Trying to get started......

Good afternoon. I am looking all over the web about what to do, where to buy, how much to pay, how much to charge,,,,,yadda, yadda, yadda... I have found this forum and your expertise to be extremely helpful. My interest was heightened recently when my neighbor, asked me if I wanted to restripe the 10 spaces around his plant plus add eight more new spots. Ofcourse I was eager to pick up some extra dough, so I said "sure". Knowing ab-so-lute-ly zip about how to go about it, i began to formulate a plan. Long story short, after renting an inverted spray can striper for 16.00, buying 20 cans of paint, using a chalk line, string, nails, and a couple of 8 foot 1 x 4's, I did a job the owner (and I) was satisfied with and got paid $310.00. I love to work outdoors, and I would like to pick up a supplemental income working Saturdays, Sundays, and some Holidays. Now that you know this. I have read the debates about Titans and Gracos (seem to be more Graco fans out there). I have ordered a video from Trusco (what about them?). I have asked an architect friend of mine how much is typically paid to stripers of parking lots and he had some useful info from past jobs. I see there is a guy on the web who sells an informational CD about starting your own business for $49.95 (do you know anything about his product ( http://paint-striping.com/ )? I know I need stencils (man,,, them things ain't cheap). So, I suppose you see now how I could use your advice in getting this weekend warrior up and running. I appreciate any of you who take the time to respond. Have a good evening.

I don't think you should give money to anyone who has both a picture of a spray can machine and a picture of a Trusco on his web site. Hang around here for a little while, read some of the old posts, then ask some more questions. It's a great business, but I think you will find there's better things to spend your money on.

Hey That is how I started (with a spray can) get a machine with a pump on it like graco and such it will pay for it self in no time but you have to go out there and make you hustle -Dean

Don't bother with the video. If money is an issue, you can look into the Aielesco, if not an issue, the a Titan or Graco.

Stay away from Trusco "wanna be a striper" machines Go Graco if your serious about getting in the biz

I think you can do a better job with a 4" roller, extension pole, and 16' long 1x4 than with spray cans or Trusco. Save your money and buy a real striping machine.

Robert, FYI.........I finally figured out..... It isn't your Achilles’ heel problem causing you to walk funny... It’s the green beer.

Thanks to all for the info so far....(keep it coming). I get it,,,,,,,,"buy good equipment!!!!!" Today's journeys have taken me to speak with the only two paint stores in our town. They are both dealers for Graco(Glidden and Sherwin-Williams).I did find out by talking to them that in my town with a population of approxmately 35K, there are 3 local striping companies. One of those 3 does paving, sealcoating, and striping. I feel as though that may still leave some room for me to make a few bucks if I can keep the overhead down. Should I buy a new machine or keep hunting for a used striper that meets my part-time needs? I have made some calls to local contract builders today to see if there is opportunity there as well. Again, thank you for your time and expertise on this matter. Happy St. Patrick's Day and good luck on your NCAA brackets.