Home typewriter repair workshop

Writers, students, collectors, hobbyists, and people who inherited a family typewriter. Some small offices and shops also pay for repairs.

Flat price for a standard cleaning and tune-up, hourly or quoted pricing for bigger repairs, plus parts and ribbons. Some repairers also restore and resell machines.

• Mechanical aptitude and patience
• Fine hand work with small parts
• Clear communication with customers about quotes and timelines

• Check whether your city or county requires a home occupation permit or general business license, and whether your HOA or lease allows it
• Check shipping insurance and packing methods, since typewriters are heavy and easily damaged in transit
• Parts can be hard to find, so quote carefully and be upfront when a machine isn't worth repairing
• Solvents and cleaners need safe storage and good ventilation
• Consider general liability insurance, especially if customers visit your home

Estimates typically run around $300 to $1,500 to start, depending on your tools, cleaning supplies, parts stock and any insurance. These are estimates, so list what you already own before budgeting.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $300 to $1,500, depending on how many machines you service and what you charge. The estimate assumes roughly 6 or more hours a week, so it suits a part-time start.

Things to check: whether your city or county requires a home occupation permit or general business license, and whether your HOA or lease allows it. Also check shipping insurance, safe storage and ventilation for solvents, and general liability insurance.