Andy, great video as always. I’ll have to agree and disagree respectfully. I bought my CNC in January and without knowing anyone with a CNC or CAD/CAM software. I jumped aboard head first. I knew the CNC and software would be pricey, but looking back over the last three months, the additional ‘stuff’ I need up costing more. Other than you and Garrett from IDC woodcraft, that’s about all the knowledge I had. I ended up buying a Sienci MK2 48x30 and enjoyed assembling and learning all about it. When there is an issue, I could figure it out. I started with making some stuff for myself and family members. Word of mouth spread quickly and now have requests from many and I can barely keep up with demand. I’m just about to break even with all the expenses I started with, and just put in an order for the Altmill which is a beast! Thanks to your inspiration and knowledge to go from 0-100 and I’m not even a pro yet. I still have lots to learn but excited to become better with every project. I may sign up for your course since there is so much to learn.
As a 67 year old man approaching retirement and looking to try and make a side hustle of my making, as a part-time income only, I have found your insights and the insights of some other RUclipsrs, including some that you have interviewed, to be most useful. My main problem is that I am an extreme introvert and the idea of going out to sell my services is something that I really cannot contemplate. If you are not such an Introvert as I you will not understand just how difficult is would be to try and sell, even at the local craft fair. So, your comments about selling to the sellers struck a chord as did another RUclipsr who noted that the vast majority of his work came from other workshops that had run out of capacity to make enough of their own products and were farming out that production to small shops like his. I found both of these to be very encouraging to the point that I am looking forward to making a few things to use as demonstrations of what I can achieve. Many thanks.
Great info, I REALLY appreciate the info. Everyone who is looking at "return on investment" please don't exclude the time you spend from that equation. Your time is probably the most valuable expenditure. If you spend $3000 on a CNC and then make $3000 next month selling items you made, you owe it to yourself to track the amount of hours you spend in the shop, milling, sanding, prepping, learning, marketing, selling, doing your taxes, paying for shipping, preparing items to ship, purchasing more supplies, managing social media etc. It's not just about recouping your cash investment with sales. I know everyone already knows this, it's common sense and this video is certainly not implying this isn't important. Just making that point for anyone considering jumping into this venture.
@@michaelgmyersvery cool. May I ask where/how you will be selling? I found a local makers/pickers market that rents booths. I took some of my stuff there and they asked me to rent a booth when one opens with them.
Thank you! One of the most informational videos I have ever watched. Having been a small business owner for the past 30 years - you nailed it dude! You reminded me of some things I knew but have a need to revive. I own a small copy/print shop (est 1899) and am trying to add laser as a side line to my existing customer base.
I've been working with cnc machines at home for a while. This is also my profession, but it is different. I've been doing it at home for several years. First with a small machine, which I quickly outgrew. So I got a bigger one. Similar to what you have. And I'm also shocked to see the first pieces. I have improved a lot. You give a lot of good advice, all of which require a complete person. Or more. Great video, keep it up. A Hungarian guy 💪🤘
Very impressive video, a long video but the content and passion put in is amazing,, thanks Andy, inspiring, I’m a aging adult that has been through a large plant closure and was hoping to work a couple more years at the current employer, but, my mind set changing and I don’t if I continue to work for another huge corporation the rest of my days, I built a bench top CNC to make pcb boards for a hobby, then built a 4 foot by 8 foot floor model, to expand my limits, you and your channel have GI even me some clarity on where I may go next,, thank you for all your efforts and time to help us all ,,
I've been running multiple businesses involving engineering/ cad design / machining for over a decade and can confidently say that unless you make your life revolve around this you'll never get a positive return. I think machining is a magical thing but it requires many thousands of hours of prototyping and testing of a single product before you can ever start to make positive sales.
Lanterns-two holidays in fall, and one in winter. Leaves work for both and have longer shelf life in decorating sense. Also- snowflakes lantern needs to be painted white or red so it matches the rest of the Christmas decor in peoples homes :)
Andy, Great lecture on small business and your journey! My question, sequencing... you have an idea and then go to a design software to CAD view your idea? I'm a total novice and looking at purchasing a CNC machine. My thought is prior to purchase, work on a CAD/CAM design because the learning process on how to use the software is critical before I commit big $$. I don't want to detract from my enthusiasm. Thoughts? Alton W.
