Sew for Profit: 65+ Best Selling Craft Fair & Market Ideas
Preparing for craft fair season? For many of us people who sew, the upcoming Spring season is hectic and exciting. Gathering the perfect collection of fabrics, colors, and project ideas takes time and organization. It isn’t just about making things that are useful or beautiful, but creating items that will sell fast and actually make a profit.
This list is full of fabulous free patterns that will utilize those overflowing scrap bins in your sewing room; inspire your next fabric purchase, and keep the money (and inspiration) rolling in. Some of these craft fair patterns are eye-catching impulse buys and others are larger money makers. So dig in, and remember to tag me on Instagram at @SewCanShe and let me see what you’ve sewn!
Sewing Project Categories:
$10 (or under) Impulse Buys
Here’s a pro tip to boost your sales: be sure to have plenty of small items alongside your main products. These quick and easy-to-make crafts give you the most bang for your buck, as they use up leftover materials and can be made in less time, keeping your costs down. Place them in a high-visibility area where you can effortlessly draw attention to them.
Journaling Bookmarks with a Pen Holder

These DIY Journaling Bookmarks are so much fun to make and you can use leftover 2 1/2” strips of fabric. I used my sewing machine’s embroidery module to embroider names on the front of the bookmarks. That part is optional, but if you love embroidery like I do, you won’t pass up the chance to add a personalized touch. Here’s a great chance to take custom orders!
Tissue Pack/Pet Poo Holder

This gift is useful and cute! Sew some pretty pocket tissue pack covers in no time for your next booth. They would also make a cute pouch to hold pet waste bags.
Lip Gloss Pouch

Using this free sewing pattern, a few scraps, and some snaps, you can sew some custom lip gloss pouches. You could even sell them with the lip gloss inside to increase profit just a bit.
Dinner Napkins

Sewing napkins is fast easy. Find some beautiful seasonal fabric and use this free pattern to create a unique set that’s perfect for consumers at your craft fair.
Wrist Strap Keychains

I am a sucker for a good wrist strap. I’ve used mine for keys, baby toys, gift cards, and bags. This free wrist strap tutorial shows you a time-saving trick for presenting a finished edge. These are a popular buy!
Knotted Headband

Headbands are becoming more and more popular again. Sew up a variety and watch them fly out of your booth. Consider wearing one while you run your next fair. Get the free sewing pattern by DuckaDilly.
Pet Bandanas

Lots of pet parents like to buy cute things for their fur babies. Sew a few pet bandanas, and maybe offer treats at your stall for a perk.
Coin Purse

This particular coin pouch is made using a milk carton. No need to spend lots of money here; the goal is to use what you have on hand. Check out my free pattern and present some of these at your booth.
Pocket Pals – Kitties

Little things are precious; why not sew some easy pocket kitties! You can make several in one sitting which is a great use of time!
Easy Snap Wallets

This quick project is a slim wallet pattern for your upcoming craft fair. It is perfect for holding cash and credit cards, and you can make it with scraps.
Scrap and Cork Fob

These original key chains can be made into any shape that represents your craft, fan status, or other hobby, and they don’t take much time or material to make. Display them well for attracting attention.
Peek-A-Boo Gift/Price Tags

You can make these peek-a-boo gift tags to sell, or as an added way to present your wares. They create intrigue and add a touch of handiwork.
Scarves

A stylish infinity scarf can catch the eyes of people looking for a nice gift at a craft fair. Remember to keep in mind the season and climate as you are planning out your prints and fabric.
Pocket Pals – Bunnies

Who doesn’t love cute little things? Sew all kinds of sweet animals, along with a little pocket home. You’re sure to draw the eyes of people of all ages to a display of tiny pocket pals at your craft fair store.
Soup Bowl Cozy

This bowl cozy can be a conversation starter at your booth. They’re great for protecting your hands from heat, and for making fast profits.
Sturdy Upcycle Pincushion

If you have some old candle holders or unique jars laying around, try this tutorial to highlight some beautiful fabric and make a functional product.
Mug Rug/Envelope

Ella & Nesta’s Little Room adapted this fabric pattern to make an adorable heart-shaped mug rug that turns into an envelope. This is sure to impress as it is unique and functional, and it naturally makes a thoughtful gift.
In-the-Hoop Organizer

You can design your own or follow this tutorial to make this cute embroidery hoop organizer.
Lanyards

The sky is the limit with these double-sided lanyards. You can make them using local school colors, or cute pop culture prints. Go nuts because these are a winner!
Scrunchies

Scrunchies come together so quickly. Why not set out a bowl of them made from your favorite, eye-catching fabric.
Denim Dog Toys

Denim is notoriously tough fabric. If you have some old jeans or scraps laying around you can offer pet toys for sale. Watch this video to see the quick and easy tutorial.
Totally Cute Fabric Shoelaces

This is a perfect project for the bias binding presser foot which will make these fabric shoelaces a snap! Use your scraps and maybe even match a cute coin purse.
Fabric Gift Box

