Clay business. Creative business: making decorative bone products. What can be done

* Calculations are based on average data for Russia

Production of jewelry and various decorative items from polymer clay, which is also called plastic, is a rather profitable, promising and profitable business. Its most important advantage is that there is no need for large investments in the first initial stage work. All you need to do this business is certain work skills, perseverance, attentiveness and, most importantly, unlimited imagination (of course, along with good taste).

Polymer clay is a plastic mass that resembles ordinary plasticine in its appearance and basic properties. But unlike the latter, polymer clay hardens and gains strength when exposed to air or high temperatures. Clay, which hardens when exposed to high temperatures, contains special plasticizers, which not only give it plasticity, but are also completely absorbed into the base material when the mass is heated at a temperature of 100 to 130 ° C, creating conditions for stable polymerization. Moreover, it is possible to "bake" products made of polymer clay even at home - in an ordinary oven. Under the influence of high temperature, the material loses its plasticity and retains the shape given to it.

Finished products can subsequently be processed and decorated in various ways: painted acrylic paints, covered with matte or glossy varnish, decorated using decoupage technique (decorating with paper napkins with a drawing or special paper with prints), stick to each other, etc. There is also a self-hardening clay that does not require baking and, when dried at room temperature, becomes similar to wood or gypsum. However, such a material is less durable, therefore it is more suitable for creativity, and not for the manufacture of decorative products for sale.

The range of polymer clays for Russian market very wide both in terms of manufacturers and in various colors and effects. There are both discolored and colored clay on sale, including those with special effects - sparkles and fluorescent substances.

As mentioned above, polymer clay consists of two main components - a base and a plasticizer, which gives it the appropriate plastic properties. The basis of the polymer clay is polyvinyl chloride. Particles of PVC have good absorbent properties, which appear when heated. Phthalic acid derivatives - phthalates - are used as plasticizers in this material. When a mixture of phthalates with PVC powder is heated, a gelatinization process occurs, during which plasticizers are absorbed into the particles of the base powder. The latter, in turn, swell and adhere tightly to each other. Moreover, the higher the content of plasticizers in the original mass, the softer it will be ready product... In the hardened form after firing, the so-called plasticized PVC is obtained. This material is widely used in modern industry. It produces plastic windows, medical instruments, toys, household items, dishes, insulation for electrical wires, etc.

The composition of polymer clay also includes various pigments, including powder phthalocyanine dyes that are well compatible with PVC. Talc, kaolin or chalk can also be used as fillers and surface modifiers. Stabilizers may also be present in the material to prevent gelatinization during storage. normal temperatures... Conventional polymer clay begins to slowly harden already at 60 ° C, in the presence of stabilizers this process is significantly slowed down, which significantly increases the shelf life of the material.

So, polymer clay is an excellent material for creativity and not only. Due to its unique properties, completely unusual things can be made from such clay - decorative ornaments, souvenirs, interior items, toys, author's dolls, etc. materials and textures, so it is often used to create author's miniatures and decorative items (for example, artificial flowers).

Due to the simplicity of work and the availability of technologies, the manufacture of handmade products from polymer clay has become a source of additional and basic income for many people. Polymer clay products are in great demand among young people. First of all, these are handmade jewelry. The plasticity of the material, its property of hardening under the influence of high temperatures, wide choose colors - all this opens up great opportunities for creating exclusive copyright products.

Polymer clay from different manufacturers differs both in their characteristics, properties, and in the final result. For example, domestically produced material is generally harder than imported clay. It does not differ in a large number of shades and effects and has some peculiarities when baking. Many beginners use Russian polymer clay (Tsvetik, Sonnet) for education and training in order to save on material, since it costs much less than foreign analogues. The savings are indeed tangible. After all, packing in six colors will cost up to 150 rubles. However, it has several disadvantages. Such clay is too hard and does not knead well in the hands. It takes a lot of time to knead a piece of material. At the same time, in a solid state, the clay crumbles, and after kneading it turns out to be too soft - clearly noticeable fingerprints remain on it, and it is rather difficult to mold small thin details from it. At the same time, it quickly returns to a solid state, which makes it difficult to fasten parts of different colors together. After baking, it becomes brittle, and when the recommended firing time is exceeded, cracks appear on its surface. The properties of domestically produced polymer clay are highly dependent on the duration and storage conditions (and the latter are not so easy to control).

Polymer clay of foreign brands has great advantages, although it has its own characteristics, depending on the manufacturer. To the most famous trade marks include, in addition to "Flower", the following: "Cernit" (Cernit), "Fimo" (Fimo), "Scalpey" (Scalpey), "Kato" (Kato). Experts consider Fimo clay to be the best in its characteristics. Plastic happens different types softness. However, it cannot be said which material is better. It all depends on the product that is made from clay, the techniques used, the desired effects and, finally, the personal preferences of the master. The color of the plastic can be either uniform or with various inclusions that imitate natural material(e.g. marble), with metallic or pearlescent effects. However, you can create various effects yourself by mixing ordinary plastic with pearl powder or small particles of another material. Decorations from translucent types of plastic look very impressive. True, the degree of transparency may differ for different manufacturers of polymer clay, therefore, before choosing a material, it is best to familiarize yourself with reviews and tests of different types of clays on the Internet - on specialized sites and forums. There is also the so-called liquid plastic. It is less known than hard, but at the same time it is used to create various effects (for example, imitation of enamel) or acts as an adhesive. Also on sale you can find fluorescent and luminescent colors of plastics that glow in ultraviolet light or in complete darkness, respectively.

As a rule, all this variety of polymer clay from various manufacturers can be found in art stores and in specialized retail chains that can be found in almost any major city. The cost of a bar of polymer clay from the Fimo brand will cost about 100 rubles apiece. In addition, you can order material of any manufacturer and name both in individual bars and in a ready-made set with a wide range of colors and with a minimum of tools and auxiliary equipment in various online stores that send orders throughout the country, as well as on joint procurement sites ( in the latter case, the price of materials will be wholesale plus a small percentage of the organizer of the purchase).

There you can also purchase various tools for work. A regular table with a plastic or glass coating is suitable as a work surface. You can cover the countertop with wax paper. But a stone or wood is undesirable for working with such a material: on a cold stone, plastic quickly hardens, and on a wooden surface it acquires a rough texture and extraneous inclusions. To work with polymer clay, you will need various knives (you can do with a stationery knife with a very sharp blade at the first stage), stacks, extruders, various machines (special for working with clay or their substitutes - noodle cutters, food processors, etc.), cutters, texture sheets, stamps, etc. At first, you can do without these devices, which are used to give products various textures and textures, unusual effects and for surface treatment. But in the future, as the development of new techniques and the expansion of the assortment, experts recommend thinking about purchasing them. You can buy them both in Russian online and ordinary stores, and in foreign ones. A set of cutters will cost, for example, 250 rubles, and a set of plastic stacks can be purchased for 100 rubles. A texture sheet will cost 150 rubles apiece. A noodle cutter can be found at a price of 600 rubles. In addition, to smooth out irregularities, seams, fingerprints on the finished product, as well as to give texture to the workpiece, you will need sandpaper of various grain sizes. Suede is used to polish the finished product, and a regular long needle or knitting needle can be used to punch holes in the beads. For gluing products, special compounds or ordinary PVA glue are used, and for processing the finished product, special matte and transparent varnishes are used (about 150 rubles per bottle).

