Easy 37 Small Wood Projects to Sell Fast

1. Cutting Boards and Charcuterie Boards

Cutting boards and charcuterie boards represent one of the most profitable entry points into woodworking for sale. These kitchen essentials combine functionality with aesthetic appeal, making them perfect gifts and popular household upgrades. The market for quality wooden cutting surfaces continues to expand as consumers move away from plastic alternatives and embrace natural materials in their kitchens.

Why They Sell Well

Cutting boards serve both practical and decorative purposes in modern kitchens.
Customers view them as premium gifts for weddings, housewarmings, and holidays.
The charcuterie trend has created sustained demand for entertainment-focused boards.
Different wood species and patterns allow for unique, one-of-a-kind creations.
They appeal to health-conscious buyers avoiding plastic cutting surfaces.
Price points range from affordable to luxury, accommodating various customer budgets.

Materials and Construction

Hardwoods like maple, walnut, cherry, and oak provide durability and food safety.
Edge grain construction offers simpler assembly for beginners.
End grain boards command higher prices due to their knife-friendly properties and visual interest.
Food-safe mineral oil and beeswax finish protect the wood while maintaining safety.
Combining contrasting wood species creates striking patterns that increase value.
Rubber feet on the bottom prevent slipping and protect countertops.

Pricing and Profit Margins

Small cutting boards (8×10 inches) typically sell for $25-$45.
Medium-sized boards (12×16 inches) command $50-$85 in most markets.
Large charcuterie boards (18×24 inches) can fetch $100-$200 depending on complexity.
Material costs usually represent 20-30% of the selling price.
Time investment ranges from 2-4 hours per board for edge grain designs.
End grain boards require more time but justify 40-60% higher pricing.

2. Wooden Coasters

Wooden coasters represent quick-turn projects that generate consistent sales with minimal material investment. These small items protect furniture surfaces while adding decorative touches to living spaces. Their compact size makes them ideal for craft shows, online marketplaces, and gift shops.

Design Variations

Square coasters (4×4 inches) offer classic simplicity and easy construction.
Round coasters provide softer aesthetics and comfortable beverage placement.
Hexagonal shapes create modern, geometric appeal for contemporary homes.
Personalized engraving adds custom value for gifts and special occasions.
Mixed wood species in single coasters create visual interest through contrast.
Resin inlay designs command premium prices and attract design-conscious buyers.

Production Efficiency

Batch production allows creating 20-30 coasters in a single work session.
Simple jigs ensure consistent sizing across multiple pieces.
Cork or felt backing protects furniture and adds professional finish.
Multiple coasters can be cut from a single board, minimizing waste.
Finishing requires only light sanding and oil application for quick completion.
Packaging sets of 4-6 coasters together increases perceived value and sales price.

Market Positioning

Individual coasters sell for $5-$8 in most retail environments.
Sets of four typically range from $20-$35 depending on complexity.
Custom engraved versions command $30-$50 per set.
Wedding favors and corporate gifts provide bulk order opportunities.
Seasonal designs for holidays create repeat customer potential.
Low material cost (under $2 per coaster) ensures healthy profit margins.

3. Picture Frames

Picture frames combine simplicity in construction with universal appeal across all demographics. Every home requires frames for photographs, artwork, and mirrors, creating reliable market demand. Custom wooden frames offer personalization that mass-produced alternatives cannot match.

Construction Techniques

Miter joints create professional corners that customers expect in quality frames.
Simple butt joints work well for rustic or farmhouse-style frames.
Rabbet cuts on the inside edge hold glass and backing securely.
Various stains and finishes allow matching different décor styles.
Adding a routed edge detail elevates perceived quality and value.
Glass can be sourced affordably or omitted for a rustic presentation.

Size and Style Options

Standard photo sizes (5×7, 8×10, 11×14) ensure broad customer appeal.
Oversized frames for statement pieces command premium pricing.
Distressed finishes appeal to farmhouse and shabby chic markets.
Natural wood frames suit minimalist and Scandinavian design preferences.
Painted frames in neutral tones offer versatility for various interiors.
Custom sizing services differentiate your offerings from retail competitors.

