How about earning some pocket money from doing the things you enjoy?

Turning a popular hobby into a source of income can be both fulfilling and profitable. As the end of the year (and all the holiday craft markets) approaches, here are some practical ways to get paid for doing something that you love and are good at.

Photography

• Sell prints or digital downloads: Set up an online store on platforms like Etsy, Shutterstock or your own website to sell high-quality prints or digital images.
• Offer photography services: Market yourself for events such as weddings, portraits or product photography for local businesses.
• Teach workshops: Host in-person or online classes to share your skills.

Cooking or baking

• Sell baked goods: Offer homemade treats at your local home industry or market.
• Catering or meal prep: Provide catering services for functions or offer packed lunches/ready meals to your community.

Crafting (e.g. knitting, sewing, woodworking and jewellery-making)

• Sell handmade items: Use marketplaces like Gumtree or local craft fairs to sell your creations.
• Create DIY kits: Package materials and instructions for others to make their own crafts.
• Offer custom orders: Take commissions for personalised pieces.

Gardening

• Sell plants or seeds: Propagate plants or harvest seeds to sell at farmers’ markets or to your community.
• Garden consulting: Help others design or maintain their gardens for a fee.

Music

• Perform gigs: Play at local venues or events for pay.
• Teach lessons: Offer private or group lessons in person or via video calls.

Fashion

• Sell your clothes: If you have stylish pieces that you no longer wear, you can sell them on platforms like Yaga, which specialises in second-hand designer fashion.

General tips

• Build an audience: Use social media to showcase your hobby, attract followers and promote your offerings.
• Start small: Test the waters with minimal investment before scaling up.
• Network: Connect with others in your hobby community for collaboration or exposure.

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs