Best Side Hustles for Handmade Products
Handmade products are a fantastic way to monetize your creativity and skills.
With platforms that enable artisans to sell globally, Canadians can easily turn their hobbies into profitable side hustles. Whether you specialize in jewelry, home décor, or personalized gifts, the handmade market offers a vast potential to earn extra income. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best handmade products side hustles in Canada, including descriptions, income potential, tools, and resources.
Handmade Jewelry
Creating unique jewelry pieces like necklaces, bracelets, or earrings is a timeless side hustle. Focus on trending materials such as resin, gemstones, or personalized engravings to appeal to a broader audience.
Income Potential:
- Beginner: $500–$1,500/month
- Experienced Artisan: $3,000+/month
Tools and Resources:
- Tools: Beads, wire cutters, pliers, and jewelry molds.
- Resources: Online courses like Skillshare’s "Jewelry Making for Beginners."
How to Get Started:
Custom Candles
Hand-poured candles with unique fragrances and designs are always in demand. Experiment with natural waxes and essential oils to appeal to eco-conscious customers.
Income Potential:
- Beginner: $400–$1,200/month
- Established Seller: $2,000+/month
Tools and Resources:
- Tools: Wax melter, wicks, and molds.
- Resources: Tutorials from CandleScience.
How to Get Started:
Knitted or Crocheted Items
If you love knitting or crocheting, consider creating items like scarves, blankets, or baby clothes. Custom and seasonal items tend to perform well, especially around holidays.
Income Potential:
- Beginner: $300–$1,000/month
- Experienced: $2,000+/month
Tools and Resources:
- Tools: Quality yarn, needles, and hooks.
- Resources: Patterns and tutorials from Ravelry.
How to Get Started:
- Etsy Canada
- Ravelry Marketplace
- Local craft fairs
Handmade Soaps and Skincare Products
Natural and handmade skincare products like soaps, scrubs, and lotions are popular among customers seeking chemical-free alternatives. You can customize products with essential oils or create themed packaging.
Income Potential:
- Beginner: $500–$1,200/month
- Established Seller: $2,500+/month
Tools and Resources:
- Tools: Soap molds, essential oils, and mixing bowls.
- Resources: Tutorials from Bramble Berry or Handmade Beauty Box.
How to Get Started:
Personalized Gifts
Personalized gifts like engraved cutting boards, custom mugs, or photo frames are highly sought after for special occasions.
Income Potential:
- Beginner: $400–$1,000/month
- Experienced: $2,000+/month
Tools and Resources:
- Tools: Laser engraving machine or Cricut machine.
- Resources: YouTube tutorials for Cricut users.
How to Get Started:
Art Prints and Stationery
If you have artistic talent, consider creating art prints, planners, or greeting cards. Digital downloads are also an excellent option to minimize production costs.
Income Potential:
- Beginner: $300–$800/month
- Established Seller: $2,000+/month
Tools and Resources:
- Tools: Drawing tablets, printers, and paper cutters.
- Resources: Adobe Creative Cloud or Canva for design.
How to Get Started:
Handmade Furniture or Home Décor
Custom furniture or home décor items like wooden shelves, picture frames, or macramé can command high prices. Use sustainable materials to attract eco-conscious buyers.
Income Potential:
- Beginner: $800–$2,000/month
- Established Seller: $5,000+/month
Tools and Resources:
- Tools: Power tools, wood stains, and paints.
- Resources: Tutorials from Ana White or Home Depot workshops.
How to Get Started:
Pottery and Ceramics
Handcrafted pottery items like mugs, plates, or planters are highly valued for their uniqueness. You can also create decorative ceramics for interior design.
Income Potential:
- Beginner: $500–$1,500/month
- Established Seller: $3,000+/month
Tools and Resources:
- Tools: Pottery wheel, kiln, and clay tools.
- Resources: Local pottery classes or online courses on Udemy.
How to Get Started:
Conclusion
The handmade products market offers endless opportunities for Canadians to turn their creative passions into profitable ventures. With the right tools, platforms, and a commitment to quality, you can build a successful side hustle. Start small, scale gradually, and let your creativity shine!