30 Business Ideas For Metalworkers [2024]

Updated: July 28th, 2024

If you're a metalworker looking to branch out or find new opportunities in 2024, you're in the right place. With your skills, you could explore a variety of business ideas tailored to your expertise. Whether you're dreaming of starting your own shop or offering specialized services, there are numerous paths you could take.

From custom metal fabrication to welding repair services, your hands-on experience could lead to profitable ventures. You might also consider creating bespoke metal art or functional pieces like furniture and fixtures. The demand for skilled metalwork isn't slowing down, offering you ample opportunities to carve out your niche.

Moreover, metalworking classes and workshops could present another revenue stream. Sharing your knowledge with aspiring metalworkers could not only be fulfilling but also generate additional income. So, let's dive into some concrete business ideas that could make 2024 your breakout year.

For each business idea, we'll show you real-world examples of other metalworker businesses to help you see what it takes.

Here's the full list:

1. Start an etsy shop ($47.5K/month)

Starting an Etsy shop is an excellent opportunity for metalworkers to supplement their income and expand their customer base. By showcasing your unique, handmade metal creations on Etsy, you can tap into a global market that values and searches for custom, artisanal items. This platform allows you to build your brand, connect with passionate buyers, and explore new product ideas without the overhead costs associated with a traditional brick-and-mortar store. For inspiration, check out these Etsy seller success stories.

Why start an Etsy shop?

  • You could reach a global audience that specifically searches for handmade and unique products.
  • Etsy allows you to customize your storefront, which helps in establishing a strong brand presence.
  • Low startup costs make it easy to test different metalwork products and styles without significant financial risk.

How much you can make: $100 — $750,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

How I Started A $12K/Month Business Selling Productivity Planners Online

Chasing Planner Peace is a planner company that has expanded from selling planner inserts on Etsy, to offering a one-stop shop customizable planner experience with over 300 inserts, a planner line, and various other related products, gaining a monthly revenue of around $25,000 at its busiest time of year.

Read by 64,156 founders

2. Start an ecommerce store ($287K/month)

Starting an ecommerce store as a metalworker could be an excellent way to turn your unique, handcrafted metal items into a steady stream of income. With the booming rise of online shopping, you could reach a global audience without the overhead costs of a brick-and-mortar store. By setting up a user-friendly website, you can showcase your metal creations, process payments efficiently, and manage inventory seamlessly, allowing you to focus on what you do best—creating artful metal pieces. For insights into the profitability of ecommerce stores, you might find this Starter Story profitability guide helpful.

Why start an ecommerce store?

  • Lower overhead costs mean you could save money while reaching more customers.
  • You could gain flexibility in managing your business, allowing you to work on your craft from anywhere.
  • The ability to reach a global audience means your masterpieces can find homes across the world, expanding your market exponentially.

How much you can make: $350 — $13,500,000/month

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

How I Started A $20K/Month Southern Inspired Candle Business

Southern Elegance Candle Company, founded by D'Shawn Russell, started as a side hustle making around $200 per weekend at a local Farmers Market, but now averages approximately $20,000 per month in sales across their retail site, wholesale site, and Faire.

Read by 72,176 founders

3. Start an online retail store ($173K/month)

Starting an online retail store is a compelling opportunity for metalworkers looking to supplement their income or even kickstart a full-fledged business. With just a computer, a domain, and a web hosting service, you could launch an eCommerce platform tailored to your unique metal creations. By selling either self-made products or leveraging a drop-shipping model, you could reach a broader audience and generate a steady revenue stream.

The flexibility of an online store allows you to scale your business gradually, adjusting to market demands and focusing on high-margin products. Additionally, it provides you the advantage of showcasing your craftsmanship to a global audience without the limitations of a physical store.

For more insights, you can delve deeper into ideas for starting an online retail store.

Why start an online retail store?

  • The costs are low: Setting up an online store requires minimal initial investment and overhead compared to a physical storefront.
  • Scale with ease: You could effortlessly scale your operations, adding new products and reaching a wider audience without geographical limitations.
  • Flexibility and convenience: Manage your business from anywhere, allowing you to balance metalworking and business operations efficiently.

How much you can make: $400 — $1,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

How I Started A 1.6K/Month LEGO Reselling Business At The Age Of 14

A high school student turned his love for LEGO into a $1.6k/month business, Summerfield's Toys, by reselling sets online through eBay, BrickLink, and Facebook Marketplace, in addition to buying and reselling brand new sets.

