Woodworking has been around for a long time, its history could be traced as early as the primitive era and the early civilizations. Woodworking as a form of art was preserved in ancient Egyptian furniture, tombs, and drawings. Since then, woodworking continued to expand, develop and has undergone so much that it has become mechanized to guarantee consistent designs, thus, CNC woodworking.
CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. It is not only particularly used for woodwork, it has been an integral part in the manufacturing industry since its development during the 1970s. With CNC, an enthusiast could have an opportunity to start a small-scale woodworking business.
There are CNC woodworking machines that can duplicate the CAD program without costing you too much. Having a CNC woodworking machine would allow you make carved mouldings without repeating the hard process manually or by hand. A CNC machine would allow you to work with other things when the machine is working on every detail which is designed with a CAD/CAM software.
Before starting a woodworking business, there are several factors and steps to consider.
-> It is important to determine the amount or start-up capital that would be needed to start the business.
-> Make a good business plan. A good business plan would include what kind of woodwork you will be specializing or focusing. Of course, this would be based on your skill and interest, there are others who would prefer taking customized work.
-> Aside from narrowing or broadening your production, your business plan should also include suppliers for materials, like lumber, and machinery or equipment. It is important to have reliable suppliers. Whenever checking for suppliers, ask for references and contact them. This would help you get an idea how suppliers operate and build stronger relationships with them.
-> Consider your working space, where you will be operating. You could have an extension in your home which you could maximize or have a separate location from your home.
-> Make sure that you will also be settling legal matters like business permits and taxes before operating.
-> Quality is important in any type of business. In a woodworking business, consistency and high-calibre products would ensure you will capture potential clients and customers.
There are woodworking start-up kits which can provide you a workbook or an audio supplement which can help you in learning the business. It could even include a simple business plan and other start-up templates.
Once you have settled the necessary and technical details of your woodworking business, you need to start marketing your company. Start by advertising in local newspapers and magazines, you could also think about advertising in the local television. An inexpensive way of promoting your business is by asking friends and relative to give out promotional items and spread the word.
Also explore marketing online. This is a great way to advertise your products and services without spending. You could have your own website or start posting in different woodworking sites and forums. Also ensure that you would have good relationship with your employees and with your clients. Be open and sensitive with their sentiments.
Starting a CNC woodworking business, even other kinds of businesses, is not easy. It would require patience, hard work and of course, dedication. Success is never easy to achieve.
