Home lampwork glass studio

Jewelry buyers, gift shoppers, collectors and craft fair visitors, plus other makers who buy beads and components.

You sell finished pieces for a set price each, through an online shop, craft fairs and local shops. Custom orders such as memorial pendants or wedding ornaments can be priced higher.

• Steady hands and patience
• An eye for color and form
• Basic photography to show your work online

• Fire safety and ventilation: check your insurer and local fire rules for torches and gas storage
• Home occupation rules, HOA or lease limits on running a studio at home
• Eye protection made for glasswork, since regular sunglasses are not enough
• Whether your homeowner's or renter's insurance covers business use, and whether you need general liability cover
• Sales tax registration with your state if you sell directly to customers

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on your torch, kiln, glass rods, safety gear and ventilation. These are estimates, so check your insurer's and local fire rules for torches and gas storage before buying.

Check fire safety and ventilation rules with your insurer and local fire authority, plus any home occupation, HOA or lease limits. Also check whether your homeowner's or renter's policy covers business use, and your state's sales tax registration for direct sales.

Monthly revenue is typically around $400 to $2,000, depending on what you make, your prices and where you sell. These are estimates rather than guarantees, and they assume at least about 10 hours a week at the torch.