Custom printed paper bags for local businesses

Boutiques, restaurants, bakeries, gift shops, wedding and event organisers, and local brands wanting their own packaging.

You charge per bag on each print run, covering printing cost plus your margin, with optional design setup fees. Reorders from the same customer are the steady earner.

• Basic graphic design or working with a designer
• Quoting and managing orders
• Building relationships with printers and customers
• Attention to detail on proofs

• Printing errors can be expensive, always get a written proof signed off before production
• Check you have an ABN and whether GST registration applies to your turnover
• Check you have the right to use customers' logos and artwork, and that you do not copy anyone else's branding
• Public liability and product liability insurance, check what suits your setup
• Long lead times if printing overseas, so check delivery dates and customs before promising customers a date
• Cash flow, as you may need to pay suppliers before customers pay you, so consider deposits on custom orders

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your design tools, sample runs and any deposits paid to printing partners. Cash flow needs care, as you may pay suppliers before customers pay you.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $6,000, depending on order sizes, pricing and how many local businesses you work with. Expect at least 10 hours a week for quoting, artwork and managing orders.

Check you have an ABN and whether GST registration applies to your turnover. Check you have the right to use customers' logos and artwork, and don't copy anyone's branding. Also check insurance, and delivery dates and customs if printing overseas.