If you decide to start making jewelry, then you will also need bases for brooches and rings, connecting rings, pins, pins, cabochons, cords and chains, clasps, eyelets, end stops, decorative elements (dividing beads, pendants) and other accessories for jewelry ... It is most profitable to buy them wholesale from domestic suppliers or retail - in foreign online stores (when it comes to exclusive expensive products).

The technology for the production of polymer clay products is relatively simple. It includes three main stages: creating the product itself (shaping the clay), firing and / or drying, as well as assembling the individual components into a finished decoration. For roasting, you will need a conventional oven, which is usually found in every home. However, although the production of products from baked material itself is considered relatively simple, you cannot do without observing basic safety rules. Exceeding the recommended baking temperature for polymer clay leads to the decomposition of PVC with the release of a toxic gas - hydrogen chloride.

Thus, firstly, when making jewelry, it is necessary to follow all the recommendations of the material manufacturers. And, secondly, it will be useful to equip the room where you work with a good hood, or at least constantly ventilate it. After each baking of clay products, the oven must be thoroughly washed. In no case should you bake polymer clay products in a microwave oven. This material also requires special conditions storage - away from sunlight, under the influence of which it loses its properties, begins to crumble and harden.

You can sell finished products through online stores, groups in social networks, fairs, sites such as "Crafts Fair" and Etsy, offline jewelry and souvenir shops, markets. Though best advertisement in this case (as well as, in general, in the segment of hand-made products), it is word of mouth when your regular customers recommend you to their friends, acquaintances and even strangers, however, do not forget about the traditional methods of advertising and promotion. At first, you can get by in low-budget ways, placing advertisements for the sale of your products on the Internet - on message boards, on local forums, etc., distributing flyers and business cards with your contacts and the address of your website or blog.

The pricing of handmade items is usually determined by the following formula: the amount spent on the purchase of materials is multiplied by two. The average cost of one piece of plastic of the same color and weighing 30 grams is about 100 rubles (wholesale prices will be lower). To get started, you can purchase plastic in 3-5 basic colors. Taking into account the purchase of a minimum amount of materials and accessories, the initial investment will be about 2,000 rubles. This amount of materials is enough to make about ten items of products (pendants, bracelets, earrings, brooches, etc.). One person can make about 60 items of medium complexity per month. The cost of one simple polymer clay product starts at 250 rubles. The cost of purchasing an initial batch of materials for work in the amount of 2,000 rubles can be recouped within the first 2-3 weeks of work. With full workload, this period will be two times less. Thus, the minimum net profit will be from 15 thousand rubles (in the manufacture of simple products). In the future, as your skill and speed of work grow, your income will also increase.

An additional (and in some cases, the main) source of income can be conducting master classes and courses on working with polymer clay. This will require large investments. Moreover, some of them will be used to rent premises for conducting classes. You can negotiate cooperation with a craft store or art school. They can provide you with space for favorable price or even free of charge (for a certain percentage of the proceeds). You, in turn, will attract the attention of potential buyers and customers to them.

Not only adults, but also children are fond of making crafts from polymer clay. However, you should not limit yourself to a certain age group. It is best to invite mothers with children to classes. While adults are learning the basics of making plastic jewelry, preschool and school children can sculpt their crafts under the guidance of another adult, who will then be taken home. The cost of attending one master class on working with plastic starts from 500 rubles (depending on the topic and duration). A mini-course for one to three days will cost from 2500 rubles per person. The leader of the lesson receives about 60% of this amount. The rest is used to pay for the rent of premises, advertising, as well as for the purchase necessary materials and tools. The recommended number of participants in such events should not exceed 5-6 people, otherwise you simply will not be able to pay attention to everyone present.

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The production of handmade polymer clay jewelry is a promising direction, which is favorably distinguished by the absence of large amounts of initial capital. All that is needed is perseverance and imagination, as well as a sincere desire to find your target audience and competently offer them products.

 

Handmade jewelry is very relevant lately, so the business of manufacturing jewelry made of polymer clay is quite promising and profitable.

Polymer clay (plastic) is a material similar in its properties to plasticine, but when exposed to air or high temperatures, it hardens, becoming durable.

Several varieties of polymer clay are known, which are distinguished by plasticity and other effects. There is a wide range of colors on the market.

Products can be additionally processed with other means and materials (varnish, paints, and so on).

Despite the fact that working with this material requires perseverance and meticulousness, it does not make you invest large funds at the very beginning, and the sales market is extremely large (offline and online options), so the business in the production of polymer clay jewelry can be called very promising.

The distribution channels are as follows:

  • Online Stores
  • Markets
  • Trade fairs
  • Social media groups
  • Implementation in offline stores

Most often, jewelry and small souvenirs are created from polymer clay.

The target audience are traditionally women. There are no age restrictions, since jewelry can be made in various techniques, therefore, representatives of different social words and age groups can be interested in the proposal.

Manufacturing steps are simple: idea - idea implementation - sale. The very manufacture of jewelry in terms of technology is not difficult, since it does not require any special conditions.

Manufacturing technology is quite simple:

  1. Sculpting a product - shaping clay
  2. Firing / drying
  3. Assembly

Pricing can be determined using the following formula: the amount spent on materials multiplied by 2.

Necessary equipment and materials to start a business

Equipment

NameAppointmentPrice

Oven / microwave

For final processing of the product

As a rule, no additional purchase is required, as it is available in every house

Additionally, you can purchase accessories for working with polymer clay. This item of expenses is optional, especially at the initial stage.

This includes cutters, stacks, cars, knives, texture sheets, and so on.

These tools are relevant for processing products, for giving them textures and textures, interesting effects. The higher the professionalism of the master, the wider range of tools he can use.

Some prices:

A set of cutters: the average price is 220 rubles / set

A set of stacks (plastic): 120 rubles / set

Knife for work (scalpel): 160 rubles

Texture sheet: 150 rubles

Materials (edit)

NameAppointmentPrice, RUB

Polymer clay

The main material used for sculpting and modeling.

80 rubles / bar of the same color.

Polymer Clay Varnish

Used on the final stage creating jewelry.

Gives the product shine, makes it durable and resistant to environmental influences.

Average 150 / vial
  • Jewelry Findings
  • Brooch bases
  • Connecting rings
  • Pins
  • Cabochons
  • Chains, cords
  • Clasps
  • Eyelets
  • End fittings
  • Connectors and others.

These materials are required during the assembly stage of the decoration.

There are many varieties of them, but the main advantage is low price for all types.

You can purchase assortment of jewelry accessories in bulk!

The wholesale price of a set of accessories for jewelry in the assortment is about 1000 rubles / set.

As already noted, to start a business in the production of polymer clay jewelry does not require any special equipment, that is, the investment at the initial stage is minimal.

This material is readily available and widely commercially available. With a certain skill, imagination and ingenuity, you can create interesting jewelry, as a result, the prospect of selling at a cost 10 times higher than the purchase price is quite real.

The average cost of a piece of plastic of the same color weighing 30 grams is 80 rubles per purchase. For example, even limiting yourself to the use of only 3 colors, about 240 rubles are spent on a purchase. You can make a sufficient number of elements for 5-6 decorations from them.

