Woodworkers, professional carpenters, and in general those who are good at manual labor that involves making stuff with their hands and some handy tools are always in high demand. Whether expert or novice, if you are looking to make money through carpentry skills, whether it be for a company or a self-run business, we have some good ideas on How to Make Money As a Carpenter.
If your heart is in it and you put in your best effort, there is a lot of money to be made in the carpentry realm. On average, a carpenter in the US could earn about $48,000 annually. But carpentry is not just about swinging hammers and pulling saws back and forth. There is more to being good at this type of craft, so if you are looking to make money through your efforts, let’s address 10 effective tips to make money as a carpenter.
How to Make Money As a Carpenter
1. Sell Crafted Items Online:
An entrepreneurial mindset is the best way to make good money as a carpenter. That means you should not limit your skill set utility to just local markets but expand them to a national or international level. This means selling your craftsmanship creations online.
Before you start this venture, much like in any other line of business you should ask yourself some pertinent questions pertaining to which items you will sell, what is the level of demand for them, what resources are necessary to get you started, and will your products be exciting enough to warrant high demand.
People love unique creations, especially when they are handmade. They are even apt to spend big money on it, so if you have something that is distinguishable in originality from the stuff everyone else is making, you can carve out a market niche for your products.
Selling crafted items online can be made easy using platforms like Shopify (Sign up for a free trial and enjoy 3 months of Shopify for $1/month on select plans) or Etsy (Open an Etsy shop and list your first 40 items free). Both platforms offer a user-friendly interface and various tools to manage an online store. Shopify is a powerful e-commerce platform that provides a wide range of features for building and running an online store. Etsy, on the other hand, is a marketplace specifically for handmade or vintage items, providing a huge customer base for the seller.
Both platforms handle payment processing and shipping, making it easy for sellers to focus on creating and selling their products. Choose the platform that fits your needs and start selling your crafted items to a global audience.
2. Start A Carpentry Blog:
If you aren’t a full-time carpenter but are interested in that field of work, you can also start a blog that can teach people online lessons about the craft you enjoy, perhaps inspiring some to dabble further in the industry.
By conducting classes or lectures on various aspects of carpentry (construction materials, resources, carpentry skills, etc.), you can promote the credibility of the carpentry industry, while exposing yourself to prospective customers should you choose to take on any projects in the future.
You need only the love and knowledge of carpentry to start a blog. You can fill your posts with valuable content stemming from your knowledge, delivering them on your own platform rather than peddling them to big brands on Instagram or Facebook. If you have a passion and knowledge to impart, a blog is a great way to do it.
The blog will be your vehicle for others potentially seeking your expertise for a fee. All you need to start a blog is to register a domain name with Namecheap, get a host with Hostgator, and get a woodworking WordPress theme at Elegantthemes.
3. Perform Maintenance And Repair Work:
There is no shortage of people needing some type of repairs. Perhaps they need something customized for their usage or a professional they hired botched the job. You can start a business as a bit of a jack of all carpentry trades, repairing fixtures and furniture pieces, changing light fixtures, installing windows and countertops, repairing broken garage doors, and so on.
You can appeal to customers by showing them you care about providing your services more than you do about making cash, and a good way is to offer them a free consultation and provide them with a plan of what you can do for them. If you are good at performing repairs, you will get jobs from people who need help with fixing something on their property and pay you good money to pay them a visit and perform the work.
4. Teach Carpentry To Others In Online And Offline Classes:
If you have good carpentry skills and a wealth of knowledge in the area, you can make good money teaching others through classes in a traditional manner or online. You will find no lack of interested parties who want to learn carpentry from an expert. Your courses could be as broad or as specialized as you wish. For instance, you can have a class specific to building materials or building timber bridges.
You can host workshops in your garage or you can record a class and share it behind a paywall as a course offered on a number of course platforms like Digital Class, Thinkific, Skillshare, Ruzuku, LearnDash, Podia, Kajabi, or Udemy.
5. Pick Up Side-Hustles:
If you work as a carpenter full-time or are otherwise fully employed but have good carpentry skills, you can make extra money by finding side projects and additional jobs during your off-hours. These will not be subjected to overtime rules, and you could get paid handsomely for them.
The type of work can vary from helping pick out the ideal paint colors for a project to helping homeowners build sheds. Many carpenters take on such side projects, often earning an extra $1,000 per month through such efforts.
