Looking for a fun, budget-friendly hobby that can also bring in a little extra money? Hobbies that focus on reuse, restoration, and upcycling can be highly rewarding, both environmentally and financially. With the growing popularity of specialty online marketplaces and social influencers who drive trends and interest, demand for unique items is higher than ever. Now could be the perfect time to capitalize on your own reuse hobby.
Why reuse hobbies are a great way to make money
The material or inventory you need for a business centered on reuse can be very low-cost. You will likely find most items at thrift stores, garage sales, or from people looking to get rid of old items for free. But despite the low cost of the initial material or item, the demand for the final product can be high. People love unique, one-of-a-kind items that they can’t find anywhere else. Many buyers are also becoming more and more willing to prioritize sustainability over low prices.
Types of reuse hobbies that can be profitable
Upcycling furniture or home décor
You can pick up low-cost or free pieces like dressers, tables, or chairs from garage sales, curbside giveaways, thrift stores, or online listings and transform them into more appealing items after cleaning, repairing, refinishing, or creatively redesigning. Sanding, repainting, reupholstering, or adding new hardware, can increase both aesthetic appeal and value. Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Unique Thrift are great local options for buying used furniture or home décor.
Restoring used clothing
You can restore used clothing by purchasing worn or damaged garments from thrift stores or online marketplaces, then improving their condition and resale value through cleaning, repairs, and other improvements. Stain removal, seam mending, button or zipper replacements can all significantly increase value. Modifications like dyeing faded fabric, adding patches, or altering can also turn an ordinary piece into a unique item.
Crafting art from reclaimed materials
You can craft art from reclaimed materials by collecting discarded or surplus items such as vintage wood scraps, metal pieces, cloth, or glass. Then transform them into visually appealing, functional or conceptual artwork. Take a look at our previous article about reclamation hobbies for useful tips.
How you can get started
It’s easier than ever to establish an online or local presence and start selling. Websites like eBay, Etsy, Amazon Handmade, and Facebook Marketplace can provide quick and easy sales online. Local consignment shops or markets can be a great option for in-person sales. You can utilize social platforms to find a like-minded community for support and potential buyers.
No matter the type of projects you focus on, you’ll need to acquire various supplies. Much of what you may need, like yarn, paint, tools, or jewelry supplies can be found at used good stores. Stores like ArtStart or Textile Center will have a lot of the supplies that you may need.
A few strategies for success
- Promote your projects with before and after photos and videos on social media
- Do research to see what sells before you pick a project
- Keep detailed records of all your expenses
- Try selling on multiple sites and at multiple physical locations to see what works best
Making money with a reuse hobby is about more than turning a profit. By transforming discarded items into valuable products, you keep items out of the trash, reduce waste, and build income from doing something you genuinely enjoy.
Find local stores and resources to help you buy, donate, sell, or repair used items in our Choose to Reuse Directory.
Check out the Green Disposal Guide for how to dispose of items that cannot be repurposed, donated, or sold.