Sale of products by minimum cost- 700 rubles - shows us the proceeds of 3260 rubles of profit.

The initial cost of purchasing materials and tools has already paid off.

Starting a business: capital investment

Thus, to start a business based on the production of polymer clay jewelry, large investments will not be required.

The supplier's site that is profitable from the point of view of the buyer is an international store with free shipping around the world - http://www.aliexpress.com.

Here is an approximate distribution of capital expenditures:

The main material is polymer clay. You can purchase a ready-made kit, which costs about $ 28 and includes a fairly wide range of polymer clay colors, plus a minimum of tools and auxiliary equipment.

Auxiliary equipment

The auxiliary equipment includes those tools and materials that were listed in the table. Recall that they are not mandatory, it is more profitable to buy them in sets, since the average price is still decreasing:

For example, a set of knives for working with polymer clay:

  • In general, there are many additional materials that we DO NOT INCLUDE in the basis:
  • Work surface - it is also a substrate for work
  • Rolling pin for rolling polymer clay:
  • Pasta machine (rarely used)
  • Extruder
  • Cutters of different shapes:
  • Stacks for creating and styling miniature parts
  • Molds

Thus, the initial necessary costs are at most about 2,000 rubles!

With such a start-up capital, it is already possible to begin the production of polymer clay jewelry.

Earning prospects

The prospects for good earnings are great. If we take a finished product as a unit of account, and if we take a sufficiently serious workload, then the following graph may come out:

Daily sales / production volume, pcs.

2 products

Number of shifts per month

We take independent work as a standard at the initial stage, when the master himself works.

Monthly volume, pcs.

Average: 50-60 items

Unit price, in rubles

300 rubles for a simple product

Revenue, in rubles

Cash proceeds from the sale of polymer clay products: average with stable sales - 15,000 - 18,000 (taking into account the cost of 1 product in 300 rubles)

Profitability, in rubles

The net profit to the total turnover is about 16,000.

Payback, per month

The period for which the income from investments becomes equal to the value of the investments themselves is about 1-2 weeks with interest and full workload.

The optimal at the initial stage is the type of activity when the master works for himself, this is what is attractive given view business.

Many novice businessmen are thinking about manufacturing at home. This desire is fully justified, especially in connection with the realities of the present time. We have already written an article about. In this article, we'll go over a variety of home-making ideas and comment on each idea. We also ask you to suggest your home production ideas in the comments under the article to supplement the article.

Benefits of home production

  1. No need to spend the lion's share income on rental of premises... This is home production. This issue is especially problematic for start-up entrepreneurs, where rents can eat up most of the profits.
  2. At first, such a production can be unofficially... Of course, this is only a temporary measure, which, nevertheless, will help to get back on its feet and gain a foothold in the chosen industry.
  3. Ability to adjust production volumes... All costs will be driven by raw material costs. This allows you to change the volume of production depending on the demand for the offered product.
  4. The minimum investment size.
  5. The ability to make a profit almost immediately.

All this allows you to multiply the chances of success and significantly reduce the risks. Next, the most popular and profitable business ideas for production will be presented. At the same time, they will be divided into blocks depending on the ability to work in an apartment or the need to carry out all the work in a private house.

Home production in an apartment

In this block, the direction of home production is highlighted, which can be done right in your apartment. For more convenience, we have divided ideas into thematic blocks.

Food

Household is one of the most popular industries today. This demand is primarily due to the fact that the offered goods are everyday goods.

Fragrant pastries without leaving your home

It is not at all necessary to have a special education to cook homemade goodies. Many women who cook well are successful in this line of business. For work, you will need very little: a mixer, kitchen utensils. Any attentive hostess has it all in the kitchen. Additionally, you can purchase special equipment with which you can knead the dough. A regular oven for small volumes will suffice. Special attention it is necessary to pay attention to baking recipes and their appearance. Taste and aesthetic qualities must be at their best so that buyers are interested in the product. You can subsequently sell pastries on the street or fulfill orders from restaurants and coffee shops.

Homemade jam

Necessary costs: from 7-8 thousand rubles.

For such production, additional equipment may not be required. For normal operation, you need: pots, jars with lids of different sizes (preferably small, since it will be easier to sell them), a seaming machine. As for raw materials, then you can go in two ways: either buy products in stores or markets, or take everything you need from your own garden. It should be noted that the profitability of such a business in winter is about 30%. But selling jam in the summer is less profitable. Therefore, the workpieces made in the summer can be held until winter and sold at a better price.

Pickles

Necessary costs: from 10-12 thousand rubles.

Vegetables and mushrooms can be used as a base. The former can be grown independently or purchased at a bargain price from farmers, the latter can be harvested in the forest or purchased at the markets. For work, you will need your own stove, cans, lids, a seamer and the actual raw materials. By the way, you don't have to limit yourself to cucumbers and mushrooms. The following dishes are quite popular today: sauerkraut and pickled cabbage, Korean carrots. It is worth thinking in advance about product marketing. If the production is still very small, you can offer to buy something to your acquaintances, friends, neighbors.

Production of semi-finished products

Here, an option is being considered when an entrepreneur is engaged in the manufacture of sausages, sausages, dumplings, dumplings from meat purchased from farmers or at meat processing plants. If the businessman plans to raise animals himself, then he will need a country farm in which he will keep livestock. In this case, you will need to obtain permission to carry out sales at the Sanitary and Epidemiological Station. All actions will have to be coordinated with them too.

Therefore, semi-finished products are the most acceptable option. In the beginning, it is better not to make the assortment large. About 30 items will be more than enough. It is worth taking care of the cooking recipes. The tastier and more unusual the product is, the greater the demand for it will be.

To work, you need ordinary kitchen utensils. Particular attention should be paid to the choice of knives, meat grinder. A separate freezer for storing finished products and simple meat.

Homemade phyto tea

Necessary costs: from 4-6 thousand rubles.

Today, people are increasingly looking after their health and well-being. That is why the demand for “healthy” products is growing rapidly. Various herbal teas are no exception. At the same time, the work does not require special tools and costs. Herbal gathering can be done on your own in the summer, leaving for nature. The missing ingredients can be purchased at the pharmacy. In this case, the sale is best done dry. You can also think about beautiful packaging of the goods - buy special bags, print labels with the manufacturer's phone number, name and composition of the collection. It is very important to respect the proportions. A variety of recipes and the addition of spices, aromatic herbs will only increase demand. For work, you will need measuring scales, containers and raw materials.

Packing bulk goods

Necessary costs: from 10-15 thousand rubles.

In this case, the sales volume will largely depend on how the packaging is designed. What can be packaged? Nuts, seeds, cereals. You can buy these goods at the warehouse or at some warehouse, pack them at home and offer your neighbors to buy a package of goodies at a bargain price. If you go to a more serious level, you will need a more detailed and professional approach to the creation of packaging. At first, you can do this manually. And gradually look for large customers who will be ready to buy products in bulk.

Needlework

This block contains such production formats that require special skills or talent from an entrepreneur.

Decorative ornaments made of polymer clay

Necessary costs: from 8-10 thousand rubles.

