How to Sell Your Knits, Crochet, and Handmade Items Online or at Craft Fairs (Without Losing Your Mind or Your Profit) 🧺
Thinking about selling your handmade hats, scarves, dishcloths, or other cozy creations? Whether you knit, crochet, weave, or dabble in all things fiber, there is a way to turn your skills into extra income (without totally burning out). If you’re wondering how to start a handmade business or sell your crochet and knitting projects online, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through how to sell handmade items on Etsy, at craft fairs, and more. It is not about becoming the next craft empire (unless you want to); it is about finding the sweet spot between joy and income.
I have sold finished pieces, taught classes, and now I mostly stick to designing patterns and running my own cozy little corner of the internet. I stepped back from selling handmade items full-time because the returns, yarn costs, and time crunch made it tricky. That does not mean you cannot do it, and do it well. With a few smart strategies and realistic expectations, you absolutely can turn your fiber skills into a sustainable side hustle (or more).
Here is what I wish I had known when I started.
What Actually Sells (and Why It Matters) 🧶
What handmade knit and crochet items sell best?
The truth? Not every handmade item is worth selling. Focus on things that are:
- Small and quick to make (such as hats, dishcloths, and headbands)
- Useful or giftable
- Seasonal (such as chunky scarves in fall and cotton washcloths in spring)
Pro tip: Check Etsy, craft fair booths, or social media for bestsellers in your niche. Do not copy, but take notes on what gets attention.
Where to Sell Your Fiber Art 🛍️
There are several places to sell handmade items online and in person (including Etsy, craft fairs, and social media marketplaces).
Selling Online
- Etsy: Great for reaching a global audience. Take time to learn about tags, keywords, and product photography. Visit Etsy to read more about selling online there.
- Facebook and Instagram: Work best if you already post your makes regularly. Learn more about selling on Facebook and Instagram in their guide.
- Your Own Website: You are in control of your sales and returns on your own site. Especially if you already have a following, this can be your highest-margin option.
- Amazon Handmade: Use caution here. While it offers broad visibility, the return policy can be risky for handmade sellers. I once had a hat returned with a jazz CD as a marketing ploy from a musician, and another time, someone returned worn earrings in the wrong box. I was out the fees and could not resell either. On the other hand, it’s great for reaching a global audience if you’re up for the high return rate.
Selling In Person
- Craft Fairs: Local and fun, but physically demanding. Invest in a few cute signs and an easy setup.
- Local Boutiques: Try consignment or wholesale (make sure you read the fine print).
Pricing Without Guilt 💸
Do not shortchange yourself just to make a sale. Here is what to consider:
- Yarn and material cost
- Hours spent making it
- Your skill level
- Market demand
A simple formula: (Materials + Hours Worked × Fair Hourly Rate) × 2 = Retail Price
And yes, your time is worth more than minimum wage.
Returns, Refunds, and Boundary Setting 🚫
Have clear policies and stick to them. Things to include:
- No refunds on worn or custom items
- Clear shipping and handling timeframes
- How to handle lost or damaged packages
If someone pushes back, remember: being kind does not mean being a doormat.
5. How to Stand Out in a Crowded Market 🌟
A few easy ways to shine:
- Take bright, clean photos (natural light is your friend)
- Write descriptions like you are talking to a friend
- Add a thank-you note, care tag, or freebie with each order
- Use your unique story (your voice matters)
Is Selling Handmade Items a Good Idea?
Selling your handmade work is not for everyone, and that is okay. However, if you feel passionately, go for it! Start small, price fairly, and lead with kindness (to your customers and to yourself).
You are not just selling stitches. You are offering comfort, beauty, and creativity in every piece. And that is always worth something.
Designs You Can Sell
P.S. All of my patterns include a license to sell the handmade items you create from them (no extra fees or hoops to jump through). So if you are ready to start stitching for profit, you are welcome to use my designs! Get my Knitting Guide or Knitting the Simple Things (both books include 15 designs in all the sizes) or find all my digital pattern downloads on my knitting patterns page.
If you’re looking for knitting patterns to sell at craft fairs or online shops, I’ve got you covered. Looking for some beginner-friendly patterns that are perfect for selling? Take a peek at my Knitting Patterns Collection. Simple projects like washcloths, hats, and scarves are great sellers, and they are even better when you make them your own. Try using your favorite yarn colors, add a few pom poms, some embroidery, or a fun tag to stand out. Your creativity is your secret weapon!
Here are five of my top knitting patterns that are especially popular for selling:
🧼 Double-Thick Washcloth Pattern – Quick, practical, and always a favorite at craft fairs. Bonus points if you are also a handmade soap maker (it’s the perfect bundle)!
🧣 Chunky Scarf Knitting Pattern – Quick to knit, extra cozy, and perfect for winter markets.
🧢 Basic Knit Hat Pattern – A wardrobe staple that’s perfect for custom orders.
🐣 Simple Baby Hat Pattern – Great for gifts and baby shower booths.
🧤 Fingerless Gloves Pattern – Stylish and useful, with room to personalize.
Feel free to use your favorite yarns and experiment with color combos. Add pom poms, embroidery, or even a little sparkle. Your handmade items should reflect your personality and style!
Don’t Miss a Stitch! 🧶
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