6 Products that Never Fail During a Recession for HANDMADE BUSINESSES

With all the uncertainty in today's world and the inevitability of economic downturns, it's more important than ever for artists and small business owners to navigate these challenges with confidence. Finding products that remain in demand—even during tough times—can make all the difference in keeping your handmade business thriving.

In this post, we’re diving into a crucial topic: 6 Products That Never Fail During a Recession. Whether you're an Etsy seller, a fiber artist, or a creative entrepreneur, these recession-proof handmade products will help you maintain steady sales, no matter the economy. Let’s get started!

 

 

 

1. Handmade Soaps & Personal Care Products

Regardless of the economic climate, hygiene and self-care remain top priorities for consumers. In fact, during recessions, there's often a "lipstick effect," where people seek small, affordable luxuries to boost their morale. The beauty and personal care market continues to grow globally, proving its resilience even in tough times.

In the UK, the beauty sector saw an 11% rise in its contribution to the economy in 2023, as consumers turned to affordable indulgences, according to the Financial Times (Source). 

In Canada, the Beauty and Personal Care Market is valued at 8.8 billion CAD in 2024 and is projected to grow to 9.6 billion CAD by 2029, according to Statista (Source). 

In the U.S., a 2023 LendingTree survey found that 75% of Americans consider beauty products essential, with consumers spending an average of $1,754 per year on these purchases. Millennials lead the trend at $2,670/year, followed by Gen Z at $2,048/year (Source).

Even during economic downturns, people still need personal care essentials like soap, shampoo bars, and skincare products. While they may cut back on high-end treatments, they often turn to handmade, natural, and eco-friendly alternatives that feel luxurious while remaining practical and affordable.

Examples of Products to Create:

• Artisan Soaps
• Solid Shampoo & Conditioner Bars 
• Whipped Body Butter 
• Lip Balm & Scrubs 
• Bath Soaks & Salts 
• Beard Oils & Grooming Kits 

Handmade personal care products offer practicality, affordability, and a touch of luxury, making them a recession-proof category for handmade business owners looking to maintain steady sales.

 

2. Candles

During economic downturns, people cut back on dining out, vacations, and spa treatments, but they still seek ways to create a comfortable and cozy home environment. This shift in spending habits makes candles a resilient and in-demand product.

According to Grand View Research, the global candle market was valued at $14 billion USD and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% from 2025 to 2030, reaching over $20 billion by 2030 (Source).

The pandemic catalyzed a surge in candle sales as people sought comfort, relaxation, and stress relief at home. With work-from-home arrangements and self-care trends growing, candles have remained a go-to item for enhancing living spaces and boosting well-being.

Consumers are increasingly drawn to unique, handcrafted candles with natural ingredients and custom scents. Sustainable, non-toxic candles made from soy, coconut, or beeswax are gaining popularity as people become more eco-conscious.

Candles are not just decorative—they serve a functional purpose in case of power outages and emergencies. This makes them a staple product that consumers will continue buying, even during recessions.

Candles are also perfect for birthdays, holidays, housewarming parties, and self-care gifting—ensuring a steady demand year-round.

Examples of Candles to Create: 

• Scented Aromatherapy Candles
• Eco-Friendly Soy or Beeswax Candles
• Wood Wick Candles 
• Decorative & Sculptural Candles
• Luxury or Crystal-Infused Candles 

Whether for self-care, ambiance, emergencies, or gifting, candles remain a reliable product that sells consistently, making them a smart choice for handmade business owners looking to maintain steady sales in any economic climate.

3. Pet Accessories

Pet owners are known for prioritizing their pets' needs—even over their own, making pet products a resilient and high-demand industry during economic downturns.

The demand for pet products continued to grow through both the 2001 and 2008 recessions, proving its recession-proof status, according to MarketWatch (Source).

In 2020, the pet industry surpassed $100 billion USD, marking a 6.7% increase over 2019, according to Supermarket News (Source).

The global pet accessories market was valued at USD 23.4 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 49.6 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 7.9%, according to GM Insights (Source).

Pet owners consistently invest in necessities like food, grooming supplies, and pet care essentials—regardless of economic conditions. Many consider their animals family members, making their well-being a top priority, even during financial downturns.

