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Jun 27, 2023

50 Handmade Business Ideas to Start in 2023

Handmade products are highly in demand. And there are tons of ways to sell these original creations, from online marketplaces to local craft stores. If you’re interested in starting a DIY business,

Handmade products are highly in demand. And there are tons of ways to sell these original creations, from online marketplaces to local craft stores. If you’re interested in starting a DIY business, here are some handmade business ideas you can start now.

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A handmade business is one that sells products made by hand or designed by an independent artisan. There are tons of handmade goods that fall into this category, from furniture to prints.

If you’re interested in starting a business in 2023, here’s why you should consider selling handmade products:

If you’re interested in selling your original creations online or at a local craft store, a handmade business model may be right for you. Here are some business ideas to consider.

Jewelry makers can offer a huge range of products, from beaded jewelry to those made with precious metals. You can start small and then grow your own jewelry line over time.

Start your own line of hand-sewn clothing, like dresses, tops, or entire outfits.

You could also specialize in customized t-shirts. There are many printing services you can use to print your own designs on demand or in bulk.

Those skilled with woodworking tools can sell a huge array of products, from furniture to birdhouses.

Offer handmade toys like plush animals, wood puzzles, or knit dolls.

If you’re a skilled knitter, there’s a nearly endless selection of products you can sell, including hats, scarves, blankets, and socks.

If you create any sort of original art, sell prints of your work at a low price point. You can even offer digital files that customers can print on their own.

However, many artists also choose to sell original versions of their work. These are generally priced higher, but can only be sold one time.

Artists may also offer custom portraits or drawings that each buyer can select or change. For example, you could draw people’s pets or create cartoon versions of families.

Calligraphers can sell signs or prints of their letters. Many also this skill as a service for things like wedding invitations.

Create your own line of purses and bags out of fabric, leather, or other materials.

If you’re skilled at working with leather, there are a variety of products you can sell, including wallets, watch bands, and bags.

Candles are popular gifts, and can come in a huge array of scents and designs.

Design your own greeting cards and paper products to sell. You can offer originals or create prints of your work.

Create your own custom holiday ornaments to offer around the Christmas season. Personalized options where customers can add a name or date tend to be especially popular.

Make your own beads using hand-blown glass, clay, or even felt. Then sell them in bulk to other crafters.

Create your own quilts or offer customizable products. You’ll need a sewing machine and lots of fabric, but these products can command high prices.

Weave baskets using natural materials like reeds, bamboo, and seagrass.

You can also arrange various handmade products, foods, and gift items into gift baskets.

Use screen printing supplies to add your own custom designs to various products, like hats, bags, and mugs.

Use scrapbooking materials to create custom pages for customers, or offer supplies they can use to make their own designs.

Pet owners are always looking for unique products for their furry friends. Offer handmade toys, outfits, or pet collars.

There are a variety of digital products you can sell online, like planners, signs, or spreadsheets.

Create 3D artwork out of various materials and sell it online or through local galleries.

If you enjoy working with clay, create unique products like bowls and mugs to sell to customers.

There are many different candy products you can make by hand and then sell online or through local bakeries or gift shops.

You could also offer baked goods like cookies and pastries. They will need to be packaged fully if you plan to offer them online.

Take photos of beautiful landscapes and then sell prints of your work online.

Use graphic design software to create digital artwork that you can sell as prints. You could also offer custom designs by working with clients one-on-one.

Use yarn and other fibers to create woven artwork or wall hangings for customers to display in their homes.

Make handmade hair accessories like bows and headbands. These small items can easily be packaged and shipped.

Collect flowers and leaves that you can dry or press to create one-of-a-kind artwork.

Mixed media art includes various materials combined to make one collage or piece of art.

Take old pieces of furniture and use paint, upholstery, and new materials to make them into something fun and unique.

Create bouquets and floral designs to sell or deliver locally. Many florists also work on special events like weddings.

Many handmade accessory businesses focus on women’s styles. However, you could carve out a unique niche by selling men’s accessories like cuff links and watch bands.

Kids’ clothing is also a popular niche that is always in demand.

Design unique phone cases that customers can purchase to protect and upgrade their devices.

Use board, adhesive, and heat tools to create professional-looking books or journals. If you’re a writer, you can even hand-make your very own book to sell.

If you’re skilled with a needle and thread, offer alterations and repair services to people in your local area.

You can also sell photos or provide photography services in a local studio. These often include portraits of families, couples, seniors, or pets.

You can print just about anything using 3D printers and various resins. Create your own digital files and then sell either the products or the designs.

There are tons of bath and beauty products you can make from scratch, including bath salts, scrubs, and lotions.

Many photographers also sell digital versions of their photos. You can either use stock photo sites or just sell the digital files on your own site.

For the more festive entrepreneurs, consider building a handmade business around holiday decor, making parties and supplies a main selling feature of your shop.

Crafters often use patterns for sewing, knitting, and crocheting products. If you make your own patterns, consider selling the digital files to other crafters.

Make stamps or stencils out of rubber or plastic and market them to crafters for use in their own projects.

You can also spin and/or dye your own yarn using wool and other fibers.

Or design your own fabric or dye textiles that you can offer to others for sewing projects.

You can even combine multiple craft supplies into one shop and offer a variety to those interested in trying multiple hobbies.

Once you decide to start your own handmade business, it’s time to turn your vision into action. Each business will require its own specific supplies and steps. However, here’s a basic guide for how to start a craft business:

Handmade items hold a unique appeal to many shoppers because of their individuality, quality, and the craftsmanship that goes into creating each piece. Let’s delve into some of the most popular handmade items that sell well:

People’s attraction to these handmade items often stems from a desire for unique, high-quality products that reflect personal tastes and values. The ability to communicate directly with the creator of the item can add to the allure, as buyers can request specific customizations or learn the story behind a piece. The trend towards supporting local artisans and small businesses also plays a significant role in the popularity of these items. Whether seeking a one-of-a-kind gift or investing in an heirloom piece, handmade crafts continue to resonate with discerning shoppers.

Starting a handmade business doesn’t necessarily require heavy investment or extensive skills, particularly with the advent of digital design tools and on-demand services. Here are some of the easiest handmade businesses that you might consider, primarily focusing on digital design and leveraging existing platforms:

Many of these ideas leverage digital tools and existing platforms to minimize the overhead cost and need for physical space. The key to success in these ventures often lies in identifying a unique niche, building a strong brand, and offering products that resonate with a specific audience. They also benefit from being scalable; you can start small and grow as demand increases, all while aligning your business with your creative passion and existing skill set.

Yes, there are plenty of things to make and sell for profit. Handmade businesses often don’t require a lot of overhead expenses. You just need a few different materials and the ability to market to specific customers.

Image: Envato Elements