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Woodworking doesn’t have to mean oversized furniture or complicated joinery. In fact, some of the most profitable and practical woodworking projects are small, clever builds designed to solve common homeowner problems or appeal to everyday decor needs. In this installment of Smalls That Sell, the spotlight is on three trending items that are currently hot in big box stores—and how woodworkers can recreate and reinvent these ideas to fit their style and market.
More than just copying designs, the real takeaway here is learning how to interpret what’s selling and put a personal twist on it. Whether it’s repurposing pallets or using split dowel rods in new ways, these projects combine creativity, function, and profitability.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Solve Common Problems: Projects that solve real-world issues (like hiding unsightly outdoor items) often sell faster.
- Use Affordable Materials: Pallet wood, fence pickets, and dowel rods offer budget-friendly ways to build high-margin items.
- Think Beyond the Build: A creative twist, better materials, or a unique size can turn a generic item into a bestseller.
- Batch for Efficiency: Build in batches with jigs to save time and increase profits.
- Presentation Matters: A well-finished and thoughtfully distressed look adds perceived value and justifies a higher price.
1. The “Junk Hider” Privacy Screen
Every homeowner has something in their yard they wish they could hide—trash cans, air conditioning units, electrical boxes, and pool pumps. This clever privacy screen, built from reclaimed wood, offers a rustic and aesthetic solution. Dubbed jokingly as a “junk hider,” this build stands out because it doesn’t look like a utility piece—it looks like an intentional, decorative feature.
Construction Highlights:
- Built from 5-inch wide fence pickets or pallet wood
- Assembled as two framed panels, each with a 30×40″ backboard
- Center panel adds cabinet-door styling for a refined look
- Connected using glue and screws, with trim pieces creating a 3D effect
- Finished with aged steel hinges for a rustic charm
Why It Sells:
It solves a problem almost everyone has and looks good doing it. While big retailers sell these for $185, they can be built for far less and sold at a competitive $125 price point with solid profits.
2. Paddle Garden Basket
This innovative twist on the classic garden basket is both decorative and functional. By rethinking the shape and using split dowel rods for the side rails, this version feels fresh and custom-made.
Construction Highlights:
- Measures approx. 23.5″ wide x 12″ tall x 7.5″ deep
- Built using half-inch thick fence pickets for the base, ends, and dividers
- Side panels crafted from 1″ dowel rods split lengthwise on a table saw
- Unique paddle-shaped dividers cut from the same stock and drilled for a handle dowel
- Assembled with wood glue and brad nails
Why It Sells:
Garden baskets always do well, and this unique variation with charming design details adds eye-catching appeal at craft shows or farmers markets. They’re being sold for $50 each, but at $35–$40, you can still turn a strong profit.
3. Distressed White Wood Shelf
This compact wall shelf features a clean box construction, accented with trim for visual appeal and sophistication. With a distressed white finish and decorative molding, it straddles rustic and modern styles—perfect for a broad audience.
Construction Highlights:
- 22″ wide shelf made from 1×6 lumber or plywood
- Basic box design with a recessed bottom panel
- Top board overhang adds visual balance
- Finished with DIY trim or store-bought molding like cove or fluted edges
- Optional brackets can be added for flair but are not necessary
Why It Sells:
With the distressed finish and added trim, the shelf looks far more expensive than it is to make. These sell for $65 in stores, but can be produced at a fraction of that cost and sold in sets or singles for consistent sales.
Final Thoughts: Creativity = Profitability
What sets these projects apart isn’t just the wood or tools—it’s the imagination and customization that turn ordinary builds into money-making products. By keeping an eye on what’s trending and infusing your own design flair, you can carve out a niche in the handmade woodworking market.
And remember: stepping out of your comfort zone is where real growth happens. Try new shapes, materials, and finishes. Challenge yourself to build smarter, not harder. That’s how you grow as a maker—and make money doing it.