Downloadable build plans and digital sewing patterns
Starting costs about $2,340 in the United States and 376,000 NGN in Nigeria. After 12 months, this business can bring in about $1,340 net per month in the United States and 301,000 NGN in Nigeria. The starting money comes back in about 7 months, with 20 hours of work per week.
Mundyo estimates, data as of 2026-11-02.
See the numbers for my countryFree, no account, in the currency of 247 countries.
The numbers
| Country | To start | Net per month (month 12) |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $2,340 | $1,340 |
| Nigeria | 376,000 NGN | 301,000 NGN |
| United Kingdom | £1,580 | £917 |
| Kenya | 102,000 KES | 43,600 KES |
| India | 53,000 INR | 31,800 INR |
Amounts adjusted to each country's price and income levels.
The problem
DIYers, sewists and makers want reliable, well-explained plans for furniture, clothes or objects, but many free models are incomplete or wrong.
The solution
Design and sell online detailed, tested plans (furniture, sewing patterns, cutting or 3D printing files) with material lists and video tutorials.
Your customers
Hobby DIYers, beginner and experienced sewists, small workshops, technology teachers and 3D printing enthusiasts worldwide.
How you make money
Files at €5 to €25 each, themed packs at €30 to €60, optional subscription of €8 to €15 per month.
Competition
Digital file marketplaces, many independent creators, specialist magazines and free video tutorials.
Who has an edge
A carpenter, pattern maker or designer who actually builds every model, explains clearly and masters technical drawing software.
The risks
File copying and illegal sharing, visibility dependent on marketplaces, slow income build-up and the need to produce many models.
The first 3 steps
- Pick a precise niche and build three tested models
- Write plans with material lists and step photos
- Publish on a marketplace and a visual social network
How the numbers are calculated
Example in a high-income eurozone country, at month 12: revenue €1,200 − costs €300 = €900 net per month. Revenue: 80 files × €12 + 4 packs × €35 + 10 subscribers × €10. Costs: platform fees, advertising, software, social contributions. For other countries, Mundyo adjusts the starting budget to the price level (World Bank) and the income to prices and customers' purchasing power, then converts at the day's exchange rate.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start: Downloadable plans and patterns?
About $2,340 (United States), 376,000 NGN (Nigeria), £1,580 (United Kingdom), depending on the country. Mundyo calculates the amount for 247 countries.
How much can you earn per month?
After 12 months, about $1,340 (United States), 301,000 NGN (Nigeria), £917 (United Kingdom) net per month, after costs.
How long until I get my starting money back?
About 7 months, with 20 hours of work per week.
What are the risks?
File copying and illegal sharing, visibility dependent on marketplaces, slow income build-up and the need to produce many models.
Where do I start?
1. Pick a precise niche and build three tested models 2. Write plans with material lists and step photos 3. Publish on a marketplace and a visual social network
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Register your business in your country
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