Speaking from experience (often called wisdom thru mistakes), you are right on. I have a decent technical/graphic background, but jumped right in and got a CRC router •before• I learned the software. BIG mistake! I’m spending way too much time working out there how and not nearly enough time with the what - ie, MAKING the products! Back to you, tho: maybe find someone with a cnc like you want or at least who idea the software you will, and see of they will mentor you and/or let you try out your designs. Maybe find a local makers space. But DO learn software so you will be much less frustrated by the obstacles you see between you and your production (by obstacle, I mean your knowledge of the software). Good luck!
Used to sell alot of small products on ebay. People would always complain about the fees ebay charges. I consider it this way. You have to pay for traffic one way or another. So selling on etsy, being a wholesaler, booth at retail shop, esc. You have to pay for eye balls.
This video really hit home with me when it comes to self doubt. I have an illness that has caused me to spend most of my time in bed. Years ago, I started making jewelry as a hobby. Just necklaces and bracelets. I literally have about 200 pieces just sitting here. Thats after I've given hundreds away. Many people have told me I should sell them. But self doubt has caused me to shy away from charging people. A few days ago I decided that come springtime, I am definitely gonna atleast try one craft show. After thinking a bit, I decided to start making some different woodworking projects to sell also, possibly even bringing a friend into this attempt, cause he is also unemployed, plus he has a whole wood shop in his garage, that has a couple tools that I don't have, and I have a few that he doesn't. I have a source for milled hardwood that is almost free. But the pieces are mostly small 2 to 3 ft long and 8 to 10 inches wide and 1 inch thick. I get a truckload for 20 bucks. Its their scraps. Everytime I go, I get lucky and find a few pieces that are longer or thicker or wider. Always one or two 8x8s or 10x10s that are 2 to 3 ft long. So I am still in the design faze for most projects, but I have a few that are already made and have all the kinks worked out. So there is zero money(except the 20 bucks) or even time investment involved, cause they are both hobbies I enjoy anyway, and I already have so much jewelry materials like beads, charms, clasps, and rings stocked up. So I have literally nothing to lose, besides the fees of whatever markets I choose. And if my friend splits it, then I have company and only half the risk. This video has given me alot of great ideas and also alot of confidence in this endeavor. Thanks a million. Seeing as I'm getting wood that is probably atleast 10 dollars a board ft for probably 10 cent a board ft. there is little chance for failure, but I still let a lf doubt stop me. After writing this comment, I feel really silly for letting that stop me.
Good job pressing on through the difficulties. I’m in a similar situation with a newly developing business and can commiserate, but it’s exciting as well! The wood source is a true treasure trove for you!
I'd bet that the difference with the lanterns was that you were coming up in searches for "jack o lantern" in the fall. Maybe changing the name for the "snowflake lantern" to "snowflake christmas lights" would help.
I can honestly say that starting a business is the most exciting for me....... but the fear, doubt, and motivation slow me down............ That's where I am at right now with my acrylic business in your opinion...is the Shapeoko 5 pro the best beginner CNC? regards, Rick
Do you have a link to buy your lanterns file please … just getting started these are stunning , this vid is brilliant just ordered my CNC so looking forward to my journey with you….
yeaah I keep getting slowed down by self doubt and I get told I dont give myself enough credit from other woodworkers which helps me over come it most times lol
Andy, I have become aware of the need to produce obsolute aftermarket parks. I first thought of casting parts and have now thought of using a CNC router for manfacturing . Most of the parts will be of plastic and rubber. What maching would you suggest for producing these parts?
I find with selling i cant kep up with demand witha hobby cnc its too slow for the items i make. ok for signs but not 3d carves. finsing takes time to make it nice to help get the most from your projects Good video thanks for sharing your experiences
My lanterns are slot together flat pack design and i use velum as a light difuser and I offer options on lighting LED not tea lamp and remote control and I post videos and pics and ppl love them i just sell to friends on fb most i dont even know but word of mouth i keep getting friends requests to see my products as I dont set my profile public its friends only
Really HATE the burn. It stops me from doing anything laser related. It just look so cheap and nasty. Anyone have tips on hiding or minimising that burn look?
