Typewriter restorer and online seller

Writers, hobbyists, collectors, gift buyers and a few small businesses or film and event props buyers.

Profit on each restored machine, plus sales of ribbons, cases and spares, and a fee for servicing machines people already own.

• Patient mechanical repair
• Spotting good machines at a fair price
• Clear photos and honest descriptions
• Packing fragile heavy items well

• Consumer rights rules apply when you sell to the public as a trader, so describe condition honestly and check the returns rules
• Heavy, fragile machines are easily damaged in the post, so use strong packaging and a courier with insurance
• Check electrical safety if you sell electric models
• Cleaning solvents and oils need safe storage and ventilation
• Check whether your landlord, mortgage lender or council needs to agree to a home workshop
• Register as a sole trader with HMRC and keep records of purchases and sales

Startup costs are typically around £600 to £3,000, depending on the machines, tools, ribbons and packaging you buy. These are estimates, so start small and reinvest as you learn which models sell.

Monthly revenue is typically around £400 to £2,000, depending on how many machines you restore and sell. These are estimates, and it can work as a part-time business from around 8 hours a week.

Check consumer rights rules and returns requirements, and describe condition honestly. Check electrical safety for electric models, courier insurance for heavy items, whether your landlord or lender must agree to a home workshop, and HMRC sole trader registration.