Easiest Things You Can Make at Home and Sell Online
In today’s digital age, turning your creativity into cash has never been easier. Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent, a student looking for extra income, or someone who simply loves DIY projects, making and selling handmade goods online is a fantastic way to monetize your skills. The rise of platforms like Etsy, eBay, Amazon Handmade, and even social media marketplaces has opened up endless opportunities for small-scale entrepreneurs. But what are the easiest things you can make at home and sell online?
This comprehensive guide explores beginner-friendly, profitable DIY products you can create with minimal investment and effort. From crafts to food items, we’ve got you covered with ideas that require little to no experience, affordable materials, and high demand in the online marketplace. Plus, we’ll share tips on how to sell them effectively to maximize your profits. Let’s dive in!
Why Sell Handmade Products Online?
Before we jump into the list, let’s talk about why selling homemade goods online is such a lucrative opportunity. According to a Statista report, the global handmade goods market is projected to grow significantly, driven by consumer demand for unique, personalized, and sustainable products. Online marketplaces make it easy to reach customers worldwide without the overhead costs of a physical store.
Here are some benefits of starting a home-based online business:
Low startup costs: Many items require only basic supplies you may already have.
Flexibility: Work on your own schedule from the comfort of home.
Scalability: Start small and grow as demand increases.
Creative freedom: Express yourself while earning money.
Ready to get started? Below are the easiest things you can make at home and sell online, complete with step-by-step ideas and selling strategies.
1. Handmade Candles
Why It’s Easy
Candles are one of the simplest crafts to make at home. With just wax, wicks, and a few essential oils, you can create a product that’s both functional and decorative. The process is straightforward, and the materials are inexpensive and widely available.
What You’ll Need
Soy wax or paraffin wax (soy is eco-friendly and popular)
Candle wicks
Essential oils for scent (lavender, vanilla, etc.)
Glass jars or tins
A double boiler or microwave
How to Make Them
Melt the wax in a double boiler or microwave-safe container.
Add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance.
Secure the wick in the center of your jar using a wick sticker or hot glue.
Pour the melted wax into the jar and let it cool for 4-6 hours.
Trim the wick to ¼ inch, and you’re done!
Selling Tips
Niche down: Offer unique scents like “Pumpkin Spice Latte” or “Ocean Breeze.”
Packaging: Use eco-friendly labels and rustic twine for a premium look.
Platforms: Sell on Etsy or create an Instagram shop to showcase your designs.
Candles have a high profit margin—materials cost around $2-$5 per candle, and you can sell them for $10-$20 each. Check out this beginner’s guide to candle making for more details.
2. Custom T-Shirts
Why It’s Easy
You don’t need to be a graphic designer to make custom t-shirts. With print-on-demand services like Printful or Teespring, you can design shirts online and have them printed and shipped without ever touching inventory.
What You’ll Need
A computer and internet connection
Free design software like Canva
A print-on-demand service account
How to Make Them
Sign up for a platform like Printful.
Use Canva to create simple designs (think funny quotes or minimalist graphics).
Upload your design to the platform and choose shirt colors/styles.
Set your price and list it for sale.
Selling Tips
Target trends: Capitalize on pop culture references or seasonal events (e.g., “Christmas 2025” shirts).
Market on social media: Use TikTok or Pinterest to drive traffic to your store.
Bundle deals: Offer discounts for multiple purchases.
Profit margins vary, but you can earn $5-$15 per shirt with minimal effort. It’s a hands-off way to start selling online!
3. Homemade Soap
Why It’s Easy
Soap-making is a fun, beginner-friendly craft that combines creativity with practicality. The cold-process method takes a bit of practice, but melt-and-pour soap bases make it incredibly simple.
What You’ll Need
Melt-and-pour soap base (available at craft stores)
Soap molds
Essential oils or soap dyes
A microwave or stovetop
How to Make Them
Cut the soap base into small cubes and melt it in the microwave (30-second intervals).
Stir in essential oils or colorants.
Pour the mixture into molds and let it harden for a few hours.
Pop the soaps out and wrap them in plastic or wax paper.
Selling Tips
Unique selling points: Market vegan, organic, or exfoliating soaps.
Gift sets: Bundle 3-5 soaps with a ribbon for holidays or birthdays.
Listings: Sell on Amazon Handmade or at local craft fairs to test the waters.
Soap costs about $1-$3 to make and can sell for $5-$10 per bar. Learn more with this soap-making tutorial.
4. Jewelry (Beaded Bracelets)
Why It’s Easy
Beaded bracelets require no advanced skills—just some string, beads, and a little patience. They’re lightweight, easy to ship, and endlessly customizable.
What You’ll Need
Elastic cord or wire
Assorted beads (glass, wood, or gemstones)
Scissors
Optional: Charms or clasps
How to Make Them
Cut a piece of elastic cord about 10 inches long.
String beads in your desired pattern.
Tie a secure knot and trim excess cord (or add a clasp for a polished look).
