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When you’re low on cash and need money fast, selling items is a great way to make quick extra income.
If you’ve ever heard that creative people can’t make money, check out these amazing success stories:
- A 17-year-old has built a candle brand that generates nearly $1 million in revenue annually.
- Mike Pasley earned $700,000 in his first year through Print on Demand apparel and merchandise.
- Two teenage sisters are making $20 million each year from selling bath bombs.
There are countless individuals who are willing to pay for what you have to offer. You might be sitting on a lucrative opportunity.
What begins as a simple method to earn extra cash could potentially evolve into a very successful full-time business.
If you’re looking to boost your funds, here are 42 items you can sell both online and offline to make additional money.
You Will Learn About:
Most Profitable Crafts To Sell
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1. Old Clothes
When you’re looking for ways to make extra cash, your closet might be the first place to check. Consider selling clothes that you no longer wear.
According to a Business Insider study, the average American only wears about 20% of their wardrobe. That’s a lot of unused clothing!
2. Baby Products
They grow up so quickly, don’t they?
While watching them grow is wonderful, it often means that clothes, toys, and baby gear soon become obsolete and clutter up your space.
Fortunately, new parents are always on the lookout for gently used baby items. Ensure you’re selling items that are safe and in good condition. Clearly describe each item and provide a few photos when listing them.
You can list your baby products on Mercari or Swap. Online marketplaces like Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace are also great options for finding local buyers.
3. Old Phones
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Upgrading your phone often means your old one gets stashed away, taking up space and depreciating over time.
Since you’re likely not using your old phone, consider selling it on Swappa, which Wired reports is one of the best platforms for getting a good price for your device. Even if your phone is broken, uSell will still purchase it from you.
4. Sell Your Recipes
Are you a skilled cook? You might want to monetize your recipes by selling them to magazines, cooking contest websites, or recipe databases.
Magazines may pay between $25 and $500+ for published recipes. Additionally, you can sell your recipes on platforms like Etsy, offer them through a subscription service, or pitch them to food bloggers.
5. Sell Your Opinions
Want to earn money from your endless supply of opinions?
Sell your feedback online! Instead of hosting yard sales or scavenger hunts, use platforms like YouGov to get paid for sharing your thoughts on various topics. Your input helps businesses improve and boosts your income.
For more online focus group opportunities, check out these 16 Best Online Focus Groups.
For additional online survey opportunities, explore these 18 Top Survey Sites.
6. DIY Signs
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Hand-painted signs are both a popular decor trend and a profitable craft to sell. With basic materials like canvas or reclaimed wood, paint, and a brush, you can create attractive wall art that buyers appreciate.
The imperfections and handcrafted quality of DIY signs often increase their appeal, meaning you don’t have to be a professional artist to succeed.
7. Handmade Jewelry
Handmade jewelry is a versatile craft with endless creative possibilities. From beaded pieces to clay designs and those featuring precious stones, there’s a niche for every style.
Jewelry can be a meaningful accessory, so offering customizable options such as birthstone pieces or initial pendants can cater to individual tastes.
8. Cards and Invitations
Customized invitations for weddings, graduations, and other events are always in demand. Create unique designs and sell them on platforms like Etsy. You can offer digital downloads or provide custom printing and mailing services for your customers.
9. Painted Bags
Turn stylish bags into a profitable venture. Whether using inexpensive materials or high-quality ones, you can cater to various preferences and budgets. Create bags that are both fashionable and functional, making them desirable for different occasions.
10. Sell Your Photos Online
Stock photography companies are always in need of quality images. Even if you don’t have a professional camera, you can still sell your photos online. Upload your images to stock sites like Dreamstime and earn 25-60% from each sale.
11. Sell Your Time
Monetize your skills through online freelancing. Whether you’re interested in writing, proofreading, translation, bookkeeping, transcription, or virtual assistance, freelancing offers flexibility in how and when you work. Explore opportunities to earn extra income from home or transition to a new full-time role.
- Freelance Writing
- Proofreading
- Translation
- Bookkeeping
- Transcription
- Virtual Assistance
12. Plasma Donations
You can earn up to $50 per donation by giving plasma, with the possibility to donate up to three times a week. Find nearby donation centers like Octapharma Plasma or Donating Plasma. It’s a way to earn extra money while helping those in need.
