Online cut-to-size foam shop

Upholsterers, campervan and boat fitters, market traders, crafters, theatre and prop makers, and DIY customers recovering seats and cushions.

You add a margin to the wholesale price, usually per sheet or per cut piece. Delivery charges and extras such as covers or adhesive add to each order.

• Accurate measuring and cutting
• Pricing and keeping track of stock
• Clear product descriptions and customer service

• Foam used in furniture and upholstery may need to meet UK fire safety rules, so check the foam is suitably rated and what you can say about it
• Foam is flammable, so check storage rules with your insurer and landlord
• Bulky items cost a lot to post, so check courier prices before you set your delivery charges
• Check consumer rules on returns, including how made-to-measure items are treated
• Check whether you need permission to store stock at home
• Public liability and product liability insurance

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £1,500 to £6,000, depending on your website, initial stock, cutting tools and insurance. Your figure will vary with whether you cut orders yourself or have the supplier do it.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £800 to £4,000, depending on your range, prices and how many trade and DIY customers you reach. The estimated minimum time commitment is around 10 hours a week.

Check whether foam for furniture and upholstery must meet UK fire safety rules and what you can say about it. Also check storage rules with your insurer and landlord, consumer rules on made-to-measure returns, courier prices, and public and product liability insurance.