Knitting isn’t just a relaxing pastime or a way to create cozy wearables—it’s also a vibrant business opportunity. If you love to knit and dream of turning your handmade items into a source of income, you’re not alone. More people than ever are buying handmade goods, searching for unique, high-quality products with a personal touch. But how do you stand out and get your knits into the hands of eager customers? The key is smart marketing.
In this post, we’ll cover tried-and-true marketing techniques that actually work for knitters—whether you sell on Wakewall, Etsy, at craft fairs, or on your own website.
For more information, click below:
- Smart Hustles & Side Income Strategies Guide to Earning More
- Why You Should Start a Side Hustle (Here’s Why)
- Take the Quiz: QUIZ: Should You Start a Side Hustle?
- Is It Worth Having a Side Hustle? Read This
- The Niche Finder: Browse Ideas to Start Your Journey
- 65 Side Hustles and Niches People with Disabilities Can Explore
1. Build a Brand That Tells Your Story
Your brand is more than a logo or a business name. It’s the feeling and story behind your creations. Why did you start knitting? What inspires your designs? Do you use sustainable yarn, support a local cause, or specialize in a certain style?
- Share your journey in your profile descriptions, product listings, and social media bios.
- Be authentic. Customers connect to real people. Show your workspace, share the ups and downs, and invite your audience into your process.
Tip: A strong, relatable brand story will make people remember you—and choose your knits over mass-produced items.
2. Photograph Like a Pro
The online world is visual. Even the coziest blanket won’t sell if it looks dull in a photo. High-quality images are your best marketing asset.
- Use natural lighting for true colors and soft shadows.
- Shoot from multiple angles. Show the front, back, close-ups of stitches, and your knits being worn or used.
- Lifestyle images sell. Drape a blanket over a sofa, show mittens in a snowy scene, or model a scarf with a smile.
- Keep backgrounds simple. Let your product shine—neutral backgrounds or home settings work best.
Update your images with each new season or collection, and don’t forget to show the scale (add a hand or a ruler for size reference).
Click to download WAKEWALL today
3. Write Listings That Sell
Your product description is your chance to answer every customer question and highlight what makes your item special.
- Be specific: Describe the yarn, colors, size, washing instructions, and intended use.
- Highlight uniqueness: Is this one-of-a-kind? Made with organic wool? Hand-dyed yarn?
- Use keywords: Think like a buyer—what would they search? (“hand-knitted baby blanket,” “chunky knit winter hat,” “eco-friendly scarf”)
- Tell a story: Suggest how your product can improve the customer’s life (“Wrap up in this blanket for movie night or gift it to a new parent for cozy cuddles.”)
Clear, enticing copy builds confidence and encourages purchases.
4. Harness the Power of Social Media
Social media is the modern knitter’s showcase and networking tool. Pick one or two platforms to start—Instagram and Facebook are the most visual and interactive.
- Instagram: Post daily or weekly photos, stories of your process, and behind-the-scenes content. Use relevant hashtags (#knitting, #handmadeknits, #cozyhome).
- Facebook: Start a business page, join knitting groups, and engage in local craft communities.
- Pinterest: Pin your product photos, blog posts, and knitting tips to reach DIY and home décor fans.
- TikTok: Share short videos of the knitting process, time-lapse projects, or “unboxing” your finished knits.
Engage with your audience—reply to comments, ask questions, and join conversations in the crafting community. The more visible and active you are, the more people will find you.
5. Build an Email List
Social media is great, but your email list is gold. With direct access to your customers’ inboxes, you can nurture long-term relationships and repeat business.
- Offer a freebie or discount for joining (“Sign up and get 10% off your first order!”)
- Send regular newsletters with new product launches, restocks, knitting tips, and special promotions.
- Share your story and creative process—email is more personal and often more effective at building loyalty.
Platforms like Mailchimp and ConvertKit make email marketing simple, even for beginners.
6. Price Confidently and Transparently
Many knitters struggle with pricing. Don’t undervalue your time, skill, and materials.
- Research similar listings to find a reasonable price range.
- Factor in all costs—yarn, time, packaging, platform fees, and shipping.
- Be transparent: List shipping times, return policies, and care instructions clearly in your shop.
- Don’t race to the bottom: Instead of competing only on price, emphasize quality, uniqueness, and the story behind your work.
Remember, the right customers are willing to pay for handmade excellence.
7. Use Wakewall and Other Marketplaces Effectively
Platforms like Wakewall and Etsy help you reach more customers without the overhead of a physical store.
- Optimize your profile: Fill out every section, upload a friendly photo, and use keywords in your bio.
- List regularly: Keep your shop fresh with new items and restocks.
- Respond promptly: Answer messages and reviews quickly to build trust.
- Encourage reviews: After a sale, ask for feedback and post customer photos (with permission) for social proof.
Marketplaces have built-in audiences, so use all their features to boost your visibility.
8. Sell In-Person at Local Events
Craft fairs, markets, and pop-up events are perfect for connecting with customers face-to-face.
- Display your knits attractively: Use baskets, mannequins, or pretty signage.
- Bring business cards or postcards with your website and social handles.
- Chat with shoppers: Share your passion and stories—personal connections often lead to sales.
- Collect email addresses for future marketing.
Being present locally can also build word-of-mouth and bring people to your online shop.
9. Collaborate with Other Makers
Partnering with other crafters, artists, or small businesses can expand your reach.
- Cross-promote: Bundle your knits with a ceramic mug maker or local soap artisan for holiday gift sets.
- Host giveaways: Team up for a shared contest on social media.
- Join craft collectives: Support each other and attract more attention together.
Community over competition is a powerful way to grow your brand.
10. Keep Learning and Adapting
Marketing trends change, and so do customer preferences. Stay curious:
- Follow industry blogs and podcasts for small business tips.
- Ask for feedback—from customers, friends, and fellow makers.
- Try new platforms or marketing techniques and see what works best for you.
Track your results, notice what content gets the most engagement, and adjust your strategy over time.
Conclusion
Selling your knits is about more than just making beautiful items—it’s about sharing your craft with the world and connecting with people who appreciate your work. With the right marketing techniques, you can transform your passion for knitting into a thriving business. Tell your story, take beautiful photos, master your listings, and nurture your community both online and off.
Remember, your creativity is your best selling point. Celebrate what makes your knits—and your business—unique, and you’ll find customers who are just as excited as you are. The journey from yarn to sale may take some patience, but with consistency, care, and these proven marketing strategies, your knits will find happy homes and your business will grow—one cozy stitch at a time.