Read by 27,842 founders

4. Start a jewelry making business ($248K/month)

Starting a jewelry making business could be a lucrative avenue for metalworkers looking to diversify their income. With the global jewelry market expected to reach $292B by 2025, demand continues to rise for unique, handcrafted pieces. Leveraging your metalworking skills, you could create bespoke jewelry that stands out in a market that has remained relatively unchanged for decades.

If you're interested in diving into the jewelry market, here's some helpful information on marketing strategies for a jewelry making business. Starting a jewelry making business offers the perfect blend of creativity and craftsmanship, allowing you to make extra income or even turn it into a full-time venture.

Why consider a jewelry making business?

  • The market is substantial and continuously growing, providing ample opportunity for profit.
  • Your metalworking skills give you a competitive edge in producing high-quality, unique pieces.
  • Jewelry making offers a flexible business model, from side hustle to full-time enterprise.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $2,000,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

How A Teacher Started A Successful Handmade Jewelry Business Online

A primary school teacher found his passion for jewelry-making, turning it into a successful business generating $2500-3000 per month through sales at the Creative Queenstown Arts and Crafts Market, online, and through stockists, with plans to expand and eventually make it his full-time profession.

Read by 43,960 founders

5. Start a woodworking business ($15.8K/month)

If you're a metalworker looking to supplement your income or start a side business, a woodworking business could be an excellent fit. Leveraging your existing skills in precision, craftsmanship, and tool handling, you could create unique, custom wood pieces that cater to a diverse market. Additionally, woodworking allows for easy scaling and can be done from home, providing flexible options for growing your business without significant overhead.

Starting a woodworking business could even open doors to additional revenue streams, such as teaching others, creating content around woodworking, or flipping furniture. With the ability to blend creativity and craftsmanship, this side business or new venture could offer you unlimited earning potential and personal satisfaction. Explore some ideas to get started here.

Why start a woodworking business?

  • You could leverage your precision and craftsmanship skills to create high-quality custom wood pieces.
  • Woodworking is an easy-to-scale business you can manage from your home workshop.
  • Diversify your income by offering classes, creating woodworking content, or flipping furniture for profit.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $40,001/month

How long does it take to build: 204 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

How I Took My Woodworking Hobby Full Time To Build A Successful Brand

Sasha Weekes, owner of Timber Grove Studios, turned her fine arts and cabinetmaking education into a successful home-based woodworking business that grew from a side project to netting 20-50% profits month-to-month and up to $10,000 in sales during peak periods through Etsy, with her company's growth continuing to increase through other social media outlets.

Read by 59,574 founders

6. Start an ecommerce retailing business ($482K/month)

Starting an ecommerce retailing business can be your gateway to the vast online market. The flexibility of ecommerce allows you to blend your metalworking skills with a user-friendly platform like Shopify or WooCommerce [example link: /ideas/ecommerce-retailing-business/startup-costs]. This business involves creating and selling unique metal products directly to consumers, offering a touch of craftsmanship that mass-produced items lack.

From setting up a professional website to managing inventory and marketing strategies, you'll wear many hats, but the rewards are promising: a global customer base, potential for scaling, and control over your brand. Whether you create custom metal furniture, sculptures, or everyday items, ecommerce gives you the opportunity to reach a wider audience and establish a unique brand identity.

Why start an ecommerce retailing business?

  • You could reach a global customer base, exposing your unique metal creations to markets far beyond your local area.
  • You have control over your brand from start to finish, enabling you to showcase your craftsmanship and creativity.
  • Ecommerce platforms offer scalability, allowing you to grow your business and potentially make it a full-time endeavor.

For more tips and success stories, visit Starter Story’s section on ecommerce retailing business tips [example link: /ideas/ecommerce-retailing-business/tips].

How much you can make: $2,500 — $3,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How I Partnered With Mark Cuban To Start A $250K/Month Company Selling eBikes

Tower Electric Bikes is a direct-to-consumer eBike brand co-founded by Stephan Aarstol and Mark Cuban, which has done over $36 million in sales since its $150,000 investment in 2012, and produced and sold everything from paddleboards to electric bikes for half the retail price, with the aim of creating the world's first famous eBike brand.

Read by 28,078 founders

7. Start a custom apparel business ($268K/month)

As a metalworker, starting a custom apparel business offers a unique opportunity to merge your creativity with a lucrative entrepreneurial venture. Designing personalized clothing items such as t-shirts, hoodies, and caps allows you to tap into niche markets, from fan merchandise to corporate gear. Platforms like Etsy and Shopify make setting up an online storefront relatively simple, so you could quickly launch your products and reach a broad audience.

