Getting involved in DIY projects can be a life-changing experience – it gives you a sense of
well-earned independence, makes for a closer connection to your home and the DIY items
you created, and it saves money. Many DIY enthusiasts take their time to cultivate their
craftmanship and then they slowly start providing their work to others. If you are thinking of
switching over to more professional DIY projects and charging a fee for your work, then
there are a few things you need to take into account.

1. Marketing

Once you decide to go professional, you will need to think about your brand. Even if you are
still testing the waters and accommodate a few clients, it is important to set up and maintain a
professional image. Fortunately, the internet has made it possible to do so even with limited
means. There are many website builder tools out there, and some of the best are even free, so
you can create your own webpage and showcase your work to attract clients. Do not forget to
take advantage of social media by creating professional accounts to promote your work.
Every social media platform will help your fledgling business in a different way: Facebook
and Twitter are perfect for liaising with prospective clients, while Instagram will allow you to
show off the artistic side of your projects and gain momentum.

2. Regulations and insurance

When working on a DIY project, it is important to know your boundaries and understand
what you can and what you cannot do – and that becomes all the more vital when working for
others. Take some time before you launch your new business to read up on regulations and
legislation that could be relevant to your work or consult a professional. For instance,
electrical work and working with gas are subject to strict regulations and you should steer

away from related projects. On that same note, you should also consider the legal and
financial consequences of a DIY project going south and prepare accordingly. Getting
contractors insurance will act as a safety net if things do not go as planned and will allow you
to focus on your job without distractions – and even dare to take on bigger projects that you
wouldn’t normally do. It also lets your clients know that you approach your role in a
professional manner and that you’ve got everything covered.

3. Budget

Perhaps the most crucial aspect of going pro is budgeting correctly – that will determine
whether you will end up making a profit that makes it worth your time. And there is a lot of
value in the DIY market right now: according to Statista, it has grown worldwide from $30.2
billion in 2012 to $40.7 billion in 2017 and $43.7 billion in 2018. Do your research on the
materials and tools you are going to need, in order to be able to accurately estimate the costs
and ask for the right price.
Being prepared and taking all aspects into account is the key to successfully turning your
DIY enthusiasm into your side or even day job.