Home-Based design studio for small businesses

Local shops, tradespeople, cafes, start-ups, charities and community groups that need a professional look without paying agency prices.

Fixed project fees for a logo, brand pack, website or print job, plus monthly retainers for ongoing updates, social graphics and print refreshes.

• Design software such as Adobe or Figma
• Listening to a client brief
• Managing deadlines and feedback rounds
• Basic pricing and invoicing

• Register as a sole trader with HMRC, or consider a limited company
• Professional indemnity insurance is worth checking, as clients may ask for it
• Use a written contract that covers scope, revisions, payment terms and who owns the final artwork
• Check licences for fonts, stock images and software before using them in client work
• Check whether your landlord or mortgage lender allows you to work from home

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £300 to £2,500, depending on the computer, design software subscriptions, fonts, stock image licences and insurance you need. Many people already own part of the kit, which can keep costs down.

Monthly revenue is typically around £500 to £4,000, depending on how many clients you take on, the projects you offer and your pricing. Branding, websites and print work can be combined to build a steadier income.

Check whether to register as a sole trader with HMRC or consider a limited company. Look into professional indemnity insurance, use a written contract, check font, stock image and software licences, and check your landlord or mortgage lender allows home working.