Home-based custom gasket maker

Small engine and equipment repairers, local mechanics, farm and marine workshops, and small maintenance teams.

Price per gasket or small batch, with a minimum charge per job. Delivery or pick-up can be added to the price.

• Accurate measuring and cutting
• Basic CAD or template drawing
• Knowing which sheet material suits which job
• Reliable communication and quick turnaround

• Council approval for home-based business, plus rules on noise, dust and deliveries
• Never cut or handle materials containing asbestos, and check how to spot old samples that might contain it
• Public liability and product liability insurance, as home policies often exclude business activity
• Make sure the material suits the temperature, pressure and fluids involved, and don't guess when a customer can't say
• Volume is limited, so check whether the work stays worthwhile at your hourly rate

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on your cutting machine, hand tools and sheet material. Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $4,000, depending on how many repairers and workshops you supply.

Check council approval for a home-based business, plus rules on noise, dust and deliveries. Never cut or handle asbestos-containing materials. Check public liability and product liability insurance, as home policies often exclude business activity, and make sure materials suit the temperature, pressure and fluids involved.

You need accurate measuring and cutting, basic CAD or template drawing, knowledge of which sheet material suits which job, and quick, reliable communication. Volume is limited, so check the hourly rate. Expect typically at least around 8 hours a week.