Additionally, using your existing skills in design and craftsmanship will set your apparel line apart. The ability to create customized, high-quality items can cater to a specialized clientele, enhancing your brand's appeal. For a more detailed guide on getting started, you can explore examples and insights on Starter Story here.

Why starting a custom apparel business?

  • You could leverage your design skills to create unique, high-quality apparel that stands out.
  • The low startup costs and ease of setting up an online store make it an accessible side business.
  • It allows diversification of income, offering a financial safety net while tapping into new markets.

How much you can make: $450 — $1,333,333/month

How long does it take to build: 348 days (?)

From Scrubbing Floors To Running A $1M Screen Printing Business

This case study features an entrepreneur who started a screen printing company with no financing or investors, and despite struggling for the first few years, was able to grow his business to hit $80,000 in revenue in October 2018 and is set to hit $1 million by the end of 2019.

Read by 16,897 founders

8. Become a politician

Starting a career as a politician might seem unconventional for a metalworker, but it can offer an array of opportunities to supplement your income or even create a full-time venture. Metalworkers possess a unique set of skills, including problem-solving and attention to detail, which are essential in the political arena. By leveraging these skills and your connections within the community, you could make a significant impact on local policies, advocate for trades and small businesses, and drive positive changes that benefit your industry.

Why consider becoming a politician?

  • Metalworkers often have strong community ties, which can be leveraged for grassroots support and campaigning.
  • Your hands-on experience in a trade can provide a practical perspective on policies affecting labor and industry.
  • Being a politician can open up new networking opportunities and partnerships that could benefit your metalworking business.

For more detailed insights and tips, you can explore Starter Story's guide on startup costs for becoming a politician.

9. Create a wordpress theme ($62.7K/month)

Creating WordPress themes allows you to merge your eye for design and functionality without heavy coding skills. By generating and selling attractive, functional themes, you could cater to various niches—from bloggers to small businesses. With millions of sites powered by WordPress, the market for unique, user-friendly themes is substantial and increasing.

This business involves understanding current market trends, user needs, and aesthetic design principles. Though it requires some upfront effort in researching popular features and creating appealing designs, the revenue potential grows with ongoing theme upgrades and support. If you have an affinity for design and functionality, developing WordPress themes could be a lucrative avenue within the web development realm. For more insight, check out this starter story.

Why start a WordPress theme business?

  • Taps into a large market: WordPress powers over 40% of websites globally, ensuring a steady demand for quality themes.
  • Offers recurring income: Revenue can be generated through ongoing theme upgrades, add-ons, and customer support.
  • Leverages your creativity: As a metalworker with an eye for detail, you could excel in creating aesthetically pleasing, functional designs.

How much you can make: $18,000 — $150,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $100 (?)

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

How A Tomato Led Me To Build A $1.8M/Year Agency & Product Studio

This case study follows the success story of Nick, founder of Qoders Family, who has generated over $3M in revenue through his various website building services including an award-winning development design agency, custom-designed WordPress theme templates, free WordPress plugins, and a Shopify app.

Read by 5,542 founders

10. Start a soap business ($90.7K/month)

Starting a soap business could be an excellent supplementary income stream for metalworkers. The soap-making industry is growing and can easily be managed from home or on a small scale, allowing you to leverage your downtime effectively. With a relatively low initial investment, typically under $1,000, you could tap into the booming online skincare market with unique, handcrafted products that complement your metalworking skills.

Why starting a soap business?

  • Low startup costs: You can begin with less than $1,000, making it accessible without significant financial risk.
  • Flexibility: Soap making can be easily integrated into your free time, allowing you to maintain your primary metalworking business.
  • Expanding skill set: Embrace creativity in a new medium while potentially increasing your customer base by offering diverse products.

How much you can make: $1,200 — $380,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,750 (?)

How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)

Leaving The Cubicle To Start A $23K/Month Soap Company

Outlaw Soaps, a soap company that started with just $13.72 of supplies, now makes an average of $23,000/month, with 46% of website orders from repeat customers who are loyal to the company's unique products and top-notch customer service.

Read by 25,121 founders

11. Start an outdoor sports store ($31.4K/month)

If you enjoy working with metal and have a passion for outdoor activities, starting an outdoor sports store might be a great business venture for you. As a metalworker, you could craft custom gear and equipment or specialty items like camping stoves, durable storage solutions, and hiking poles, adding unique value to your store. Whether you choose to set up a brick-and-mortar shop in a popular outdoor area or opt for an online store, you’ll draw on your expertise to provide recommendations and advice to customers.

