Woodworking is a rewarding hobby that allows individuals to create beautiful and functional pieces out of wood. The process of completing a woodworking project from start to finish is filled with satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment. However, once the project is completed, many people may wonder what to do with their finished creations.
In this article, we will explore various options for what to do with completed woodworking projects, from displaying them in your home to selling them for profit or repurposing them for new uses. The possibilities are endless, and each option offers its own unique benefits.
For many woodworkers, the joy of completing a project lies not only in the process itself but also in showcasing their work. Displaying completed woodworking projects in your home allows you to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of your creation on a daily basis. Whether it’s a custom-made dining table, an intricately carved sculpture, or a handcrafted jewelry box, these pieces can become focal points in your living space that spark conversation and admiration from guests.
Another option for what to do with completed woodworking projects is to give them away as gifts or donate them to charitable organizations. Sharing your craftsmanship with others not only brings joy and appreciation to those who receive your creations but also allows you to make a positive impact on someone’s life or contribute to a worthy cause.
Whether it’s donating a wooden toy set for children in need or gifting a handcrafted cutting board to a friend, the act of giving adds another layer of fulfillment to your woodworking journey.
In addition to showcasing and giving away completed woodworking projects, selling them can be an avenue for turning your passion into profit. If you have honed your skills and created high-quality pieces, there is a market for handmade wooden items that appreciates the artistry and uniqueness they offer. Selling your masterpieces not only rewards you financially but also allows others to enjoy and cherish your talent in their own homes.
Overall, completing woodworking projects opens up a world of possibilities for what to do with the finished pieces. Whether you choose to showcase, give away, sell, repurpose, enhance your home décor, organize your space, teach others, or use them in your daily life, each option adds value and meaning to your craftsmanship. So let’s dive into the different ways you can put your completed woodworking projects to good use.
Showcase Your Work
Once you have completed a woodworking project, one of the most satisfying ways to enjoy and share your hard work is by showcasing it. Displaying your completed woodworking projects allows you to appreciate your craftsmanship and creativity while also inspiring others who may be interested in woodworking. Here are a few ideas on how to showcase your work:
- Create a Gallery Wall: Arrange your completed woodworking projects on a prominent wall in your home to create a gallery-like display. You can mix and match different pieces, such as shelves, framed art, or decorative wooden sculptures, to create an eye-catching arrangement.
- Use Floating Shelves: Install floating shelves in your living room, bedroom, or even kitchen to showcase smaller woodworking projects such as decorative boxes, vases, or candle holders. The clean and minimalist design of floating shelves will allow your creations to take center stage.
- Build a Display Case: If you want to protect your delicate or valuable woodworking projects while still showcasing them beautifully, consider building a display case. This can be a glass cabinet with adjustable shelves or even a shadow box-style frame specifically designed for displaying small sculptures or intricate carvings.
Tools needed for displaying completed woodworking projects
- Hammer
- Nails
- Screws
- Picture hanging hardware (hooks or brackets)
- Floating shelf brackets (if installing floating shelves)
- Level
- Tape measure
- Glass cleaner and cloth (for cleaning display cases)
Tips for displaying completed woodworking projects
- Choose an area with good lighting to highlight the details of your work.
- Avoid overcrowding by leaving enough space between each piece.
- Mix different sizes, shapes, and styles of woodworking projects to create visual interest.
- Consider rotating your display periodically to keep things fresh and showcase different pieces over time.
By showcasing your completed woodworking projects, you not only get to appreciate the fruits of your labor but also inspire others with your creativity and skill. Whether you create a gallery wall, use floating shelves, or build a display case, be sure to choose an approach that best highlights the unique features of each project.
Give It Away
Donating Completed Woodworking Projects to Charity
One of the most rewarding ways to deal with completed woodworking projects is by giving them away to those in need. Donating your creations to charity not only allows you to share your craftsmanship and creativity with others, but it also provides a way for you to make a positive impact on someone’s life.