You need some work on your accounting analysis. There is no cost of sales tax. You collect sales tax and pay it back to the state. You also do not show any cost for your equipment, consumables (bits etc) overhead (portion of your home it uses electricity it uses insurance etc). Your net is not real and is inflated. You also seemingly did not count your fabrication time. I’m not sure if the h[urs you listed included that or just the sales trip. I would also assume there was cost for the show. Food hotel rental etc. I like what your doing but leading people to think they can easily make 100k is not practical in my opinion
Andy, great video as always. I’ll have to agree and disagree respectfully. I bought my CNC in January and without knowing anyone with a CNC or CAD/CAM software. I jumped aboard head first. I knew the CNC and software would be pricey, but looking back over the last three months, the additional ‘stuff’ I need up costing more. Other than you and Garrett from IDC woodcraft, that’s about all the knowledge I had. I ended up buying a Sienci MK2 48x30 and enjoyed assembling and learning all about it. When there is an issue, I could figure it out. I started with making some stuff for myself and family members. Word of mouth spread quickly and now have requests from many and I can barely keep up with demand. I’m just about to break even with all the expenses I started with, and just put in an order for the Altmill which is a beast! Thanks to your inspiration and knowledge to go from 0-100 and I’m not even a pro yet. I still have lots to learn but excited to become better with every project. I may sign up for your course since there is so much to learn.
Thank you @ifwooddesigns for the encouragement.
As a 67 year old man approaching retirement and looking to try and make a side hustle of my making, as a part-time income only, I have found your insights and the insights of some other RUclipsrs, including some that you have interviewed, to be most useful. My main problem is that I am an extreme introvert and the idea of going out to sell my services is something that I really cannot contemplate. If you are not such an Introvert as I you will not understand just how difficult is would be to try and sell, even at the local craft fair.
So, your comments about selling to the sellers struck a chord as did another RUclipsr who noted that the vast majority of his work came from other workshops that had run out of capacity to make enough of their own products and were farming out that production to small shops like his.
I found both of these to be very encouraging to the point that I am looking forward to making a few things to use as demonstrations of what I can achieve.
Many thanks.
Thanks for the message! We all have limitations but by identifying them we can come up with a plan to still get the results that we desire!
Great info, I REALLY appreciate the info. Everyone who is looking at "return on investment" please don't exclude the time you spend from that equation. Your time is probably the most valuable expenditure. If you spend $3000 on a CNC and then make $3000 next month selling items you made, you owe it to yourself to track the amount of hours you spend in the shop, milling, sanding, prepping, learning, marketing, selling, doing your taxes, paying for shipping, preparing items to ship, purchasing more supplies, managing social media etc. It's not just about recouping your cash investment with sales. I know everyone already knows this, it's common sense and this video is certainly not implying this isn't important. Just making that point for anyone considering jumping into this venture.
Well said. I think the $ per hour is a lot less than we think it is once you factor all those things in.
Perfect timing! Getting ready to ramp up my side hustle for the first time!
Great to hear. Enjoy!
Hope to be there soon myself
@@michaelgmyersvery cool. May I ask where/how you will be selling? I found a local makers/pickers market that rents booths. I took some of my stuff there and they asked me to rent a booth when one opens with them.
Thank you! One of the most informational videos I have ever watched. Having been a small business owner for the past 30 years - you nailed it dude! You reminded me of some things I knew but have a need to revive. I own a small copy/print shop (est 1899) and am trying to add laser as a side line to my existing customer base.
that's a masterclass of small business....not just side hustles and/or wood working. Well done Andy.
Thanks so much! Glad it was helpful
I've been working with cnc machines at home for a while. This is also my profession, but it is different. I've been doing it at home for several years. First with a small machine, which I quickly outgrew. So I got a bigger one. Similar to what you have. And I'm also shocked to see the first pieces. I have improved a lot. You give a lot of good advice, all of which require a complete person. Or more. Great video, keep it up. A Hungarian guy 💪🤘
15 years of being out of woodworking… about to get back in!
