Christmas isn’t just about cozy nights by the fire and sipping hot cocoa – it’s also the biggest money-making season for crafters. People go crazy for handmade gifts and decorations this time of year because they want something unique, meaningful, and a little more special than what’s sitting on store shelves.
And here’s the exciting part: you don’t need to be a pro crafter to cash in. With a few simple supplies (many you probably already have at home), you can whip up budget-friendly Christmas creations that people are willing to pay good money for. Think Etsy, local Christmas fairs, even Facebook Marketplace – the opportunities are endless.
So if you’re looking for a fun way to boost your holiday budget while doing something creative, you’re in the right place. These DIY Christmas crafts to make and sell are festive, profitable, and might just become your new favorite holiday tradition.
If you love experimenting with different hustles, you might also enjoy crafts to sell and make money for even more ideas.
Why Christmas crafts sell so well
When the holidays roll in, people’s wallets open wider than ever – and that sets the stage for crafty entrepreneurs. In 2024, Americans expected to spend about $1,014 on holiday gifts. That’s a lot of buying happening – and a huge opportunity for you to tap into.
Handmade items hold a special appeal too. A report showed that 68% of Americans are likely to give handmade or DIY gifts in the holiday season. When buyers are actively seeking handcrafted goods, your products become more than “just another ornament” – they become treasures.
On the industry side, the growth is real. The U.S. handicrafts market was valued at USD 319.4 billion in 2024, with projections estimating it will more than double to USD 666.3 billion by 2033. That means more buyers, more demand, and more space for you to shine.
Then there’s the psychology of buying. People don’t just buy decorations – they buy emotion, character, and story. Handmade goods carry authenticity and individuality, qualities that factory-made items often lack. Studies confirm that consumers are willing to pay a premium for goods made by hand.
Finally, consider the impulse factor. Over half of U.S. adults – 54% made at least one impulse purchase during the holiday season. That means small, beautifully packaged, eye-catching crafts like ornaments or candle sets are perfectly positioned to fly off your shelf or your Etsy listing.
You might also be interested in money-saving quotes & budget tips to make the most of your holiday earnings.
How to pick the right Christmas crafts to sell
Not every DIY project is a guaranteed hit, and that’s okay. The key is to choose crafts that are already in demand and then put your own creative twist on them. A little bit of smart research goes a long way.
Start by browsing trending products on Etsy. If farmhouse ornaments, rustic signs, or minimalist wreaths are blowing up, that’s a clear hint of what shoppers are actually buying. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel – just make it more charming, personal, or affordable.
Retail giants also give you free market research. Stores like Target and Walmart don’t stock holiday aisles on a whim – they lean heavily on consumer trend data. If you spot aisles packed with Scandinavian décor or vintage-inspired ornaments, that’s a trend you can jump on with your own handmade twist.
And personalization? That’s your ace card. People crave gifts that feel one-of-a-kind. In fact, 71% of consumers expect personalized experiences, and DIY crafts give you a perfect way to meet that need.
Here’s the simple formula to remember:
- Follow the trends – check Etsy and retailers to see what’s hot this season.
- Add a personal twist – names, custom messages, or pet themes go a long way.
- Keep it affordable – under $30 is the sweet spot for fast holiday sales.
If you can do those three things, your crafts won’t just sell – they’ll stand out in a season where buyers are spoiled for choice.
Best DIY Christmas crafts to make and sell
Now let’s get into the fun part – the crafts themselves. These ideas aren’t just cute to make, they’re also proven sellers during the holiday rush.
The best part? Each one is budget-friendly to create, easy to personalize, and priced perfectly for holiday shoppers looking for unique gifts. Whether you’re setting up an Etsy shop, selling at a craft fair, or taking orders through Instagram, these projects can turn your creativity into real income.
1. Felt embroidered ornaments
Materials and Technique: Felt sheets, embroidery thread, needle, stuffing, optional ribbon. Simple hand-stitching is all you need, and patterns are easy to find or design yourself.
Average Price: $5 – $15 each depending on size and detail.
Monthly Profit Potential: $250 – $900+ (especially if you sell in sets).
