5 Ways to Make Extra Money

Don’t be shy about using your hobbies or interests to make money--everyone’s moaning about the economy, but people are still spending. A friend who has been doing calligraphy for years recently turned it into a successful business. Walk dogs, organize closets, mow lawns…you’d be surprised what people will pay for if you ask.


Can you program a cell phone or set up an iPod? You’re several steps ahead of most of the population. Bonus points if you can set up a wireless network (I had to bribe a friend with Rice Krispy Treats to get this done).

Scrapbookers—there are a zillion people out there who have photos, but no time or materials. If you already have the supplies, make the most of ‘em! Design some sample pages and ask friends for referrals. Or rent your Cricut or other equipment to trusted people for a few dollars a day.

Do you sew? Ask around and see how much places charge to hem pants and do other simple repairs. You can probably beat their prices, since you don’t have to pay for a store and advertising. Or match their prices and provide pickup/drop-off service (which is easy if your customers are your co-workers).


Babysit. If you know any parents, you know they need a date night. And they’d rather have someone they know watching their little Snookums than a random teenager who’ll be texting the whole time anyhow. (Photo credit: Reanna Lacy, another friend making money from her hobby.)

If you use a lot of a product, consider becoming a rep for that company (think Avon, etc). You can get your products at a lower price and possibly make money selling to friends. Investigate carefully, though—you don’t want to get involved in frequent meetings that chew up your time and gas money to attend.

There are tons of ideas out there and plenty of money to be made. So next time somebody says, “I wish I could get somebody to ________”, step up and line your pockets with some green!