Garage plastic fabrication for local trade clients

Local sign shops, retailers, restaurants, print shops, architects, interior designers and small manufacturers who need custom pieces in small runs.

Quote per job based on material, your time and finishing. Repeat orders from a few trade clients, plus rush work, keep the workshop busy.

• Careful, precise hands-on work
• Reading drawings and measuring accurately
• Basic design or CAD, or willingness to learn
• Quoting jobs and meeting deadlines

• Check zoning, home occupation permit and HOA or lease rules for running a workshop at home
• Solvent cements and plastic dust need good ventilation, dust control and fire safety, so check the safety data sheets for each material
• Never laser-cut PVC, as it releases harmful fumes that also damage equipment
• General liability and product liability insurance, and check whether your homeowner's or renter's policy excludes business use
• Register for sales tax with your state and check how resale certificates work for trade clients

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the cutting, bending and finishing tools, ventilation and materials you buy. These are estimates, so price your own equipment before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many trade clients you win and the jobs you take on. The estimate assumes at least about 10 hours a week, and it is revenue before costs.

Check zoning, home occupation permits, and HOA or lease rules. Check ventilation, dust control and fire safety using each material's safety data sheet, and never laser-cut PVC. Also check insurance, including whether your home policy excludes business use, and state sales tax registration.