Online niche art supply store

Hobbyists, students and working artists, especially those outside capital cities who can't easily find specialist materials locally.

Retail margin on products sold, plus bundles and starter kits that raise the average order value.

• Online selling and basic product photography
• Packing and posting orders accurately
• Customer service by email

• Get an ABN and check when you must register for GST
• Postage costs on heavy or fragile items such as glass, canvas and liquids
• Rules on posting some products, like aerosols and flammable solvents, so check with Australia Post and your couriers
• Australian Consumer Law obligations on refunds and returns
• Product liability and business insurance, and storage of stock at home (check council rules for home-based businesses)
• Competition from big retailers and marketplaces, so avoid competing on price alone

Estimates suggest startup costs typically sit around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how much stock you hold, your website setup and the range you choose. Treat it as a guide and consider starting with a focused range.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on your niche, your range and how well you reach customers. Time starts from about 12 hours a week, so it can begin as a side project. Revenue is before costs.

Get an ABN and check when you must register for GST. Check postage costs for heavy or fragile items, rules for posting aerosols and flammable solvents with Australia Post and your couriers, Australian Consumer Law on refunds and returns, and your insurance.