I feel overwhelmed by bookkeeping—where do I even start??

Start small. Begin by tracking your income and expenses in a simple spreadsheet or a bookkeeping app. Categorize transactions into clear groups (materials, shipping, fees, etc.) and set aside time weekly to update your records.

How do I track my income and expenses without it taking up all my time?

Use a bookkeeping tool like QuickBooks, Wave, or even a structured Google Sheet. Automate where possible—link your business bank account and categorize transactions once a week instead of daily.

I’m making sales, but I don’t know if I’m actually making a profit. How do I figure that out?

To determine profitability:

1)Subtract COGS and expenses from total revenue to see your actual profit.

2)Calculate Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) (materials, packaging, labor, etc.).

3)Track business expenses (subscriptions, advertising, website fees, etc.).

How do I price my products correctly so I’m not just breaking even?

Use this formula:
(Material Costs + Labor + Overhead) × Markup = Retail Price
Factor in platform fees and shipping. Many handmade sellers underprice—don’t compete on price, compete on value.

I’ve mixed my personal and business finances—how do I fix this mess?

Open a dedicated business bank account. Use separate debit/credit cards for business purchases. Go back and categorize past transactions to clean up records.