10 Woodworking Projects You Can Make in a Weekend and Sell for Profit
Woodworking doesn’t have to be just a relaxing hobby — it can be a steady side income if you choose the right projects. The key is to focus on simple, fast builds that people actually want to buy. You don’t need a full shop or expensive tools to start making money from woodworking — just a few smart project ideas, a bit of time on the weekend, and the willingness to put your work out there.
Here are ten profitable woodworking projects that are beginner-friendly, fast to complete, and proven sellers at craft shows, online, and in local markets. Each one can be customized for personal flair — the kind of touch that helps your work stand out from factory-made items.
1. Rustic Shelves and Wall Racks
Rustic, reclaimed-wood style is still one of the hottest décor trends, and shelves are a perfect entry project. People love floating shelves, towel racks, and wine racks with simple designs and distressed finishes. Use pallet wood or leftover pine boards for a low-cost start, sand them smooth, and stain for that “weathered farmhouse” look.
You can easily sell a pair of floating shelves for $40–$60. Multiply that over a few weekends, and it adds up fast.
2. Cutting Boards
Cutting boards are always in demand, and they’re one of the best beginner projects because they teach you about wood grain, gluing, and finishing. Try end-grain boards for durability or simple edge-grain boards for quicker builds. Hardwoods like maple, walnut, and cherry sell best and fetch higher prices.
Oil the boards with food-safe mineral oil and wrap them in brown paper with a label — presentation matters. Handmade cutting boards can easily sell for $50 to $120 depending on the size and craftsmanship.
3. Birdhouses and Feeders
Birdhouses are a timeless favorite. They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and appeal to anyone with a backyard. The best part? You can use scraps from other projects. A weekend can produce half a dozen small houses, each selling for $15 to $25.
Add your own touches — maybe a cedar roof, copper accents, or hand-painted designs. That kind of personality makes people stop and buy.
4. Picture Frames
Custom wood frames are always in demand, especially in gift shops and online marketplaces. Simple mitered corners and a nice finish can turn ordinary wood into something elegant. Try building frames in standard photo sizes so people can use them immediately.
Mix up your designs — rustic barn wood for farmhouse fans, or clean modern edges for minimalists. Offer sets or bundle them with prints for added value.
5. Small Benches and Stools
Benches and stools are a bit larger but still weekend-friendly projects that command good prices. They’re practical, decorative, and perfect for entryways or gardens. A simple pine bench with a nice stain can sell for $75 or more, and if you use hardwood, that number doubles.
Keep designs compact and easy to move — buyers love functional pieces that don’t take up much space.
6. Candle Holders and Home Décor Sets
Small accent pieces like candle holders, trays, or wooden centerpieces are impulse-buy items that add up quickly in profits. These can be cut and finished in just a few hours. Use creative shapes and mixed finishes — for example, a dark walnut stain next to a natural pine strip looks classy and handmade.
Sets of three candle holders or décor trays are easy to price around $25–$40 and are perfect for Etsy or local craft fairs.
7. Planter Boxes and Garden Décor
Outdoor projects sell great in spring and summer. Build small cedar or redwood planter boxes, window boxes, or herb gardens. They’re fast, lightweight, and easy to customize with stencils or rope handles. You can make one in an hour and sell it for $30–$60, depending on size and finish.
Eco-friendly planters are especially popular — use reclaimed or naturally finished wood and mention that in your listings.
8. Coat Racks and Entryway Organizers
Every home needs an entryway rack or key holder, and these simple projects are great sellers year-round. A board, a few metal hooks, and a creative finish are all it takes. You can build one of these in under two hours and sell it for $30–$50.
If you want to get creative, combine a shelf with a row of hooks or a small chalkboard section for notes — unique designs always grab attention.
9. Wine Racks and Glass Holders
Wine racks are both decorative and practical, and customers love buying them as gifts. Small countertop racks or wall-mounted versions with glass slots can be made in a day. Choose hardwood or stained pine for a high-end look.
A compact rack that holds four to six bottles sells easily for $60–$100. Larger versions can go for more, especially if you include a custom engraving or burned logo.
10. Pet Furniture and Accessories
Pet owners are passionate buyers. Elevated pet feeders, small pet beds, and toy boxes for dogs and cats are all hot sellers. They’re simple to make and can be personalized with names or paw-print engravings.
Pet items are one of the fastest-growing home décor markets. A stylish wooden feeder stand can sell for $40–$80, and you can make several from a single sheet of plywood.
How to Price and Sell Your Work
Pricing your projects can feel tricky at first. A good rule of thumb is to charge materials plus at least three times that cost for your labor and overhead. Don’t undersell yourself — handmade quality has real value, and buyers are willing to pay for it when the craftsmanship shows.
Start locally. Offer items to friends, family, or coworkers. Then try craft shows, flea markets, or farmer’s markets to get real-world feedback. Once you see what sells best, scale up production and list online through Etsy, Facebook Marketplace, or even your own small website.
Tips to Maximize Profit
- Batch your builds: Make several of the same item at once to save time and increase efficiency.
- Use scrap wood: Small décor projects don’t need full boards — leftovers from other builds can become cash.
- Focus on finishing: A smooth surface and clean edges make even simple projects look professional.
- Take great photos: Natural light, uncluttered backgrounds, and good angles make your listings stand out online.
- Offer customizations: Personalized engravings or stains add value without much extra time.
Turning a Hobby Into Income
The secret to profitable woodworking isn’t having a huge shop or fancy equipment — it’s knowing what people want and producing it efficiently. The best part? You can start small, working weekends from your garage or basement, and grow from there.
Once you’ve sold a few pieces and learned what works, you can branch into higher-ticket items like tables, cabinets, or custom commissions. Small, consistent wins build momentum — and confidence — faster than trying to build something massive right out of the gate.
Learn From People Who’ve Done It
If you’re serious about turning your woodworking into a real side hustle, it helps to follow a proven system. The Wood Profits course was designed by a woodworker who started with a small setup and grew into a steady business. It covers how to price your work, find buyers, and avoid costly beginner mistakes — all from someone who’s actually done it.
Learning from someone who’s already walked the path can save you months of trial and error. And if you’re already building for fun, earning money from it just makes the hobby even more rewarding.
Start small. Build smart. Listen to your customers. Before long, you’ll realize that your weekend projects aren’t just sawdust and glue — they’re the foundation of a real, profitable woodworking side hustle.
