Being a burned spy is a lot like running a small woodworking business. You’re cut off from your resources, living under constant stress, and often, you have to get creative with whatever you have on hand. But hey, at least with woodworking, you don’t have to worry about a hitman showing up at your door (most of the time).
If you’re in the woodworking game, you know that selling fast means survival. In the field, you have to think on your feet. When it comes to woodworking, the trick is creating projects that appeal to people’s needs and tastes. And just like spy work, sometimes you have to adapt, improvise, and create something out of nothing.
So, let’s get into it—here are 20 woodworking projects that sell fast. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, these projects are resourceful, practical, and in high demand. Best part? No need for high-tech spy gadgets—just your hands, tools, and a little creativity.
1. Rustic Farmhouse Tables
Let’s start simple. Everyone wants a table that says, “I live in the country,” even if they’ve never left the city. Rustic farmhouse tables are classic, easy to make, and they sell faster than a spy in a country with no extradition treaties. People love the solid wood look, distressed finishes, and oversized legs. Pro tip: slap some reclaimed wood on it and call it “sustainable.” You’ll have people throwing money at you.
2. Floating Shelves
When you’re a spy, you can’t have things out in the open. Floating shelves? Perfect for concealing things in plain sight. Minimalist and sleek, these shelves sell fast because they’re easy to install and fit in almost any home decor. Just like a good disguise, they’re both functional and beautiful. Plus, no visible brackets keep everything looking clean.
3. Cutting Boards
The cutting board is the Swiss Army knife of woodworking projects. It’s small, versatile, and can be made out of scrap wood—because nothing should go to waste. Thick, end-grain cutting boards are especially popular, as they’re durable and visually striking. Bonus points for adding juice grooves or even engraving them for personalization. Everyone needs one, and everyone will buy one—quickly.
4. Coffee Tables
Ah, the coffee table—the perfect piece of furniture to lay out your blueprints for your next mission… or just hold a coffee mug. Coffee tables with live edges, epoxy river designs, or simple mid-century modern styles fly off the shelves. Keep it functional, make it unique, and people will come running.
5. Wine Racks
Spies drink whiskey; civilians love wine. That’s where the wine rack comes in. These are simple builds, usually requiring just a few pieces of wood and some creativity. Whether it’s wall-mounted or a standing piece, wine racks are quick to make, cheap to produce, and sell fast because everyone wants to show off their wine collection—even if they only drink the cheap stuff.
6. Wooden Signs
This one’s like leaving a coded message for your enemies but less complicated. Personalized wooden signs are easy to crank out and customizable, making them a favorite at craft fairs and online shops. Slap someone’s last name on a piece of wood, throw in a meaningful quote, and voilà—it’s a sale. People love showing off a sign that says, “Home Sweet Home” or something equally heartwarming.
7. Picture Frames
Here’s one for the sentimental types. Picture frames are easy to make in bulk, and they’re always in demand. You can sell them as standalone pieces or bundle them with a rustic finish for that “authentic” look. And if you’re really feeling fancy, throw in a double frame—perfect for displaying those family photos they pretend to like.
8. Blanket Ladders
Blanket ladders might not seem like a critical piece of home decor, but trust me—they sell fast. They’re tall, lean, and serve no purpose other than holding blankets that will never actually be used. But hey, it’s trendy, and people love buying trendy things. Simple construction and a rustic finish make this an easy, quick sell.
9. Storage Chests
Spies need secret compartments; regular folks need storage chests. Same idea, different use. These are perfect for toy storage, blanket storage, or even hiding your tactical gear. Cedar, oak, or pine works well here. Add some decorative hardware, and you’ve got a timeless piece that sells quickly, especially in homes with limited space.
10. Planter Boxes
If you’re in Miami, like me, planter boxes are a hot item—literally. Wooden planters are great for outdoor gardening, balcony decor, or even indoor greenery. Build them in a weekend, and you’ll sell out by Monday. Plus, you can make them from scrap wood, which means high profit margins. People love the idea of growing things—until they realize it requires effort.
11. Wooden Toys
There’s a rule in spy work—if you can make something fun, people won’t realize how dangerous it is. Wooden toys work the same way—except for the danger part. They’re charming, nostalgic, and durable, making them perfect gifts. Rocking horses, puzzles, and toy cars are always a hit, especially if they’re handcrafted.
12. Jewelry Boxes
Jewelry boxes are the safehouses of the woodworking world—small, secure, and discreet. People love buying them as gifts or for personal use, and they’re easy to make from quality hardwood. You can add felt linings or personalized engravings for an extra touch of craftsmanship. They don’t just sell fast—they make you look like a woodworking pro.
13. Wooden Coasters
This is where woodworking meets spy-level simplicity. Coasters are quick, easy, and made from leftover wood scraps. Pair them in sets, add some branding or burned designs, and you’ve got a product that’s cheap to make but sells fast. Everyone needs coasters—they just don’t realize it until they see them at a market.
14. Rustic Headboards
A headboard is like a cover identity—it changes the whole look without requiring much effort. Rustic, reclaimed wood headboards are incredibly popular and a major selling point for any bedroom upgrade. They’re big, they’re bold, and they’re easier to build than they look. Plus, you can charge a premium because “rustic” apparently means “more expensive.”
15. Birdhouses
In the spy world, you keep a low profile. Birdhouses, on the other hand, draw attention—but in a good way. These are quick builds that can be as simple or as intricate as you want. They’re perfect for selling at outdoor markets or online, especially since they make great gifts. And let’s face it—people love the idea of birds moving into their backyard.
16. Dog Beds
Dogs are man’s best friend, and dog beds are their throne. These wooden pet beds sell fast because, well, people love spoiling their pets. You can make them from pallet wood or reclaimed materials, add a cozy cushion, and boom—sold. Plus, they’re easy to customize for different sizes and breeds.
17. Step Stools
Whether for the kitchen or the kids, step stools are practical, simple, and always in demand. A basic stool design can be made in just a few hours, and with some sanding and staining, it becomes a polished piece that’s ready to sell. Plus, they’re stackable, so you can churn out multiples in no time.
18. Spice Racks
You can tell a lot about someone by their spice rack—mostly, whether they use their spices or just collect them. Either way, spice racks sell quickly because they’re compact, useful, and customizable to different kitchen styles. People are always looking for ways to organize their space, and a well-built wooden spice rack is a perfect solution.
19. Adirondack Chairs
Adirondack chairs are like the luxury SUVs of woodworking projects—big, comfy, and built to last. They may take a bit more time to construct, but the payoff is worth it. These chairs sell quickly, especially in the summer months when people are looking to upgrade their patios or decks. A well-made Adirondack chair practically sells itself.
20. Wooden Utensils
Forget plastic—wooden utensils are in. Spoons, spatulas, and salad tongs made from quality hardwood are easy to craft and perfect for eco-conscious buyers. They’re durable, easy to maintain, and add a rustic charm to any kitchen. The best part? They sell fast because everyone wants to feel like they’re cooking on a farmhouse stove, even if it’s just microwaving leftovers.
So, there you have it—20 woodworking projects that sell fast, straight from a burned spy who knows a thing or two about making things work under pressure. The key to success is knowing what people want and being ready to adapt. Whether it’s a quick weekend project or a bigger build, each of these items offers a blend of simplicity, practicality, and just enough creativity to keep you one step ahead of the competition.
Now get to work, because just like in spycraft, timing is everything.
Michael Westen, signing off.