Asherfield · field notes
Making furniture to sell (a simple beginner guide)
Making furniture is fun. Selling it is a system. This guide keeps it simple.
Goal: build one repeatable piece, price it right, and sell it local-first. Big pieces are hard to ship. Local wins.
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Start with one piece you can repeat
Do not start with “anything.” Start with one piece you can build again.
Good first pieces to sell
- Nightstand
- Small coffee table
- Entry bench
- Simple bookshelf
- Small desk
- Dining bench
- Console table
- Plant stand
Pick a buyer before you build
Ask one question: who is this for? Then build for that person.
- Apartment buyer: small, clean, easy to move.
- Family buyer: sturdy, safe edges, easy to clean.
- Style buyer: wood grain, tight lines, nice photos.
Price it before you build it
Many makers price last. That is why they feel stuck.
Use this simple pricing plan
- Materials cost + hardware + finish
- Hours × your hourly goal
- Extra buffer for mistakes and waste
- Profit so you want to do it again
Build it like a buyer will use it
Buyers pay for trust. Trust comes from details.
Buyer-ready build checks
- No wobble.
- Drawers slide smooth (if any).
- Edges feel soft, not sharp.
- Feet sit flat on the floor.
- Hardware is tight.
Finish it clean and let it cure
Finish is what people touch. It must feel good.
- Follow the product label.
- Air out the piece in a safe space.
- Do not rush the cure time.
- If you sand old paint, use lead-safe steps.
Take photos that sell the story
Your photos do most of the selling. Make them clear.
Photo shot list
- Front, side, and back.
- Close-up of the top surface.
- Close-up of joints and corners.
- One photo that shows size in a room.
- Any details buyers ask about.
Write a listing that answers fast questions
A good listing saves you time. It also filters bad leads.
Include these details
- Size (width × depth × height).
- Wood type (if you know it).
- Finish type and color.
- Build date or “made to order” time.
- Pickup or delivery options.
- Care notes (simple).
Browse local maker listings to see prices, photos, and what sells. Then list yours when you’re ready.
Tip: start free. Month-to-month. Keep your email private.
Do the handoff the easy way
Big pieces fail at pickup time. Plan it.
- Confirm door sizes and stairs.
- Protect corners and legs.
- Bring basic wrap and a blanket.
- Do a quick look-over at handoff.
Keep simple records from day one
This keeps you calm at tax time.
- Save receipts and invoices.
- Track materials per piece.
- Track hours per piece.
- Track mileage and deliveries (if you do them).
People also ask
- What is the easiest furniture to make and sell?
- Start with a small table, bench, or nightstand. They are simple and move fast.
- How do I price furniture I make?
- Price before you build. Add materials, time, and a profit buffer.
- Where should I sell handmade furniture?
- Start local-first for big pieces. Local pickup and delivery sell faster.
- Do I need a business license to sell furniture?
- Rules change by city and state. If you sell often, check local rules and taxes.
- How do I get my first buyer?
- Build one great piece, take clean photos, and list it. Reply fast and keep pickup simple.
Next steps
- Browse listings to learn prices and photos.
- List one piece and repeat what works.
- When you want more reach, compare plans.
Compare plans for more views and faster leads. Start free and cancel anytime.