Choose a Charity
When deciding where to donate your woodworking projects, consider organizations that align with your values and the type of work you do. Local charities such as homeless shelters, schools, hospitals, or community centers often welcome handmade items that can be used or displayed. Additionally, nonprofits dedicated to specific causes like veterans’ support or children’s programs may also appreciate the unique touch of a handmade wood piece.
Prepare Your Projects
Before donating your completed woodworking projects, ensure they are clean, free from blemishes, and functional. Sand any rough edges or surfaces and apply a protective finish if needed. Take pride in the quality of your workmanship as these donations will represent both you and your craft.
Spread the Word
To facilitate the donation process, reach out to local charitable organizations and inquire about their acceptance policies for woodworking donations. Some may have specific guidelines or restrictions on what they can accept. Additionally, consider spreading the word among friends, family, and colleagues who may know of organizations in need of woodworking items. You can also use social media platforms or online communities dedicated to charity efforts as channels for finding potential recipients.
Gifting Completed Woodworking Projects
Another option for your completed woodworking projects is gifting them directly to individuals who would appreciate and value them. Whether it’s for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries or simply an act of kindness, giving your handcrafted pieces as presents can bring joy both to you as the giver and to the fortunate recipient.
Choose Appropriate Recipients
When considering gifting your woodworking projects, think about the interests and preferences of your potential recipients. Are there friends or family members who have expressed admiration for your work? Do you know someone who has recently moved into a new home and could use some decorative or functional items? By selecting individuals who will truly appreciate and enjoy your creations, the gift-giving experience becomes more meaningful.
Add a Personal Touch
To make your gifts even more special, consider adding a personal touch to each piece. This could include engraving the recipient’s initials, incorporating their favorite colors or themes, or crafting a custom design that aligns with their hobbies or passions. These thoughtful touches enhance the sentimental value of your woodworking project and make it a cherished keepsake.
Packaging and Presentation
When presenting your completed woodworking projects as gifts, take care in packaging them attractively. Use high-quality wrapping materials such as decorative papers or fabric to protect the item while also creating anticipation and excitement for the recipient. Adding a handwritten note or card expressing your thoughts and best wishes elevates the overall gifting experience.
Giving away completed woodworking projects through donation or gifting not only allows you to share your talents with others but also brings happiness and fulfillment to both you as the creator and those fortunate enough to receive these unique pieces. It is an opportunity to contribute to society, build relationships, and leave a lasting impact through generosity and creativity.
Sell Your Masterpieces
Turning your completed woodworking projects into profit can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. Not only does it provide you with the opportunity to earn some extra income, but it also allows you to share your craftsmanship with others who appreciate and value handmade items. Here are some strategies and tips for selling your woodworking masterpieces:
- Online Platforms: Utilize the power of the internet by selling your completed woodworking projects on online platforms such as Etsy, eBay, or even your own website. Create compelling product listings with high-quality photos that showcase the details and craftsmanship of your pieces. Be sure to carefully calculate the cost of materials, labor, and any additional expenses to determine a fair price for your creations.
- Local Craft Fairs: Participating in local craft fairs is an excellent way to connect with potential customers and showcase your woodworking skills. Research upcoming craft fairs in your area and apply for a booth space. Make sure to have a visually appealing display that highlights the uniqueness and quality of your work. Offer promotional discounts or special deals during these events to attract customers.
- Commission Work: Consider offering custom-made woodworking projects on a commission basis. This allows customers to request specific designs or modifications tailored to their needs while providing you with valuable practice and exposure. Advertise commission services through word-of-mouth, social media, or by creating flyers to distribute at local businesses or community centers.
When selling your woodworking masterpieces, always prioritize quality over quantity. Consistently delivering exceptional craftsmanship will help build a positive reputation among buyers and potentially lead to repeat business or referrals. Keep in mind that marketing yourself effectively through vibrant photographs, clear product descriptions, and competitive pricing is key to attracting potential customers in a crowded marketplace.
Repurpose and Upcycle
One of the most exciting aspects of woodworking is the opportunity to repurpose and upcycle completed projects. With a little imagination and creativity, you can transform your woodworking masterpieces into entirely new items that have both practical and aesthetic value.
