According to the Craft and Hobby Association in America, the US craft and hobby industry is valued at $29 Billion. One company taking advantage is ‘For The Makers’, a New York based company that sends out kits containing materials and instructions for 4-6 craft DIY projects each month.

The kits are despatched in return for a $29 per month subscription and subscribers also get access to online instructions and support together with a facility to share photographs, experience and advice with other subscribers.

This is yet another example of a subscription based business model. The advantages are well documented – reliable, repeat business each month with no additional marketing required.

Is this something you could copy here in the UK? The company only deliver to the US at the moment. If it’s not for you, what about the wider market? Based on the US figures the UK craft and hobbies market is probably worth at least £3 Billion. What else might ‘hobbyists’ be prepared to buy on subscription?