Woohoo!
this is gold man, thank you for sharing
Very impressive video, a long video but the content and passion put in is amazing,, thanks Andy, inspiring, I’m a aging adult that has been through a large plant closure and was hoping to work a couple more years at the current employer, but, my mind set changing and I don’t if I continue to work for another huge corporation the rest of my days, I built a bench top CNC to make pcb boards for a hobby, then built a 4 foot by 8 foot floor model, to expand my limits, you and your channel have GI even me some clarity on where I may go next,, thank you for all your efforts and time to help us all ,,
Awesome! Glad you enjoyed it! 😀
Hi Andy, I'm only 10 minutes into the video but I feel that this would make a great pod cast series.
It does!
Excellent! Thanks for all of your hard work and advice.
My pleasure!
Wow a whole 4 yrs of experience in only 3 hours. Amazing
Great video very informative.
I've been running multiple businesses involving engineering/ cad design / machining for over a decade and can confidently say that unless you make your life revolve around this you'll never get a positive return. I think machining is a magical thing but it requires many thousands of hours of prototyping and testing of a single product before you can ever start to make positive sales.
Andy,
I just came across your channel. GREAT STUFF!!! Thanks for sharing your insight!
Lanterns-two holidays in fall, and one in winter. Leaves work for both and have longer shelf life in decorating sense. Also- snowflakes lantern needs to be painted white or red so it matches the rest of the Christmas decor in peoples homes :)
Trays are a good thing especially if they have lateral support to allow stacking. I use 60 in my shop and I want more
the lanterns even make good night lights and ppl really like them for various seasons
Some great tips, Andy!
Thank you for all the insight
Thank you, very encouraging. 👍
You got it! 👍
Andy, Great lecture on small business and your journey! My question, sequencing... you have an idea and then go to a design software to CAD view your idea? I'm a total novice and looking at purchasing a CNC machine. My thought is prior to purchase, work on a CAD/CAM design because the learning process on how to use the software is critical before I commit big $$. I don't want to detract from my enthusiasm. Thoughts?
Alton W.
Speaking from experience (often called wisdom thru mistakes), you are right on. I have a decent technical/graphic background, but jumped right in and got a CRC router •before• I learned the software. BIG mistake! I’m spending way too much time working out there how and not nearly enough time with the what - ie, MAKING the products! Back to you, tho: maybe find someone with a cnc like you want or at least who idea the software you will, and see of they will mentor you and/or let you try out your designs. Maybe find a local makers space. But DO learn software so you will be much less frustrated by the obstacles you see between you and your production (by obstacle, I mean your knowledge of the software). Good luck!
Thank you Andy!
One your best for RUclips Mate
You earned a sub my friend👍
Welcome!
I like that organizer for wax paper etc
Good walk through though!
Used to sell alot of small products on ebay. People would always complain about the fees ebay charges. I consider it this way. You have to pay for traffic one way or another. So selling on etsy, being a wholesaler, booth at retail shop, esc. You have to pay for eye balls.
I think this is a good video. 3 "P"s; Product, placement and pricing.
those lanterns sell good ive made so many i got tired of making them lol
People get hurt but don't die then they come back again
How many products do you bring to a show? I mean both unique products and quantity.
This video really hit home with me when it comes to self doubt. I have an illness that has caused me to spend most of my time in bed. Years ago, I started making jewelry as a hobby. Just necklaces and bracelets. I literally have about 200 pieces just sitting here. Thats after I've given hundreds away. Many people have told me I should sell them. But self doubt has caused me to shy away from charging people. A few days ago I decided that come springtime, I am definitely gonna atleast try one craft show. After thinking a bit, I decided to start making some different woodworking projects to sell also, possibly even bringing a friend into this attempt, cause he is also unemployed, plus he has a whole wood shop in his garage, that has a couple tools that I don't have, and I have a few that he doesn't. I have a source for milled hardwood that is almost free. But the pieces are mostly small 2 to 3 ft long and 8 to 10 inches wide and 1 inch thick. I get a truckload for 20 bucks. Its their scraps. Everytime I go, I get lucky and find a few pieces that are longer or thicker or wider. Always one or two 8x8s or 10x10s that are 2 to 3 ft long. So I am still in the design faze for most projects, but I have a few that are already made and have all the kinks worked out. So there is zero money(except the 20 bucks) or even time investment involved, cause they are both hobbies I enjoy anyway, and I already have so much jewelry materials like beads, charms, clasps, and rings stocked up. So I have literally nothing to lose, besides the fees of whatever markets I choose. And if my friend splits it, then I have company and only half the risk. This video has given me alot of great ideas and also alot of confidence in this endeavor. Thanks a million. Seeing as I'm getting wood that is probably atleast 10 dollars a board ft for probably 10 cent a board ft. there is little chance for failure, but I still let a lf doubt stop me. After writing this comment, I feel really silly for letting that stop me.
