Model-Making Workshop with Laser Cutter

Architecture and engineering firms, property developers, sales centres for condo and housing projects, product companies and museums.

Project fees for each model, with higher-value work such as large development models. Some workshops also sell laser cutting or 3D printing time to other makers.

• Operating laser cutters and 3D printers
• CAD and file preparation
• Project quoting and scheduling
• Managing clients and, later, a helper

• Commercial lease terms, zoning for workshop use and a business licence from your municipality
• Fire safety, ventilation and extraction for laser cutting; check with your local fire department and the equipment supplier
• Commercial general liability and equipment or property insurance
• WCB/WSIB registration if you hire, with rules that vary by province
• Large upfront equipment cost and slow months; test demand before committing to a long lease
• GST/HST registration once past the small supplier threshold

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on the unit you rent and the laser cutter, 3D printers and finishing tools you buy. Equipment is a large upfront cost, so test demand before a long lease.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your equipment, how many architecture, engineering and development clients you win, and whether you take on a helper. Expect some slow months.

Check commercial lease terms, zoning for workshop use and your municipal business licence. Ask your local fire department and equipment supplier about fire safety, ventilation and extraction. Also check liability and equipment insurance, WCB or WSIB if you hire, and GST/HST registration.