Start a home-based picture framing business

Local households, artists and photographers, plus small businesses such as cafes, offices and galleries that need work framed.

You charge per frame based on size, moulding, mount and glass choice, with a mark-up on materials plus your time. Repeat trade work from artists and interior designers helps build steady income.

• Accurate measuring and cutting
• Good eye for colour and design
• Patience and attention to detail
• Friendly customer advice

• Check your lease, mortgage terms or council rules before running a workshop from home
• Public liability insurance, and check that your home insurance covers equipment and stock
• Glass cutting and mount cutters are sharp, so plan safe storage and handling
• Dust and noise from cutting may affect neighbours, so check what is acceptable
• Customers' artwork may be valuable or sentimental, so agree handling and damage terms in writing

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £1,500 to £6,000, depending on the equipment you buy, such as a mount cutter and frame joining kit, and how much moulding and mount board you stock at the start.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £500 to £2,500, depending on how many hours you work, how many local customers you find and the type of framing you offer. The idea suggests at least 8 hours a week.

Check your lease, mortgage terms or council rules first. Also check public liability insurance and whether home insurance covers equipment and stock. Plan safe storage for glass and mount cutters, and consider dust and noise for neighbours.