Engaging with the outdoor community via workshops and demo days could help in bolstering your sales and building a committed customer base. Moreover, understanding the seasonal demands will allow you to stock the right products at the right time, ensuring a consistent flow of revenue. For more details, consider reading about the profitability of an outdoor store here.

Why starting an outdoor sports store?

  • You could leverage your metalworking skills to design and sell custom, high-quality outdoor gear.
  • There’s an opportunity to connect with a passionate community of outdoor enthusiasts through workshops and demo days.
  • This business allows you to marry passion with profitability, offering a fulfilling entrepreneurial venture.

How much you can make: $1,985 — $125,000/month

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

Starting A $1.5M/Year Business As A Single Mom

Australian woman launches affordable activewear store with only $150 and now sees over $1.5 million a year in revenue, using Shopify as the sales platform and Facebook and Instagram campaigns as the best source of advertising.

Read by 7,767 founders

12. Start an eBikes business ($540K/month)

As a metalworker, launching an eBikes business could offer an exciting opportunity to leverage your fabrication skills into a rapidly growing market. E-bikes incorporate electric motors to assist riders, making them a popular choice for millennials who are health-conscious and value flexible commuting options. With annual eBike sales exceeding 880,000 units, the demand is high, particularly in urban areas where they provide a sustainable and efficient alternative to cars. Check out our guide on starting an eBikes business to explore more about tapping into this promising market.

Why start an eBikes business?

  • The eBikes market is rapidly growing, providing ample business opportunities.
  • Your metalworking skills can be directly applied to custom eBike frames and components.
  • Millennials and urban commuters are increasingly opting for eBikes, driving up demand.

How much you can make: $110,000 — $1,200,000/month

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

How I Partnered With Mark Cuban To Start A $250K/Month Company Selling eBikes

Tower Electric Bikes is a direct-to-consumer eBike brand co-founded by Stephan Aarstol and Mark Cuban, which has done over $36 million in sales since its $150,000 investment in 2012, and produced and sold everything from paddleboards to electric bikes for half the retail price, with the aim of creating the world's first famous eBike brand.

Read by 28,078 founders

13. Start a craft class business

Leveraging your skills as a metalworker to start a craft class business not only supplements your income but also opens up exciting new avenues for growth. By teaching others the art of metalworking, you could share your passion and expertise while tapping into a market of hobbyists and aspiring metal artisans. Whether offering in-person workshops or online courses, you could build a steady stream of side income that could eventually become a full-time entrepreneurial endeavor.

Why start a craft class business?

  • You could earn extra income by charging for classes and workshops, with little initial investment.
  • Teaching could establish you as an authority in your field, attracting more clients and opportunities.
  • Sharing your passion and skillset could create a fulfilling and rewarding experience both financially and personally.

14. Start a bedding company ($741K/month)

Starting a bedding company can be a profitable side business for metalworkers who already have a keen eye for craftsmanship and detail. A good mattress, bedsheet, or pillow makes all the difference when it comes to sleeping comfortably, which is why people invest in quality bedding materials. By leveraging your existing skills in working with metal, you could create unique, high-quality bed frames or headboards to complement the bedding products you decide to sell. To get started, focus on choosing a specific niche within the bedding industry, finding a reliable manufacturer for your products, and setting up a user-friendly website and engaging social media accounts.

Why consider starting a bedding company?

  • Your attention to detail as a metalworker will help in creating complementary and attractive bed frames or headboards.
  • You can diversify your income by tapping into the lucrative market for quality bedding materials.
  • Combining your craftsmanship with high-quality bedding products can offer a unique selling proposition in a competitive market.

For more detailed guidance on starting a bedding company, you can check out this comprehensive guide on how to start a bedding company.

How much you can make: $10,000 — $3,500,000/month

How long does it take to build: 100 days (?)

Starting A Bed Sheet Business Making $600K In First 8 Months

Sheets & Giggles, an eco-friendly bedding brand, earned nearly $500,000 and 6,000 orders in the first 6 months of business through Indiegogo, and utilizes pun-based marketing and a DTC model to tap into a fragmented, low brand loyalty market.

Read by 62,855 founders

15. Start a RV rental business ($103K/month)

Starting an RV rental business would make perfect sense for a metalworker aiming to diversify income streams. Your skills in metalworking provide an advantage when it comes to maintaining and customizing RVs, allowing you to offer high-quality, customized motorhomes that stand out to potential renters. Moreover, the current trend toward domestic travel and outdoor excursions opens up considerable opportunities for a profitable side business or even a full-scale operation. For more detailed insights, check out this comprehensive guide on how to start an RV rental business from Starter Story.

