David,

When I started my business 30 years ago, I had no formal training either. No tools and very, very limited budget to get started with.

That’s definitely not the way to start a business, but my passion for woodworking blinded any common sense about the proper or smart way to start a woodworking business.

I had to laugh when I read you are doing a kitchen because that was the very first commissioned job I got when I went into business. It was a great learning experience and she is still one of my best customer references. Over the past 30 years, it’s hard to say how many customers she has referred to me.

I’m not sure if you’re familiar with Lumberjocks, but I have written a couple blog series.
One on; “how to price your woodworking and make a profit” and another; “How to market and sell your woodworking”

There may be some ideas that will help you as you progress with your business.

http://lumberjocks.com/huff/blog/series/6413

http://lumberjocks.com/huff/blog/series/6466

Good luck and feel free to ask any questions if there is anything I can help you with.

John (huff)

John @The Hufford Furniture Group