27 Proven Ways to Make Money from Home [2025 Guide]

Searches for “extra income” have increased by 96% in the last 5 years, revealing a clear reality: more and more Brazilians are looking for ways to earn money at home to supplement their income.
In fact, there are several promising opportunities. According to data from Sebrae, a digital affiliate can earn an average of R$2,400 per month, dedicating 120 hours per month. In addition, remote work offers significant benefits, such as better time management and reduced transportation and food expenses.
With that in mind, we’ve put together 27 proven ways to generate extra income from home, from creating information products to providing freelance services. These are tried and tested options that can be adapted to your goals and skills.
Making Crafts at Home
Crafts are an excellent option for those looking to make money from home . In addition to being a creative and enjoyable activity, the market for craft products is constantly growing. According to studies by Sebrae, the crafts sector employs around 8 million people and generates, on average, R$28 billion annually. This demonstrates the lucrative potential of this activity as a source of extra income at home.
Tipos de artesanato rentáveis
There are many different types of crafts that can be made at home and generate significant income. Let’s explore some popular and profitable options:
- Handmade jewelry : Unique, personalized pieces are always in high demand. You can create unique necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings using materials like beads, metals, and gemstones.
- Scented candles : In addition to providing a cozy atmosphere, handmade candles are very popular. Explore different shapes, colors and scents to create unique products.
- Wood decor : If you have woodworking skills, consider creating decorative pieces such as paintings, shelves and small furniture. Personalization is a differentiator in this market.
- Creative sewing : Sewing offers a wide range of possibilities, from clothing to home accessories. You can sew baby clothes, bags, pillows and much more.
- Handmade ceramics : Working with ceramics allows you to create unique pieces such as plates, mugs and vases. Explore different glazing and texturing techniques to make your creations even more special.
- Macramé : This hand-weaving technique is on the rise, especially for decoration. You can create plant hangers, tapestries and other decorative items.
- Biscuit : A versatile technique that allows you to create a variety of items, from souvenirs to party decorations.
- Patchwork and Quilting : The art of combining colorful fabrics into creative patterns is highly valued, especially for items such as bedspreads and cushions.
- Canvas Painting : If you have artistic talent, canvas painting can be a rewarding choice. Create original works to sell in local galleries, online, and at art shows.
- Custom Embroidery : Embroidery is making a big comeback. Create custom pieces like towels, scarves, and prints to suit your customers’ individual preferences.
Materials needed
To start your home-based craft business, you will need to invest in some basic materials. The choice of materials will depend on the type of craft you decide to produce. However, some items are common to several techniques:
- Scissors of different sizes
- Needles and various threads
- Glue (different types depending on the material)
- Brushes (for painting and applying glue)
- Rulers and tape measures
- Pencils and pens for marking
For specific techniques, you will need additional materials. For example:
- Jewelry : Pliers, nylon or silicone threads, clasps, beads, stones and metals.
- Candles : Paraffin, wicks, molds, essences and dyes.
- Ceramics : Clay, modeling tools, specific ceramic kiln.
- Sewing : Sewing machine, fabrics, zippers, buttons and elastics.
- Macramé : Ropes of different thicknesses, rings and supports.
It’s important to research reputable suppliers to get quality materials at competitive prices. This will help keep your costs low and increase your profit margin.
Where to sell
Once you’ve created your handmade products, it’s essential to find the best channels to sell them. There are several options that can help you reach your target audience and increase your sales:
- Specialized marketplaces : Platforms like Elo7 are dedicated to selling personalized and handmade items. Elo7, for example, is ranked 16th in the ranking of websites with the highest number of sales made in Brazil and generated R$700 million in sales in 2020 alone.
- Social media : Instagram and Facebook are great showcases for handmade products. You can create a page for your brand and use features like Instagram Shopping to make selling easier.
- Own online store : Creating your own online store gives you more control over your brand and customer relationships. Platforms like Nuvemshop allow you to set up an online store in just 10 minutes.
- General Marketplaces : Websites like Amazon, Mercado Livre and Shopee are also options for selling your handmade products. Amazon, for example, has a special area for artisans.