Why consider starting an RV rental business?

  • Your metalworking skills can be leveraged to ensure durable and tailored RV maintenance and modifications.
  • High demand for domestic travel solutions means a stable customer base for your RV rentals.
  • Provides a flexible and scalable business model that can grow alongside your existing commitments.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $250,000/month

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

How We Started A Camper Van Rental Business and Quit Our Full Time Jobs

ROAMERICA, a campervan rental company founded by Taylor Hood and Gretchen Bayless who quit their full-time jobs to focus on their business and have expanded their fleet quickly to meet the demand of adventure-seeking customers, with most of their web traffic coming from organic Google searches and a focus on social media and brand awareness.

Read by 37,310 founders

16. Start a parcel tracking software ($24K/month)

Starting a parcel tracking software business might seem far removed from metalwork, but it's an excellent side hustle or even a full business venture. As a metalworker, you’re likely skilled in precision and attention to detail—qualities essential for creating robust and reliable software. With the rise of eCommerce and global trade, the demand for parcel tracking solutions continues to grow, offering you a lucrative opportunity to tap into a fresh revenue stream.

Moreover, by understanding both the physical aspects of moving goods and the backend complexities, you could design a system that truly meets users' needs. This venture also allows you to explore tech entrepreneurship, opening doors to various partnerships and subscription-based income models. For more resources on starting a parcel tracking software, check out this comprehensive guide.

Why consider starting a parcel tracking software?

  • You could leverage your attention to detail to create a reliable and precise tracking system.
  • It allows you to enter the fast-growing tech industry while diversifying your income streams.
  • Opportunities exist for recurring revenue through subscriptions and partnerships with logistics firms.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $65,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

How We Developed A $6K/Month Parcel Tracking Software While In College

Deepfinity, a proptech/logistics company, has developed an internal parcel tracking software tool that's helping large buildings cope with the influx of online shopping, and has been growing 20% MoM since making its first revenue 1.5 years ago, currently making $6K/Month.

Read by 8,367 founders

17. Start a personal shopper business

Starting a personal shopper business could be an unexpected yet fulfilling side hustle for metalworkers, providing a creative outlet complementary to their technical skills. Leveraging your eye for detail and precision, you could expand your portfolio by helping clients curate their wardrobes, utilizing a knack for practical and aesthetic considerations. Moreover, building relationships with clients and retailers broadens your network, fostering new business opportunities. For more insights, check out how to start a personal shopper business.

Why start a personal shopper business?

  • Diversifying your income streams helps mitigate the risks associated with relying solely on metalwork projects.
  • It allows you to leverage your problem-solving skills in a different context, fostering creativity and new perspectives.
  • Smooth client handling and strong organizational skills from metalworking seamlessly transfer to managing multiple shopper requests.

18. Become a vehicle exporter ($1.4M/month)

As a metalworker, starting a vehicle exporting business can offer you the excitement of international trade combined with the tangible nature of high-end cars. The process involves purchasing vehicles locally and selling them to international buyers, leveraging global connections facilitated by modern technology. Specializing in unique or high-demand models could make your business stand out in the global market.

Moreover, your technical skills and attention to detail can give you an edge in offering value-added services such as detailed vehicle inspections and ensuring quality control, which are critical in maintaining customer trust. The business is a blend of negotiation, logistics, and regulatory understanding, making it a versatile and adventurous entrepreneurial path. For more insights, you can explore vehicle exporter success stories.

Why become a vehicle exporter?

  • Your expertise in metal and machinery gives you a substantial head start in understanding vehicle quality and market value.
  • The business allows you to explore international markets and expand your customer base worldwide.
  • Specializing in hard-to-find or high-demand vehicles can provide high-profit margins and customer loyalty.

How much you can make: $491,000 — $2,300,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $20 (?)

How long does it take to build: 1 days (?)

How I Started A $2.3M/Month Business Exporting Vehicles Abroad

Learn how one entrepreneur, without a college degree, built a vehicle exporting business from his bedroom to $26 million in gross sales his first year and went on to net an impressive $2.3M per month through agile team management, technology integration, and cultivating relationships with global auto dealers and brokers.

Read by 17,870 founders

19. Dropshipping men's grooming products ($184K/month)

The global market for men’s grooming products is witnessing steady growth due to growing consumer preferences, and it is expected to witness a CAGR of 4.29% in the next few years. As a metalworker, starting a dropshipping business for men's grooming products could be a lucrative side business or even a full-time endeavor. Leveraging your craftsmanship and attention to detail, you could create a unique brand that stands out for its quality and reliability.