Felt ornaments are one of those crafts that never go out of style. They’re lightweight, colorful, and easy to customize with festive patterns or even family initials. Shoppers love them because they feel nostalgic – like the handmade decorations grandma used to make – but with your modern twist. Because they’re small and affordable, they’re perfect for impulse buys or stocking fillers.
Pro Tip: Bundle them into themed sets (like woodland animals, classic holiday symbols, or modern minimal shapes) to encourage multi-item purchases. Sets always sell better than singles!
2. Personalized pet ornaments
Materials and Technique: Air-dry clay, bone or paw-shaped cookie cutters, letter stamps, acrylic paint or markers, and ribbon for hanging. These are simple to craft in batches and easy to customize with names or dates.
Average Price: $10 – $25 each depending on customization.
Monthly Profit Potential: $300 – $1,000+ (pet lovers spend big on personalized gifts).
Pet owners adore including their furry friends in holiday traditions, and personalized ornaments are one of the easiest ways to do that. A clay bone with a dog’s name or a paw print with glitter instantly turns into a keepsake families will treasure for years. Because it taps into the booming pet industry, these ornaments often sell out quickly, especially when offered as custom orders with fast turnaround.
Pro Tip: Offer tiered pricing – a single ornament for $15, but “Buy 2, Get 1 Half Off” for multi-pet households. People almost always choose bundles when it means each pet can have their own.
3. Rustic cinnamon stick trees
Materials and Technique: Cinnamon sticks, hot glue, green felt or faux greenery, twine, and small embellishments like beads or stars. Super easy to assemble with a glue gun, and they smell incredible too.
Average Price: $6 – $15 each depending on size and detail.
Monthly Profit Potential: $200 – $750+ (especially popular at craft fairs thanks to their scent).
There’s something about cinnamon that is Christmas. These rustic little trees are more than just ornaments – they’re a sensory holiday experience. The warm, spicy scent makes them irresistible to shoppers browsing at markets, and because they’re lightweight, they also ship easily for online orders. They work perfectly as both ornaments and small gifts, which widens your selling opportunities.
Pro Tip: Offer them as part of a “holiday scents” pack with dried orange slice ornaments or clove-studded stars. Bundling scented crafts together increases your average order value and creates a natural upsell.
4. Mason jar candle votives
Materials and Technique: Mason jars, chalk paint or frosted glass spray, stencils, twine or ribbon, and tea lights or LED candles. Easy to make in bulk, and you can vary the designs with paint and cut-out stencils.
Average Price: $8 – $20 each depending on size and design.
Monthly Profit Potential: $300 – $1,200+ (home décor items always do well around the holidays).
Mason jar crafts never go out of style, and candle votives are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re practical, cozy, and make perfect gifts for teachers, coworkers, or neighbors. The versatility is what makes them such a strong seller – you can create rustic farmhouse styles, elegant frosted looks, or playful kid-friendly designs. They look high-end but cost just a couple of dollars to make.
Pro Tip: Sell them in themed sets (like a trio of “snowflake,” “reindeer,” and “Christmas tree” designs) and market them as ready-to-gift teacher or hostess presents. Sets not only raise your profit margins but also help shoppers tick multiple gifts off their list at once.
5. Farmhouse-style baubles
Materials and Technique: Clear plastic or glass ornaments, burlap, twine, plaid ribbon, faux greenery, and white paint for a rustic touch. Assembly is quick – just fill, wrap, or paint for that cozy farmhouse look.
Average Price: $7 – $18 each, or $20 – $45 per set of 3–5.
Monthly Profit Potential: $250 – $950+ (especially popular on Etsy where farmhouse décor trends thrive).
The farmhouse aesthetic is huge right now – think Joanna Gaines and cozy, rustic vibes. Farmhouse-style baubles fit perfectly into that look, making them one of the trendiest crafts you can sell during the holidays. Shoppers love that they blend seamlessly into neutral décor while still feeling festive. They’re also lightweight and affordable to ship, which makes them a great product for online sales.
Pro Tip: Offer personalization with family names or holiday quotes in white vinyl lettering. People will happily pay an extra $5–$10 for customized farmhouse ornaments that feel one-of-a-kind.
