Small Wood Turning Projects That Are Perfect for Beginners and Growing a Business

Woodturning has always fascinated me. There’s something so satisfying about watching a raw piece of wood transform into a beautiful creation. If you’ve been thinking about diving into small wood turning projects, I’ve got you covered. These projects are perfect for beginners, allowing you to explore woodturning without overwhelming yourself. Plus, they offer a great way to practice your skills and end up with something useful or beautiful at the end. If you’re interested in learning how to launch your own woodworking business, this is a great place to start!

But here’s the exciting part: these small wood turning projects not only help you hone your craft, but they can also serve as stepping stones for building a woodworking business! Whether you’re making pens, wooden spoons, or unique spinning tops, there’s a lot of potential for these projects to turn into products that you can sell online or at local markets.

In this post, we’ll explore a few easy-to-do small wood turning projects that you can try today and how you can turn these projects into a business opportunity!

What You Need to Get Started with Small Wood Turning Projects

Before we dive into the specific projects, let’s talk about the tools you'll need for these small wood turning projects. Don’t worry if you’re new to woodturning—these projects are designed to be beginner-friendly.

• Wood lathe: The star of the show! A small wood lathe is essential for turning projects.

• Turning tools: A basic set of gouges, scrapers, and chisels will be all you need to start shaping the wood.

• Wood blanks: You can find pre-cut pieces of wood (like pine, maple, or cherry) that are perfect for beginners. These are typically available at your local hardware store or woodworking shop.

These basic tools and materials will open the door to a world of small wood turning projects that can be both fun and rewarding. And once you’ve mastered these skills, you can start creating products that can generate income for your woodworking business.

Small Wood Turning Projects to Try

Now that you’re ready, let’s take a look at some fantastic small wood turning projects that will keep you engaged and help you improve your craft—and possibly help you grow a woodworking business!

1. Wooden Pens

Wooden pens are a great option if you're looking for a small wood turning project that results in something you can use every day. These are small enough to give beginners confidence, but still have room for creativity. You’ll start by shaping the wood into the desired shape and then adding a metal pen kit to complete the process. Making a pen is one of the easiest ways to dive into small wood turning projects without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, you can customize them for gifts, making them even more special!

Turning pens into a business: Once you’ve perfected making wooden pens, you can easily sell them online or at local craft fairs. Many people love the idea of using or gifting a unique, handcrafted pen. You could even market these as personalized items, offering engraving services to attract customers looking for meaningful gifts.

2. Wooden Spoons and Utensils

If you love functional pieces, consider turning wooden spoons or small utensils. A hand-carved wooden spoon is a beautiful addition to any kitchen. Plus, these small wood turning projects offer a great opportunity to learn how to control the turning tool as you craft the curves and contours of the spoon's bowl. Over time, you’ll be able to experiment with different types of wood, giving your spoons a unique look and feel. Wooden utensils also make wonderful personalized gifts for family or friends who appreciate handcrafted items.

Turning utensils into a business: Wooden spoons and utensils are a staple in any kitchen. As you master this project, you can start selling your creations to people who value sustainable, hand-crafted kitchen tools. You could even create sets that include cutting boards or spatulas, offering complete handmade kitchen sets for sale at higher price points.

3. Spinning Tops

A spinning top might sound simple, but it's actually a fantastic way to practice your woodturning skills. This small project doesn’t require a lot of material, so it’s great for beginners looking to try something fun. The best part? You can make multiple designs and experiment with different wood types, colors, and finishes. Plus, spinning tops make excellent gifts! They’re also perfect for kids, who will love playing with them. Creating a small collection of spinning tops with various designs can help you hone your skills while making a collection of fun toys!

Turning toys into a business: Spinning tops are a fun, nostalgic product that can appeal to both kids and adults. You could create a brand around handcrafted wooden toys. Sell your spinning tops along with other small toys, like wooden blocks or puzzles, and target parents and gift-givers who want unique, sustainable toys.

Tips for Success with Small Wood Turning Projects

• Start with Soft Woods: If you're just starting, softer woods like pine are easier to turn and more forgiving. They’ll help you get comfortable with the tools.

• Practice Your Technique: Don’t worry about making everything perfect right away. Wood turning is all about practice. Focus on getting smooth curves and clean cuts.

• Take Your Time: The beauty of small wood turning projects is that they’re a great opportunity to slow down and focus on your craft. Rushing can lead to mistakes, so be patient with yourself.

• Sharpen Your Tools Regularly: A sharp tool makes all the difference in your turning projects. Make sure to keep your tools well-maintained for smoother results.

Suggestions to Enhance Your Wood Turning Experience

As you continue your journey into small wood turning projects, there are a few ways you can take your craft to the next level and potentially build a woodworking business:

• Experiment with Wood Finishes: Try adding a natural wood finish like oil, wax, or lacquer to give your pieces a polished and lasting look. Different finishes will bring out the wood’s natural beauty.

• Mix Wood Types: Use different wood types for contrast, like combining light and dark woods. This will add dimension and depth to your projects.

• Create a Themed Collection: If you’ve completed a few pens, try creating a collection with matching wooden items like pencil holders or small trays. You’ll soon have a beautiful set of handcrafted pieces to offer customers.

• Gift Your Creations: Handmade wooden items make incredible gifts. Whether it’s a spoon, pen, or spinning top, your loved ones will appreciate the thoughtfulness and craftsmanship behind the gift.

Growing Your Woodworking Business

Once you've mastered a few small wood turning projects, it's time to think about how to grow your woodworking business. Here are a few tips to help you take your hobby to the next level:

• Sell Online: Platforms like Etsy, eBay, or your own website can help you showcase and sell your products. Take high-quality photos of your creations and write detailed descriptions to attract buyers.

• Local Markets: Selling your products at local craft fairs or farmers' markets can be an excellent way to connect with customers and build brand recognition. Start small, and as you build a customer base, you can expand.

• Branding and Marketing: Create a brand around your small wood turning projects. Choose a unique name, design a logo, and tell your story. Use social media to showcase your projects, share behind-the-scenes content, and engage with potential customers.

Wrapping It Up

I believe small wood turning projects are an excellent way to dip your toes into the world of woodturning without the intimidation factor. Whether you’re making a pen, a spoon, or a spinning top, the possibilities are endless. Woodturning offers a creative outlet that’s both meditative and rewarding.

What’s even more exciting is that these small wood turning projects have the potential to grow into a full-fledged woodworking business. By focusing on high-quality craftsmanship and expanding your product range, you could create a brand people trust and love. If you're passionate about woodturning and want to learn how to transform your skills into a thriving business, consider taking the next steps to launch your own woodworking business.

If you’ve ever thought about giving woodturning a try, I highly recommend starting with one of these small projects. You'll gain valuable experience, create beautiful items, and possibly start a business that turns your passion into profit.

Remember, it’s all about enjoying the process, learning as you go, and considering how your passion for small wood turning projects could evolve into something bigger.