Good job! We all have things that hold us back. Keep it up
Good job pressing on through the difficulties. I’m in a similar situation with a newly developing business and can commiserate, but it’s exciting as well! The wood source is a true treasure trove for you!
I'd bet that the difference with the lanterns was that you were coming up in searches for "jack o lantern" in the fall. Maybe changing the name for the "snowflake lantern" to "snowflake christmas lights" would help.
I can honestly say that starting a business is the most exciting for me.......
but the fear, doubt, and motivation slow me down............ That's where I am at right now with my acrylic business
in your opinion...is the Shapeoko 5 pro the best beginner CNC?
regards, Rick
Yes
wow thats really good profits i cant match that. but just one of me and one machine lol
Do you have a link to buy your lanterns file please … just getting started these are stunning , this vid is brilliant just ordered my CNC so looking forward to my journey with you….
yeaah I keep getting slowed down by self doubt and I get told I dont give myself enough credit from other woodworkers which helps me over come it most times lol
Andy,
I have become aware of the need to produce obsolute aftermarket parks. I first thought of casting parts and have now thought of using a CNC router for manfacturing . Most of the parts will be of plastic and rubber. What maching would you suggest for producing these parts?
I find with selling i cant kep up with demand witha hobby cnc its too slow for the items i make. ok for signs but not 3d carves. finsing takes time to make it nice to help get the most from your projects
Good video thanks for sharing your experiences
where do you find your kiln fdried hardwoods? I live in Indiana and have trouble finding it thats affordable to use in projects
Three A rule assessment, agnolage and act
sometimes i ask my customers what they like by first showing the simulation preview before I ever cut a pc into my materials
where do you get your designs?
So how about power consumption? Is that something I need to be aware of when using a Shapeoko 4 CNC Router?
Shoot build a group setting where offers can come in by customers and we can pull work orders that we feel we can fill work as a collective
How much for that organizer? Id like to try one out. would you be willing to sell the file?
In that situation why not ask to members online and a few of you each make say 100 each and send order in then everyone wins and it helps each out
Biology is key be it imperative or to fuel hate, love or ego
The 3 D rule Diversify
Where can you find shows to attend?
Thank you 🔨🔨🔨, 😊
Google, Facebook Events, Word of mouth
@@AndyBirdBuilds thank you for the reply!
flags has been my best business and religious 3d crosses
but they ake a lot of time to carve and finish lol
My lanterns are slot together flat pack design and i use velum as a light difuser and I offer options on lighting LED not tea lamp and remote control and I post videos and pics and ppl love them
i just sell to friends on fb most i dont even know but word of mouth i keep getting friends requests to see my products as I dont set my profile public its friends only
Really HATE the burn. It stops me from doing anything laser related. It just look so cheap and nasty.
Anyone have tips on hiding or minimising that burn look?
I guess you can't tell them the answer to fear of failure is prayer can you :)
and 1 offs are like you say low to on investment stay clear unless you reach the market of ppl whos willing to pay more
Subbed because I’d feel bad if I just entered and wasn’t a subscriber
Thanks for being honest. I'm glad you're here!
all first responder flags and military branches sell good
27 bucks to join a group get real!
Not even on your worst day?
Church
plastic wrap in cardboard box uhg most aggrivationg thing ever lol
Yo, tissue boxes
You need some work on your accounting analysis. There is no cost of sales tax. You collect sales tax and pay it back to the state. You also do not show any cost for your equipment, consumables (bits etc) overhead (portion of your home it uses electricity it uses insurance etc). Your net is not real and is inflated. You also seemingly did not count your fabrication time. I’m not sure if the h[urs you listed included that or just the sales trip. I would also assume there was cost for the show. Food hotel rental etc.
I like what your doing but leading people to think they can easily make 100k is not practical in my opinion