If you can crochet and have come across this post, then you’ve possibly thought at one point in time or another that you could sell what you make. But you’re also probably wondering what you should actually make to sell. Since you’re here I’ll give you some guidance for what you can make and how you can make it worth your time and effort to sell.

I’ll preface this by saying that this post is written to give you some guidance and ideas. I don’t sell my finished products at markets as I don’t have the time to make it worth my while. I much prefer to sell my patterns and teach others.

When it comes to deciding on what to make I have some rules of thumb to guide you.

The first is to factor in how much time it is going to take you to make what you want to sell. It is really difficult to get a fair wage for your time when it comes to selling crochet items. The quicker you can create things, the better your return will be. That means the smaller the item is that you’re making, the easier it is to get compensation for your time. So I would decide on items that are smaller like beanies, washcloths, small toys. Anything smaller than that is also going to be a winner.

The second is to factor in the cost of the yarn and other parts that you’re using. What ever you decide to make you’ll want to make sure that you recoup the cost of your yarn as well as your time. This will come to the quality and the quantity of yarn. There are no rules on what yarn to use, but just make sure you factor it in as well as any buttons, eyes, accessories that are included.

The last thing that I would factor in is the audience or expected buyers at the stall and the time of year that the stall is being held. You’re less likely to sell beanies at a summer stall than at a winter one. When it comes to the audience or buyers, consider their age, their income and what they might be looking for. If you have lots of children attending then delicate shawls or beanies with handwash only yarn are probably not the wisest choice.

Now with that all said, here are some things that I would consider making if I would ever decide to start selling at a market stall. And lots of these are what I design as projects inside the Hooked on Crochet Club.

Beanies – for babies, toddlers, kids or adults. Depending on how fast you crochet, size of the beanie and the weight of the yarn these can be made in a few hours to an afternoon or day. A unique style will stand out and if you choose a better quality yarn you’ll also be able to command a higher price.

Washcloths. These are small and easy to make. They’re something that can be sold as an easy gift idea or something to make someones bathroom or kitchen look more special.

You can go even smaller than these too with useful everyday items. Bookmarks, face scrubbies, coin purses, mug warmers, coasters.

Some unique wall hangins or pictures are also something I would consider making. They can make come across as fun and don’t have to take long to make.

I love bags! So I figure that other people will too. Phone size bags or small carry bags or market bags are great choices.

All you need now is your imagination! If you’re wanting to start market stalls or selling your items some other way, then the Hooked on Crochet Club is perfect for you to get inspiration and your hands on suitable projects. We have a new one every month that is small enough to be considered for making to sell, as well as a back catalogue of 5 years worth of projects!

If you’ve had items that have sold well, why not let people know in the comments of this post. I’m all for supporting one another, especially when it comes to giving you an excuse for more crochet time.

Seona x