Custom glass etching gifts from home

Gift buyers, engaged couples, wedding and party planners, small businesses ordering branded glassware, and shoppers at craft fairs.

Price per item, with higher prices for custom designs and bulk discounts for sets and events. Sell through an online shop, social media, craft markets and word of mouth.

• Steady hands and an eye for detail
• Basic design, or willingness to learn design software
• Patience with fiddly, repeatable work

• Etching cream and sandblasting dust are hazardous: check safety data sheets and use gloves, eye protection and good ventilation or a proper respirator
• Check whether your city or county requires a home occupation permit and whether your HOA or lease allows it
• Sales tax registration with your state, since you are selling physical goods
• Using logos, sports teams or cartoon characters without permission can cause copyright or trademark problems
• Consider general liability or product liability insurance, especially for items used with food or drink

Startup costs are typically around $300 to $2,000, depending on whether you use etching cream and vinyl stencils or a small sandblasting cabinet, plus your glassware and design supplies. These are estimates, and your own costs will vary.

Monthly revenue is typically around $300 to $2,500, depending on how many orders you take, the items you etch and whether you sell at craft fairs or to event buyers. That is revenue before your costs, not profit.

Check safety data sheets and use gloves, eye protection and good ventilation or a proper respirator. Also check home occupation permit, HOA or lease rules, state sales tax registration, permission for logos or characters, and whether you need liability insurance.