Test the fit—it should slide over your wrist comfortably.
Selling Tips
Personalization: Offer custom initials or birthstone beads.
Branding: Use cute packaging like organza bags or branded cards.
Pricing: Sell for $8-$20 depending on materials.
Beads are dirt cheap (a few cents each), making this a high-profit item. Explore this jewelry-making guide for inspiration.
5. Printable Wall Art
Why It’s Easy
If you have a knack for design, printable wall art is a no-inventory business. Customers buy a digital file, download it, and print it themselves—zero shipping required.
What You’ll Need
A computer
Design software (Canva, Adobe Illustrator, or free alternatives)
A basic understanding of trends (quotes, abstract art, etc.)
How to Make Them
Open Canva and choose an art size (e.g., 8x10 inches).
Create a design—think motivational quotes, floral patterns, or minimalist shapes.
Export as a high-resolution PDF or JPG.
Upload to your online store.
Selling Tips
Seasonal designs: Offer Halloween, Christmas, or wedding-themed prints.
Bundles: Sell sets of 3-5 prints at a discount.
Platforms: Use Etsy or Gumroad for digital downloads.
You can create a print in under an hour and sell it for $5-$15 each, with no recurring costs. Check out Canva’s design tips to get started.
6. Baked Goods (Cookies or Brownies)
Why It’s Easy
If you love baking, turning your kitchen into a mini bakery is a no-brainer. Cookies and brownies are simple to make in bulk, and they ship well if packaged properly.
What You’ll Need
Basic baking ingredients (flour, sugar, butter, etc.)
Packaging (cellophane bags, boxes)
A reliable oven
How to Make Them
Whip up your favorite recipe—classic chocolate chip cookies or fudgy brownies work great.
Let them cool completely to avoid sogginess.
Package in airtight containers or bags with a cute label.
Selling Tips
Compliance: Research your local cottage food laws to sell legally.
Flavors: Offer unique options like matcha cookies or salted caramel brownies.
Shipping: Use sturdy boxes and ice packs if needed.
A dozen cookies might cost $2-$4 to make and sell for $15-$25. It’s a sweet deal!
7. Knitted or Crocheted Items
Why It’s Easy
If you know basic knitting or crocheting (or are willing to learn), items like scarves, hats, or coasters are quick to produce. YouTube has tons of free tutorials for beginners.
What You’ll Need
Yarn (acrylic is affordable; wool is premium)
Knitting needles or a crochet hook
A simple pattern
How to Make Them
Choose a beginner pattern (e.g., a chunky scarf).
Follow a tutorial like this crochet guide.
Finish and weave in loose ends.
Selling Tips
Seasonal focus: Sell cozy scarves in winter, lightweight coasters in summer.
Customization: Offer color choices or monogramming.
Pricing: Charge $15-$40 based on time and materials.
Yarn costs $3-$10 per skein, and your profit depends on complexity. It’s a relaxing way to earn!
8. Scented Bath Bombs
Why It’s Easy
Bath bombs are a trendy self-care product that’s simple to make with a few kitchen staples. They’re a hit on Etsy and appeal to wellness enthusiasts.
What You’ll Need
Baking soda
Citric acid
Epsom salt
Essential oils
Molds (silicone or plastic)
How to Make Them
Mix 1 cup baking soda, ½ cup citric acid, and ½ cup Epsom salt.
Add a few drops of essential oil and food coloring (optional).
Spritz with water until the mixture clumps, then press into molds.
Let dry for 24 hours and remove.
Selling Tips
Themes: Create “stress relief” or “sleep aid” bath bombs.
Packaging: Use shrink-wrap bags and colorful labels.
Bundles: Sell sets of 3-6 for gifting.
Each bath bomb costs about $1 to make and sells for $5-$10. See this recipe for more.
How to Sell Your Homemade Products Online
Now that you’ve got your products, here’s how to get them in front of buyers:
1. Choose the Right Platform
Etsy: Ideal for crafts and handmade goods.
eBay: Great for a broad audience.
Amazon Handmade: Professional vibe with higher fees.
Social Media: Use Instagram or Facebook Marketplace for local sales.
2. Optimize Your Listings
Use keywords like “handmade candles” or “custom t-shirts” in titles and descriptions.
Include high-quality photos—natural light works best.
Write detailed descriptions with dimensions, materials, and care instructions.
3. Promote Your Products
Share on Pinterest with eye-catching pins.
Run small Facebook or Instagram ads ($5-$10/day).
Collaborate with influencers in your niche.
4. Price Competitively
Research similar listings to find the sweet spot—cover costs, time, and shipping while staying attractive to buyers.
Final Thoughts: Start Small, Dream Big
The easiest things you can make at home and sell online don’t require a huge investment or years of experience. From candles to cookies, these ideas let you dip your toes into entrepreneurship with low risk and high reward. Pick one that excites you, start creating, and watch your side hustle grow!
What’s your favorite DIY project? Drop a comment below and let us know what you’re making—or selling—next!
