As an intermediate woodworker, you have enough skill to create items that go beyond basic beginner projects while still being realistic to produce in reasonable time. Focus on things that solve problems, offer unique value, or appeal to the emotions of other woodworkers and homeowners. Here are practical categories and examples:
High-Demand Product Ideas
Small furniture & home goods
- Cutting boards (especially end-grain or unique woods)
- Charcuterie boards with custom handles or inlays
- Floating shelves, coat racks, or small side tables
- Wine racks or bottle holders
Decor & gift items (these often sell well on Etsy)
- Wooden wall art or signs with motivational quotes
- Candle holders, picture frames, or jewelry boxes
- Wooden coasters, trivets, or serving trays
- Hand-turned pens, bottle stoppers, or keychains
Tools & workshop helpers
- Custom jigs (e.g., dovetail jigs, box-joint jigs, or router templates)
- Mallets, push sticks, or workbench accessories
- Tool totes, saw horses, or modular storage solutions
Specialty woodworking items
- Wooden toys (if you enjoy that niche)
- Heirloom-style boxes (keepsake, jewelry, or watch boxes)
- Custom knife handles or cutting boards for chefs
- Service-Based Ideas
Many intermediate woodworkers earn steady income by offering services rather than (or in addition to) physical products:
- Custom commissions (furniture, built-ins, or one-off pieces)
- Woodturning services
- CNC routing or laser engraving (if you have the equipment)
- Finishing/refinishing services for furniture
- Sawmill or lumber processing services (if you have access to equipment)
- Selling Your Lumber or Byproducts
If you buy lumber in bulk or have a sawmill setup, consider listing your excess stock. Woodfinder.com (our sister site) is specifically designed to connect lumber sellers with buyers in their local area. It’s a great low-cost way to move specialty woods, slabs, or smaller quantities without the hassle of shipping large boards nationwide.
Quick Tips for Getting Started
- Start small: Pick 2–3 items that are relatively quick to make and use materials you already have.
- Photography matters: Good, well-lit photos on a clean background dramatically improve sales.
- Pricing: Factor in your time, materials, and a healthy profit margin. Intermediate makers often price between $25–$150 for small items and $200+ for furniture.
- Platforms: Etsy, your own Shopify site, Facebook Marketplace, and of course our WoodCentral Marketplace (free ads for woodworkers).
Would you like me to help you turn any of these ideas into effective short text ads for WoodCentral? Or would you prefer help choosing which direction to focus on first? Just tell me a bit more about what you enjoy making or what equipment you have, and I can give more targeted suggestions.