fairs in your area and book a booth to display your woodworking products.
• Ensure your booth is visually appealing with attractive signage, well-lit displays, and a professional setup.
• Offer a range of products at different price points to cater to a diverse customer base.
• Create business cards or brochures to provide contact information and share details about your woodworking process.

Farmers Markets:

• Find farmer’s markets that allow artisans to sell their products alongside local produce and other handmade goods.
• Consider creating smaller, affordable items like cutting boards, coasters, or wooden utensils that customers can easily purchase on the spot.
• Highlight the sustainable and natural aspects of your woodworking products, resonating with customers who value handmade and eco-friendly items.
• Offer personalized engraving or custom orders to provide a unique selling point and attract customers looking for customized woodworking pieces.

Artisan Events:

• Look for local artisan events or pop-up markets where you can showcase your woodworking products.
• Collaborate with other artisans to create themed displays or curated collections that complement each other’s work.
• Consider offering live demonstrations or workshops to engage with potential customers and showcase your woodworking skills.
• Collect customer feedback and contact information to build a loyal customer base and stay connected with interested buyers.

By participating in local events and markets, you have the opportunity to connect with customers on a personal level and showcase the craftsmanship of your woodworking products.

Building a local customer base can also lead to custom orders, referrals, and potential collaborations with businesses or individuals in your area.

7. Selling Your Woodworking Crafts on the Internet

If you’re a woodworking enthusiast looking to monetize your craft, selling your woodworking crafts online can be a lucrative option. With the rise of online marketplaces dedicated to handmade and unique products, you can easily showcase and sell your woodworking creations to a wide audience.

The Benefits of Selling Online

Selling your woodworking crafts online offers several advantages. Firstly, it allows you to reach a global customer base, expanding your potential sales beyond your local area.

Secondly, online marketplaces like Etsy, eBay, or Amazon Handmade provide a built-in platform for exposure and marketing, attracting customers specifically looking for handmade and artisanal products.

Additionally, you have the flexibility to set your own prices, control the inventory, and manage your own schedule.

Choosing the Right Online Marketplaces

When it comes to selling woodworking crafts online, choosing the right online marketplaces is crucial. Platforms like Etsy are known for their focus on handmade and unique items, making it an ideal choice for woodworking crafts. eBay and Amazon Handmade also offer a wide range of categories for artisans to sell their products.

Research each platform’s fee structure, policies, and customer demographics to determine which ones align with your woodworking niche and target audience.

• Create high-quality product photos: Clear, well-lit photos that showcase your woodworking crafts from different angles attract potential buyers and increase sales.
• Write compelling product descriptions: Describe your woodworking crafts in detail, highlighting their unique features, materials used, and any special techniques or finishes applied.
• Promote your products: Leverage social media platforms to drive traffic to your online shop, share behind-the-scenes content, and engage with your customers.
• Respond promptly to inquiries: Providing excellent customer service and promptly addressing any questions or concerns can help build trust and encourage repeat customers.

By leveraging the power of online marketplaces, showcasing your woodworking crafts, and implementing effective marketing strategies, you can successfully sell your woodworking products online and turn your passion into a profitable venture.

8. Renting Out Your Woodworking Space

If you have extra woodworking space available, you can make money by renting it out to other woodworkers or hobbyists. This is a great way to generate income from your unused workshop or tools, while also providing a valuable resource for others in the woodworking community.

Whether you have a fully equipped woodworking studio or simply a shared workshop, renting out your space can be a win-win situation for everyone involved.

Benefits of Renting Out Your Woodworking Space

• Generate passive income: Renting out your woodworking space allows you to earn money without actively working on projects yourself.
• Networking opportunities: By sharing your workshop with others, you can connect with like-minded individuals in the woodworking community and potentially collaborate on projects or exchange ideas.
• Cost-sharing: Renting out your space can help offset the costs of maintaining and running a woodworking workshop, such as rent, utilities, and equipment maintenance.
• Support the woodworking community: By providing a space for other woodworkers to pursue their craft, you are contributing to the growth and development of the woodworking community.

Tips for Renting Out Your Woodworking Space

• Set clear guidelines: Establish rules and expectations for renters, including hours of access, safety protocols, and any limitations or restrictions on equipment usage.
• Offer different rental options: Consider offering hourly, daily, or monthly rates to accommodate a variety of needs and budgets.
• Provide basic tools and equipment: If possible, have a selection of basic woodworking tools available for renters to use, in case they don’t have their own.
• Have liability insurance: Protect yourself and your renters by ensuring you have proper liability insurance coverage in case of accidents or damages.
• Promote your space: Advertise your woodworking space on local classifieds, social media platforms, or woodworking forums to attract potential renters.

