By Frank Lucasale 
Earning extra pocket money as a teen doesn’t have to mean getting a part-time job that eats up your free time. If you’re creative and love making things, weekend DIY crafts can be a fun and profitable way to earn cash — all while doing something you actually enjoy.
Whether you want to save for something special, gain experience running a small business, or simply turn your hobby into a side hustle, there are plenty of easy, affordable projects you can make and sell. The best part? You can start right at home with simple supplies.
Why Weekend DIYs are Perfect for Teens
- Flexible Schedule: You can make crafts on Saturdays and Sundays without affecting your schoolwork.
- Low Investment: Many projects use inexpensive materials or items you already have.
- Quick to Make: Most ideas can be completed in a couple of hours or less.
- Creative Expression: You get to showcase your personality in your products.
- Earning Potential: Handmade items often sell for more than the cost of materials.
10 Fun Weekend DIYs to Try
Here are some easy, trending projects you can start making this weekend and sell for profit.
1. Hand-Painted Coasters
- Use ceramic, wood, or cork coasters.
- Add floral patterns, geometric shapes, or positive quotes with acrylic paint.
- Seal with a waterproof varnish for durability.
Where to sell: School fairs, Etsy, local markets.
2. Beaded Friendship Bracelets
- Bright beads, charms, and stretchy cord are all you need.
- Offer custom color combinations or name bracelets for friends.
Why they sell: Affordable, trendy, and great for gifting.
3. Personalized Tote Bags
- Buy plain canvas totes and decorate with fabric paint, stencils, or iron-on designs.
- Make niche designs like “Book Lover,” “Plant Mom,” or school spirit themes.
Pro tip: Tote bags are eco-friendly and appeal to all ages.
4. Resin Keychains
- Use resin molds to create custom shapes.
- Add glitter, pressed flowers, or initials for personalization.
Selling point: Lightweight, affordable, and perfect as small gifts.
5. DIY Lip Balm
- Combine beeswax, coconut oil, and flavor oils.
- Package in cute tins or twist tubes with custom labels.
Extra tip: Offer seasonal scents like peppermint in winter or citrus in summer.
6. Polymer Clay Earrings
- Shape lightweight clay into trendy designs (hearts, flowers, abstract shapes).
- Bake, paint, and attach earring hooks.
Why they sell: Handmade jewelry is always in demand and easy to customize.
7. Painted Plant Pots
- Use terracotta pots and decorate with bright colors or aesthetic patterns.
- Pair with a small succulent for extra value.
Hot tip: Plants + cute pots sell fast at fairs and online.
8. Decorative Bookmarks
- Use cardstock, pressed flowers, or laminated art prints.
- Add tassels for an extra touch.
Target audience: Book lovers, students, and gift buyers.
9. Bath Bombs
- Mix baking soda, citric acid, Epsom salt, essential oils, and coloring.
- Shape in molds and let them dry.
Why they work: Affordable to make in batches and great for gift sets.
10. Mini Canvas Wall Art
- Create small paintings with inspirational quotes, abstract art, or popular characters.
- Sell as single pieces or in sets of two or three.
Bonus: Great option if you enjoy painting and want to show off your skills.
Tips to Sell Your Crafts Successfully
- Start Small: Make a few pieces of each design to see which sells best.
- Price Fairly: Calculate material costs + time, then add a profit margin.
- Use Social Media: Share photos and videos of your creations on Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok.
- Package Well: Cute packaging makes your product feel premium.
- Offer Custom Orders: People love personalized items.
Final Thoughts
Selling crafts as a teen can be a fun and rewarding weekend project. It teaches you important skills like budgeting, marketing, and customer service — all while letting you earn your own money. Start with one or two ideas from this list, test them with friends or family, and grow your little business from there.
Remember, the key to success is creating something you enjoy making and that others are excited to buy. Who knows? Your small weekend hobby could grow into a long-term business!