Airbrushed vehicles, murals and wall art

Car and bike enthusiasts, body shops that subcontract art, and businesses or families wanting a feature wall.

Quoted project prices, often from several hundred to a few thousand dollars per job, with deposits up front.

• Advanced airbrush and clear coat finishing
• Design planning and scaling artwork
• Quoting and project management

• Spray booth ventilation, a proper respirator and fire safety, since automotive paints are hazardous
• Check local air quality and zoning rules on spraying paints and disposing of waste, which vary by county and state
• Check with your city or county about a business license and permits for a shop space
• General liability insurance and coverage for client property in your care
• Written agreements on design approval and payment to avoid disputes on large jobs

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on your equipment, workspace and safety gear. Renting a bay or garage, ventilation and insurance can all affect where you land in that range.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many commissions you take, the size of each job and your pricing. Expect to put in at least about 15 hours a week.

Check spray booth ventilation, a proper respirator and fire safety, since automotive paints are hazardous. Also check local air quality and zoning rules on spraying and waste disposal, business license and shop permits, insurance, and written agreements for large jobs.