Beyond essentials, pet owners are increasingly looking for unique, high-quality accessories that reflect their pet’s personality. This has created a thriving market for customized, handmade pet products, such as:ncustom collars, personalized beds, or stylish bandanas.

Examples of Pet Accessories to Make:

• Personalized Pet Collars & ID Tags
• Handmade Dog Bandanas & Bowties
• Washable Pet Beds & Blankets 
• Eco-Friendly Pet Toys
• Handmade Leashes & Harnesses

4. Handmade Children's Clothing

Children’s clothing is always in demand—recession or not—because parents prioritize quality and durability for their kids. Handmade, well-crafted clothing appeals to those looking for long-lasting, unique, and sustainable options, even when budgets are tight.

The global children's wear market was valued at $302.1 billion USD in 2024, according to IMARC Group (Source).

The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2025 to 2033, reaching $437 billion USD by 2033, according to Grand View Research (Source).

The baby cloth diaper market was valued at $2.23 billion USD in 2023 and is projected to reach $4.63 billion USD by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 10.99% (Source).

Examples of Products to Create:

• Sustainable & Organic Baby Clothes 
• Reusable Cloth Diapers 
• Handmade Dresses & Rompers
• Personalized or Embroidered Baby Clothes
• Knit & Crochet Baby Apparel 

By focusing on eco-friendly materials, reusable baby products, and high-quality handmade designs, artisans can tap into profitable and growing markets while offering parents products that align with their values and needs.

5. Reusable Household Items: Sustainable & Cost-Effective

Reusable household items have gained significant global traction, driven not only by environmental sustainability awareness but also by the fact that they save consumers money in the long run. With increasing interest in zero-waste living and eco-friendly alternatives, this is a growing market with endless possibilities for handmade businesses.

Examples of Household Items to Make: 

• Dishcloths & Dish Scrubbers 
• Handwoven or Quilted Napkins
• Beeswax Wraps
• Mop Pads & Cleaning Cloths
• Makeup Remover Pads
• Fabric Grocery & Produce Bags
• Lunch Bags & Snack Bags
• Pot Holders & Oven Mitts

The global home textile market, which includes towels and napkins, was valued at $124 billion USD in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6% from 2024 to 2030 (Source).

The sustainable home decor market, which includes eco-friendly household products, was valued at $331 billion USD in 2021 and is projected to reach $556 billion USD by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5.5% (Source). 

With so many possibilities, there are endless ways to explore reusable household products and tailor them to fit your specific niche—whether it’s minimalist home decor, eco-conscious living, or zero-waste essentials.

Feeling Overwhelmed? Here’s Your Roadmap!

If you’re unsure where to start with launching your handmade business, check out my Ultimate Online Art Business Starter Checklist—a 70-page workbook that breaks down all the steps you need to take to successfully launch your online store. I wish I had this when I started because getting started can feel overwhelming, but this guide lays it all out for you!

 

6. Handmade Warm Accessories:

My fellow crocheters will love this one, another great handmade product that consistently performs well—especially during cold weather months—is warm winter accessories like hats, scarves, and mittens.

Cold weather accessories are essential in many climates, making them a practical purchase rather than a luxury. Handmade items stand out to shoppers looking for unique, high-quality gifts during the holidays. Consumers often opt for affordable luxuries in economic downturns, making stylish and cozy accessories an attractive buy.

The global winter hats market was valued at $25.7 billion USD in 2021 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.0%, reaching $36.4 billion USD by 2030 (Source).

In 2024, the global scarves and shawls market was valued at $24 billion USD and is expected to grow to $45 billion USD by 2032, according to Fortune Business Insights (Source). 

Artisans and small businesses that focus on unique, high-quality, and sustainable products can thrive by leveraging online platforms and strategic marketing to reach a broader audience.

If you’re ready to launch your handmade business, don’t forget to grab my FREE guide to planning your online art business launch! Plus, join my weekly newsletter for more expert tips on growing your creative business.

And there you have it—six handmade products that stay in demand, even during a recession! Whether you're just starting your handmade business or looking to expand your product line, these ideas can help you maintain steady sales no matter the economy! 

Check out 10 Handmade Products to Make and Sell in 2025 or this article where I compare Etsy, Shopify and GoImagine to see which is the best to sell on as a handmade business and artist.