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In the realm of craftsmanship and artistry, there exists a bridge between the passionate hobbyist and the entrepreneurial spirit. Woodworking, with its rich tapestry of skills and creativity, offers a unique pathway for enthusiasts to traverse this bridge. The journey from a leisure activity to a profitable side gig is one paved with insights, strategy, and the warmth of wood shavings. Drawing inspiration from artisans who have navigated this path, we met with expert woodworker and NextFab’s North Philadelphia Woodshop Manager Tyler Schrandt to explore how you can turn your woodworking passion into a profitable venture.
The cornerstone of transitioning from hobbyist to professional lies in efficiency. An invaluable piece of wisdom Tyler encountered early in his production journey emphasized the simplicity and speed of making not just one, but a pair or more of any item.
“If you’re making one it takes no extra time to make the second,” said Tyler.
Once your tools are set up and measurements are made, creating a second piece takes a fraction of the initial effort. This method not only streamlines your workflow but also enhances your hourly earnings by reducing the time invested per piece. Embrace the groove of your workshop, letting your familiarity and expertise guide you in producing quality!
The marketplace is a dynamic entity, constantly evolving with trends, needs, and consumer interests. The challenge and opportunity lie in identifying a product that not only resonates with your skillset but also with the market demand. Engaging with the community, especially through art markets and fairs, offers a treasure trove of insights. Speaking with fellow vendors, observing their experiences, and understanding what sells, paves the way for strategic decisions in your product line. This reconnaissance allows you to identify gaps in the market. Etsy and other online marketplaces are another great way to conduct market research and identify price points for similar items.
For example, when visiting an art fair, you may see that no other crafters are selling candlesticks, or may find that they all sell cutting boards—informing your choice to diversify or specialize. You may choose to fill the gap with a product no one else has or add your unique spin on a popular item that you know will sell.
Tyler shared, “Once I went to a holiday market in East Falls. There were three woodworkers with cutting boards. It’s a default item people go to since it’s easy, but it might be wasting time since the competition is so high.”
The initial stages of transforming your woodworking from a hobby to a side gig involve significant investment in money, time, and patience. It’s important to understand that success doesn’t happen overnight and the beginning stages require a lot of relationship-building.
“People generally get started on a folding table on a rainy November day,” says Tyler.
Artisan entrepreneurs typically start out selling at events to establish a base of repeat customers through in-person networking. Keep going back year after year and people will visit your table again to see your new items.
To stand out and become memorable, you’ll need to create a unique identity. Your craft, presentation, and interaction with customers contribute to a memorable brand that encourages annual repeat business. Set up the table with branded materials, encourage people to follow your socials, and add them to an email list to continue engaging with them between events.
Additionally, understanding the seasonal ebb and flow of consumer interest, particularly the bustling period from mid-November through December, can guide your production and marketing efforts. Aligning your product development with these peak times ensures you’re not just crafting wood, but also crafting opportunities for growth and recognition. For example, adding engraving or custom ornaments will be more popular around the holidays than in the summer when more people will be shopping for themselves.
While commission work can offer personalized engagement with your clientele, it also introduces complexities in expectations and design autonomy. Striking a balance between client desires and your creative integrity is crucial. This negotiation process is less about compromise and more about collaboration, ensuring that the final piece reflects your craftsmanship and their vision. Remember, your expertise and perspective as an artisan are invaluable; guiding your clients through the process can transform challenges into rewarding partnerships.
Creating entirely custom pieces is exhaustive in both time and resources. Instead, offer the customer a few options to select from so the tools and materials are readily available. Customers are often unfamiliar with the woodworking process and will accept the guidance and expertise. This will also cut down on the back and forth of co-creating an entirely new piece with your client.
Many successful woodworking ventures have humble beginnings, often starting with a simple folding table at a local market. Yet, it’s in these modest starts that the seeds of a thriving side gig are planted. The competition might be stiff, and the journey demanding, but with a strategic approach to production, market research, and branding, your woodworking can carve out its niche in the market.
Embrace the journey with both hands—much like you would a piece of raw timber—and watch as your passion for woodworking transforms into a profitable side gig. The warmth of success, much like the warmth of freshly sanded wood, has a way of spreading, touching not just your life but also those who find joy and utility in your creations.
In Partnership with FORMATION. Media
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