Hi all,
many of you will know me from the Mach3 forum, many of you have helped guide me through building various CNC machines etc over the years, thanks
My day-job of some 25 years is coming to an end soon
Before that job I have had two others but all in the same trade (printing/die-cutting) I have naff all qualifications on paper, no degrees, no HND's , no Masters etc
I run my own business part-time as a hobby, the idea was to build it up as a retirement supplement - I have a CNC plasma cutter, CNC mill and a small lathe plus welding kit and small-part powder-coating. I make hanging basket brackets, fire-pits and anything else i can think of to try and bring some cash. It works but not well enough to live on as I'm only 54 and its a fair way to retirement yet.
I really enjoy building machines, have made several at the day-job, PLC control, pneumatic drive and they have all been successful for what they needed to do. These were made before i discovered CNC so I can only guess they would have been far better if built now
I also like making stuff in metal, really enjoy control electronics, panel-building/wiring and associated tomfoolery
Now, my main point - I'm trying to find out if there is anything I can make in a pretty comprehensive workshop, that can be sold for a reasonable return?? Thinking stuff like pre-built CNC control cabinets, CNC kits, small machines??
I know i will have to get another job and that prospect after being continuously employed for 39 years is scaring me sh1tless i must say
But if i can boost my own income on something useful, it may mean only needing a part-time job stacking shelves etc!
I realise its a bit of a cheek asking this sort of question on a forum with so many likeminded people but maybe there is a hole in a market i can fill??
Any suggestions?