How Can I Sell My Pinecones?

Turning pinecones into profit means money does grow on trees.

Whoever said, "money doesn't grow on trees," obviously never thought of selling pinecones. For crafty people, pinecones offer versatility in terms of preparation and profitability. They're easy to work with, lightweight and free, which means lower overhead and thus, more income potential. Whether you enjoy crafting and want to sell decorative or functional pieces, or you're looking to reap the financial benefits of backyard clean-up, the market for pinecones can be surprisingly vast.

Things You'll Need

• Craft glue
• Paint brush
• Glitter
• Embellishments
• Ribbon
• Peanut butter
• Gallon-size baggies
• Bird seed
• Twine
• Leaf blower
• Clear plastic bags

Instructions

Holiday Décor

1. Paint a thin, even layer of craft glue on the pinecone.

2. Dip the pinecone into a bowl of glitter and tap off excess against the side of the bowl.

3. Affix holiday embellishments onto a 5-inch piece of ribbon and tie it around the stem of the pinecone.

4. Purchase a booth at a local holiday or craft fair. Display finished pinecones on a table.

Pinecone Bird Feeder

1. Apply a generous amount of peanut butter over the entire pinecone.

2. Place the pinecone into a gallon-size baggie of bird seed, then seal and shake.

3. Tie a piece of twine around the stem of the pinecone.

4. Purchase a booth at a local craft fair or bazaar. Display finished pinecones on a table.

Unfinished Pinecones

1. Clean pinecones prior to packaging. Blow off excess dirt and debris using a leaf blower or hair dryer.

2. Place clean pinecones in plastic bags. Use clear bags, when possible.

3. Research local farmers' markets, florists and yard sales to determine any interest in unfinished pinecones. Negotiate a fair price for bulk purchase.

Tips & Warnings

• Use disposable containers when working with glitter for easier clean-up. Inexpensive paint brushes are useful for glue application. Purchase bulk bird seed from big-box stores.

• Advise all patrons of the use of peanut butter to avoid potentially dangerous allergic reactions. Use safety goggles when working with a leaf blower to avoid eye injury from flying debris. Avoid overuse of craft glue, as saturated areas will not dry properly and cause embellishments to fall off.

References

• Pine Cone Lady: Crafts
• Thrifty Fun: Selling Pine Cones

Resources

• Martha Stewart: Pine Cone Crafts