20 Small Woodworking Projects for Beginners or Experts

Published: February 5, 2026

Last Updated: February 5, 2026

Small wood projects are an excellent way to hone your skills, test new techniques, and create beautiful and functional pieces in a short amount of time. We’ve compiled a list of the best small wood projects – from jewelry boxes to cutting boards to plant stands, these projects offer a range of options that will inspire you to get creative and experiment with different materials and techniques. So, whether you’re a seasoned woodworker looking for a quick project to sell or a beginner looking to develop your skills, these small wood projects are a great way to start.

Top 10 Small Wood Projects For Beginners

If you’re new to woodworking, small wood projects are an excellent way to start. These projects are typically simple and require minimal materials, making them perfect for beginners who are just starting to learn the craft. From floating shelves to serving trays and cutting boards, there are plenty of small wood projects that you can tackle with just a few basic tools and some creativity.

Floating Shelves

Floating shelves add storage without taking up floor space. These projects focus on clean lines, strong mounting, and accurate layout for a finished look that fits any room.

Bird Feeders

Bird feeders are quick outdoor projects that use small amounts of lumber. They work well for practicing basic cuts while creating something useful for the yard.

Shoe Racks

Shoe racks help control entryway clutter and keep floors clear. Most designs stay compact and use simple joinery.

Benches

Benches offer seating, storage, or both in a single build. These projects teach you how to balance strength and comfort while keeping the design simple.

Plant Stands

Plant stands raise greenery off the floor and improve airflow and light. They are ideal for learning repeatable cuts and basic assembly.

Magazine Racks

Magazine racks organize reading material while adding a small decorative touch. Builds stay lightweight and focus on clean assembly and spacing.

Side Tables

These are functional pieces that fit beside couches or chairs. They help you practice building square frames and attaching tops accurately.

Wall Shelves

Wall shelves provide flexible storage for books, decor, or tools. These projects emphasize strong supports and proper wall attachment.

Serving Trays

Serving trays are compact projects that highlight precision and smooth surfaces. They work well for learning handle cutouts and clean edge work.

Charcuterie Boards

Charcuterie boards focus on layout, shaping, and food-safe finishing. These projects use small stock and reward careful sanding and finishing.

10 Small Wood Projects That Sell

Wondering what small wood projects sell the best? If you’re a woodworker looking to turn your passion into profit, it’s important to identify the most popular and profitable projects. Small wood projects are a great place to start, as they are typically easy to make, require minimal materials, and have a wide appeal. These projects offer a range of options that are both functional and decorative, making them perfect for gift-giving or selling at craft fairs or online.

Wine Racks

Designs range from wall-mounted to freestanding and focus on spacing and strength.

Picture Frames

Picture frames protect artwork and photos while adding a custom touch. They are great for practicing miters and tight-fitting joints.

Cutting Boards

Cutting boards are popular small projects that focus on glue-ups and surface prep. They require careful sanding and proper finishing for kitchen use.

Birdhouses

Birdhouses are classic beginner projects with simple shapes. They teach basic layout while creating something useful for outdoor spaces.

Planters

Planters bring woodworking outdoors and work with many design styles. These projects often focus on drainage, weather resistance, and sturdy assembly.

Wall Signs

Wall signs combine woodworking with simple lettering or graphics. Builds stay small and focus on flat panels and clean finishes.

Key Racks and Key Holders

Key racks and key holders keep daily essentials in one place. These projects are quick builds that work well for learning hooks, pegs, and mounting.

Coat Racks

Coat racks provide storage for jackets and bags without taking up much space. Strength and secure mounting are the main focus.

Jewelry Boxes

Jewelry boxes offer storage in a compact, detailed build. They help you practice hinges, small parts, and smooth interiors.

Desk Organizers and Charging Stations

Desk organizers and charging stations reduce clutter in workspaces. These projects focus on layout planning and clean routing for cords and devices.

If you’re looking to share your love of woodworking with the next generation, don’t miss our guide to Top Woodworking Projects for Kids! Packed with fun, simple, and safe ideas, this article is perfect for inspiring creativity and teaching basic skills to the young crafters in your life. Whether it’s a birdhouse, a wooden toy, or a beginner-friendly toolbox, these projects are designed to make woodworking a rewarding experience for kids of all ages.