One idea for repurposing completed woodworking projects is to turn them into unique storage solutions. For example, a small wooden crate could be transformed into a stylish organizer for office supplies or toiletries. By adding dividers or compartments, you can customize the crate to meet your specific storage needs. Similarly, a wooden shelf or rack can be repurposed as a wall-mounted coat hanger or towel rack, providing both functionality and visual appeal.
Another creative idea is to use completed woodworking projects as the foundation for new furniture pieces. A sturdy wooden table or bench can be repurposed by simply adding cushions or upholstery to create comfortable seating options. Additionally, smaller woodworking pieces such as drawers or cabinets can be incorporated into larger furniture designs like bookcases or media consoles.
In addition to repurposing, upcycling completed woodworking projects allows you to breathe new life into old materials. For instance, if you have an unfinished wooden chair that no longer fits your aesthetic preferences, consider painting it with vibrant colors or distressing it for a shabby chic look. By applying some creativity and giving it a fresh coat of paint, you can completely transform the chair into a unique statement piece that adds character to any room.
Repurposing and upcycling completed woodworking projects not only adds value and functionality but also promotes sustainability by reducing waste. It allows you to extend the lifespan of your creations while showcasing your craftsmanship in innovative ways. By exploring these creative ideas, you can continue to enjoy your woodworking projects long after they are completed, making them truly timeless pieces that bring joy and inspiration to your everyday life.
Enhance Your Home
Incorporating Completed Woodworking Projects into Décor is a fantastic way to enhance your home and showcase your craftsmanship. It allows you to add a personal touch to your living spaces while creating unique and functional pieces that are both beautiful and practical. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting out, there are countless ways to incorporate your completed projects into the décor of your home.
Wall Art and Decorative Pieces
One way to incorporate completed woodworking projects into your décor is by using them as wall art or decorative pieces. Hang a handcrafted wooden clock in your living room or bedroom, or create a gallery wall of wooden frames showcasing memorable family photos. You could also make wooden signs with inspirational quotes or personalize them with family names for a personalized touch.
Furniture and Storage Solutions
If you have built larger woodworking projects such as tables, chairs, shelves, or cabinets, these can be excellent additions to enhance the overall aesthetic and functionality of your home. A handcrafted dining table can become the focal point of your dining area, while a custom-built shelf can be used to display books, photographs, or other cherished items. Similarly, repurposed wooden crates or pallets can be transformed into stylish storage solutions like coffee tables, shoe racks, or even outdoor planters.
Window Treatments and Accents
Completed woodworking projects can also be used in window treatments and accents around your home. Build custom wooden blinds or shutters that not only provide privacy but also add an element of warmth and natural beauty to any space. Another idea is to make curtain rods out of polished wooden dowels for an elegant touch. Additionally, small accents like wooden drawer pulls, doorknobs, or switch plates can give a unique charm to cabinets, doors, or walls.
Incorporating completed woodworking projects into the décor of your home allows you to create a warm and inviting atmosphere while showcasing your craftsmanship. From wall art to furniture, storage solutions to window treatments, the possibilities are endless. Don’t hesitate to bring your completed woodworking projects out of the workshop and into your home to enhance its overall aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Create a Functional Space
Woodworking projects not only serve as beautiful pieces of craftsmanship, but they can also be highly functional in organizing your home. Whether you need more storage or want to create a specific space for certain items, completed woodworking projects can help you achieve an organized and efficient home.
One way to utilize completed woodworking projects for organization is by building custom shelves and storage units. These can be designed to fit the specific dimensions of your space and cater to your storage needs. For example, you could build a set of floating shelves in your living room to display books and decorative items, or install a wall-mounted shoe rack in your entryway to keep shoes neatly organized.
Another option is to create custom cabinets and drawers. These can be used in various areas of the house such as the kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom. With careful planning and design, you can maximize storage space while adding a unique touch to your home. A built-in pantry, for instance, can provide ample storage for food items while keeping them easily accessible.