Renting out your woodworking space can be a rewarding way to make money while supporting others in their woodworking journey. It allows you to maximize the use of your resources and foster a sense of community within the woodworking industry.

Whether you’re renting out a small corner of your garage or have a dedicated workshop, consider opening up your space to fellow woodworkers and enjoy the benefits it brings.

9. Start Your Own YouTube Channel for Woodworking

Let’s talk about something that’s not just about sawing wood, but also about sawing into the world of online fame and fortune – YouTube! And here’s why you should dive in with your woodworking passion:

My Unexpected Journey to YouTube

I’m just a regular person, much like you, with no superpowers or ninja skills, and I found myself on YouTube. Now, I wasn’t showing the world how to make amazing wooden masterpieces; instead, I was simply sharing content about other topics. And guess what? People loved it! The point here is to encourage you to start your own YouTube channel too.

Feed Your Intellectual Appetite About YouTube:

• How I Made $100 on YouTube as a Beginner
• 5 Ways To Make Money With YouTube Automation

The Awesome Thing About YouTube

What’s the awesome thing about YouTube? It’s a never-ending talent show where you can be the star. You don’t need a fancy studio or a film crew. All you need is a camera (even your smartphone will do), a pinch of creativity, and the willingness to share your passion. Whether it’s witty storytelling or expert woodworking tips – YouTube’s the place for it.

Your Woodworking YouTube Channel: Crafting Dreams and Coins

Instead of churning out regular office hours, you’re doing something you genuinely love. Sharing your woodworking adventures, your skills, and your unique take on this craft. But wait, there’s more! You can also make some money while at it. I may not be a woodworking maestro, but my little YouTube journey showed me that there’s an audience for almost anything out there.

Don’t Wait – Saw and Share

So, pick up that camera, captivate your audience with your storytelling, and let your woodworking journey echo far and wide. Saw those planks, splash on those vibrant strokes, and share your craft with the world. You might be surprised at the audience that’s out there, just waiting to be amazed by your woodworking passion.

Side Note: I suggest you take this free training by Matt Parr and learn how you can make money on YouTube.

FREE TRAINING: How to Make Money on YouTube WITHOUT Recording Videos

…And Without ANY experience, technical skill, or a huge upfront investment!

The Best Woodworking Projects to Sell

Alright, I’ve got a toolbox full of great ideas for woodworking projects that can not only satisfy your creative itch but also help you generate steady income.

Here’s a quick list of projects that will have your customers saying, “Take my money!”

• Rustic Wooden Furniture: Think tables, chairs, and benches with that charming, weathered look. It’s like selling pieces of history – minus the cobwebs, lol.
• Handmade Wooden Jewelry: Who can resist a beautiful wooden necklace or a pair of earrings that say, “I’m unique and stylish”?
• Custom Cutting Boards: Cutting-edge cutting boards. A kitchen staple, these can be real moneymakers.
• Wooden Planters: For the plant lovers out there. Your creations could become the perfect home for some leafy companions.
• Wooden Coasters and Trivets: We all need somewhere to put our drinks and hot pots. Why not do it in style with wooden coasters and trivets?
• Wooden Toys: Kids (and the young at heart) love them. Cars, puzzles, and more – endless options for fun.
• Floating Shelves: The space-saving heroes of home decor. These are not only functional but also super trendy.
• Wooden Signs: From inspirational quotes to personalized family names – wooden signs can be customized for all tastes.
• Picture Frames: Everyone’s got photos they want to display. Why not surround them with a beautiful wooden frame?
• Wooden Phone Stands: Because let’s face it, your phone deserves a stylish resting place too.

So, these are just a few examples of the most profitable woodworking projects you can create and sell. Keep in mind, if it’s made with skill and love, it’s worth putting a price tag on.

Final Say – How to Make Money Woodworking

We’ve walked through nine easy ways to transform your passion into profit, and I hope you’ve found inspiration and answers within these words.

The art of woodworking isn’t just about crafting with your hands; it’s about crafting your own path to financial freedom and fulfillment. By starting small, learning to market your skills, and seeking opportunities to scale, you’re on the right track. You may have felt the pangs of uncertainty and fear, but remember, every great woodworker was once a beginner, too.

As you stand at the threshold of this exciting journey, take that first step. Believe in the value of your creations, embrace your introverted nature as a strength, and let your woodworking skills shine through the digital realm. Share your stories, your journey, and your craft with the world.