You can inquire with your clients in your full-time job if they have any additional projects they need help with off-hours. Even a couple of extra hours of work can go a long way to supplementing your regular income, especially if the gigs are even semi-regular throughout the month.
6. Partner With Interior Designers And House Flippers
House flipping has been a hot craze in the US since the late 1990s. As a carpenter, you can make great money by assisting house flippers, homeowners, and interior designers with various projects. These partnerships allow you to reach prospective clients that are more than likely to be in need of your services. For instance, if you partner with an interior designer, then you could be a shoo-in for paid projects on any remodels that he or she is working on.
House flippers are usually operating on tight timelines and need immediate help in turning around a property in order to make a profit. If you have skills and talents in carpentry that will be useful in expediting your endeavor while performing quality work, then this is an excellent money making opportunity.
7. Design, Create, And Sell Custom Structures And Fencing
Creating attractive fencing and other structures, then selling them at prices higher than those that generic comparable products would sell for at a hardware store is another excellent way for carpenters to make money. These projects could be something along the lines of enclosing a patio with high mesh fencing or more complex projects like the design and crafting of doors, custom gates, and gazebos.
Materials for building fences are inexpensive, especially if you use scrap lumber. If you made custom fencing from raw materials that you get at nominal costs, then sell them for higher prices, you can make fantastic money.
Before you set up a business as someone who designs custom fences and other structures, consider that you need to be equipped with the right tools for the jobs, your work needs to be quick, your prices need to be fair, and you need to show the customers that you have the necessary basic carpentry skills and convince them that you will do great work.
8. Partner With An Established Company
Another great way to make money as a carpenter is to partner with an existing firm who are looking for employees and projects. They are willing to pay people for services that you provide, so joining forces is a no-brainer.
This is as long as you can provide results and complete expected tasks. If you do a good job, they will feel comfortable including you on future projects. You can contact various national or local home improvement stores to see if they are looking to contract carpenters for various projects.
9. Create Wooden Signs For Local Businesses
A good way to make some extra cash using your carpentry skills is to make wooden plagues or signs for local restaurants or shops. Most places would love to have a custom wooden sign that has their store or brand name on it, so you are likely to get a lot of interested customers.
You can approach a local business owner with a basic wooden sign sample and try to gather interest in having you make one for them. Make several different signs for them so that they have a choice of which one they want when the order is placed. If you do this ahead of time, you won’t need to worry about taking too long or not getting it done.
10. Convert Shipping Crates Into Room Pods
A tool belt strapped around your waist does not stop you from thinking outside the box. Sometimes, you can get quite creative to make money as a carpenter. Since you are likely well versed with woodwork, you can combine that experience, your creativity, and your knowledge of construction. Best of all, you can make money doing so.
Old shipping crates are quite literally a waste of space if they are allowed to simply sit around needlessly once they are no longer in use. But what if you could get them to serve another purpose, like converting them into small, cozy rooms? You can even send them to family, friends, dorms, and offices. These DIY rooms are great bedside table projects which make for great home decor, and they are original enough to make very popular sales. You can get some good side earnings by selling them on Etsy, eBay, or a number of other marketplaces online.
11. Offer carpentry services on freelancing platforms:
Offering carpentry services on freelancing platforms like Upwork or Fiverr is an excellent way for carpenters to reach a wider audience and find new clients. You can connect with individuals and businesses needing carpentry services by creating a profile and showcasing your skills and portfolio on these platforms.
These platforms allow you to bid on projects and work with clients worldwide, expanding your customer base and increasing your revenue. Furthermore, the platform handles the payment and provides dispute resolution, so you can focus on delivering high-quality work. If you’re looking for an easy and efficient way to reach new clients and grow your carpentry business, consider offering your services on freelancing platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
12. Start a YouTube channel teaching your carpentry skills:
Starting a YouTube channel to showcase your carpentry skills and attract new clients is an effective way to grow your business. By creating informative and engaging videos that demonstrate your carpentry abilities, you can build a following and position yourself as an expert in your field. Additionally, you can use your channel to share tips and tutorials, provide updates on your projects, and offer behind-the-scenes looks at your work. Tools like TubeBuddy, VidIQ, and Canva can help you maximize your efforts.
13. Offering virtual carpentry consultations:
Offering virtual carpentry consultations or lessons through video calls is a great way to reach clients who are unable to visit your workshop or who prefer a more convenient and accessible option. By using platforms like Zoom or Skype, you can connect with clients anywhere in the world and provide expert advice and guidance on their carpentry projects. Virtual consultations and lessons also allow you to scale your services and reach a wider audience without the limitations of time and geography.