Selling Strategy

Basic 8×10 frames sell for $15-$30 depending on wood quality and finish.
Larger frames (16×20 inches) typically command $40-$70.
Custom frames with special finishes or details reach $50-$100.
Offering frame sets (3-5 matching frames) increases average transaction value.
Material costs represent approximately 25-35% of retail price.
Production time of 30-45 minutes per frame allows high volume output.

4. Wooden Signs and Wall Art

Wooden signs and wall art dominate the home décor market, particularly in farmhouse and rustic design categories. These items allow unlimited creative expression while requiring relatively basic woodworking skills. The combination of wood with paint, stain, or burned lettering creates products that customers view as unique artistic pieces.

Design Categories

Inspirational quotes and family-oriented sayings appeal to broad audiences.
Seasonal signs for holidays create multiple selling opportunities throughout the year.
Personalized family name signs work well for gifts and new homeowners.
Directional signs (Beach, Lake, Mountains) suit vacation properties and themed rooms.
Welcome signs for front porches and entryways remain consistently popular.
Custom business signs open commercial customer opportunities.

Creation Methods

Hand-painted lettering provides authentic, artisanal appearance that justifies premium pricing.
Stencils enable consistent replication of popular designs for production efficiency.
Wood burning (pyrography) creates permanent, rustic text that never fades.
Vinyl lettering offers crisp, professional appearance with minimal artistic skill required.
Layered wood designs add dimensional interest and visual complexity.
Distressing techniques enhance rustic appeal and hide minor imperfections.

Market Performance

Small signs (8×10 inches) typically sell for $15-$35.
Medium wall art (12×24 inches) commands $40-$75 in most markets.
Large statement pieces (24×36 inches or larger) reach $80-$150.
Custom personalized signs add $10-$30 to base pricing.
Material costs usually stay under $8-$12 per sign.
Popular designs can be produced in batches for craft show inventory.

5. Wooden Planters and Plant Stands

The houseplant trend has created sustained demand for attractive containers and display solutions. Wooden planters and stands combine functionality with decorative appeal, positioning them as both practical items and home décor pieces. These projects accommodate various skill levels while offering significant profit potential.

Planter Box Designs

Rectangular planters suit windowsills, patios, and garden beds.
Cedar and redwood provide natural rot resistance for outdoor use.
Interior liners or plastic inserts protect wood from moisture damage.
Drainage holes and elevated bottoms extend planter longevity.
Tapered sides create modern aesthetic appeal that attracts design-conscious buyers.
Personalized engravings or burned designs add custom value.

Plant Stand Variations

Tiered stands maximize vertical space while displaying multiple plants.
Single-plant pedestals create focal points for statement plants.
Corner stands utilize unused spaces in homes efficiently.
Rolling stands with casters appeal to renters and frequent redecorators.
Ladder-style stands provide bohemian aesthetic that trends strongly.
Hanging wall-mounted shelves suit small spaces and apartments.

Pricing Structure

Small planters (6-8 inches) sell for $20-$40.
Large planter boxes (24+ inches) command $60-$120.
Simple plant stands range from $35-$70 depending on size.
Multi-tier stands reach $80-$150 for complex designs.
Material costs typically represent 25-40% of selling price.
Outdoor-rated planters justify 20-30% price premium over indoor versions.

6. Serving Trays

Serving trays blend practicality with decorative function, making them popular for entertaining and everyday use. These projects require moderate skill but produce high-value items that customers associate with quality craftsmanship. The variety of design options allows woodworkers to differentiate their products in competitive markets.

Design Elements

Handles made from rope, leather, or metal hardware enhance functionality.
Raised edges prevent items from sliding and add structural integrity.
Contrasting wood species create visual interest through natural color variation.
Resin inlays or epoxy river designs command premium pricing.
Personalized engraving makes trays popular gift choices.
Various finishes from natural to painted accommodate different décor styles.