Related: Most profitable digital products to sell on Amazon if you’re curious about scaling from handmade crafts to digital income
6. Beaded snowman ornaments
Materials and Technique: Wooden or plastic beads in varying sizes, white paint, black and orange markers/paint for the face, hot glue, ribbon, and tiny scarves made from fabric scraps. Stack and glue the beads together to form a classic snowman shape.
Average Price: $6 – $12 each depending on detail.
Monthly Profit Potential: $200 – $700+ (very popular as cute, budget-friendly impulse buys).
Snowmen are timeless Christmas icons, and these beaded versions are both affordable and adorable. They’re the kind of craft that appeals to parents, grandparents, and kids alike – perfect for family trees or stocking stuffers. Their handmade charm makes them feel special, even though they’re quick to produce. The best part is how customizable they are – from tiny hats to colorful scarves, every snowman can look different, which encourages repeat buyers.
Pro Tip: Bundle them in sets of three as a “snowman family.” Adding variety and a storyline makes them more appealing and lets you increase your price point with very little extra effort.
7. Dried citrus garlands
Materials and Technique: Fresh oranges (or other citrus), oven for drying, twine, and optional extras like cinnamon sticks, star anise, or greenery. Slice the fruit thinly, bake on low heat until fully dried, then string into garlands.
Average Price: $12 – $30 depending on length and added embellishments.
Monthly Profit Potential: $250 – $1,000+ (eco-friendly décor is trending and in demand).
Dried citrus garlands are one of those crafts that look effortlessly elegant yet cost next to nothing to make. They carry a nostalgic, old-world Christmas charm while appealing to today’s eco-conscious buyers who love sustainable décor. The scent, the look, and the fact that they can be reused year after year make them a popular choice for both markets and online shops. They photograph beautifully too, which makes them stand out on Etsy or Instagram.
Pro Tip: Offer mini garlands as gift wrap toppers alongside full-length versions. This simple upsell adds another price tier and attracts shoppers looking for unique ways to elevate their holiday gift presentation.
8. Twig Christmas trees
Materials and Technique: Collected twigs or small branches, hot glue, wooden bases, optional fairy lights, and a bit of spray paint or glitter. Arrange and glue twigs in a triangular shape or stack them in layers to mimic a mini Christmas tree.
Average Price: $10 – $25 each depending on size and embellishments.
Monthly Profit Potential: $200 – $800+ (especially popular at craft fairs for rustic décor lovers).
Twig Christmas trees bring that perfect rustic, woodland charm to holiday décor. They’re unique, eco-friendly, and easy to scale – you can make mini desk-sized ones or larger statement pieces. Their natural look fits beautifully with farmhouse, Scandinavian, and minimalist holiday styles, which makes them versatile sellers. Plus, since twigs are free, your only real costs are glue, bases, and optional decorations – giving you high profit margins.
Pro Tip: Offer a “light-up” version by weaving tiny battery-powered fairy lights through the branches. Not only does this instantly make them more eye-catching, but it also justifies a higher price tag.
9. Yarn-wrapped mini trees
Materials and Technique: Foam or cardboard cones, yarn in festive colors (red, green, white, gold), craft glue, and optional mini embellishments like beads or tiny ornaments. Wrap yarn tightly around the cone, securing with glue, until it resembles a Christmas tree.
Average Price: $8 – $20 each depending on size and design.
Monthly Profit Potential: $250 – $850+ (they’re easy to batch-produce and ship).
Yarn-wrapped mini trees are cozy, farmhouse-inspired pieces that fit perfectly on mantels, shelves, and table centerpieces. They have a soft, handmade charm that feels welcoming and festive – exactly what shoppers want during the holidays. Because they can be made in different colors and textures (metallic yarn, chunky knits, glitter threads), they appeal to a wide audience and sell well both individually and in sets.
Pro Tip: Sell them in trios of varying heights. The tiered look makes a bigger design impact and encourages buyers to spend more since the bundled sets feel like ready-made décor.
10. Snow globe jars
Materials and Technique: Mason jars (or any clear jar with a lid), waterproof glue, small figurines (snowmen, trees, reindeer), glitter, glycerin, and distilled water. Glue figurines inside the lid, fill the jar with water, glycerin, and glitter, then seal it tightly for a magical snow effect.
