Online typewriter restorer and ribbon seller

Writers, students, hobbyists, collectors, and small businesses or shops wanting a working machine or display piece.

Profit on each restored machine, plus steady smaller sales of ribbons and accessories, and a fee for servicing machines customers send you.

• Mechanical know-how and patience with small parts
• Photographing and describing items clearly
• Packing fragile items safely
• Customer service by email and message

• Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence and whether you can store stock at home
• Check GST/HST and provincial sales tax rules for online sales, including registering once you pass the small supplier threshold
• Typewriters are heavy and fragile, so factor in packing, courier insurance and damage claims
• Solvents and cleaning products need safe storage and ventilation
• In Quebec, check French-language requirements for your website and product information
• Check that commercial general liability insurance covers products you sell and repair

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on the machines, tools and supplies you buy. Monthly revenue is estimated at roughly $600 to $3,000, depending on how many typewriters and supplies you sell.

Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence and whether you can store stock at home. Also check GST/HST and provincial sales tax rules for online sales, and in Quebec, French-language requirements for your website and product information.

Typewriters are heavy and fragile, so factor in packing, courier insurance and damage claims. Also check that commercial general liability insurance covers products you sell and repair, and store solvents and cleaning products safely with good ventilation.