- Fairs and Events : Attending craft fairs and local events is a great way to connect directly with customers and get immediate feedback.
- Brick-and-mortar stores : Many retailers like to offer handicrafts from local artisans in their stores.
When choosing where to sell your products, consider factors such as commission rates, target audience, and ease of use of the platform. For example, Elo7 charges a 12% fee on sales.
To be successful in selling crafts, it is crucial to know how to price your products correctly. Consider all costs involved, including materials, labor time, and fixed expenses. A general formula for calculating profit margin is: MARGIN = [(SALE PRICE – PRODUCT COST) / SALE PRICE] x 100.
Remember that the value of your work goes beyond the cost of materials. Consider your skill, creativity, and the time invested in each piece. According to experts, a profit margin of around 10% is common in the craft market.
By following these tips and exploring the many profitable craft options, you’ll be on your way to turning your passion into a source of extra income from home. With dedication, creativity, and a well-planned sales strategy, it’s possible to build a profitable and fulfilling craft business.
Create a Natural Cosmetics Brand
Starting a natural beauty brand is a great way to make money from home , taking advantage of the growing demand for healthier and more sustainable products. This home-based income option not only offers flexibility, but also allows you to explore your creativity and passion for natural beauty.
Necessary regulations
Before you begin your journey into the world of natural cosmetics, it is crucial to understand and follow the regulations established by the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa). Although there is no concrete definition for the term “natural cosmetics” in Brazil, there are specific standards that must be followed to ensure the safety and efficacy of the products.
Firstly, it is important to know that Anvisa classifies cosmetics into two groups:
- Grade 1 Products : These have basic properties and do not require proof of effectiveness. Examples include moisturizing creams and colognes.
- Grade 2 Products : Have specific indications and require proof of safety and efficacy, in addition to detailed information on care, method and restrictions of use.
To market your products, you will need:
- Notify Anvisa of the intention to commercialize Grade 1 products.
- Register Grade 2 products, submitting tests and documentation for analysis and approval.
Additionally, it is necessary:
- Obtain a health inspection of the production site before starting activities.
- Follow Good Manufacturing Practices established by RDC 48/2013.
- Have a qualified technical manager to guide the processes and check the composition of the products.
It is important to note that there is currently no specific regulation for the production of artisanal cosmetics for personal use or for sale on a small scale. However, a bill (PL 7816/2017) is being processed to include artisanal soap production in the Handicrafts Law, which may bring more lenient requirements for small producers.
Basic formulas
When creating your natural cosmetics formulas, it is essential to understand the basic components and their functions. Here are some categories of fundamental ingredients:
- Vegetable oils and butters : These act as emollients, moisturizing and nourishing the skin. Examples include coconut oil, shea butter, and avocado oil.
- Hydrolates : Used in facial toners, body sprays and as a base for other products.
- Natural emulsifiers : Help combine water and oil-based ingredients.
- Natural preservatives : Essential for preventing microbial growth in water-based products.
- Botanical actives : Plant extracts that offer specific benefits for the skin.
When formulating your products, remember to:
- Use precise measurements in grams and percentages, avoiding household measurements such as spoons or cups.
- Perform stability tests to ensure product safety and efficacy.
- Consider compatibility between ingredients and packaging.
A basic formula for a natural moisturizer could include:
- 70% water or hydrosol
- 20% vegetable oils
- 5% vegetable butter
- 3% natural emulsifier
- 1% natural preservative
- 1% botanical actives
Remember that creating effective formulas requires knowledge and practice. Consider investing in specialized courses or consulting professionals in the field to improve your skills.
Marketing
Marketing is essential to the success of your natural cosmetics brand. Here are some effective strategies to promote your products and make money working from home :
- Strong visual identity : Develop a cohesive visual identity that reflects your brand values. This includes a logo, colors, and graphic style that represent your company’s personality and mission.
- Storytelling : Share the story behind your brand, highlighting the benefits of natural ingredients and sustainable practices. This helps create an emotional connection with customers.
- Educational content : Create content that educates consumers about the benefits of natural cosmetics. This could include usage tutorials, ingredient explanations, and skincare tips.
