Stone worktop and feature cutting workshop
Cut and finish stone worktops, hearths and window sills to order from a small rented workshop.
- £8k-35k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in the UK, not guarantees.
Official data
1,275 UK companies in this field, 27% registered in the last 2 years
SIC 23700 “Cutting, shaping and finishing of stone”. Source: Companies House, November 2026.
What it is
A small workshop where you cut, shape, polish and finish stone to measure, such as kitchen worktops, vanity tops, hearths, sills and thresholds. You can work from templates supplied by fitters or measure up yourself.
Your first three steps
- Get training or work alongside an experienced stonemason, and look at stone cutting courses or NVQs in your area
- Price up a unit with power, water and drainage, and a basic bridge saw, hand tools and lifting kit (second hand can cut costs)
- Introduce yourself to local kitchen fitters, builders and stone suppliers and offer to cut a sample piece
Who pays
Homeowners, kitchen fitters, builders, interior designers and small developers.
How it makes money
Fixed price per job based on stone type, size and finish, plus extra for cut-outs, edge profiles and fitting. Many jobs are repeat work from trade customers.
Skills that help
- Accurate measuring and marking out
- Safe use of stone saws and polishing tools
- Eye for finish and detail
- Dealing with trade customers and quoting
Watch out for
- Silica dust from cutting stone is a serious health risk: check HSE guidance on dust extraction, water suppression and respiratory protection
- Public liability insurance, and employer's liability once you hire anyone
- Heavy slabs: plan safe lifting, storage and delivery, and check your equipment insurance
- Check planning, business rates and noise rules with your council before taking on a unit
- Mistakes on expensive slabs can be costly, so agree templates and sign-off in writing
🔒 Full research report for UK
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start a stone worktop workshop?
Estimates suggest startup costs typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on the unit you rent, the cutting and polishing equipment you buy, and your dust control and insurance needs.
How much can a stone cutting workshop earn?
Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around £2,000 to £9,000, depending on how many jobs you take and their size. Mistakes on expensive slabs can be costly. You might expect around 30 hours a week or more.
What safety and legal points should I check before cutting stone?
Silica dust is a serious health risk, so check HSE guidance on dust extraction, water suppression and respiratory protection. Check public liability insurance, and employer's liability once you hire anyone. Check planning, business rates and noise rules with your council.
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