Start a picture framing shop or studio

Walk-in households, local artists, galleries, interior designers, businesses and anyone framing sports memorabilia or keepsakes.

Made-to-measure framing priced on size and materials, plus extra sales of ready-made frames, prints and mounting services. Trade work can fill quieter days.

• Accurate cutting and joining
• Design advice for customers
• Pricing and quoting
• Basic bookkeeping and stock control

• Lease terms, rent reviews and business rates, so check these carefully before signing
• Public liability insurance, stock and contents cover, and employer's liability insurance if you hire
• Check planning use class for the premises with your council
• Slow periods outside Christmas and gifting seasons, so keep cash in reserve
• Sharp tools and glass, so use sensible workshop safety and storage

Startup costs are typically estimated at around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on the premises, cutting and workshop equipment, and initial stock. Check lease terms, rent reviews and business rates carefully before you sign.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on your location, trade clients and any ready-made frames or gifts you sell. Slower periods outside gifting seasons are likely, so keep cash in reserve.

Check lease terms, rent reviews and business rates, plus public liability, stock and contents insurance, and employer's liability if you hire. Also check the planning use class with your council and use sensible safety for sharp tools and glass.