I really appreciate boxes and bins. These fabric gift boxes are sturdy, and include a snap closure. Draw the attention of craft fair customers by displaying it with a gift inside.
Versatile Felt Donuts

Use felt for a quick project that is so adorable it’s sure to draw attention. Get creative with colors and make a whole pile using this free tutorial. Turn them into ornaments, toddler play toys, pincushions, or even keychains! Everyone loves cute stuff, so you can even make mini versions.
Small Drawstring Bags for Gift-Giving

These little drawstring bags come in two sizes and make adorable gift wrapping. The smaller size is perfect for 2 hot cocoa pouches – this easy gift idea will sell out!
Gift Tags

These gift tags are perfect for the season, but you can sew them up in any color for birthdays and other life events. Besides being beautiful and super easy to make, they are reusable and eco friendly! Sew them up in batches for a no-brainer impulse buy.
Ugly Sweater Ornaments

I would love to see a small tree at your booth with an assortment of ugly sweater ornaments hanging all over. You could sell them individually, or even as a set depending on your style. Start sewing them early and take some pressure off for getting ready for the next Christmas season!
Holy Family Finger Puppets

Here’s a pattern you can sew up quickly now, and store them away to sell at Christmas! Cut a few pieces of felt and stitch them around the edges for a sweet reminder and a thoughtful gift. Little fingers will love the extra benefit of play time and learning! Here’s the free pattern.
Christmas Tree Gift Bags

Little gift bags are always a hit. These pretty Christmas tree gift bags are easy to make, and my free sewing pattern has lots of detailed photos to make the job a dream. And, as promised, all of these treat bags were sewn with fabric from my scrap bins. Remember, it’s never to early to start sewing up for Christmas!
Scrap-Busters/Low Material Cost Winners
These projects will clear out your fabric stash and will give you the most economical sales. These can be impulse buys too, depending on your other wares.
Denim and Chambray Table Runner

This beautiful table runner (in all its varieties) would be great because you can use scraps and it comes together easily. It’s also easy to make various sizes without any extra effort at all.
Easy Baskets from 10” Squares

All you need are some 10″ square fabric scraps and you can make these Super Easy Baskets! You won’t believe how easy they are to make, and how quickly they will sell. Bonus: They’re reversible! Remember to tag me on Instagram to show me how you’re using yours @sewcanshe.
Easy Tote Bag

This easy sewing tutorial is the ultimate simple bag. You can use it to hold your handmade items, or sell them individually.
Big Pocket Baby Clutch

This diaper clutch is easy to sew, and a perfect gift for a new mom or anyone who needs to stash things in a cute way. Shoppers will appreciate the unique touches and thoughtful design.
Lovely Heart Potholders

These heart potholders look beautiful on display, and they’re functional. That’s the best combination of attributes in my opinion.
Easy Zipper Pouch

Zipper pouches are always a safe bet when considering what will sell at a craft fair. They’re handy in all situations, and they’re a snap (or a zip) to sew!
Chubby Card Pouch

Sew a cute quilted zipper wallet with my free sewing pattern! This card pouch is just right for holding your cash, cards and coins. Toss it in your purse or clip it to a strap and leave the purse at home. This is the perfect pattern for making quick profit at maker markets.
Sunglasses Case

This case is practical for everyone, and it’s an easy sewing project. It doesn’t take much fabric either, so you’ll be able to make lots from scraps!
Mug Caddy Organizer

This cute Mug Caddy only uses two fat quarters, and would make a great gift for a co-worker or a teacher. Sell it with a mug and pre-stocked for quick seasonal gifts!
Pretty Oven Mitt

Easy oven mitts are the perfect place to add a special appliqué or monogram.
Tool Wrap

The multitude of pockets, and variable size (because you can wrap it instead of zipping) make this tool wrap a perfect way to keep small tools handy and portable. Add your unique embellishments for your own style.
Rope Bowls

You can make a handmade scrappy rope bowl for nearly nothing. Learn how, and then make several sizes and colors to appeal to your craft fair customers.
Mason Jar Totes

Whole foods are hard to pack sometimes, but so good for you. This free sewing pattern is a high demand craft fair idea; they are especially successful in preparation for the new year as people are ready with their resolutions, and looking for new and better habits.
Hexagon Pot Trivet

This free trivet sewing pattern comes together quickly and the finished product is lovely. Try it out with seasonal prints for a show stopper!
Easy Dice Bag

Realistically, these drawstring bags can be used for a million things, but I know quite a few people who collect dice, marbles, and rocks. You can sew this bag quickly and easily using scrap fabric. Get the free sewing pattern by Heather Handmade.
Christmas Stocking Gift Card Holder

This Christmas stocking zipper pouch is just the right size for a handful of treats – plus it makes a great gift card holder. Consider making them into leprechaun boots for March!
Heart Coaster Set

These reverse applique coasters aren’t just for Valentine’s Day, but how perfect anyway right? Make seasonal coasters using the same technique for your customers to fall in love with.
Apple Mug Rug Set