- Influencer Marketing : Collaborate with digital influencers who share your brand values. Micro-influencers can be particularly effective for natural cosmetics brands.
- Social media : Use platforms like Instagram and TikTok to showcase your products in action. Create compelling and engaging visual content.
- E-commerce : Establish a strong online presence, whether through your own online store or on marketplaces specializing in handmade products.
- Loyalty programs : Implement a rewards program to encourage repeat purchases and increase customer value over time.
- Sustainability : Highlight your sustainable practices and environmental commitment in your marketing campaigns.
- Customization : Offer customized products or kits that meet specific customer needs.
- Samples and Trials : Let customers try your products through free samples or trial kits.
When implementing these strategies, remember to maintain authenticity and transparency in all your communications. Natural cosmetics consumers value honesty and seek out brands that reflect their personal values.
Creating a natural cosmetics brand as a way to make money from home requires dedication, knowledge, and creativity. By following the necessary regulations, developing effective formulas, and implementing smart marketing strategies, you’ll be well on your way to building a successful business in the growing natural beauty market.
Remember that success doesn’t happen overnight. Be patient, keep learning and improving your products, and stay tuned to market trends and needs. With persistence and passion, your natural cosmetics brand can become a significant source of extra income from home , allowing you to turn your passion for natural beauty into a thriving business.
Setting up a Homemade Bakery
Homemade confectionery represents a promising opportunity for making money at home . According to Minuto Ligado, the sweets market in Brazil reaches an annual turnover of 12 billion reais, highlighting the potential of this sector to generate extra income at home .
Necessary equipment
To start a successful home bakery, it is essential to first invest in essential equipment. In addition, the quality of the utensils directly influences the final result of the products.
Essential equipment includes:
- Precision scale : Essential for measuring ingredients accurately. There are two main types: digital, with automatic switch-off and tare function, and analog, for a more traditional touch.
- Mixer : Preferably a planetary mixer for larger doughs and a portable mixer for smaller preparations.
- Oven : Must be suitable for different types of preparations, with precise temperature control.
- Basic utensils :
- Bowls of different sizes
- Fouet (batedor manual)
- Silicone spatulas
- Sieves
- Various forms
- Specific thermometers for confectionery
Pricing
Correct pricing is crucial to ensuring business profitability. Therefore, it is necessary to consider four fundamental elements:
- Ingredient Costs : Accurately calculate the cost of each ingredient used in recipes.
- Fixed costs : Include expenses for water, electricity, gas and cleaning products. Add 25% to the final amount to cover these incalculable costs.
- Labor : Consider the time dedicated to production. One strategy is to add 20% to 30% to the value of the product.
- Profit Margin : Multiply the total by three to include labor and profit appropriately.
To calculate the final price of each product:
- Convert all measurements to grams
- Add up the total cost of the ingredients
- Divide by the number of units produced
- Add the cost of packaging
- Apply the margin to fixed costs and profit
Disclosure
Efficient advertising is essential for the success of home baking. Consequently, some fundamental strategies include:
Strong digital presence :
- Create professional profiles on social networks
- Invest in quality product photos
- Use Google My Business to increase visibility
Loyalty strategies :
- Develop a rewards program
- Offer discounts for referrals
- Create personalized experiences for regular customers
Marketing visual:
- Invest in attractive packaging
- Produce content that highlights the production process
- Share behind-the-scenes photos and videos
Strategic partnerships :
- Make connections with local events
- Collaborate with other entrepreneurs
- Participate in gastronomic fairs
To increase your average sales ticket, consider offering complementary products. For example, if you are selling a cake in a jar for R$7.00, offer a drink for an additional R$5.00, bringing the total value to R$12.00.
It is important to note that, before starting sales, it is necessary to regularize the business with the competent authorities. This includes:
- Obtain a health permit
- Take a course on Good Food Handling Practices
- Register as a MEI (Individual Microentrepreneur)
- Follow the Health Surveillance regulations
Furthermore, maintain strict control over product quality and customer service. Satisfied customers naturally become promoters of your business, generating spontaneous referrals and contributing to the sustainable growth of your home bakery.