14. Create and sell handmade and vintage items:
Etsy is a popular marketplace that specializes in handmade and vintage items, making it an ideal platform for selling your unique wooden creations. From furniture to home decor to custom gifts, you can showcase your talents and reach a large and engaged audience. With millions of active buyers, Etsy provides a platform for you to sell your items to customers all over the world.
Using these tools to help you grow your channel, you can maximize your reCreating, and selling carpentry tools or accessories online is an excellent way for carpenters to leverage their expertise and reach a wider audience. By designing and manufacturing unique and high-quality tools or supplements, you can differentiate yourself from other sellers and build a loyal customer base.
Platforms like Amazon or Shopify provide easy-to-use e-commerce tools for creating and managing an online store, so you can reach a global audience and start selling your products. Ach, attract new clients and grow your carpentry business.
15. Create unique structures, furniture, and decor for special events:
By creating unique and beautiful structures, furniture, and decor for special events, you can add value to the event and build your brand. Whether you’re creating a custom bar, a unique photo booth, or hand-crafted centerpieces, you can provide a high-end experience for event attendees and attract new clients. Additionally, events often receive media coverage, which can help you reach a wider audience and generate buzz for your business.
16. Create and sell vintage and antique items:
With a growing interest in vintage and antique items, many people are looking for skilled professionals to restore and preserve these valuable pieces. By providing restoration services for antique wooden items, you can showcase your skills, build your reputation, and reach a new audience. Whether it’s restoring a vintage rocking chair, a mid-century modern credenza, or an antique grandfather clock, you can help clients preserve their cherished items and keep their history alive.
17. Partnering with other professionals in related fields:
Many homeowners are looking for one-stop shops for their home improvement needs, and by offering multiple services, you can provide a convenient solution and build stronger relationships with clients. By partnering with other professionals in related fields, you can provide a comprehensive home improvement experience and generate referrals from satisfied customers. Additionally, offering a package deal can make your services more appealing to price-conscious customers and help you stand out from your competition.
18. Offering emergency carpentry services:
Emergencies like broken windows, fallen doors, or collapsed structures require immediate attention, and many people are looking for reliable professionals who can respond quickly and effectively. By offering emergency carpentry services, you can showcase your expertise and provide a valuable solution to clients who need it the most. By being available 24/7 and responding quickly to client needs, you can build a reputation for reliability and quality and increase customer loyalty.
19. Specialize in a specific area of carpentry:
Specializing in a specific area of carpentry allows you to focus on your strengths and deepen your expertise while providing more personalized service to clients. By offering specialized services, you can cater to your target audience’s specific needs and preferences and create a reputation for quality and excellence in your area of expertise. Additionally, by specializing in a particular area of carpentry, you can streamline your processes, increase efficiency, and reduce costs.
20. Offer discounts or bonuses to clients who refer friends:
By offering incentives, such as discounts or bonuses, to clients who refer friends or family to your business, you can encourage word-of-mouth marketing and build your reputation in the community. A referral program can also help you establish strong relationships with your existing clients, showing that you value their business and trust their recommendations. Additionally, referral programs can be a cost-effective way to reach new clients, as you are leveraging your satisfied customers to spread the word about your business.
21. Create a recurring service program:
By offering regular maintenance services, such as tune-ups, repairs, or inspections, you can ensure that your clients’ carpentry projects are functioning correctly and maintain their appearance over time. A recurring service program allows you to form strong relationships with your clients and establish trust and reliability. Additionally, by offering ongoing maintenance services, you can increase the lifetime value of your clients and reduce the need for emergency repairs.
22. Offering green carpentry solutions:
By using environmentally friendly materials and techniques, you can appeal to clients concerned about their building projects’ impact on the environment. This can include using reclaimed wood, sourcing materials locally, and implementing energy-efficient techniques. By offering green carpentry solutions, you can differentiate yourself from your competitors, attract new clients, and establish a brand identity centered on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
23. Create a apprenticeship program:
By taking on apprentices and teaching them the skills and techniques of the trade, you can help ensure a steady supply of skilled carpenters and grow your business by bringing new talent into your team. An apprenticeship program can also help you build a positive reputation in the community, as it shows your commitment to developing the skills of the next generation of carpenters. Additionally, an apprenticeship program can provide a source of fresh perspectives and new ideas, as apprentices bring energy and enthusiasm to your team.