Average Price: $12 – $35 depending on jar size and detail.
Monthly Profit Potential: $300 – $1,000+ (these are always a holiday favorite, especially with kids).
Snow globe jars are a timeless holiday classic with endless possibilities. Each one feels like a tiny winter wonderland, and customers love how personalized they can be – from woodland themes to nativity scenes. They sell well because they’re both a decoration and a nostalgic keepsake. And since mason jars are cheap to source (or even recycled), your profit margins can be surprisingly high.
Pro Tip: Create themed collections – for example, a “Santa’s Village” set of three jars. Offering exclusive bundles gives buyers a reason to purchase more than one at a time while letting you showcase your creativity.
11. Wine cork decorations
Materials and Technique: Recycled wine corks, hot glue, twine, small embellishments like buttons, ribbons, or mini bells. Corks can be stacked into trees, reindeer, or wreath shapes, then decorated for a festive finish.
Average Price: $6 – $20 per ornament, $25 – $40 for sets.
Monthly Profit Potential: $200 – $750+ (low-cost materials with lots of creative variations).
Wine cork decorations are quirky, eco-friendly, and full of charm. They appeal to holiday shoppers who love rustic farmhouse décor, and they also double as fun conversation pieces on a tree or mantel. Since corks are often free (hello, wine nights or donations from friends), your material costs are close to nothing. Plus, the uniqueness of each design means customers are willing to pay a little more for that “one-of-a-kind” feel.
Pro Tip: Market them as both ornaments and wine-lover gifts. Packaging a set of cork reindeer with a bottle of wine creates the perfect upsell idea for holiday shoppers looking for quick, thoughtful presents.
12. Wooden “JOY” pallet signs
Materials and Technique: Small pallet wood pieces or wood slats, acrylic paint or stain, stencils or letter cutouts, and optional holiday embellishments like faux greenery or bells. Paint or stencil the word “JOY” (or “NOEL”) across the wood, then finish with rustic accents for charm.
Average Price: $15 – $40 depending on size and finish.
Monthly Profit Potential: $300 – $1,200+ (especially profitable at local craft fairs and on Etsy).
Wooden “JOY” pallet signs are a farmhouse holiday staple that never goes out of style. Customers love them because they work as both indoor and outdoor décor, and the rustic look fits seamlessly with popular holiday aesthetics. Best of all, they’re simple to make, yet look high-end. With pallet wood often free or inexpensive, your margins stay strong while giving you flexibility to create different sizes and finishes.
Pro Tip: Offer personalization options like family names or custom colors. Shoppers are often willing to pay extra for décor that feels unique to their home, which turns a $20 sign into a $40+ sale.
13. Gingerbread kits (to sell as DIY packs)
Materials and Technique: Pre-baked gingerbread pieces (or use cookie cutters and bake at home), royal icing mix, assorted candies, and packaging supplies like clear bags or festive boxes. Include instructions so buyers can assemble their own houses.
Average Price: $15 – $40 per kit depending on size and extras.
Monthly Profit Potential: $400 – $1,500+ (kits are a hot seasonal seller, especially for families).
Gingerbread kits are more than just a sweet treat – they’re an experience. Families love the tradition of building a gingerbread house together, and offering ready-to-go kits saves them time while still keeping the fun. Because they combine food and activity, they appeal to parents, kids, and even office party planners looking for a festive group activity. They also sell well online since they can be shipped easily if packaged properly.
Pro Tip: Create themed kits such as “Classic Cottage,” “Winter Wonderland,” or “Mini Houses for Kids.” You can even upsell by offering a deluxe version with extra candy and edible glitter. This makes your kits stand out from store-bought versions and justifies a higher price point.
14. Personalized teacher ornaments
Materials and Technique: Clear glass or plastic baubles, mini erasers or pencils, ribbon, vinyl stickers (or a Cricut machine for names), and small charms like apples or chalkboards. Fill the bauble with themed items, then personalize the outside with the teacher’s name or a thank-you message.
Average Price: $8 – $20 each.
Monthly Profit Potential: $250 – $800+ (popular as bulk orders from parents).