Moreover, the skills you've honed in metalworking – like precision and aesthetic judgment – directly translate into curating high-quality grooming products that appeal to discerning customers. By focusing on popular items such as shaving foams, face creams, and body sprays, you could tap into a high-demand market with minimal initial investment. Ready to get started? Click here to explore more about how to start a men’s grooming product business.

Why consider a dropshipping men's grooming products business? - You could diversify your revenue streams without a significant upfront cost. - The steady growth in the men's grooming market ensures a consistent demand for your products. - It's a low-overhead business model that lets you leverage your existing skills and resources.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $650,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

Growing And Selling An Online Beard Care Business

A 22-year-old Korean American entrepreneur shares the story of how he pivoted from a beard growth cosmetic business to a beard care brand, built a strong community with a 30% customer retention rate, and scaled to a six-figure revenue with primarily Facebook ads.

Read by 17,106 founders

20. Start a tech support business ($158K/month)

As a metalworker, diversifying into a tech support business might seem unconventional, but it offers a lucrative opportunity to supplement your income. Given the increasing reliance on technology across all industries, including metalworking, your tech support venture could assist both individuals and companies in resolving software, hardware, and other technology-related issues. Your background as a metalworker means you already possess problem-solving skills and a detail-oriented mindset, which are essential in the tech support field. Plus, offering tech support services online or in-person can build a client base that provides steady income.

Why consider starting a tech support business?

  • You could leverage your technical skills and problem-solving expertise to identify and fix various technology issues.
  • Offering tech support services allows you to tap into the growing demand for reliable technical assistance across all industries.
  • It presents a flexible, scalable business opportunity that complements your metalworking trade.

Want more insights? Check out this page for profit insights on tech support businesses.

How much you can make: $150 — $1,500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How I Turned My WordPress Freelance Gigs Into A Productized Service

WP-OK offers unlimited WordPress support services designed for serious website owners, boasting a team of four WordPress experts who have provided support for over 2800 tickets and 200+ customers since their launch in 2015, attributing their growth to strategies such as podcasts, Google ads, chatbots, and content marketing.

Read by 7,910 founders

21. Start an eco-friendly retail business ($86K/month)

Starting an eco-friendly retail business is an excellent venture for metalworkers who are passionate about sustainability. This business focuses on selling products that minimize environmental impact and promote a greener lifestyle. As a metalworker, you could leverage your skills to design and create sustainable metal goods, showcasing your craftsmanship while promoting eco-friendly practices. For more ideas, check out these eco-friendly retail business success stories.

Creating an inventory of ethically-sourced products and educating customers on sustainable living can set you apart in the growing market for eco-friendly goods. This type of business not only aligns with your values but also provides an opportunity to supplement your income or even transition into a full-time venture.

Why consider an eco-friendly retail business? - You could attract a growing consumer base focused on sustainability and ethical consumption. - Offering eco-friendly metal products allows you to merge your craftsmanship with environmental consciousness. - You could benefit from increased brand loyalty by appealing to environmentally conscious customers.

How much you can make: $6,000 — $240,096/month

How long does it take to build: 242 days (?)

How I Built A $300K/Year Online Flip Flop Shop

Boomerangz Footwear created interchangeable thongs designed to minimize blowouts and with patented bases and straps, resulting in a successful crowdfunding campaign that raised $50,000 in 6 weeks and led to the company being stocked in over 40 stores around Australia and expanding globally.

Read by 10,873 founders

22. Become a Facebook ads consultant ($864K/month)

Starting a Facebook ads consultant business could be a highly lucrative way for metalworkers to supplement their income or even start a whole new side business. With your hands-on skills and industry knowledge, you have the unique insight needed to create targeted ad campaigns that resonate with both creative and industrial audiences. Managing Facebook ads successfully can drive significant traffic to your website, ensuring that the right customers find your metalwork projects.

Why becoming a Facebook ads consultant?

  • Expand your skill set beyond the workshop by diving into digital marketing, making your business multifaceted.
  • Generate a predictable source of passive income by managing ad campaigns effectively for various clients.
  • Leverage your industry-specific knowledge to attract and retain customers more efficiently, setting you apart from other consultants.

How much you can make: $3,000 — $8,000,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)

How I Disrupted The Ad Industry And Grew My Business To $20M/Year

MonetizeMore founder and CEO shares his success story of growing his ad optimization business to over $20M in annual revenues by focusing on the offering that delivered the best results, using content marketing for lead generation, and establishing strategic partnerships with complimentary businesses.