Construction Considerations

Solid wood construction ensures durability for daily use.
Finger joints or dovetails in corners demonstrate quality craftsmanship.
Food-safe finishes are essential for trays intended for meal service.
Ottoman trays with padded bottoms serve dual purposes in living rooms.
Bed trays with folding legs expand functionality and market appeal.
Reinforced bottoms prevent warping and extend product lifespan.

Market Pricing

Basic serving trays (12×16 inches) sell for $35-$60.
Larger ottoman trays (18×24 inches) command $65-$110.
Custom designs with resin or specialty features reach $100-$200.
Bed trays with legs typically sell for $70-$130.
Material costs usually represent 20-30% of retail price.
Production time of 2-3 hours per tray allows reasonable profit margins.

7. Wooden Utensil Holders

Kitchen organization products maintain consistent demand as homeowners seek to declutter countertops while keeping essentials accessible. Wooden utensil holders provide attractive storage solutions that complement various kitchen styles. These straightforward projects require minimal materials and produce items customers actively search for.

Design Options

Single compartment holders suit minimalist kitchens and small spaces.
Multi-section dividers organize different utensil types efficiently.
Rotating carousel designs add functionality and visual interest.
Wall-mounted versions save counter space in compact kitchens.
Personalized caddies make popular wedding and housewarming gifts.
Handles on portable versions allow easy movement for outdoor dining.

Construction Details

Hardwoods like oak, maple, and walnut withstand kitchen environment moisture.
Finger joints create attractive corner details while ensuring durability.
Drainage holes in the bottom allow water to escape from wet utensils.
Food-safe finishes protect wood while maintaining kitchen safety standards.
Weighted bases prevent tipping when holding heavy utensils.
Smooth interior surfaces prevent scratching expensive utensils.

Sales Performance

Basic utensil holders sell for $20-$40 depending on size and wood type.
Multi-compartment designs command $35-$65.
Rotating or specialty versions reach $50-$85.
Personalized holders add $10-$20 to base pricing.
Material costs typically remain under $8-$12 per holder.
Production efficiency allows completing 3-5 holders in a work session.

8. Floating Shelves

Floating shelves represent one of the most requested home improvement items, combining storage with decorative display space. These seemingly simple projects command impressive prices due to perceived installation complexity and custom sizing capabilities. The versatility of floating shelves across room types ensures broad market appeal.

Shelf Variations

Simple rectangular shelves suit minimalist and modern décor styles.
Live edge shelves bring natural, organic elements to contemporary spaces.
Corner shelves maximize unused wall areas efficiently.
Box shelves (shadow boxes) create dimensional display opportunities.
Pipe-mounted shelves combine wood with industrial metal elements.
Mantel-style shelves replace traditional fireplace mantels or create faux focal points.

Construction Methods

Hidden mounting brackets create the floating illusion customers desire.
Solid wood construction ensures adequate weight capacity for books and décor.
French cleats provide secure mounting for heavier shelf applications.
Proper wood conditioning prevents warping after installation.
Multiple finish options allow customization to match existing furniture.
Pre-drilled mounting holes simplify customer installation process.

Pricing Guidelines

Small shelves (18-24 inches) sell for $30-$55.
Standard shelves (36-48 inches) command $50-$90.
Long shelves (60+ inches) reach $80-$140.
Live edge designs add 30-50% premium to standard pricing.
Custom lengths and finishes justify additional charges of $15-$30.
Material costs represent approximately 25-35% of selling price.

9. Wooden Toys

Handcrafted wooden toys appeal to parents seeking safe, non-toxic, and educational alternatives to plastic toys. These projects tap into nostalgia while addressing modern concerns about child development and environmental impact. The market for quality wooden toys continues expanding as consumers prioritize sustainable and heirloom-quality items.