24. Start offering equipment rental services:
As carpentry projects become increasingly popular, many contractors and DIY enthusiasts find that they need specialized tools and equipment that they may need to use more frequently to justify purchasing. By offering equipment rental services, you can provide access to the tools and equipment these individuals need to complete their projects and generate additional revenue for your business.
Additionally, by offering a rental service, you can establish yourself as a trusted resource for contractors and DIY enthusiasts in your community, which can lead to additional business opportunities in the future.
25. Start focusing on a specific industry:
By focusing on a specific industry, you can develop a deep understanding of that industry’s particular requirements and challenges and use that expertise to provide high-quality, specialized services that meet your clients’ needs. Additionally, by focusing on a specific industry, you can build a reputation as an expert in that field, which can help you attract new clients and generate repeat business.
26. Offer services for custom cabinetry, partitioning:
Commercial buildings and offices often require specialized carpentry services for custom cabinetry, partitioning, or millwork. By offering these services, you can provide value to businesses and organizations in your community and establish a reputation as a trusted provider of high-quality carpentry services.
Additionally, commercial buildings and offices typically have a higher budget for these types of services, which can provide you with the opportunity to generate a higher rate of revenue compared to residential clients.
27. Start providing on-site services:
Many clients, especially those with large or fragile items, may be unable to transport them to a workshop, making on-site services necessary. By providing on-site services, you can save clients time and effort and demonstrate your commitment to customer service. Furthermore, on-site services can allow you to see the project space in person and make more informed decisions about materials and techniques, leading to a higher-quality final product.
28. Start offering a subscription service:
Clients who need regular maintenance or repair work, such as landlords or property managers, can benefit from a subscription service that provides reliable and convenient services. By offering a subscription service, you can provide clients with peace of mind knowing that their carpentry needs will be taken care of regularly.
29. Offer a carpentry subscription service:
You can also save time and effort by having a recurring client base, reducing the need to acquire new clients constantly. Offering a carpentry subscription service can provide clients with the convenience and reliability they need and provide you with a steady stream of recurring revenue.
30. Start offering a mobile carpentry service:
With a mobile service, you can bring your carpentry skills and tools directly to your client’s location, eliminating the need for them to transport their items or move around their space. This can be especially beneficial for clients who have limited mobility, live in small apartments, or have busy schedules. Offering a mobile carpentry service can provide clients with the convenience they need and increase the accessibility of your services.
Don’t Be Intimidated By Competition
There are many things to think about when deciding how to make money as a carpenter, but there is one thing that you don’t need to worry too much about, and that is competition. There will always be plenty of carpentry work to go around for everyone who wishes to be involved in the field. Every homeowner is thinking about additions, remodels, floor refinishes, and various other projects in their homes, so the demand for carpenters is not going anywhere any time soon.
How to Make Money As a Carpenter: Conclusion
A job as a carpenter is a pretty decent gig. You get to make useful products and make a good salary for doing so. We hope this post was helpful to you in generating some ideas that you can pursue as a carpenter in the future. If you are looking for some more information about carpentry and how to monetize that career, please do not hesitate to contact us with more of your questions.
Ready to tap into the lucrative world of plumbing and boost your income? Look no further! Check out our latest article on “How to Make Money as a Plumber (Top 30 Profitable Ideas)” to discover creative and innovative ways to monetize your plumbing skills. From offering emergency repair services to developing a custom plumbing product line, the possibilities are endless.
Frequently asked questions:
How much money can a carpenter make?
The average rate for a carpenter in the United States is $20.67 per hour, the equivalent of about $48,000 per year. The other aspect of the job many don’t talk about is gratification and satisfaction. The joy they get from a job well done keeps the satisfaction ratings up, encouraging apprentices to understudy them, earning about half of a professional’s salary.
Is there a difference between woodworking and carpentry?
A woodworker constructs or creates structures from wood or wood-based products such as light fixtures, cabinets, staircases, workbenches, and various furniture pieces, while a carpenter builds, fixes, and fits various wooden structures. A carpenter, therefore, has more responsibilities and plays more roles, especially since sometimes their work is independent, and other times they will work with a team.
What type of education do I need to make money as a carpenter?
To be a carpenter, one only needs a GED or a high school diploma. Most carpenters acquire their skills through trade schools, community college training programs, and apprenticeships.
What types of industries employ carpenters?
Carpenters are in demand across many industries, with residential and commercial construction being the most popular sector of the markets. Due to the varied nature of their skills, a carpenter can fit into a variety of different industry roles.