Read by 21,842 founders

23. Start a blogging business ($5.87K/month)

If you’re a metalworker looking to supplement your income or start a side business, a blogging business could be a great fit. By sharing your expertise and passion for metalworking through engaging blog posts, you could attract a dedicated and interested readership. Over time, your blog could generate revenue through ads, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing, offering a flexible path to an additional income stream.

Considering starting a blogging business is simple and cost-effective, requiring only a domain, a platform like WordPress or Medium, and consistent, high-quality content. You could write about metalworking techniques, showcase your projects, and review tools, creating valuable content for both hobbyists and professionals. For more details on how to start, check out this guide on blogging business startup costs.

Why starting a blogging business?

  • You could share your unique expertise and passion for metalworking, helping others while building a community.
  • It could generate passive income over time, supplementing your primary income without needing to leave your workshop.
  • Turning your knowledge into engaging content offers a flexible way to pursue a fulfilling side hustle or full-time career.

How much you can make: $3,000 — $10,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $300 (?)

How long does it take to build: 3 days (?)

How We Launched A $5K/Month Content Writing Solutions Service

Content writing company 411Writers started with $13.99 and now generates over $50,000 revenue per month, providing clients with unique website content for both search engines and human readers.

Read by 7,442 founders

24. Start a cryptocurrency business ($60.7K/month)

Starting a cryptocurrency business could be a lucrative side venture or full-time pursuit for metalworkers intrigued by the digital gold rush. By engaging with digital currencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and various emerging altcoins, you could dive into an industry blending finance and technology. This field opens opportunities in crypto trading, mining, or developing blockchain-based applications, demanding that you stay abreast of the latest market trends and regulatory shifts.

Imagine creating secure, transparent financial solutions using blockchain technology—whether you're launching your own token or building a crypto exchange platform. This industry is still evolving, providing space for new entrants to carve a unique niche and make a significant impact. Given the financial rewards and cutting-edge nature of this venture, metalworkers with a knack for strategic thinking and tech-savviness could thrive here.

Why start a cryptocurrency business?

  • The cryptocurrency market is rapidly growing, offering substantial profit potential.
  • It allows you to diversify your skill set and income streams beyond traditional metalworking.
  • Being an early adopter in this industry could position you as a pioneer, potentially leading to substantial long-term gains.

For more success stories and insights, check out these resources.

How much you can make: $3,699 — $220,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

Earning $32,000 in 30 Days With a Crypto-Filled USB Drive

CBlocks is a cryptocurrency startup that generates random wallets of the top 100 cryptocurrencies, funds them, and ships them on a USB drive alongside software to manage them, with $32k made in the first 30 days and almost $3k on their second day from being featured in TheNextWeb, Forbes, The Outline & LifeHacker all within their first 3 weeks.

Read by 13,959 founders

25. Start a Guard Dog Security Service

Starting a Guard Dog Security Service as a metalworker would provide an excellent opportunity to utilize your hands-on skills in constructing customized training environments and durable kennels for the dogs. With your expertise in metalworking, you could create secure fencing and containment systems, adding value to the services you provide. As the demand for trained guard dogs continues to grow, combining your metalworking proficiency with dog training and security can lead to a profitable side business or a full-time venture.

Why start a Guard Dog Security Service?

  • You could leverage your metalworking skills to design and build secure and efficient dog training and housing setups.
  • The initial investment is relatively low, and the industry has a significant potential for profitability.
  • There is a rising demand for professionally trained guard dogs, especially at high-profile events and in security-sensitive areas.

26. Start a motorcycle salvage shop business

Starting a motorcycle salvage shop business would make perfect sense if you’re a metalworker looking to supplement your income or even launch a full-time venture. With your skills in metalworking, you could transform salvaged motorcycle parts into sellable items, from functional components to artistic creations, thereby maximizing value. Plus, your expertise in working with metal gives you an edge in repairing or refurbishing parts, creating unique opportunities for profit.

For more details on the startup costs involved in starting a motorcycle salvage shop business, check this link.

Why start a motorcycle salvage shop business?

  • You could leverage your metalworking skills to refurbish and resell salvaged parts, increasing their value.
  • It presents an eco-friendly business model by recycling and repurposing otherwise discarded materials.
  • This venture offers a steady stream of unique projects, satisfying your creative and technical inclinations.