The main advantage over many stores will be individuality, the uniqueness of the offered items. Technically speaking, the process is pretty straightforward. For work, you need special boards, knives of different sizes, material, small decorations in the form of sequins, beads, buttons, chains and other things. In order for a product to be in demand, you need to put imagination, enthusiasm and skills into your products. The low cost helps to get a decent income for handicrafts.

Handmade boxes

Necessary costs: from 3-4 thousand rubles.

There are many options. They can be made from wood, shells, sequins, beads and other decorations. In this case, all costs are reduced to the purchase of the necessary raw materials. Interesting ideas, diagrams can always be found on the Internet. Particular attention should be paid to the upholstery of the inside of the box, handles. If the product is rather large, it makes sense to insert a mirror in size into it. It is worth taking care of the creation of special fasteners for storing rings, earrings, chains.

Handmade stained glass

Necessary costs: from 14-18 thousand rubles.

Such decorations are used today to decorate the interior. Stained-glass windows are attached to walls, partitions, windows, doors. At the same time, the competition in this industry is not so high. Of course, it takes skill to get the job done. Artistic ability is also encouraged. This work is quite laborious, but the pay will be impressive. Depending on the technique, you may need: oil paints, epoxy resin, glue, gelatin, dyes. The drawing is applied to colored glass. This is usually done not with brushes, but with thin needles - it is with the help of them that the contours of the image are drawn, and only then they are painted.

Handmade soap

Necessary costs: from 8-15 thousand rubles.

Today many people buy similar products. Usually they are bought as a gift for a holiday. It is during the pre-holiday periods that the demand for this product is very high. To make soap you will need: essence (base), aromatic oils, jewelry, special forms, fragrances. It is worth thinking in advance about the recipes for making. It is better to make the first batch very small and use it yourself. You can earn even more by beautifully packing souvenirs. This will require special paper, ribbons, bows, strings. You can attach a contact phone number to presentations so that the recipients of the gift can buy soap if they like it.

Manufacturing of frameless furniture

Necessary costs: from 5-6 thousand rubles.

In this case, we are considering an interesting novelty - the production of bean bags. These are such soft pear-shaped chairs. Each time they take the form of the body of the seated person. A similar product in stores costs about 6 thousand rubles. Moreover, the cost does not exceed a thousand. For production, you will need a sewing machine, material, filler, threads. It is better to sell such products via the Internet. But it is also necessary to offer goods to acquaintances as soon as possible.

Montessori hand toy

Necessary costs: from 4-8 thousand rubles.

It is also called a business board. Such products are in great demand among young parents. When making these toys, it is very important to think over all the details - from packaging to the quality of every detail. When creating your own model, you can borrow one of the ideas you already have. In this case, you will not need a certificate authorizing the use of the intellectual property object, since the business board is an object of folk art. To create such toys, you do not need expensive equipment, and the materials are quite inexpensive. One such product can be sold for 5-15 thousand rubles. Selling Montessori toys is best done online. Delivery by mail in Russia will not be so difficult. For work, you may need a variety of parts, a board to which they will be attached and tools for fastening.

Atelier at home

In fact, it is no different from the usual one, except for the volume of production. At the same time, the seamstress will receive all the profits, which can significantly reduce the final cost of the product. The work will require special knowledge, skills, work experience. The demand for a master can mean that he will initially have regular customers who can bring several more people with him. To work you will need: a sewing machine, a place for cutting, overlock, knives, scissors, consumables, buttons, lace, ruffles, locks, zippers and more. In this case, materials can be purchased at the expense of the customer or work with already selected ones. High quality designer items are very much appreciated today.

Handmade souvenirs

Necessary costs: from 6-50 thousand rubles.

Here you can work in one of two directions: hand made or manufacturing business products ... In the second case, we mean advertising products applied to different surfaces (pens, T-shirts). The first format is more seasonal. At the same time, for work, you may need consumables in the form of fabrics, beads, wood, and others. But for working with promotional gifts, the initial cost will include the purchase professional equipment... Everything will depend on the choice of direction. You can work with:

  • ceramic surfaces (decal or silk-screen printing);
  • plastic;
  • fabric (embroidery, thermal drawing);
  • metal (laser engraving).

In this case, you may need various machines, presses, MFPs, printers. It is cheaper to buy such equipment in China.

Decoupage

Necessary costs: from 13-15 thousand rubles.

You can decorate with this technique many items, including furniture, napkins, tablecloths. Almost anyone can do this. It is only important to be assiduous and be patient. Over time, skills improve the quality of work. That's when you can do decoupage for sale. For work you will need: glue, brushes, sponges, paints, primer, sandpaper, a special decoupage agent, blanks from different materials (wood, cardboard, glass, etc.) and decor items. You can sell such products to friends and acquaintances. The best thing to do is to supply via the Internet. You can even start only from your city, and then expand production.

Magnets as a gift

Necessary costs: from 7-9 thousand rubles.

To many, this type of business seems frivolous due to the low cost of the products. In fact, you can make very good money on this. Important factors will be the originality of the manufactured products and their aesthetic component. You can work in several directions at once:

  • magnets with inscriptions;
  • funny and funny items;
  • educational magnets for children or even whole sets;
  • calendars with magnets;
  • holiday magnets for certain holidays.

At the same time, not so much is needed to organize such a production. First, you need the magnets themselves, on which the main structure will be attached. But the surface can be decorated as you like - make something out of wood, plastic, paint on glass, make engraving, use polymer clay.

Home Production Ideas for Men

The ideas below are most typical for men. That is why we have separated them into a separate block. This does not mean at all that a woman cannot engage in these activities.

Glass engraving

Necessary costs: from 20–35 thousand rubles.

If it comes to manual engraving using special devices, then such a production can be placed right in the apartment. If you plan to use a special compressor and stencils, then it is better to deploy activities in a separate house or garage. The main advantage this business is its exclusivity. Not so many people are engaged in such work. You can do this as a hobby and get pretty good money for it. In addition to tools, you will also need material on which inscriptions and drawings will be applied.

Manufacturing of belts and leather accessories

Necessary costs: from 25 thousand rubles.

This product is popular with people of different ages... The demand for the idea also lies in the fact that the accessory will be made by hand, which adds exclusivity and originality to it. For work you will need leather, special hole punches, machines for sewing edges, jewelry. The profitability of this idea is at least 300%. Pig skin can be used as material, for example. You can buy it from local farmers for 200 rubles (price for one belt). In this case, sales can be carried out via the Internet.

Production of keys

You can set up a mini-workshop at home. The payback of this business attracts many entrepreneurs. At the same time, the production technique does not require any additional skills. To be able to work with different types of keys, you will have to purchase machines different types... For the first time, 4–5 different ones are enough. Each of them can cost about 14-70 thousand rubles. It is better not to buy Chinese-made machines, as they often break down within a year after the start of use. You will also need material for making duplicates. As an accompanying production, you can repair watches, locks, clothes. This idea is highly cost effective. The mark-up for one duplicate can be about 500-1000%.

Seasonal home production

This section includes those types of production that are considered seasonal. This means that the rest of the time you will have to do something else to get tangible profits.

Making brooms for a bath

Necessary costs: from 20-25 thousand rubles (the cost of the car is not included).

