Online cut-to-size acrylic shop

Crafters, DIYers, picture framers, display makers, model builders and small businesses needing panels for shelves, signs or covers.

You charge per piece based on size and thickness, plus cutting and edge finishing, with postage added. Extras like drilled holes and polished edges lift the average order.

• Accurate measuring and cutting
• Basic online shop setup and photos
• Careful packing and customer service

• Check with your local council whether you need approval to run a home-based business, especially with noise and dust
• Public liability and product liability insurance
• Courier costs and damage for large sheets, so check size limits and packaging
• Workplace safety: dust, offcuts and cutting equipment need proper guards and protective gear
• Register for an ABN, and for GST once you reach the threshold

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on cutting equipment, your first stock of sheets, safety gear, packaging and shop setup. Courier costs for large sheets are also worth factoring in.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your range, pricing and how many orders you can cut and pack. Estimates start from about 10 hours a week.

Check with your local council whether you need approval to run a home-based business, especially with noise and dust. Also check public liability and product liability insurance, workplace safety for dust and cutting equipment, courier size limits, and ABN and GST registration.