FAQ – starting a homebased business
How do I make money with a home craft business?
Where can I sell the ornaments?
Lots of places. You may consider selling at your local craft fair, at the markets, in car boot sales, directly to friends, neighbours and work colleagues, or even via mail order. Most garden centres and gift outlets and home décor stores should show also interest in retailing your ornaments. Larger outlets may well consider trying your products on a consignment basis. This could give you access to high traffic, high volume retailers. With a bit of imagination, we’re sure you’ll think of even more opportunities!
How much do I have to spend?
Not much. You can purchase just one set of moulds or the entire range. It’s entirely up to you.
Materials costs are very low, so your profit margins can be quite high. Small quantities of cement and plaster can be purchased inexpensively from any hardware or building supplies store. As your business grows, you can start purchasing fillers in bulk and really save. You also don’t need to spend money on a shop front or a factory. You can produce moulds.co.nz home and garden ornaments from your garage, garden shed or back yard. Of course, if you want to operate on a grander scale, you could do so.
Finishes like paint and glazes can be bought from art supply stores. How much you spend on these is up to you, but attractive home and garden ornaments can be produced with relatively little outlay on finishes.
Do I have what it takes to run this type of business?
Is moulding easy?
Yes!
Moulding ornaments with our different range of moulds is very simple. You’ll be amazed how you can create such beautiful pieces and valuable stock so easily. Essentially, all you have to know is how to mix cement or plaster, pour it into a mould, leave it to set, and then peel off the mould.
A simple-to-follow guide is available from us on ornament making. We are also available to answer any questions on manufacturing techniques. With the good quality and neat finishings, our moulds are easier than most to prepare for pouring. This also saves you production time, so you can really start pumping out the ornaments! This sets moulds.co.nz apart from its competitors. Many mould manufacturers produce rubber moulds that do not even come with outer casings. Instead, they advise that you support them in a trough of sawdust or similar!
Will I need to operate from a factory to run my home craft business?
Probably not. It depends on how big your business grows. We suggest you start small from home. Your garden shed, back yard or garage should provide ample room for starters.
Will I be able to get raw materials?
Yes, without a doubt. The main fillers for the moulds are common sand, cement and plaster, which are available readily worldwide. Specialty finishing materials should be available locally (e.g., hardware stores, paint stores, cement suppliers, etc).
Is this a full time or part time operation?
Either! You can work as little or as many hours as you choose. Obviously, your sales will dictate the time you need to spend. The more hours spent, the more ornaments produced, the more potential for profit. If you’re looking for a nice little income earner on the side, you can do this too.