You can harvest brooms from July to August. But you can sell them at any time of the year. In other months, it is not recommended to make brooms, as they will be of lower quality. Today, most often people acquire the following types of brooms:

  • birch;
  • oak;
  • lime.

It is on them that you need to focus. You can add medicinal or aromatic herbs to them. In order to safely use forest resources, it is necessary to conclude an appropriate contract with forestry. The collection of material can be done directly in the forest, and drying - in a separate room. This can be done at home if there is a separate room for this. Do not exclude the option of going out of town to your own house. The profitability of such production is about 100-150%. For work you need an ax, a car for transporting goods, materials for a bunch of brooms.

Making felt boots

This business idea consists in processing sheep wool and making felt boots from it. This type of production is seasonal, since warm footwear is mainly needed in December – February. The rest of the time the business brings significantly less income... This type of footwear is especially relevant for residents of villages and cities of the northern region. In addition, the cost of the final product can be increased due to the exclusive design and decor. In the summer, you can, if you wish, make car rugs, slippers, bags. For work you will need: pure wool, a carding machine, a felting machine, a post, a rolling pin. The creation process is quite complicated. Before tackling this business, it is worth studying the relevant literature, watching training videos.

Making kvass at home

Necessary costs: from 50 thousand rubles.

If the production is small, you can limit yourself to an apartment. Larger events are best done in a separate private house. This business is especially profitable during the hot season. Today the following types of kvass are most popular in Russia:

  • bread;
  • fruit;
  • berry.

Small-scale production can do without special equipment, but large-scale production will require purchasing: barrels or stationary rack, kegs, bottling equipment, containers, cooler. You can sell goods on the street. Then you will need a special rack and chair. You can supply products in bulk to coffee shops, summer bars.

Private house production

This block includes ideas, for the work of which you will definitely need your own private house to separate the work area. In addition, such activities require more space than the previous ones. Mostly they all need a strong male hand, but there are exceptions.

Ideas for men

The ideas below are most typical for men. If desired, women can also establish production in these areas. However, without male power, it is unlikely that it will be possible to carry out production and marketing.

Furniture manufacturing

Necessary costs: from 55-60 thousand rubles.

This type of production is beneficial due to a number of factors. First, it doesn't require a lot of investment to work. Secondly, the term for the product is very long. At the same time, resources are nearby, and there is no seasonality for products, which allows working with maximum efficiency all year round. Parts for production can be purchased from factories. In this case, you will not be able to do without: a drill, a hammer drill, drills, a hammer, a saw, a screwdriver, a jigsaw and some other tools. For work, you will also need chipboard, countertops, facades and fittings to bring the furniture into a marketable condition. We'll have to think about the glazing of their products. Glasses can be ordered in special workshops or cut by yourself if you have special equipment.

Own carpentry production

Necessary costs: from 90 thousand rubles.

Such a workshop should have an area of ​​at least 50 m 2. The height of the ceilings should be more than usual - about 4 meters. Electricity must be provided. For the work of a carpentry workshop, it is necessary to collect documents that must be submitted to the service fire safety... In addition, you will have to purchase a number of equipment, including: a jointer, a number of power tools, face and circular saws, chisels, mallets, hacksaws. It is very important to think over the range of goods that will be produced in the workshop. It can be small accessories in the form of door handles, and wooden figures, souvenirs, toys and much more. It is also necessary to think about how the tree will need to be processed before selling it directly. You can make tables, stools, tables from cheap materials, adding exclusivity to them with the help of exotic ornaments. Business profitability is on average 20-25%.

Manufacturing veneer doors

Necessary costs: from 85–90 rubles.

This variety can be attributed to the carpentry workshop. And yet, doors are usually manufactured separately. Such production is delivered to the stream. At the same time, the costs and necessary tools are the same as in the carpentry industry. The most important thing in this industry is to find your consumer. Work with wholesalers is possible. In this case, it is worth considering cooperation with construction and finishing firms.

Mirror tiles

Necessary costs: from 65-70 thousand rubles.

This type of production is considered to be highly profitable and very profitable. The manufactured products can be used for interior decoration. Moreover, it looks very interesting and impressive after such a restyling. You can work in this industry according to the following scheme: buy ready-made mirrors, cut them under suitable sizes and process the edges with special tools. For work you will need: glass cutter, table, emery wheel, which allows you to process the tiles. Later it will be possible to buy a special machine, which will significantly increase the speed of tile production.

Home production of bricks

Necessary costs: from 200-300 thousand rubles.

For work, you will need a fairly large room, so you need to carry out your activities in a private house. To work, an entrepreneur will need: a special machine (automatic semi-dry pressing press) and molds for production. The following consumables are required for manufacturing: sand, water, cement and dyes, clay. Some of these items can be purchased in bulk from vendors. Similar business can pay off within six months. The maximum profit of a small mini-plant can reach about 200 thousand rubles. The following types of bricks can be produced:

  • silicate;
  • facing;
  • color.

Manufacturing of artificial marble from concrete

Necessary costs: from 150 thousand rubles.

This material is popular with companies that produce furniture. Such marble is quite specific, it is not so easy to establish its marketing. Profitability can vary greatly depending on local raw material and finished product prices. As Supplies use polyester resin and a special filler. You will also need special machines, which are not so cheap. The cost price of one square meter is about 200–250 rubles. The same volume of finished products can be sold for 14 thousand rubles on average. Consequently, the profitability is about 600-700%. The income is tangible even with small production volumes.

Hand punching

Necessary costs: 10-15 thousand rubles.

This type of business is suitable for those who have little or no start-up capital... The work does not require specialized equipment, which significantly reduces the initial costs. In addition, the technology of such stamping allows the production of parts of various sizes, designs and geometries. An entrepreneur can easily expand the assortment presented in his production. The quantity of goods can also vary depending on the needs of the consumer. True, the profitability is not as high as, for example, in the production of bricks or artificial marble. First you need to study videos and workshops on working in this industry.

Manufacturing of metal structures

Necessary costs: from 40–45 thousand rubles.

This type of production is relevant due to the fact that at the present time, individual housing construction is developing very actively. Metal structures mean the manufacture of various gates, gates, canopies, protective grilles and other attributes. Moreover, it will not be difficult to sell such products due to the constant demand for them. For work, it will be necessary to purchase equipment for cold forging of individual structural elements. This will increase the efficiency and profit of the enterprise. Experience in this industry will be a significant plus. Sales channels should be looked for in construction companies, repair offices and teams.

Production of foam blocks

Necessary costs: from 60-80 thousand rubles.

This type of production is also very popular among aspiring entrepreneurs. Such interest is associated with the high demand for the product, and hence the easy sale of foam blocks. In addition, such a business is very profitable, and the invested funds pay off in just a couple of months. Foam concrete is very popular due to the presence of the following properties:

  • thermal insulation;
  • soundproofing;
  • high strength (not inferior in this to stone structures).

You don't need specialized equipment to make block molds - you can do everything yourself from plywood. The concrete mixer can be rented at first. Later, you can buy additional equipment to facilitate the work process.

