Renovators working on old homes in the craftsman style with lots of fancy wood trim have a problem if they need to replace damaged pieces. They are not likely to be able to run to the store and find matching millwork. Custom suppliers, while expensive, may also be hard to find.
My idea for Luxury Millwork is to create a custom millwork operation to serve this market. I think this could be done profitably by taking advantage of the following:
- Computer controlled woodworking machines. It is now possible to buy a router holder that is computer controlled in three axis for under $2,000. With this tool it will be possible to match old millwork based on a drawing, photograph, or small sample.
- Using the internet to source wood. Home builders were complaining about the quality of wood they could buy in 1920 and it's only gotten worse. However, the cost of sawing machines has come down and there is a growing community of sawers who cut small amounts of wood ands sell it on Ebay. I think they could become the suppliers of quality oak, cherry and other hardwoods needed to match old millwork. If you are already sawing oak and/or other popular hardwoods this might be a way to expand your operations.
- Using the internet to market your work. Websites are not expensive to set up and host and permit the seller to reach a worldwide audience. In the case of millwork that means the owner of LuxuryMillwork.com can publish pictures of his woods and work and expect to have customers find him.
I have lots of ideas and you can see more of them at my idea store . If you are looking for ways for your or your kids to make a little extra money from home without a lot of investment take a look at my Make & Sell site.
Below is a list of current millwork auctions on Ebay. Clicking one of the links will take you directly to that Auction.