Inventory, manufacturing process, business success topics for small DTC manufacturers.
bookkeeping tax
Not sure which NAICS code applies to your soap making business? We break down the main codes for handmade soap makers — whether you make cold-process bars, cosmetic products, or sell wholesale to boutiques.
Not sure which NAICS code applies to your candle making business? We break down the right code for handmade candle makers — whether you pour container candles, make pillar candles, or sell wax melts wholesale to boutiques.
Not sure which NAICS code applies to your bakery business? We break down the right codes for home bakers, cottage food producers, retail bakeries, and wholesale baking operations — and explain what it means for your Schedule C and tax filings.
Not sure which NAICS code to use for your jewelry business? We break down the three main codes for handmade jewelry makers — whether you manufacture, wholesale, or sell retail at art shows.
Learn the COGS formula step by step with real-world examples for small manufacturers. We cover what to include, what to exclude, inventory valuation methods, and how to report COGS on your taxes.
QuickBooks is excellent accounting software — but it wasn't built for makers who manufacture products. Here's an honest look at what it does well, where it breaks down for small manufacturers, and how to build a system that actually works.
QuickBooks tracks your money. Craftybase calculates your costs. Here's exactly what each tool does for COGS, why they differ, and how makers use both together.
product updates
A step-by-step guide to Craftybase QuickBooks PO Sync — how to export purchase orders directly to QuickBooks Online, which plans support it, and what's coming next for the integration.
Etsy handles your storefront. It doesn't handle your books. Here's how to track expenses, calculate COGS, prepare for 1099-K, and choose the right bookkeeping software as an Etsy maker.
Etsy handles your storefront, but not your books. We compared 7 bookkeeping tools for Etsy sellers in 2026 on COGS tracking, Etsy integration, and maker-specific features to find the best fit.
handmade success
Sole proprietors pay themselves via owner's draw. S-Corp owners take a salary. Here's how each works, how much to take, and why knowing your COGS comes first.
Etsy buries your shipping label costs. Here's exactly where to find your total Etsy shipping label spend for tax time, three different ways.
Cash basis accounting sounds simpler, but if you hold materials or finished goods, it quietly breaks your inventory tracking. Here's why accrual is the right choice for handmade sellers.
Most bookkeeping tools are built for service businesses. Here's how to find one that actually works when you're making and selling physical products.
Worried about sales tax on handmade items? If you sell on Etsy, good news: Etsy handles it for you. Here's what you still need to know.
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Because they don't know what their products actually cost to make.
Every week, one practical tip on pricing, materials, and COGS — the numbers that turn a busy craft business into a profitable one.
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