I like this idea. I too have thought about it, but I do not think I have the time.
I dont really know what a good, let alone cheap, price would be…
My thinking is the best place to start would be facebook groups and the lightsaber/lightsaberbst subreddits.
Post pictures of your builds and try to get engagement. Of course, be super transparent that you want to start this up and have it be cheap for exposure. Almost an influencer kind of thing (even though I hate that word and the system that evolved it).
Do you plan on buying the parts, or having them buy the whole kit on the saber armory and have it shipped to you? You would probably be targeting novices that want a turn key saber.
To sum up, I like your idea, and I think you should forge ahead!
I just imagine that it will be a tough and slow journey. The hobby is pretty niche, really. Even though when your in it, it seems expansive.
Perhapse, as an option you could offer to order the hilt, kit and all, then do the install and forward it on.
Or… maybe even offer an “at cost” first install as long as they will promise to post and honest review? They pay for all parts and the install is free? Just brainstorming.
Post a link if you do, I would vouch for you, what ever thats worth.
I do all of my work for free, for beer, or for a hug.
My hilts are all made from scrap metal and hardware store parts, but I paint, acid etch, and nickel plate etc. The market has kind of split, with high end work like Nick at Starfall or prebuilt sabers at a very affordable prices.
So in my case I just say ‘Venmo me for the parts’ and then I can take my time and pay it forward.
Sure! My insta is private DM me your handle and we can hook it up. Here’s me in my shop (my buddy is a pro photographer and like to take portraits of his friends) and a saber a made for my nephew. I can drop more later but I’m on a Shinkansen headed to Tokyo Disney for last stop on my 50th birthday adventure.
The only caveat I have is as far as that right there. Make sure if allowing that the customer only buys from a reliable and known source. You’d be surprised at what sometimes comes in a “kit”. Crap wires and crap printed chassis happen.
Another one to watch for is if the customer has bought the kit from somewhere like KR, had it delivered to them, then they send it onto you, because if any parts are missing or damaged, you’ll have no way of knowing if it came like that from the vendor or if the customer unpacked them, damaged them or forgot to send them on. If they come direct from somewhere like KR, then you know that everything will be present and correct and properly packaged and protected.
