Custom glass and mirror cutting from a home workshop

Homeowners, DIYers, picture framers, cabinet makers, handymen and small contractors who need odd sizes without buying a full sheet.

Price per piece based on size, thickness and edge work, plus a minimum charge per order. Repeat trade customers bring steady small orders, and you can add a delivery fee.

• Steady hands and attention to measurements
• Safe handling of sharp and heavy materials
• Basic quoting and customer communication

• Check with your city or county whether a home occupation permit is needed, and check HOA or lease rules on customer pickups and deliveries
• General liability and product liability insurance, since broken or badly cut glass can cause injury; home policies often exclude business use
• Tempered glass cannot be cut after tempering, so you must order it to size and be clear with customers about this
• Cut and lifting injuries, so use cut-resistant gloves, eye protection and proper lifting, and store sheets upright and secured
• Check whether installing glass for customers needs a contractor license in your state; cutting alone usually is not the same as installing

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on your cutting equipment, stock and safety gear. Home insurance policies often exclude business use, so check general liability and product liability cover separately.

Check with your city or county whether a home occupation permit is needed, and check HOA or lease rules on pickups and deliveries. Also check whether installing glass needs a contractor license in your state.

You need steady hands, careful measuring and safe handling of sharp, heavy sheets, plus basic quoting. Use cut-resistant gloves, eye protection and proper lifting. Tempered glass cannot be cut afterward, so explain this to customers.