13. Bicycles
The market for used bikes is thriving. Sell your bike on BikeExchange or Pinkbike, or locally through Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Alternatively, The Pro’s Closet may purchase your bike directly and handle the shipping for you.
Bonus Tip: Check your bike’s value using BicycleBlueBook before selling.
14. Stickers
Nearly 8 out of 10 teenagers adorn their phones, tablets, and laptops with stickers, not to mention the charming ones on every household fridge.
Stickers are incredibly popular, with themes ranging from Iron Man to memes, TV shows, sports, video games, and fairy tales. The variety of customization options is endless.
On platforms like Etsy, single stickers might sell for around $1, but bundles often go for $15 to $20, making them a profitable option.
15. Sports Equipment
Sports enthusiasts, from athletes to hobbyists and parents with growing children, are always in search of quality sporting goods.
This demand makes used sports equipment a fantastic choice for quick cash.
Consider selling items like team sports gear, golf equipment, running shoes, camping supplies, and fishing gear.
While local sporting goods stores might offer a reduced price, you can get better rates on eBay and Facebook Marketplace. For more niche markets, check out SidelineSwap or Geartrade.
16. Courses
Selling online courses can be highly profitable, especially as the E-learning sector expands.
With more people seeking online education, there’s a significant opportunity if you can break into this market.
However, this field is quite competitive and depends on establishing trust. People need to be confident in your expertise to invest in your course.
Building a reputable personal brand might take time, but it’s achievable and can lead to considerable rewards.
Platforms like Teachable, Skillshare, and Udemy can help you create and sell your courses, reaching a broad audience and generating income.
17. Used Books
Used books remain a valuable item, as their content retains relevance over time. This was a method I used during university degrees to earn extra money by selling my textbooks.
Check the value of your old books on BookFinder or BookScouter to see current offers from online buyers. Choose the best price and proceed with the sale.
For more valuable titles, consider listing them on AbeBooks.
Expert Tip: Textbooks, especially those from recent semesters, can be quite valuable. Consider using platforms like Textbooks.com or Chegg to find the best offers for your used academic books.
18. Furniture
Furniture is always in demand, whether for students moving into dorms, new homeowners, those upgrading their living spaces, or anyone looking for a fresh look.
To avoid high shipping costs, start by selling locally on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. If you have a truck, offering delivery services can give you an advantage.
For premium or unique pieces, try platforms like Chairish, which focuses on curated furniture selections.
Need help with pricing your furniture? Use a Furniture Calculator to estimate its value before listing it for sale.
19. Collectibles
If you’re in need of quick cash, consider selling some of your collectibles. Collectors are often willing to pay high prices for items they cherish or believe will gain value.
Parting with cherished items can be tough, but the financial benefits can be reassuring. Popular collectibles include comic books, vintage games, figurines, sports cards, and memorabilia.
20. Video Games and Consoles
Video games and consoles remain highly sought after. Gamers often look for deals to avoid paying full prices at retail stores like GameStop or Best Buy.
Old gaming consoles or games, such as classic Nintendo Entertainment Systems or vintage titles, can be sold with ease. Don’t forget to consider selling controllers, headsets, and other gaming accessories.
Some vintage games, like an unopened Super Mario Bros game, can even fetch up to $2 million at auction.
21. Homemade Baked Goods
If baking is your forte, consider selling cakes, cookies, or homemade jams at local markets or through an online store.
Healthy snacks like energy balls, protein bars, or granola bars also have a growing market. Many consumers prefer homemade over mass-produced options.
Ensure you’re aware of local regulations regarding food production and sales before you start.
22. Pet Supplies
With the pet care industry booming, selling pet supplies can be a lucrative venture. Platforms like Etsy are ideal for selling items such as:
- Toys
- Collars
- Food dishes
- Pet beds
- Nose and paw balms
- Treats
- Leashes
Customizing products with personalized touches can enhance your income potential.
23. Camera Gear
If you have unused camera equipment, consider selling it. Platforms like KEH offer options to buy, trade, and sell cameras and accessories.
Alternatively, B&H is another good option, especially for selling video recorders and drones.
Condition is crucial: well-maintained gear can command high prices, while older models may need price adjustments.
