How to Make a Living With Custom Cabinets

Creating custom made cabinets can be a lucrative business.

Creating custom-made cabinets can be an ideal business opportunity if you have expertise in carpentry and woodwork. Consider carefully the many facets involved, including start-up costs and the time and effort it will take to get your business off the ground. Once you get started, the beautiful cabinets you create will promote the quality of your workmanship within your community and will fuel the momentum you need to get your business started.

Instructions

Instructions

1. Consider the following questions before starting. Do you have experience in woodwork or carpentry? Do you possess the necessary skills and expertise to produce high-quality, professional cabinets? Determine if you might benefit from further training to expand your skills prior to starting a business.

2. Establish a name for your business and ensure you are compliant with all government licenses required. Will you be the sole proprietor or form a corporation? Asking such questions will be necessary to properly determine the taxation of your business. Check with your state and local municipality for all the necessary documentation required to operate your business.

3. Obtain the proper insurance for your business. Running your business will require property coverage for supplies and materials in your possession. You will also need coverage for liability issues, such as issues resulting from installation, workmanship or customer dissatisfaction. Hiring employees will likely require more liability coverage.

4. Determine the start-up cost. Build or purchase a storefront for your business, or use additional space available at home. According to Entrepreneur.com, a well-equipped home based workshop can be started anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000. Determine how much space you need to effectively build cabinets, including the room to store supplies and materials. Acquiring new equipment to operate the administrative aspect of the business must be taken into account. Operating on a daily basis will require you secure basic office equipment, such as a computer, invoices, phones, file cabinets and other items.

5. Keep financial records for all services rendered and for business expenses. Consider using software such as QuickBooks to monitor the finances, or hire an accountant or bookkeeper. Keeping accurate books is imperative, and will allow you to consistently gauge the progress of your business.

6. Establish a website for your business. A professional looking website will go a long way in attracting potential customers. Develop a portfolio to display samples you created by providing clear photos showcasing your work. Include business hours of operation, location and phone number. Obtain testimonies from satisfied customers if possible and place their endorsements on your website.

7. Network with people and other businesses in your area. If you know someone at your local hardware store, see if you can mutually benefit each other by referring business prospects. Ask friends and family to spread the word that you are starting your own business.

8. Advertise your business. Place ads in the newspapers or the yellow pages if you have the necessary funds. Attend home and garden shows and set up a vendor booth advertising your services. Consider advertising on Craigslist or other free classified ads in your community.

References

• SBA,Gov: US Small Business Administration: Business Structure and Tax Implications
• Entrepreneur: Business Idea Center: Cabinetmaking Service
• From hobby to career: Transforming your pastime into a Profession; Olivia Crosby, 2001

Resources

• Woodlinks USA
• Woodweb; Woodworking Industry Information
• QuickBooksOnline: Small Business Accounting Made Easy
• WoodIndustryEd.org