I have just gotten into clubmaking, and have started building for family and friends. I attended one of the clubmaking schools this summer, and have really enjoyed it. My question is for those club makers who have taken the next step and turned this into a business. Any suggestions from those who have already taken that step? I’m not looking to turn this into a full time job, just a side job to hopefully pay my golf habit!
Hello, “Slick”,
There are numerous paths forward for those getting into club repair and club making. A lot depends on what you really want to do and how much time and money you want to invest and even where you live. Just doing it as “a side job” can get pretty involved.
Here are some thoughts and suggestions. If you want to keep it simple, get all of Maltby’s books and do your thing with family and friends and enjoy.
If you want to excel in club fitting and make some money, take all the schools GolfWorks offers, Fitting, Assembly and Repair; Professional Clubfitting; and Advanced Shaft Technology. Furnish your shop with excellent machines and tools. You can’t go wrong with GolfWorks and Maltby. Great stuff and very good prices!
Be sure to protect yourself, your business and your assets with the best tax set up (I set up an S-Corp) and insurance. “Better safe than sorry!” Also, even with a small business, it’s best to have a CPA handle your business taxes.
You’ve probably thought about these things, and each one has its own cost – not cheap! Some might say all this is not necessary. That’s what you’ll be deciding.
I wish you the best. Have fun!
Thanks Michael. I appreciate the answer!