Online specialty paint and supplies shop

DIY homeowners, furniture upcyclers, hobbyists and small painting crews buying supplies online.

Margin on products sold, plus bundles such as starter kits, and shipping charges. Tutorials and how-to guides help bring in repeat buyers.

• Online selling and basic marketing
• Product knowledge of paints and finishes
• Order handling and customer service

• Shipping paint can be heavy, and some solvent-based products have shipping restrictions, so check carrier rules
• VOC and other paint rules vary by state, so check which products you can sell where
• Check your state's sales tax registration, including rules for out-of-state buyers
• Check whether your state has a paint stewardship program with fees
• General liability and product liability insurance
• If you store stock at home, check HOA or lease rules and fire safety

Estimates suggest startup costs typically run around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on whether you hold stock yourself or use suppliers who ship for you. Insurance is also worth including in your budget.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $8,000, depending on your niche, product range and marketing. Plan on at least about 10 hours a week for orders and customer service.

Check carrier rules, since paint is heavy and some solvent-based products have shipping restrictions. Also check state VOC rules, sales tax registration including out-of-state buyers, paint stewardship fees, and HOA or lease rules for home storage.