Draftsperson

You’re detail-oriented and have a ?air for putting the finishing touches on someone else’s work. You’ve also likely studied drafting in college before embarking on this entrepreneurial endeavor, and you have the experience that your customers will eventually come to rely on. As a draftsperson, you will ultimately produce the blueprints that architects and builders need to complete their dynamic new projects. You will make any requested number of copies of each blueprint as well.


Although individuals may hire you for smaller projects, most of your customers will be architects and building professionals, so you’ll need to be well connected to get any share of the work that’s out there. Set yourself apart by adding additional services or special treatment, such as free delivery to work sites.


You’ll need between $5,000 and $10,000 to get started in drafting and blueprinting, primarily to cover your equipment costs for such items as your computer and design software, as well as your blueprint photocopier ($4,000 or so) and drafting table with drafting pencils, and so on. You’ll likely earn between $35,000 and $65,000 for your eff orts.


It’s very precise work you’re doing, and often it’s a thankless job. (Th e architects and builders get all the glory.) Oh, well . . . you should always remember that without you, these projects might not have gotten done. Stick close to the builders and architects, since they’ll ultimately make up your referral system.


Approx. cost of start-up:$5,000 to $10,000


Approx. potential earnings:$35,000 to $65,000


Typical fees:$150 to $500 per blueprint


Where to promote: Yellow Pages, trade publications


Qualifications: Degree in drafting


Things needed: Computer with large-screen monitor, computer-aided


design (CAD) software, blueprint photocopier, drafting


table, related small tools


Required staff:No


Hidden costs: Insurance, equipment maintenance and upgrades