Popular Toy Types

Simple cars and trucks appeal to toddlers and young children universally.
Pull toys develop motor skills while providing engaging play experiences.
Stacking toys and puzzles offer educational value parents appreciate.
Building blocks create open-ended play opportunities that support development.
Animal figures work well for imaginative play and decoration.
Personalized name puzzles combine learning with gift appeal.

Safety Considerations

Non-toxic finishes are absolutely essential for items intended for children.
Sanding to ultra-smooth finish prevents splinters and injuries.
Avoiding small parts prevents choking hazards for young children.
Rounded edges and corners ensure safe handling during active play.
Durable construction withstands rough handling and extended use.
Following CPSC guidelines ensures legal compliance for toy sales.

Market Dynamics

Simple toys (cars, animals) sell for $10-$25 depending on complexity.
Complex toys (puzzles, building sets) command $25-$60.
Personalized name puzzles reach $30-$70 based on length and details.
Parents willingly pay premium prices for safe, quality toys.
Material costs stay relatively low at $3-$8 per toy for most designs.
Marketing to eco-conscious parents and grandparents expands customer base.

10. Wine Racks

Wine storage solutions remain popular as wine collecting extends beyond enthusiasts to casual consumers. Wooden wine racks provide functional storage while serving as decorative furniture pieces. The variety of design options from traditional to modern allows woodworkers to target specific market segments.

Design Styles

Countertop racks hold 4-12 bottles for small collections and apartments.
Wall-mounted racks save floor space while creating visual interest.
Modular stacking designs allow customers to expand storage as collections grow.
Hanging glass holder combinations provide complete wine storage solutions.
Angled bottle positions showcase labels while ensuring proper storage.
Barrel stave racks appeal to wine enthusiasts and rustic décor preferences.

Construction Techniques

Precisely sized holes ensure bottles fit securely without movement.
Angling holes slightly back prevents bottles from sliding forward.
Hardwoods provide necessary strength for supporting wine bottle weight.
Multiple finish options from natural to stained accommodate different interiors.
Stabilizing feet or wall anchors ensure safety when fully loaded.
Glass stem holders require careful spacing for various glass sizes.

Pricing Strategy

Small countertop racks (4-6 bottles) sell for $25-$50.
Medium racks (8-12 bottles) command $45-$80.
Large wall-mounted versions (16+ bottles) reach $80-$150.
Custom designs or specialty woods add 40-60% to base pricing.
Material costs typically represent 20-30% of retail price.
Gift market around holidays provides seasonal sales boosts.

11. Smartphone Docking Stations

Smartphone docking stations address the universal need for organized charging spaces while reducing cable clutter. These functional items combine utility with desk or nightstand décor, appealing to tech users across demographics. The compact size allows efficient material usage and quick production times.

Feature Integration

Cable routing channels hide charging cords for clean appearance.
Pen or stylus holders add functionality for desk versions.
Watch stands integrate multiple device charging in single station.
Key and wallet trays create complete personal item organization.
Adjustable phone angles accommodate different viewing preferences.
Multiple device slots serve households with several phones or tablets.

Design Considerations

Universal sizing accommodates various phone models and cases.
Stable base prevents tipping from cord weight or phone manipulation.
Smooth interior surfaces prevent scratching expensive devices.
Different wood species and finishes match various décor styles.
Compact footprint suits crowded nightstands and desks.
Personalized engraving makes stations popular gift items.

Market Performance

Basic docking stations sell for $20-$40.
Multi-function organizers command $35-$65.
Premium hardwood versions with complex features reach $60-$90.
Corporate logo customization opens business gift market.
Material costs remain low at $5-$10 per station.
Quick production time (1-2 hours) ensures healthy profit margins.

12. Jewelry Boxes

Jewelry boxes combine functional storage with sentimental value, making them popular gift items for special occasions. The craftsmanship visible in quality wooden boxes justifies premium pricing that customers associate with the jewelry stored inside. Various complexity levels allow woodworkers to match their skill with market positioning.