Furthermore, completed woodworking projects can also be utilized to organize outdoor spaces such as gardens and garages. Building a sturdy outdoor shed will help you store tools and equipment properly while protecting them from the elements. Additionally, constructing garden boxes or plant stands can make gardening more convenient and enjoyable.
Incorporating completed woodworking projects into your home organization not only adds functionality but also showcases your craftsmanship skills. By creating custom storage solutions that fit seamlessly with your decor, you’ll have a beautifully organized space that reflects your personal style.
| Completed Woodworking Projects | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Floating Shelves | To display books and decorative items |
| Wall-mounted Shoe Rack | To keep shoes neatly organized in the entryway |
| Built-in Pantry | To provide ample storage for food items in the kitchen |
| Outdoor Shed | To store tools and equipment properly and protect them from the elements |
| Garden Boxes/Plant Stands | To make gardening more convenient and enjoyable by organizing plants and flowers |
Teach and Inspire
Woodworking is not only a rewarding hobby, but it can also be a great way to inspire and teach others. Sharing your skills and completed woodworking projects with others can have a lasting impact and create a sense of community. Whether you are teaching woodworking classes or simply sharing your work online, there are many ways to share your passion for woodworking with others.
One way to share your skills and completed projects is by offering woodworking classes or workshops. This can be done at local community centers, adult education programs, or even in your own workshop. Teaching others how to create beautiful pieces from wood not only allows you to showcase your expertise but also gives others the opportunity to learn a new skill and discover their own creativity.
Another way to share your woodworking projects is by creating an online presence. You can start a blog or website where you share photos, tutorials, and insights about your completed projects. Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are also great tools for sharing your work with a larger audience. By showcasing your woodworking projects online, you can inspire others who may be interested in trying out the craft themselves.
Sharing completed woodworking projects with others does not always have to involve teaching or online sharing. You can also donate or gift your creations to charitable organizations, friends, family members, or even random acts of kindness to strangers. This not only allows you to spread joy through your woodworking skills but also helps those in need who may appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of handmade wooden items.
In summary, teaching and inspiring others through sharing your skills and completed woodworking projects can be incredibly fulfilling. Whether through teaching classes or workshops, creating an online presence, or donating/gifting your works of art, there are endless opportunities to share the joy of woodworking with others. By doing so, you can create a sense of community, inspire creativity in others, and leave a lasting impact on those around you.
| Benefits of Sharing Woodworking Skills and Projects | Examples |
|---|---|
| Inspires creativity in others | Teaching woodworking classes or workshops |
| Creates a sense of community | Sharing completed projects online through blogs or social media |
| Can bring joy to those in need through donations/gifts | Donating wooden items to charitable organizations |
Personal Use and Enjoyment
Woodworking projects are not only satisfying to complete but also have the potential to enhance your daily life. After all the hard work and effort you put into creating a masterpiece, it’s important to find ways to incorporate it into your personal space and enjoy it on a regular basis.
One way to integrate completed woodworking projects into your daily life is by using them for their intended purpose. For example, if you’ve built a beautiful dining table, make it a central piece in your dining room where you can gather with family and friends for meals. You can also use your woodworking creations in practical ways, such as using a handmade wooden cutting board in the kitchen or displaying homemade picture frames on your shelves.
In addition to functionality, completed woodworking projects can add aesthetic appeal to various areas of your home. Consider using them as decorative items that accentuate different spaces. A handcrafted wooden shelf can serve as a display for artwork or collectibles in your living room.
A wooden planter box filled with vibrant flowers can bring life and beauty to your outdoor patio area. By incorporating these pieces into your décor, you’ll be able to appreciate them daily while adding a personalized touch to your living space.
Furthermore, completed woodworking projects can also be enjoyed beyond the confines of our own homes. Consider taking them outdoors during gatherings or special occasions. A handmade picnic bench or an outdoor table can provide the perfect spot for entertaining guests in your backyard. Alternatively, bring your woodworking creations to public events such as craft fairs or local markets, where people can admire and appreciate the craftsmanship while you spread awareness about this timeless art form.