Produce Decoration Products
The production of decorative items has become an attractive alternative for making money from home . The sector has shown significant growth, especially after changes in consumer habits during the pandemic, when people spent more time at home and increased their consumption of decorative items.
Market trends
The decoration market in 2025 presents clear directions that can guide your production. Maximalism is gaining prominence, with designs that tell stories and are full of personality. In addition, cherry red appears as the dominant color on both walls and decorative pieces.
Handcrafted and personalized items are in the spotlight. Handmade pieces offer that unique touch that consumers are looking for in their homes. In addition, upcycling – the art of transforming disposable items into decorative pieces – is also a trend.
Natural materials remain popular, bringing warmth and elegance to spaces. Wood, in particular, continues to be a fundamental element in decoration, providing a sense of comfort.
Materials needed
To start producing decorative items, some basic materials are essential:
- Materials for woodworking :
- Pine (more economical option for light crafts)
- Basic carpentry tools
- Paints and varnishes
- Materials for textile decoration :
- Sisal ropes and threads
- Various fabrics
- Macramé material
- Painting materials :
- Screens in different sizes
- Various brushes
- Specific paints for each surface
- Complementary tools :
- Silicone glue
- Scissors
- Tape measure
- Milky Termolina (for finishing)
Sales channels
Decorative products can be sold through several channels. Elo7, the main marketplace for crafts in Brazil, registered growth of 11% and generated R$700 million in sales in 2020 alone.
Recommended digital platforms :
- Elo7 : Ideal for handmade products, with 23 million monthly visits
- Shopee : Reported 1,954% growth in traffic, totaling 39 million visitors
- Amazon : Has a special area for artisans
- Mercado Livre : With approximately 300 million users, it offers great visibility
To maximize sales, some strategies are fundamental:
- Strong digital presence : Maintain active profiles on social media, sharing the creation process and interacting with potential customers.
- Professional photography : Invest in quality photos that enhance your products.
- Detailed Descriptions : Provide complete information on materials, dimensions, and care required.
- Custom packaging : Develop a presentation that protects the product and delights the customer.
- Differentiated service : Offer agile and personalized support to build lasting relationships with customers.
Product quality is essential for the success of a business. Therefore, it is essential to ensure:
- Impeccable finish
- Top-quality materials
- Safe packaging
- Realistic delivery time
- Clear exchange policy
Additionally, consider partnering with establishments in the hotel and tourism sector, which often seek domestic suppliers for decoration. This strategy can open up new business opportunities and increase your visibility in the market.
Create a Clothing Brand
Creating a clothing brand is an excellent option for those looking to make money from home . The fashion industry in Brazil generates billions of reais annually, offering a promising market for creative entrepreneurs. In addition, fashion e-commerce represents around 32% of online retailers, with an impressive turnover of R$1.6 billion in 2024. So, let’s explore how you can turn your passion for fashion into a source of extra income from home .
Developing your fashion design skills
First, it’s crucial to hone your fashion design skills. While it’s possible to be self-taught, as Vivienne Westwood and Dapper Dan have demonstrated, investing in formal education can offer significant advantages. Online or in-person courses can provide:
- Access to the latest industry trends
- Specialized resources and equipment
- Networking opportunities
- Feedback from experienced professionals
Additionally, hands-on experience in corporate retail can be valuable. Sarah Donofrio, a successful designer, emphasizes that much of her education came from retail experience.
Developing a business plan
A solid business plan is crucial to attracting investors and guiding your venture. When writing a business plan, consider:
- Clear definition of the target audience
- Brand identity
- Sales strategy
- Initial costs
- Ideal time to seek capital
- Need for external support (legal, financial, production, distribution)
Building a strong brand identity
Your brand goes beyond your name or logo. It encompasses your values, mission, and story. To build a strong identity:
- Develop cohesive visual guidelines (logo, colors, graphic style)
- Create an engaging narrative (storytelling)
- Align your brand with your target audience’s values
- Maintain consistency across all communication platforms
Developing your clothing line
The design process is key. Sarah Donofrio recommends:
- Keep a sketchbook handy
- Constantly doodling and exploring ideas
- Find inspiration in travel and everyday experiences
- Mix design elements in unique and creative ways
Production and manufacturing
At first, you can produce on a small scale at home. However, as your business grows, consider:
- Establish partnerships with trusted suppliers
- Explore outsourcing options to increase production
- Closely monitor the production process to ensure quality
Pricing and inventory management
Correct pricing is crucial to profitability. Consider:
- Material costs
- Workforce
- Fixed expenses
- Desired profit margin
When managing inventory, remember that the fashion industry operates on seasonal cycles. Plan your collections in advance, taking into account future trends.
