Best Side Hustles for Recycled Crafts

In Canada, there’s a growing demand for eco-friendly and handmade items. Here are some of the best side hustles you can start with recycled crafts, along with descriptions, income potential, and resources to get started.

Upcycled Furniture

Transform old furniture into unique, stylish pieces using paint, fabric, and other materials. This side hustle involves giving a new life to discarded chairs, tables, and cabinets.

Income Potential:

$500 - $2,000/month depending on sales and demand.

How to Get Started:

• Check out furniture flipping tutorials on YouTube for tips.
• List your products on Facebook Marketplace or Etsy.
• Source free or low-cost furniture from thrift stores or curbside pickups.

Recycled Jewelry

Create unique jewelry pieces using materials like bottle caps, old coins, or broken beads. This hustle combines artistry with sustainability.

Income Potential:

$300 - $1,500/month depending on pricing and volume.

How to Get Started:

• Learn techniques from websites like Skillshare or Craftsy.
• Market your creations on Etsy or at local craft fairs.
• Promote your work on Instagram or Pinterest.

Repurposed Clothing

Turn old clothes into trendy, wearable items. Examples include patchwork jackets, tote bags, or scrunchies made from recycled fabrics.

Income Potential:

$500 - $2,000/month depending on demand and creativity.

How to Get Started:

• Get inspiration from blogs like A Pair & A Spare.
• Sell your creations on Depop or Etsy.
• Source materials from thrift stores or donation centers.

Eco-Friendly Home Décor

Use recycled materials like mason jars, wine bottles, or old wood to create décor items such as candle holders, wall art, or planters.

Income Potential:

$400 - $1,800/month based on sales volume.

How to Get Started:

• Learn techniques on platforms like Domestika.
• List your creations on Amazon Handmade or Etsy.
• Partner with local eco-friendly shops for consignment opportunities.

Recycled Paper Products

Craft beautiful stationery, notebooks, or greeting cards using recycled paper and creative designs.

Income Potential:

$300 - $1,200/month depending on orders.

How to Get Started:

• Explore tutorials on YouTube for paper crafting techniques.
• Sell your products on Etsy or Shopify.
• Promote eco-friendly messaging to attract customers.

Plastic Bottle Art

Turn plastic bottles into creative items like garden decorations, storage containers, or wall art. This helps reduce plastic waste while showcasing creativity.

Income Potential:

$300 - $1,000/month depending on creativity and demand.

How to Get Started:

• Watch tutorials on Pinterest or YouTube.
• Join eco-friendly marketplaces like Ecofy.
• Participate in local craft fairs to showcase your work.

Pallet Wood Projects

Use discarded wooden pallets to create furniture, shelves, or decorative items. Pallet wood is versatile and readily available.

Income Potential:

$500 - $2,500/month depending on product complexity and sales.

How to Get Started:

• Learn woodworking skills on platforms like Udemy.
• List your items on Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace.
• Partner with local builders or businesses to source free pallets.

Wine Cork Crafts

Create coasters, bulletin boards, or ornaments using recycled wine corks. These crafts are popular for their rustic charm.

Income Potential:

$200 - $800/month depending on product pricing.

How to Get Started:

• Find inspiration on Pinterest.
• Source corks from restaurants or wine shops.
• Sell your products on Etsy or at local markets.

Recycled crafts not only provide an income opportunity but also contribute to a more sustainable environment. Choose a niche that aligns with your passion, and use the resources listed to kickstart your side hustle today!