Production of dry building mixtures

In this case, the assortment can be chosen by the entrepreneur himself. It should be understood that each type is intended for a specific type of work. The main consumers are repair and construction crews and company. That is why it is better to think about cooperation with them in advance and offer your services for the delivery of goods. It is very difficult to talk about the demand for specific types of mixtures in Russia. In order not to get into a mess, it is better to carefully study the features of the dry building mixtures market in your region before starting work, and only then proceed to production.

Manufacturing of paints and varnishes

Necessary costs: from 30-35 thousand rubles.

This type of production has been profitable on the Russian market at all times. Finishing work is not complete without their use. You can include the following items in your assortment:

  • putty;
  • dye;
  • glue;
  • enamel and much more.

You can get significant income from such entrepreneurship. The main thing is only to initially study the market, find out about your competitors, the level of demand for each type of product, and only then set up production. The undoubted advantage of this business is a quick payback. For work, you will need knowledge of how to make this or that type of product.

Making indoor fountains

Necessary costs: from 20-25 thousand rubles.

This idea came to our country from China. Moreover, such production does not require large investments. Today, a variety of water-based décor items, including fountains and waterfalls, are in high demand. They have not only aesthetic appearance, but also humidify the air, make the atmosphere in the room more calm and harmonious. For the manufacture of fountains, you can use the following types of materials:

  • stone;
  • glass;
  • wood;
  • clay;
  • bamboo and more.

You can come up with a design yourself or browse ideas available on the Internet. Similar products can be sold in souvenir shops and shops. No specialized equipment is required for work, but skillful hands will come in handy.

Wooden stairs

Necessary costs: from 60 thousand rubles.

This business requires minimum investment... However, he can bring good profit... Ladders do not belong to the category of cheap products, but the demand for them is quite high and stable. They buy them not only for the performance of functions, but also for aesthetics. That is why stairs made of natural materials are especially popular. They are decorated with carving, patting or gilding. It is better to be engaged in their production on order, having discussed in detail all aspects of the future project. One flight of stairs costs about 100 rubles, which once again confirms high profitability project. For work you will need carpentry equipment, wood, small tools.

Ceramics

Necessary costs: from 50 thousand rubles.

This refers primarily to clay dishes. In this case, you can work on the basis of various:

  • raw materials;
  • coverings;
  • destination of goods.

They use ceramics in everyday life, they also decorate apartments and houses. Handicrafts are much more expensive than those made in large factories. Much depends on the originality of the idea, the appearance of the dishes. The more aesthetic it looks, the greater the demand for it will be. For work, you will need a special structure for working with clay (potter's wheel or machine tool), material. We'll have to think about how to paint it, what kind of ornament or drawing to add. From above, the dishes will need to be coated with a special varnish that is safe for humans.

DIY irrigation systems

Necessary costs: from 35-40 thousand rubles.

This idea is still quite innovative today. She came to Russia from China, but has already managed to conquer a certain part of the market. Drip irrigation systems can significantly save water consumption. It is necessary to sell products in agricultural land, where it will be in great demand. These can be exclusive custom-made systems or quite common options. A lot of knowledge is required to work. It is very important to understand how the system works, how irrigation is carried out and the flow of water. You don't need a lot of tools. The pipes must be sealed, gaskets must be inserted.

Sauna stoves

Necessary costs: from 90-100 thousand rubles.

For work, you will need skills, a welding machine and material for the manufacture of goods. A good welder is simply indispensable here. You can be engaged in custom-made production or form an assortment based on standard parameters. The main clients will be the owners of houses in villages and dachas. Some of these stoves are installed in garages and simple country houses. Selling in bulk will not work, it is better to work pointwise, because one oven has a rather impressive cost.

Wood carving

Necessary costs: from 30-35 thousand rubles.

Such products attract the attention of customers due to their exclusivity and nobility. There are very few wood craftsmen today. But the demand for wood products is constantly growing. You need to understand that you will not be able to master the technique right away, because it is quite difficult. It will take a lot of time and diligence to do really high-quality and beautiful things. It is also important to have knowledge and creativity. Any product is a reflection of the soul of the master, which is why they are so expensive. Crafts can be sold online or displayed in hand-made stores. Wooden souvenirs are especially popular among the population. For work, you will need high-quality material, a jigsaw and some other carpentry tools.

Anti-freeze production

Necessary costs: from 40 thousand rubles.

This product is especially needed by a motorist in the cold season. It is not difficult to make it. In doing so, you can make good money. In the future, a mini-factory may turn out from a small production workshop. The most important thing is to find distribution channels. These can be auto parts stores, motorists inside a cooperative. Stable demand will provide stable income... You will need a variety Technical equipment... At first, you can buy a used one, and only then scale up production and establish a whole production line. The same principle can be used to establish antifreeze production. The creation of both substances involves certain chemical reactions that require equipment and knowledge to carry out.

Manufacturing of monuments

Necessary costs: from 300 - 400 thousand rubles.

For a start, it is worth targeting this particular ritual service. Others can be added later. For work, you will need a workshop with an area of ​​70-200 m 2. There should be placed special tables for engraving, a grinder, a place for draining, a polishing machine, pouring. The following materials are used: cement, marble chips, fittings, etc. The undoubted advantage will be the presence of a telpher or a hydraulic trolley. It will not do without cutting wheels, puncher, hammers, carts, engraving tools, tile cutters and much more. It is necessary to find reliable suppliers and those who will carry out printing photographs on metal-ceramics. There is nowhere without technology, so you need to either hire knowledgeable people or delve into all the intricacies of production yourself.

Manufacturing of products

Growing vegetables and fruits

Necessary costs: from 10-15 thousand rubles.

It is better to organize this type of production outside the city if it is planned to work on a large scale. Here you can go in two ways: grow food in open beds or in greenhouses. In the first case, the costs will be minimal, and in the second - high yield. Many people today try to buy products from small producers. Such interest in such products is due to the fact that they are not harmful to health, since they do not contain pesticides, GMOs and other harmful substances. For work, you will need more of your own physical labor. You won't be able to make a profit right away, because the products have to grow before they can be sold.

Growing mushrooms

Necessary costs: from 20-25 thousand rubles.

To organize such a production, you will need to coordinate your work with the authorities. Rather stringent requirements are imposed on mushroom cultivation. As fertilizer, it will be necessary to use compost, which will have to be purchased from local farmers. The most popular mushrooms today are:

  • Champignon;
  • oyster mushrooms.

Moreover, champignons require very careful care. It is not so easy to grow them. But the income is also more tangible than growing vegetables and fruits. It will be possible to sell the certified product both to large supermarkets and to individuals. The latter can be charged a higher value than the former.

Cheese making

Necessary costs: from 500 thousand rubles.

I must say that this industry is very promising in terms of generating income and further development. For legal work, you will need to obtain various licenses and certificates for finished products. Beforehand, you should equip a mini-workshop for the production of cheese. You will not do without a veterinary certificate (you can get it from a milk seller). The following types of cheese are especially popular:

  • solid;
  • semi-solid;
  • soft;
  • brine.

At the same time, including one of the varieties in your project, you need to understand that each requires special equipment. Therefore, it is better to start with one type, and expand your production as you receive a good profit. There are quite a few requirements for cheese that must be met. You need to study them, look at GOST.

The work will require a fairly large area (about 350 m 2). There should be:

  • manufacturing facility;
  • fermentation workshop;
  • salting workshop;
  • refrigerating chambers.

