Can you make a living off a hobby machine?

[fatal-exception]

It's a rhetorical question for myself.

Who else has crossed the line between hobby and pro, and is generating their primary income from their machine(s)?

I've been solo for about 4 months now. I like the working hours and holiday schedule. The one thing that I don't like is the solitude of it all.

Paul

[Geof]

Originally Posted by fatal-exception .... The one thing that I don't like is the solitude of it all. Paul

That is an aspect that most people do not think about when they start their 'one man band'.

I am guessing you are working out of your home; I started that way and not having any interaction with people did make it a bit tedious sometimes. When I had progressed to the point where I rented space in a multi-unit building then it was better; except then there was the problem with people from adjacent units wanting little repair jobs done...for free of course. You can't win.

[warrenb]

YES DENIFATELY 100% I am definate proof. I started out with a kit purchased on ebay and a copy of Turbocadcam (now obsolete) and Bobcam. I luckily had an employer that needed CNC work and I was able to comfortably transit in to a vendor for my now, ex-boss. Spread the word. If you work for a company that needs CNC work start doing it in your free time for a low price. The BIGGEST hurdle is your insecurity. Once you get over that initial hump you'll start asking yourself "what the hell was I waiting for?"

Then you can buy a bigger machine, get a shop, some software, and employee.......and on it goes....

[nicanor76]

just curious, what type of typical projects do full-timers get from clients?

[warrenb]

Originally Posted by nicanor76 just curious, what type of typical projects do full-timers get from clients?

Come on now friend. You're not curious. You want ideas!

Custom engraving. Be willing to do single day turnarounds on cutom labels and engraving. Engrave knife handles, gun grips, signs, plaques....

Exotic materials. Fiberglass, acrylic polycarb, and carbon fiber... Custom shapes are always needed. Most shops are intimidated by them but they really aren't that hard with the right tools.

Prototyping. 3D prototypes of models for inventors, jewelry makers, and engineers.

Artists need custom parts. Put an ad in the local "alternative" rag.

Make a briefcase of samples of what you can do and pound the pavement. Work cheap, work fast, and work accurately.

NO BOOTLEGGING!!! Be honest!

Have fun. If they smell desperation on you, you're doomed. If they see you want to work WITH them and not FOR them, you're a shoe in.


Good luck

[Hirudin]

Very inspiring, thanks!