27. Start a word counting tool

In the digital age where content reigns supreme, a word counting tool might be your next big business venture. Developing a user-friendly, reliable word counting tool could provide a needed service for writers, editors, and content creators who must adhere to specific word limits and maintain clarity. The market is vast, ranging from students and educators to professional authors and social media managers. By channeling your disciplined work ethic as a metalworker into this tech project, you could tap into a constant demand that spans multiple industries and crafts.

To get started, you’ll need to invest time in coding, user interface design, and market research to ensure your tool meets the varied needs of your target audience. But with the right approach, this functional tool can become a staple for anyone serious about their writing. Learn more about the potential by exploring some successful word counting tool ideas.

Why starting a word counting tool?

  • Diversifies your income stream. Expands your business footprint beyond traditional metalworking.
  • Utilizes your attention to detail. Your precision in metalwork can translate into creating an accurate, reliable tool.
  • Connects you with new markets. This could open opportunities to engage with different professional communities and industries.

How much you can make: $20,000/month

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

I Built An Online Word Counter Tool That Makes $20K/Month [Google's Top Result]

Founder Kevin Miller's online word counter tool achieved over 300,000 keyword rankings, over 2,400 domain referrals and made $40,000 per month through Google's top results in just two years through SEO practices, proving the value of investing in quality and SEO.

Read by 12,257 founders

28. Start a health consultations business

As a metalworker, you could diversify your income and leverage your analytical skills by starting a health consultations business. This venture requires a relevant degree and experience in healthcare consulting, focusing on administrative efficiency, legal compliance, and procedural optimization. In this role, you could help healthcare organizations thrive while potentially working flexible hours that can complement your metalworking business.

Why start a health consultations business?

  • You could utilize your problem-solving skills in a different industry, expanding your professional skill set.
  • You could generate a steady income stream that might be more stable than project-based metalworking jobs.
  • You could experience the satisfaction of positively impacting healthcare organizations and the quality of care they provide. For more insights, check out successful health consultations business stories on Starter Story.

How much you can make: $100,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,750 (?)

How This Couple Started A $100K/Month Sea Moss Infused Health Supplements Brand

Bey Moss, an e-commerce platform selling sea moss-infused health and wellness products, made over $800,000 to-date with less than $10,000 overall in ads after validating the product idea through reviews and feedback and leveraging their social media following to build a Bey Moss community.

Read by 30,001 founders

29. Start a tyre store

Starting a tyre store as a metalworker can be a smart move to supplement your income or even establish a full-fledged business. Given your expertise in metalworking, particularly in materials and structural integrity, you could leverage your skills to offer superior quality assurance to your customers. Furthermore, the technological know-how of handling metal could help you efficiently set up and maintain the equipment necessary for tyre storage and installation, thereby minimizing operational costs.

Why start a tyre store?

  • You can apply your metallurgical expertise to ensure high-quality and durable tyre installations, giving you a unique selling proposition.
  • Operating a tyre store can require maintenance and fabrication skills for storage racks, inventory systems, and mechanical equipment, skills you already possess.
  • The steady demand for tyres provides a constant revenue stream, making it a robust supplementary income source.

For more detailed insights on startup costs and the pros and cons, you can visit Starter Story.

30. Start a small business guides business

As a metalworker with a knack for breaking down complex concepts, starting a small business guides business could be a lucrative and fulfilling side venture. In this role, you would create comprehensive, easy-to-digest guides that help aspiring and current small business owners navigate the complexities of finance, marketing, and operations. This venture allows you to leverage your problem-solving skills to become an essential resource for entrepreneurs seeking clarity and practical solutions.

Attention to detail and a deep understanding of business processes are crucial in developing effective guides that truly benefit your audience. By identifying common challenges and providing actionable steps, you could build a profitable niche while helping others succeed. For more insights, explore success stories in this space.

Why start a small business guides business?

  • You could create a reliable stream of income by selling your guides online or through subscriptions.
  • Your expertise in simplifying complex processes would make you a valuable resource for other entrepreneurs.
  • This business offers the satisfaction of helping others achieve their business goals while establishing your own profitable venture.

How much you can make: $8,500,000/month

How I Started A $8.5M/Month Company Providing Marketing Solutions To SMBs

Co-founder of Madwire JB Kellogg grew his business from just the two of them in a tiny office to over 500 employees and $100 million in annual revenue in under 10 years, by focusing on exceptional customer service and a multi-channel inbound strategy.

Read by 14,050 founders

meet the author
Pat Walls

I'm Pat Walls and I created Starter Story - a website dedicated to helping people start businesses. We interview entrepreneurs from around the world about how they started and grew their businesses.