My Honest Breakdown of Studio Setup Costs

For nearly two years, I ran workshops out of other people’s venues — community halls, cafes, rental spaces… anywhere that would fit a few tables and some creative chaos. It worked, I grew my business to over 6 digits (in revenue, not profit!). But deep down, I knew I wanted more. I knew a studio space would be the next step to really make it a business that's bigger than myself and can run without me.

About a year into my business, I started seriously thinking about opening my own studio. I imagined a space that felt like a creative home — somewhere cozy and inspiring, where people could walk in, exhale, and make something with their hands.

But back then, I couldn’t quite make the numbers work. All the places I viewed the rent was too high, or the spaces didn’t feel right, or I was just… not ready. So I waited. And six months later, the right space kind of found me.

It was affordable, well-located, and tucked among other complementary businesses. It felt like it could really be something. So I took the leap.

And today, I’m sharing what it actually cost me to set up Karma Creative Studios physical space — the real numbers behind the creativity and vibes.

Before we dive in: I’m only covering what I spent getting the physical space ready — so things like furniture, tools, materials, and all the bits and pieces that turn an empty room into a creative hub. I’m not going into the ongoing operational costs like rent, insurance, or overheads, because those are still new and evolving. Also worth noting — I already had most of the materials I use for my actual workshops (like clay, paints, tools, etc), so those aren’t included here either!

I’m happy to chat more about those inside CWA if you’re a member — but for now, we’re just talking setup. I will report back on the overall big picture numbers that later on this year, *pinky promise* 🫡

So, what did it cost?

Let’s start with the big things.

I spent around $450 on wood for the tables — which my dad built for me (and was paid in beers, naturally). We also did all the painting and varnishing ourselves, with about $200 spent on supplies. Some of the paint was even covered by my landlord — which was such a blessing (shoutout to Matt).

For seating and storage, I spent $250 on chairs, $130 on shelves, and $200 on curtains, plus another $100 for curtain rods. I also bought storage containers for materials — around $200 worth, which has already made workshop setup way smoother.

I invested in aprons ($150) and even got a small oven ($150) to bake polymer clay right in the studio. There’s a beautiful paper flower installation that cost $120, and a cork board ($60) that I’m using to pin up notes, inspo, and workshop promo.

Then there’s the sneaky stuff — the things you don’t plan for but suddenly need. Tiny bits and bobs like neon signs, tablecloths, cup holders, utensil jars, and decorations that bring life to the space. Those little purchases added up to around $450, spread across many Kmart, Bunnings, and impulse online orders.

In total? I’ve spent just over $2,000 NZD setting up the space. $2,461 NZD to be exact! (I wanted to be under the 2k mark... remember this doesn't include the other costs like rent, insurance, etc...). It also doesn't including my time, the manual labor (thanks, Dad!), or the things I still want to add — like a dreamy gallery wall up the staircase, ideally featuring New Zealand artists. That vision’s on pause for now, because (1) I already went over budget, and (2) I want to sit in the space for a bit — run a few workshops, feel it out, and make sure any additions make sense.

Would I do it again?

The honest answer? It’s still too soon to say.

I’ve only had the studio for about a month and a half, and while I love having a dedicated space — with all my materials in one place, my pink walls, and the freedom to walk in and create — it’s also come with its share of stress.

There have already been moments where I’ve looked at the numbers and thought, “Did I make the right call?” And the truth is, I don’t know yet. I believe this space will help my business grow — I feel that in my gut — but I can’t sit here and say, “Yep, best decision ever, everything’s up and to the right!” because… it’s early days.

What I do know is: even if things don’t go perfectly, I’ll learn something. That’s how I look at business — as a long game full of experiments, lessons, and pivots. And this studio? It’s a big chapter in that journey.

So no, it’s not all unicorns and pink paint and instant success. But it is something I’m proud of. And I can’t wait to see what it becomes.

If you want to see how it’s all coming together, you can find us on Instagram @karmacreativestudios or check out the upcoming workshops at www.karmacreativestudios.com.