Overall, incorporating completed woodworking projects into your daily life allows you to fully appreciate and enjoy the fruits of your labor. It adds individuality and warmth to any space while serving practical purposes or being admired purely for its aesthetics. Whether it’s through functionality, decoration or sharing with others, finding ways to incorporate these creations into everyday life ensures that you can continue to enjoy and appreciate them for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, completing woodworking projects opens up a world of possibilities. Whether it’s showcasing your work, giving it away, selling your masterpieces, repurposing and upcycling, enhancing your home, creating a functional space, teaching and inspiring others, or simply incorporating the projects into your daily life for personal use and enjoyment, there is no shortage of options for what to do with your finished creations.
One option is to proudly display your completed woodworking projects. Showcasing your work allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship and effort that went into creating these pieces. Whether it’s through a gallery wall in your home, a dedicated display in your workshop or garage, or even participating in local art shows or craft fairs, displaying completed projects not only brings joy but also allows others to appreciate and admire your talent.
Another option is to donate or gift your completed woodworking projects. By giving away these pieces, you can spread joy and make a positive impact on someone else’s life. Consider donating to charities, schools, or community centers that may benefit from handmade furniture or decor items. Alternatively, gifting completed projects to family members or friends can leave a lasting impression and serve as a cherished reminder of your thoughtfulness.
Additionally, turning completed woodworking projects into profit is an option worth exploring. Selling your masterpieces can not only provide financial gain but also give you the opportunity to share your love of woodworking with others. Local markets, online platforms such as Etsy or social media marketplaces are excellent avenues for reaching potential buyers who appreciate unique and handcrafted items.
Ultimately, the possibilities for what to do with completed woodworking projects are endless. The choice depends on individual preferences and goals.
Whether it’s finding ways to enhance one’s home decor, create functional spaces through organizational solutions using woodworking skills and creativity, inspire others through teaching and sharing skills, or simply incorporating the pieces into daily life for personal use and enjoyment; each option adds value to the woodworking journey. So go forth, embrace your completed woodworking projects, and let their beauty shine in various ways that bring fulfillment to both you and those around you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to sell woodworking projects?
The best way to sell woodworking projects is through a combination of strategic marketing and showcasing your craftsmanship. Firstly, it’s important to build an online presence by creating a website or utilizing social media platforms to display high-quality images of your work. This allows potential customers to see the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each piece.
Additionally, attending craft fairs or local markets can provide opportunities for face-to-face interaction with potential buyers and allow them to appreciate the beauty and quality of your woodworking projects firsthand. Building relationships with furniture stores, interior designers, or other relevant businesses can also help expand your customer base.
What woodworking projects sell the most?
Woodworking projects that tend to sell the most are those that have practical uses or are in high demand. Items such as kitchen utensils like cutting boards, serving trays, or wooden spoons are popular due to their functionality and often make great gifts.
Furniture pieces like coffee tables, dining sets, or bookshelves also have a high selling potential as they fulfill both functional and aesthetic purposes in people’s homes. Home decor items like picture frames, wall shelves, or decorative objects are also sought after by customers looking to add a touch of warmth and uniqueness to their living spaces.
What woodworking project is most profitable?
The most profitable woodworking project will depend on various factors such as materials used, time invested, market demand, and pricing strategy. However, custom-made furniture tends to be one of the most profitable woodworking projects due to its higher price points compared to smaller items. Custom orders typically involve personalized designs tailored specifically for clients’ needs and preferences which allows for increased profit margins.
For example, crafting unique dining tables or intricately designed cabinets can fetch substantial profits if marketed well within the target demographic willing to invest in bespoke pieces that highlight exceptional craftsmanship. Nevertheless, it’s crucial for woodworkers to consider not only profit but also their passion for a specific project as enjoyment and commitment significantly influence success in any creative endeavor.
Hi everyone! I’m a woodworker and blogger, and this is my woodworking blog. In my blog, I share tips and tricks for woodworkers of all skill levels, as well as project ideas that you can try yourself.