Marketing and sales strategies
To promote your brand and increase sales:
- Strong digital presence :
- Create a professional online store
- Use social media like Instagram and TikTok to showcase your products
- Produce compelling and engaging visual content
- Influencer Marketing :
- Collaborate with influencers who share your brand values
- Consider micro-influencers for more targeted reach
- Educational content :
- Create style tutorials
- Share clothing care tips
- Explain the differences between your products
- Loyalty programs :
- Implement rewards to encourage repeat purchases
- Offer exclusive benefits to frequent customers
- Sustainability :
- Highlight sustainable practices in your campaigns
- Communicate your environmental commitment
- Personalization :
- Offer customizable products
- Create kits that meet specific customer needs
- Samples and tests :
- Let customers try your products
- Offer test kits for new releases
Legal and regulatory aspects
Before starting sales, it is crucial to regularize your business:
- Register as a Microentrepreneur (MEI) if your annual turnover is up to R$81,000
- Choose CNAE 4781-4/00 (Retail trade of clothing and accessories)
- Obtain a permit from the city hall
- Issue an invoice for your sales
As a MEI, you will be able to:
- Hire up to one employee
- Have access to more affordable corporate health plans
- Apply for specific loans for microentrepreneurs
Sales channels
Diversify your sales channels to maximize reach:
- Own e-commerce : Offers total control over your brand and customer relationships
- Marketplaces:
- Elo7: Ideal for handmade products, with 23 million monthly visits
- Shopee: Traffic growth of 1,954%, totaling 39 million visitors
- Amazon: Has a special area for artisans
- Mercado Livre: Approximately 300 million users
- Social media : Use features like Instagram Shopping to make sales easier
- Trade Shows and Events : Attend local events to connect directly with customers
- Partnerships with physical stores : Explore opportunities for consignment sales
When choosing your channels, consider factors such as commission rates, target audience, and ease of use of the platform. For example, Elo7 charges a 12% fee on sales.
Starting a clothing brand requires dedication, creativity, and strategic planning. By following these guidelines and staying up to date with market trends, you’ll be well on your way to turning your passion for fashion into a lucrative source of extra income from home . Remember, success doesn’t happen overnight. Be patient, keep learning and improving your products, and stay focused on customer satisfaction. With persistence and a professional approach, your clothing brand can become a successful business reality, allowing you to earn money working from home in the fast-paced world of fashion.
Comparison Table
Business Type | Initial Investment | Sales Channels | Necessary Regulations | Market Potential | Main Marketing Strategies |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Craftsmanship | Scissors, needles, threads, glue, brushes, technique-specific materials | Elo7, Instagram, Facebook, Amazon, Local fairs | Not mentioned | R$ 28 billion annually (Sebrae) | Quality photos, social media, participation in fairs |
Natural Cosmetics | Natural ingredients, measuring equipment, packaging | Own e-commerce, specialized marketplaces | Registration with Anvisa, technical manager, health inspection | Not mentioned | Strong visual identity, educational content, influencers |
Homemade Pastry | Scale, mixer, oven, basic utensils | Social networks, direct sales | Health permit, Good Practices course, MEI registration | R$ 12 billion annually | Professional photos, event partnerships, loyalty program |
Decoration Products | Materials for woodworking, textiles, paints | Elo7, Shopee, Amazon, Mercado Livre | Not mentioned | Post-pandemic growth | Strong digital presence, professional photos, custom packaging |
Clothing Brand | Sewing materials, fabrics, production equipment | Own e-commerce, marketplaces, social networks | MEI Registration, CNAE 4781-4/00 | 32% of online retail, R$1.6 billion (2024) | Influencer marketing, educational content, loyalty programs |