Online drafting supplies store
Sell drafting boards, scales, pens and tools online to students, architects and hobbyists across Canada.
- C$2k-9k
- Side hustle
- Online
Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.
What it is
A specialist web shop for drafting tools such as boards, T-squares, scales, technical pens, templates and compasses. You buy from wholesalers or manufacturers and ship to customers, either from a spare room or through a supplier who ships for you.
Your first three steps
- Contact Canadian distributors and a few manufacturers to compare wholesale prices, minimum orders and shipping terms
- Set up a simple online shop with a small range, such as 30 to 50 products, and clear shipping rates across Canada
- Reach out to local design and engineering student groups and drafting teachers with a starter-set offer
Who pays
Architecture, engineering and design students, small architecture and engineering firms, teachers, model makers and hobby draftspeople.
How it makes money
You earn the mark-up between wholesale and shop price on each item. Bundles such as starter sets and refill packs raise the average order.
Skills that help
- Knowing drafting tools well enough to advise buyers
- Basic online shop setup and photography
- Stock and order tracking
- Customer service
Watch out for
- Check when you must register for GST/HST and how provincial sales tax (PST or QST) applies to online sales in each province
- Imported stock may involve duties and customs fees, so check landed costs before setting prices
- Big retailers and marketplaces compete on price, so a niche range and good advice matter
- Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence if you store stock at home
- Quebec customers may expect French-language product information, so check the rules if you sell there
🔒 Full research report for Canada
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start an online drafting supplies store in Canada?
Startup costs are typically estimated at around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on how much stock you buy, your shop setup and whether a supplier ships for you. Treat this as an estimate and check landed costs on imported stock.
How much can an online drafting supplies store make?
Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on your range, pricing and how well you reach students and small firms. The estimate starts from about 8 hours a week.
What should I check before selling drafting supplies online in Canada?
Check when you must register for GST/HST and how provincial sales tax (PST or QST) applies to online sales. Also check duties and customs fees on imported stock, and French-language expectations if you sell to Quebec customers.
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