24. Your Artwork
If you’re an artist, you can monetize your talent by selling prints of your artwork on Etsy. Digital products like printable wall art and custom home décor are popular.
Expand your offerings by using print-on-demand services like Printify to create merchandise such as t-shirts, mugs, and notebooks featuring your art.
For more guidance, visit The Abundant Artist for tips on selling art online.
25. Sell Your Car
If your car mostly sits unused, consider selling it for cash or renting it out.
Platforms like Turo and Getaround let you rent your car to others, providing a way to earn from an otherwise idle asset.
26. Digital Products
Digital products, such as PDFs, ebooks, and digital templates, are a great source of passive income. These items can be sold repeatedly with minimal overhead.
Digital printables, including planners and recipe cards, are a popular choice. They offer convenience and customization, appealing to a wide range of buyers.
27. Coaching Services
Coaching can be a lucrative profession, with top coaches earning up to $180,000 annually. Coaches help people improve their skills in various areas, from career development to specialized niches like sleep coaching.
Online coaching is convenient and cost-effective, with platforms like Zoom and Skype making it accessible to clients worldwide.
28. Your Notes
If you have valuable notes from interviews, podcasts, or courses, consider selling them. Platforms like Course Hero and Stuvia buy well-organized notes.
Many are willing to pay for concise, structured notes to save time on learning.
29. Mugs
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Custom mugs are a profitable item on Etsy. Personalize them with photos, names, or favorite phrases, or sell pre-designed mugs as unique gifts.
30. Handmade Toys
Handmade toys are perfect for Etsy due to their unique and personal touch. Stuffed animals and wooden toys, like building blocks and puzzles, are particularly popular.
Customization, such as adding names or bright colors, can increase their appeal.
31. Customized Phone Cases
Expand your art business by creating custom phone cases. Use techniques like painting, markers, or decoupage to make unique designs that reflect your customers’ styles.
32. Bracelets
Colorful woven bracelets are timeless. With beads, string, and a bit of creativity, you can craft friendship bracelets that make wonderful gifts.
33. Natural Soap
Demand for natural, eco-friendly products is growing, making handmade soap a popular choice. Use herbs, flowers, and essential oils to create gentle and effective skincare products.
Consider specializing in soaps for specific skin types or conditions to attract a broader audience.
34. Handmade Knits
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Hand-knitted items evoke warmth and nostalgia, making them highly sought-after, especially in colder months. Explore knitted products like scarves, hats, and blankets, or even baby clothes.
Offering custom sizes or personalized options can attract customers seeking unique items.
35. Bookmarks
Bookmarks are a practical and appealing item for book lovers. Create bookmarks with various shapes, colors, and embellishments, and offer customization options for a personal touch.
36. Picture Frames
Picture frames are versatile decor items that enhance any space. Offer customizable frames in various sizes, colors, and designs to suit different styles and tastes.
37. Christmas Wreaths
Christmas wreaths are a festive decor item that can be made from crochet, origami, or natural materials. Personalize them with seasonal motifs to appeal to those looking for unique holiday decorations.
38. Pillows
Pillows and pillow covers are popular crafts that are easy for beginners to make. Use affordable fabric or recycled materials to keep costs down.
Eco-friendly options are appealing to environmentally conscious buyers.
39. Hair Bows
Hair bows remain popular for both children and adults. Create bows in various designs, from chunky flannel to floral prints, and sell them on Etsy for easy transactions via PayPal.
40. Miscellaneous Items
Consider selling old appliances, toys, or home decor items on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or VarageSale. Local Facebook Groups can be particularly useful for selling to nearby buyers.
41. Plants, Fruits, or Vegetables
If gardening is your passion, selling fresh herbs, plants, and vegetables can be profitable. Advertise locally on platforms like Craigslist or at farmers’ markets for a straightforward selling approach.
So There You Have It – Things To Sell Online and In Person
With this list, you now have various options for items to sell and where to sell them. Start taking action and watch your earnings grow!
Remember, you don’t need to stick to just one item. Diversifying your offerings can help maintain a steady income throughout the year. Many successful sellers offer a mix of digital and physical products to reach a wider audience.
If you have any questions, feel free to comment below or send me an email. I respond to every message!
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