You will need the following equipment: boilers, tanks, presses, starters, sterilizers, pumps, containers and much more. Such a business requires significant capital investments, regardless of the size of the enterprise.

How to sell manufactured goods

There are many ways here and they are all purely individual, depending on your knowledge, skills, financial capabilities, etc.

  • You can sell your products on social networks and on your website on the Internet by making a website and running ads.
  • You can post advertisements around the city and place advertisements in newspapers.
  • You can sell through friends in the shops of the city.
  • You can open a shop or tent in the market by yourself.
  • You can sell in small wholesale, finding such orders through friends or on the Internet.

And many other options. Look at your situation individually and try to find your clients using different sources... And you will definitely find them.

Conclusion

That's all the small business home production ideas that came to our minds! The main thing is that you can find something for yourself. Only then can results be achieved in this business.

In conclusion, I would like to ask you to supplement the collection of these ideas in the comments under the article and ask your questions.

Decorative and applied art is something that many people live in or are simply fond of. The creation of various products - jewelry, crafts, souvenirs - can be either just a hobby or a way to make money.

Today one of the most popular materials for use in arts and crafts is polymer clay. It is also called plastic, since it is a very plastic soft material that tends to harden at a certain temperature (usually from 100 to 130 degrees, depending on the manufacturer who made the polymer clay).

The main properties of polymer clay

Polymer clay has a characteristic appearance and a certain odor. It looks very much like ordinary plasticine. In order for polymer clay to be plastic, special substances are introduced into its composition - plasticizers. Thanks to plasticizers, polymer clay becomes more frost-resistant, better tolerates exposure to light and heat. When polymer clay is heated to a certain temperature, the plasticizers evaporate and the clay solidifies.

To make polymer clay more suitable for use in arts and crafts and handicrafts, manufacturers immediately release it painted in a variety of colors.

In addition to "plasticine" polymer clay, there is also a transparent liquid polymer clay. Outwardly, it looks like a gel, which also tends to harden when heated. This liquid plastic is used to bond various parts made from common polymer clay as an adhesive.

Standard polymer clay composition- this is a polyvinyl chloride base, one or more plasticizers and the required pigment (giving the desired color to polymer clay). White porcelain, kaolin, mica can be added as additional components.

DIY polymer clay

If you are looking to start your own polymer clay business but are not sure if it is worth it, perhaps you should start by making this material at home. Before starting a serious business - organizing a widespread production of polymer clay, taking into account all the necessary chemical processes - first you need to understand whether this material will be in demand as a product in your city or region.

Any big business starts small, so try making polymer clay at home first (it's not difficult at all) and selling it in small batches.

How to make polymer clay

Of course, for home production, slightly different materials are used than for professional. Since all the ingredients are readily available, anyone can try to make polymer clay on their own.

To make polymer clay at home, you will need: white PVA glue, corn starch, petroleum jelly, non-greasy hand cream, lemon juice. You will also need utensils and equipment: a glass bowl (always fireproof), a plastic spatula, a large mixing spoon, plastic wrap.

Step-by-step instructions for making polymer clay at home:

1. Place white PVA glue (250 g), corn starch (250 g) and petroleum jelly (1 tablespoon) in a glass bowl. Stir well, then add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and stir again. You should get a homogeneous mass.

2. Place the bowl with the resulting mass in the microwave oven, set the maximum temperature. After 30 seconds, mix the contents of the bowl thoroughly. Then put the bowl back in the microwave for another 30 seconds.

3. When you remove the bowl from the microwave, you will see a crust on the surface of the bowl. Remove it carefully, you will not need it.

4. Then put the resulting polymer mass on a surface (for example, a table), having previously lubricated this surface with a non-greasy hand cream. Use a silicone-free cream.

5. Knead the polymer mass the way you would knead a regular dough. Be sure to do this on a creamy surface. The mass should be kneaded for about five minutes with vigorous and quick movements. Use a plastic spatula to scrape off any pieces that stick to the sides of the pot. As a result of such kneading, you should get a plastic and elastic material.

6. Form a mass into an oblong shape and place on a cloth to absorb any remaining moisture.

7. Wait for the polymer clay to cool completely and then wrap it in plastic wrap.

8. Your polymer clay is completely ready to use.

Taking into account the indicated amount of ingredients, you will receive approximately 350 grams of finished polymer clay.

In the future, store polymer clay in the refrigerator by placing it in a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. You can use any oil-based paint or food coloring to add color to polymer clay. To achieve an even distribution of paint over the entire piece of plastic, add paint gradually in small portions, stirring thoroughly.

What if after a while polymer clay has lost its flexibility and is difficult to work with? You can use one of the methods: either add a little petroleum jelly or cream to the polymer mass, or mix it with a portion of softer polymer clay. If you initially ended up with too liquid and viscous polymer clay, then you can make it elastic by mixing with a portion of the drier and harder clay. It will be much easier to work with it this way.

Also, by mixing two portions of polymer clay of different colors, you can get beautiful color transitions, which are often used in the manufacture of decorative ornaments. To diversify the palette of your products, you can add various additional substances to polymer clay: glitters, glitters, fluorescent substances.

Sales of finished products

In our case, the finished product will be polymer clay, which is completely ready for use in arts and crafts. You can sell your product to craftsmen who create jewelry, crafts and various others. First, try to sell your product through social networks and city forums. A lot of communities have been created on the Internet, in which amateurs and professionals of this art communicate, offer your product there too.

Another option is to try to negotiate on mutually beneficial terms with creative goods stores so that they sell your product.

If you like this business and go well, then in the future you have the opportunity to create a mini-plant for the production of polymer clay, where you will use already professional chemical components. At the moment, the most demanded and popular manufacturers of polymer clay are companies such as Cernit, Fimo, Premo Sculpey, Bebik and many others.

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To buy a kiln for firing clay products, Aleksey Belousov and Alena Shoiko from Novosibirsk sold their car. This "exchange" opened the way for them to their own ceramics workshop - so they have never regretted the car ever since. As well as leaving employment and becoming entrepreneurs. The founders of the Formo studio told the Biz360 portal about how to stand out from the competition and why the focus was not on production, but on training.

26 years; , 32 years; entrepreneurs from Novosibirsk, founders of a pottery workshop Formo... Alena graduated from the Siberian Academy public service(Faculty of Psychology), Alexey - University of Consumer Cooperatives (specialty "crisis management"). The Formo workshop was opened in October 2017.

Sold a car, bought a stove

Alexey Belousov never thought before that he would become a potter. Prior to that, he was engaged in various projects in completely different areas - from marketing campaigns before creating your franchise. But Alena Shoiko dreamed of ceramics since childhood. It was she who convinced Alexei to open a workshop.

“I always studied everything I could find about ceramics, then I got into a children's club and stayed there for an indecently long time - I was already too old for a club, but I went anyway. I was able to work on the potter's wheel only a few years ago. She studied privately and immediately with a serious goal - to put her hands correctly. Then she herself worked as a teacher of pottery, and then I got my own circle. And since I put it at home, Alexey, of course, tried it - and also fell in love with this occupation. Now he has practiced so much that he will give me a head start. And it's great, after all, a potter is a man's profession. "


“For a long time my life was connected with computers. As a result, I decided that I wanted to move from the virtual to something real, tangible, - explains Alexey. "If I was primarily interested in money, I would hardly take up a potter - this is not the most profitable business in the world."