I love this pattern for apple mug rugs. You can sell them as a cute packaged gift set with a mug and some caramels or chocolate.
Candy Zipper Pouches

Zipper pouches made from candy packages were popular before and are now in style again! Some preparation is necessary to make the candy package suitable for sewing, but after that it can make a sturdy pouch or small bag.
Bow Knot Pencil Pouches

How cute are these pencil pouches with a bow knot on top? I absolutely love the idea and wish I had thought of it first! Learn how to make bow knot pencil pouches from See Kate Sew.
Reusable Produce Bags

Make sets of these eco friendly produce bags and see how many people will grab them up! The pattern is easy, and the product is responsible and functional!
In-The-Hoop Machine Embroidered Sunglasses Case

If you have an embroidery machine, you can make this open-style case very quickly. Use different patterns to make them original. Here is the free ITH embroidery design for a sunglasses case.
Origami Pouch

I would stop at your booth to check out this unique drawstring pouch by Amy Barickman. This interesting pouch features your choice of either inside or outside hidden pockets!
Rainbow Zipper Pouch

This zipper pouch is perfect for the colorful scraps in your stash. Put them all together and use this free pattern for an eye-catching pouch.
Petit Four Baskets

Sew these petit four rectangle fabric bins as a set or individually. You can make them in no time, and construct them with scraps.
Easy Shelf Gnome

Gnomes are everywhere, and they are appropriate for all seasons! This easy gnome pattern has no arms or legs so you can sew him together in no time.
Wine Bottle Cover

Here is a gift bag with a gnome wine bottle cover. It’s so cute, and adds an element of fun to a popular gift. If you don’t think your customers will go for the gnomes, just make pretty wine bottle gift bags with the same pattern. And remember, gnomes go great with every season so mix and match those fabrics; this little guy is even cuter in person.
Easy to Sew Coasters

Make a few sets of coasters and matching potholders, too. You can go with the holidays, sports teams, vintage cartoon characters, etc. Package them in an appealing way and you’ll be sure to attract the right attention.
Free Gnome Pattern

Sew an adorable gnome with fabric and fur! This easy gnome sewing pattern is perfect for a Christmas gnome, an every-day gnome, or a gnome for any holiday you love. The sewing pattern is exactly like the gnomes you see in stores, so add this professionally-designed decoration to your booth now!
Mini Stockings

You won’t believe how fast and easy it will be to sew dozens of these mini Christmas stockings… and I promise they will sell! Sew them up now and store them away for Christmas, and lessen the load during the holidays!
High-Ticket Heroes
These larger items will demand a higher price as they have bigger uses and more time and materials are involved.
Designer Zipper Pouch

I put together a whole video course so you can sew some designer zipper pouches with ease. It’s free for you to enjoy.
Versatile Crossbody Bag

From the website: “Whether you rock it as a crossbody, fanny pack, waist bag, moon bag, or sac banane, this accessory blends style with practicality. Plus, it’s fun to sew!“ These bags are popular because of their versatility. There is a free pattern, and a video tutorial so that success is just a stitch away.
Quilted Tablet Case

Quilted everything is becoming popular! This pretty iPad case is a practical and cute way to keep devices safe. Make your own for a successful weekend at the craft fair.
Tote With Many Pockets

This tote features a button and loop closure, and D-rings with swivel snap clips to attach the strap. If you want, you could skip the clips and sew your straps directly to the D-rings. Whatever style you choose, it is just the right size to carry everything you want to keep organized and grab quickly in the 6 (yes six!) exterior pockets. Sew up this easy tote bag pattern today.
Peek-a-Boo Pouches

The Peek-A-Boo Pouch is perfect for putting together a cute sewing kit or a small first aid kit. Use lining fabrics that go with your theme because they will show, too!
Japanese Inspired Tote Bags

This Japanese-inspired bag is a perfect size for shopping, and the tutorial includes two sizes so you can offer up a few different options. You could use scraps for this too; there’s nothing cuter than a scrappy project.
Rectangle Bins

Sew a set of rectangle storage bins as drawer organizers or any other kind of storage. They are so pretty and practical that you know they will see good use.
Big Zipper Bag

This big tote with a zipper is sure to be a perfect winner at your table. It is approximately 14’’ tall, 19’’ wide, and 4’’ deep; I love mine!
Purse Organizer

Sew a pretty and practical purse insert to easily transfer important things from one bag to another. Use my free purse organizer sewing pattern and your leftover fabric to make this big seller.
Laptop Bag

Sew a set of laptop bags to be the star of your table this year. With new computers on the horizon I would encourage buyers to consider a custom carrying option like this.
More from SewCanShe:

100 Free Things to Sew Using Fabric Scraps: Transform Tiny Pieces into Things People Love

25 Fabulous Cross Body Bags: Free Sewing Patterns

Disclosure: some of my posts contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of those links I may receive a small commission, so thank you for supporting SewCanShe when you shop! All of the opinions are my own and I only suggest products that I actually use. 🙂
