9 Handmade Items That Sell Best on WhatsApp with M-Pesa Payments
9 Handmade Items That Sell Best on WhatsApp with M-Pesa Payments.
9 Handmade Items That Sell Best on WhatsApp with M-Pesa Payments
WhatsApp is one of the best platforms for small businesses in Kenya—especially craft sellers. Pair it with M-Pesa payments, and you’ve got a simple, secure, and effective sales system. But what kind of handmade items actually sell well through WhatsApp?
Here are 9 top-selling handmade products that perform well on WhatsApp with M-Pesa:
1. Beaded Jewelry
From Maasai-style necklaces to modern custom bracelets, beaded jewelry is a favorite. It’s:
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Affordable
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Lightweight for delivery
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Easy to showcase with clear photos
✅ Pro tip: Offer personalization (names, colors) and use status updates to show new designs.
2. Handmade Soap & Skincare Products
Natural soaps, body butters, and scrubs made from local ingredients like shea butter, honey, or turmeric are in high demand.
WhatsApp is great for:
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Answering skincare questions
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Sharing testimonials
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Managing regular re-orders
✅ Pro tip: Bundle products into gift sets for special occasions.
3. African Print Bags & Pouches
Kitenge handbags, laptop sleeves, and toiletry pouches sell well on WhatsApp. Customers love:
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Bold prints
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Limited-edition pieces
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Custom sizes or lining options
✅ Pro tip: Use short videos to show bag size and compartments.
4. Home Décor Items
Handmade items like:
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Woven wall hangings
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Decorative baskets
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Macramé plant holders
are very popular with urban buyers decorating small spaces.
✅ Pro tip: Share before-and-after customer photos to show real-life use.
5. Crocheted or Knitted Wearables
Think baby clothes, scarves, or cute plush toys. These stand out for their uniqueness and craftsmanship.
✅ Pro tip: Post behind-the-scenes photos of the making process—people love knowing the effort behind handmade items.
6. Custom T-Shirts & Apparel
Printed or hand-painted tees with names, slogans, or Afrocentric designs do well—especially as gifts.
WhatsApp helps you:
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Confirm sizes
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Approve design samples
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Collect M-Pesa deposits for bulk orders
7. Handmade Greeting Cards & Stationery
Birthday cards, wedding invites, or inspirational quotes printed or painted on handmade paper sell well around holidays and events.
✅ Pro tip: Offer delivery via rider or Posta and make bulk packs for better profit margins.
8. Beaded or Leather Sandals
These are a hit for casual wear, especially among local fashion lovers. Showcase:
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Footwear design
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Size guide
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Available colors
✅ Pro tip: Ask happy customers to send photos wearing your sandals to post on your WhatsApp status.
9. Recycled or Upcycled Crafts
Eco-conscious items like bottle-cap jewelry, tire-planters, or glass art appeal to a niche but loyal audience.
✅ Pro tip: Educate your customers about the materials—it builds a powerful brand story.
Bonus Tips for Selling on WhatsApp with M-Pesa
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Use WhatsApp Business to set up product catalogs, quick replies, and auto greetings.
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Always confirm M-Pesa payments before processing orders.
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Encourage referrals and group orders—offer discounts for customers who bring friends.
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Share testimonials and user-generated content in your status updates.
