Short-Run gasket maker from a garage

Classic vehicle and motorcycle restorers, small garages, local maintenance teams, marine and agricultural repairers, and hobby engineers.

Price per gasket or per small batch, usually higher per piece than bulk work because of the quick, custom service. Online orders and trade repeat customers help build volume.

• Careful measuring and cutting
• Basic CAD or pattern-making
• Patience with fiddly work
• Clear customer communication

• Public liability and product liability insurance, and check your home insurance covers business use
• Never use asbestos-containing material, and check the safety data for every material
• Dust, fumes and noise at home, so plan ventilation and safe storage
• Check whether home use needs permission from your landlord, mortgage lender or council
• Make clear what your gaskets are and are not suitable for, such as high-pressure or safety-critical uses

Startup costs are typically around £1,500 to £6,000, depending on your cutting machine, punches, hand tools, materials and insurance. These are estimates, so start with the sizes and materials your first customers need.

Monthly revenue is typically around £400 to £2,500, depending on how many jobs you take and your prices. Estimates suggest at least about 8 hours a week, depending on order volume.

Check public liability and product liability insurance, and whether your home insurance covers business use. Never use asbestos-containing material. Plan for dust, fumes and noise, check permission from your landlord, mortgage lender or council, and state what your gaskets suit.