Online drafting and technical drawing supply store

Architecture and design students, hobbyists, technical illustrators, model makers, art teachers and small design firms.

The markup between wholesale and retail prices on each item. Starter kits for students and bundles raise the average order.

• Knowing drafting tools well enough to advise buyers
• Basic online store setup
• Customer service
• Inventory tracking

• Sales tax registration and resale certificate rules, check with your state's tax agency
• Online sales rules vary by state, so check where you must collect sales tax
• Check with your city or county about home business license and home occupation rules if you store stock at home
• Demand is niche and seasonal, with peaks around school terms, so test small before buying lots of stock
• General liability or product liability insurance, ask an insurance agent what you need
• Shipping costs on larger items like drafting boards can eat into margins

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how much stock you buy, your store setup and whether suppliers ship directly to customers. These are estimates, so test small before buying lots of stock.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $600 to $3,500, depending on your range, pricing and the time of year. Demand is niche and seasonal, with peaks around school terms, and shipping costs on larger items can cut into margins.

Check sales tax registration and resale certificate rules with your state tax agency, and where you must collect sales tax. If you store stock at home, check city or county home business rules, and ask an insurance agent about liability cover.