For many artists and crafters, opening an art studio at home is the perfect business. A studio not only gives the artist room to create, but also provides a businesslike venue for selling works of art and a place to teach art and craft classes.
Pre-planning for Zoning Success
While art studios are becoming fairly common in residential communities, they usually require a visit to the zoning board, an exemption hearing and an ok from the board before they can open. To make sure the appeal process goes as smoothly as possible, the artist should do a bit of homework before going before the board.
- See if there are other art studios or art businesses in the area, especially if the studio will be in a residential neighborhood. Being able to point out already established businesses to show that the studio won't adversely affect the neighbors is a really important argument for the hopeful new business owner to present to the zoning board.
- Consider exactly what the studio will be offering. One or two small classes a month and a few open studio sales a year are going to be very low impact, while daily large classes and a full-time shop could place an undue burden on the neighborhood. Being able to reassure the zoning board about the size of the business is extremely important.
- Make sure parking is not an issue. Usually, the first thing the zoning board will want to know is where customers will park. If a neighbor has offered additional space for parking, get the offer in writing. If parking is going to be in the studio yard, have a sketch that shows the spaces in relation to neighbors' homes and the road available.
Planning an Art Studio
Once zoning is in place, it is time to plan the art studio space. If there will be classes, be sure there is a large open space available for students and work tables. If classes aren't going to be offered often, a multiuse space that uses wheeled storage that can be pushed to the side to open up the floor plan or has worktop surfaces on storage units is an excellent option. Don't forget to address lighting, heating and humidity concerns as the studio is being planned. The most beautiful studio in the world is virtually useless if high humidity curls papers or if it is too cold to use during winter months.
Offering Art Classes
Many art studios offer at least a few art classes every year. This is because classes are a wonderful way to generate income from people who don't buy art, but like to make things and they are also a great way to get additional foot traffic into the studio.
- Keeping prices on the low side can still be profitable. Ten people taking a $30 class that uses a few inexpensive supplies can create $300 in gross revenue for a few hours work.
- Make and take classes are very popular in most communities. A girls' night out for busy moms is also pretty popular.
