Craft school in a small rented studio

Regular students paying per term or per class, plus walk-in workshop attendees, gift voucher buyers and groups.

Term fees or class packs, casual workshops, private bookings, materials and firing fees, and sometimes studio membership for experienced students.

• Strong craft skills and teaching ability
• Managing a timetable and bookings
• Looking after equipment and keeping the space safe

• Check with your local council that the premises are approved for classes, including zoning and fire safety requirements
• Public liability insurance and workers compensation insurance if you hire assistant teachers
• Equipment safety, such as kiln ventilation, dust extraction and machinery guarding
• Lease commitments and slow periods, so build in a cash buffer
• Check whether tutors working with children need a Working with Children Check in your state or territory

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on the craft, the equipment you need (such as a kiln or workbenches) and the studio's size and lease terms. These are estimates only.

Check with your local council that the premises are approved for classes, including zoning and fire safety. Also check public liability and workers compensation insurance, equipment safety, and whether tutors working with children need a Working with Children Check in your state or territory.

Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on class numbers, pricing and how full your timetable is. Estimates assume at least about 20 hours a week. Lease commitments and slow periods mean a cash buffer helps.