Online drafting and technical drawing supplies shop

Architecture, design and engineering students, small architecture and drafting studios, schools and TAFE courses, and hobbyists.

You buy at wholesale and sell at a markup. Extra income comes from student starter kits, bulk orders for courses and repeat orders of consumables like pens, leads and paper.

• Knowing drafting tools and what students need
• Basic online shop setup and product photos
• Stock tracking and order packing
• Customer service

• Get an ABN and check when you need to register for GST
• Australian Consumer Law rules on refunds and faulty goods apply to online sales
• Demand is niche and many students buy from big retailers, so avoid over-buying stock at the start
• Check with your local council whether running a business from home, including storing stock, needs approval
• Consider public liability or product liability insurance, and check import costs and GST if you buy from overseas

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how much stock you buy, your website setup and any imported items. Avoid over-buying stock at the start, as demand is niche.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your product range, pricing and how well you reach students and studios. Expect at least 8 hours a week for orders and customer service.

Check you have an ABN and when to register for GST, and how Australian Consumer Law rules on refunds and faulty goods apply. Also check with your council about storing stock at home, insurance, and import costs and GST on overseas purchases.