At the same time, entry into this not the most profitable business is not cheap today. The main tool of the ceramist - a kiln for firing clay products - cost the newcomers from Novosibirsk 250 thousand rubles. Another 80 thousand was worth a potter's wheel. To buy a stove, Alena and Aleksey sold the car.

“In the Papa Johns pizzeria next to our workshop there is a poster that says that the creator sold his favorite car to start his own business and buy the first oven. This phrase amused us, because we had a similar story, - says Alexey. - I must say, we were lucky: we managed to buy equipment of a very high level by hand, although usually such models are difficult to find on the secondary market. At one time, we also acquired our car by accident on favorable terms. We then doubted whether we need it at all. But, as it turned out now, if it were not for the car, there would be no stove - and the workshop. "


“It was immediately clear to us that investments in equipment are investments in the future,” adds Alena. “Therefore, we didn’t try to get by with a homemade circle and a stove, as some novice potters do, but immediately bought quality ones.”

"I am forming", "we are forming" ...

At first, Alena and Aleksey were going to make a workshop for personal creativity. Therefore, the stove was sent to the balcony, and the potter's wheel settled in the room of their apartment. But it soon became clear that it was inconvenient to live like this. “This is not just about equipment. You also need to order clay (you can't buy it in Novosibirsk, so we take it in Spain and Ukraine). It is always necessary to order in large quantities and store it somewhere later, ”Alena explains.

They began to look for a separate area for the stove, and in the end they came to the Formo space with master classes in clay modeling. It is they who today occupy 70% of the working time of Aleksey and Alena - and have distinguished them against the background of other similar organizations.


Before ceramics, Alena was a photographer for six years, and also taught dance, different types handicrafts and, in fact, pottery. Alexey also had experience in design and photography. All this ultimately came in handy in their new business.

“My education as a psychologist also helped. After all, I now communicate a lot with people, but here without psychology, nowhere, ”says Alyona.

The name came to mind of novice craftsmen by accident: from the word "shaping". "Education" in this context is associated with master classes, and the word formo in Portuguese means "to form". In addition to the semantic load, the name of the workshop also sounds modern and international.


According to Aleksey, few competing workshops paid due attention to the name - and in vain. It can play a big role in scaling a business. In particular, when entering the federal and international level with their products.

Loft residents

There are a number of special requirements for premises for a ceramic workshop - first of all, in terms of fire safety. You can't go to an office center with such a project. However, Aleksey and Alena were lucky again: pretty soon they found a playground in the Novosibirsk Loft-Nsk loft in the city center. Formo started work on approximately 30 square meters, now it is located on 50.

The place required serious renovation. Mostly Alexey did it himself. So from industrial premises with ventilation shafts and openings for elevators, it turned out to be a workshop.


“It was scary to start up: it seemed to us that no one would come to our opening except our friends,” Alena admits. - But in the end, the loft itself provided us with information support. Plus, the information was spread on social networks. We did not launch any special advertising there for the opening - we just posted an announcement. As a result, there weren't too many acquaintances at the opening, but mostly strangers came. "

Entrepreneurs immediately began to offer master classes that were in demand. Almost from the very opening, a large flow of people went to Formo, and until the entrepreneurs faced downtime. “Also, we immediately began to receive orders for dishes from Novosibirsk companies,” says Alexey. “So we started working with training sessions and modeling to order at the same time.”

Dates and birthdays with clay

Lessons in Formo take at least 100 kg of clay per month; it is ordered from different suppliers in Spain and Ukraine. At the master classes, Aleksey and Alena give students the opportunity to try different sculpting techniques (by hand and on a potter's wheel) and applying glazes (dipping, watering, spraying from a spray bottle). The main goal of the creators of the studio is to ensure that the guests get quality work, not children's crafts. After the class, the items are fired, so that the participants then take home the finished ceramics of their own production.

There are days in the schedule of master classes for a week when you can come and play on a free topic, and there are at least three group thematic lessons on hand sculpting. Also, individual pottery workshops are held every day (in the near future, group lessons on the circle will begin in the studio). Sculpting on a free theme is paid by time: 400 rubles per hour for an adult, 300 - for a child. A lesson on a potter's wheel for one person will cost 800 rubles, for a couple - 1200.


12 people can attend a group master class at the same time. But if necessary, the number can be increased to 30 (for example, for a corporate party). “The advantage of our loft is that we can rent additional space and conduct a lesson for a large audience,” says Alexey. - As far as I know, this is also one of our competitive advantages: many other studios don't have this option. "

Families and couples often come to Formo - especially for a class called "A Date Behind a Potter's Wheel". Also among the visitors are people who are simply interested in self-development and they attend many courses and classes. In addition, the workshop has a service for organizing children's birthdays.

Greek Cup

As for its products, so far this direction is developing in the workshop rather on a leftover principle - when there is time left free from teaching others. You can buy products by Alexey and Alena now only in their small showroom at Formo.

They mainly create dishes. “Before the New Year, we tried to participate with our products in the market. And even about the decorative garnet, which is very popular in the world of ceramics, people asked - how can it be applied? That is, it is applied items that are in great demand, - says Alena. - The dishes are interesting. Jewelry and figurines can be made from many other materials. And the dishes are mostly made of clay. "


For the next year, the creators of Formo are planning to develop their production line and establish online sales. They pin their hopes on Instagram: according to Alexei's observations, ceramics are selling well there. Today it is there and on VKontakte that the studio is promoting. Plus, the masters are going to open their own online store.

“While we are working together, we only have enough time for content for our main Instagram profile. And the time to study and profile with ceramics for sale, not enough, - says Alena. - Therefore, for now, we only occasionally take orders. But our team is already expanding, so we will develop this direction soon. "


Nevertheless, among these rare works to order, Formo craftsmen already have a foreign one. Recently came to Novosibirsk musical group, in which the keyboardist was from Greece. And this man from the homeland of pottery, where there are entire villages of ceramists, ordered a cup from Formo. He collects them: he buys one in each city he comes to.

There will be more potters

According to Alexey, his studio not only has competitors, but, most likely, there will still be. However, Formo has already taken a leading position in the city, because the studio was heavily invested at every stage of the work.

“There are people who have worked before us for years, and nevertheless, in many ways, we have become pioneers,” says Alexey. - For example, not every workshop has a brand, but we tried to make it; not everyone even has a website. We launched their website... Even if it’s only a C for now, it’s better to do so for now than to keep the perfect one in your head and not do it at all ”.

As entrepreneurs say, they are lucky that they know how to teach, that is, train personnel themselves: in the near future they intend to expand the teaching staff. This is necessary in order to launch full-fledged courses in ceramics - for those who want not only to try themselves, but to learn this craft. Subsequently, the creators of Formo also plan to develop coworking spaces in their space.

“If you look at the Internet, it may seem that ceramics has become very popular and there are even too many offers,” Alena summed up. - But if we talk about specific cities, in reality it is not so. New studios will most likely appear in our city ”.

“Novosibirsk is big, and today you can count potters on one hand - that's why everyone has clients,” adds Alexey.

 

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