Personalized teacher ornaments are heartfelt, practical, and always in demand during the holidays. Parents love giving something thoughtful yet affordable, and since teachers usually receive multiple ornaments, they’re a guaranteed repeat buy every year. These ornaments stand out because they combine personalization with sentiment, making them more meaningful than a generic gift. And since they’re lightweight and easy to ship, they’re great for online sales too.
Pro Tip: Market these as class gifts by offering bundle discounts – for example, “Buy 5, get 1 free.” Parents with multiple kids or teachers who want to gift their colleagues will see the value, and you’ll boost your order sizes in the process.
15. Pinecone elves or rustic nature-inspired pieces
Materials and Technique: Pinecones, felt (for hats and scarves), wooden beads (for faces), craft paint, twine, and a hot glue gun. Assemble pinecones into elf bodies, paint cheerful faces, and add felt hats for a cozy woodland look.
Average Price: $6 – $18 each, or $20 – $35 for sets of three.
Monthly Profit Potential: $200 – $700+ (great margin since pinecones are free and supplies are inexpensive).
Pinecone elves capture the magic of the season while staying eco-friendly. Shoppers love the whimsical, nature-inspired aesthetic, and these little characters fit perfectly into rustic holiday décor. Since most of the base materials can be collected for free outdoors, these ornaments offer some of the highest profit margins on the list. Plus, they can be sold individually, in sets, or even paired with other natural crafts like twig trees or dried citrus garlands.
Pro Tip: Position these as “eco-friendly Christmas décor” to tap into the growing market of sustainability-conscious buyers. Adding cute storybook-style packaging or branding them as collectible sets can also encourage repeat customers year after year.
How to price and sell your Christmas crafts
So you’ve got a table (or maybe just your living room floor) full of handmade Christmas goodies…
Now what?
Pricing and selling your crafts is just as important as making them.
Think of it this way: your materials, time, and creativity all deserve a fair value, and customers are willing to pay more for something unique that feels special.
When it comes to pricing, a good rule of thumb is to add up the cost of materials, factor in the time it took you to make the item (pay yourself at least minimum wage per hour), and then add a little extra for profit. For example, if your cinnamon stick ornaments cost $2 to make and took 15 minutes, you could easily sell them for $8 – $12. And if you package them in sets of three? You can bump the price to $20 and suddenly increase your average order value.
Where you sell matters too. Online platforms like Etsy and Shopify give you access to millions of buyers searching specifically for holiday gifts. Local craft fairs, school bazaars, and even small-town Christmas markets are also fantastic because people love the experience of buying handmade while sipping hot cocoa. And don’t forget about Instagram shops – styled photos of your products can go viral on Pinterest or TikTok and drive quick sales.
- Cover your costs: Add materials + time + margin.
- Bundle items: Sets sell better than singles (3 for $15 feels like a deal).
- Pick the right channel: Etsy for global reach, local markets for quick cash.
Pro Tip: Bundle and upsell! Instead of selling just one ornament, offer gift sets or even DIY craft kits. Customers love the idea of buying something that feels “ready to gift” – and you’ll boost your profits without adding much extra effort.
Want more inspiration for selling? Don’t miss our guide on how to make money on Pinterest. Pinterest is huge for holiday crafts and can drive consistent sales.
Marketing tips for quick sales
Even the cutest craft won’t sell if people don’t see it. That’s where marketing comes in – and the good news is, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with bright, well-lit photos. Style your items with fairy lights, greenery, or wrapped gifts to create a cozy, Pinterest-worthy vibe.
Next, add personalization. Names, dates, or even pet names can instantly transform a simple ornament into a keepsake that feels priceless. Personalization is one of the fastest ways to stand out in a crowded holiday market.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of festive packaging. A small kraft box with twine or a sprig of faux pine makes your craft feel like a premium product – even if it cost only a few dollars to make.
Pro Tip: If you want fast local sales, promote in Facebook Marketplace and community buy-and-sell groups. Many people love grabbing last-minute, affordable, handmade gifts without waiting for shipping.
If you want to master Pinterest traffic, check out Pinterest SEO tips and viral pins Pinterest strategy to get your crafts seen by thousands.