How Does the Board & Brush Creative Studio Franchise Work?

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What Are Operating Procedures of Board & Brush Creative Studio Franchise

Ever wondered how a creative studio franchise like Board & Brush operates? Discover the unique model that empowers franchisees to host DIY workshops, turning customers into artists. Dive into the specifics of this engaging business opportunity and explore how our Board & Brush Creative Studio Franchise Business Plan Template can guide your success.

What Is The Board & Brush Franchise Business Model?

How does the creative studio franchise operate?

The franchise business model for this creative studio is built around offering customers an engaging, instructor-led experience in DIY wood sign painting. It’s a social event, often referred to as a 'paint and sip' style workshop, where individuals create personalized home decor items. This experiential retail approach taps into the desire for unique social activities and custom products. Revenue is primarily generated through workshop fees, private party bookings, and specialized classes. The model is designed to foster community involvement and encourage repeat visits by consistently introducing new project designs, with a portfolio exceeding 800 distinct options.

As of early 2025, the typical workshop price point per person falls between $68 and $75. Private parties, which are popular for corporate events, bachelorette parties, and birthdays, are estimated to account for approximately 35-40% of a studio's total revenue. Franchisees can also boost sales with add-on retail items, such as home decor and branded merchandise, which are projected to contribute an additional 5-8% to overall sales for a typical creative studio franchise location.

The operation includes a flexible workshop schedule, with classes offered during evenings and weekends to accommodate diverse customer schedules. A critical operational aspect is the meticulous pre-workshop preparation. Staff prepare all necessary materials, including wood, stencils, and paints, based on customer pre-registrations. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for every participant, a key element of this DIY studio franchise.

What is the primary revenue source?

The main stream of revenue comes from workshop fees paid by customers who book sessions to create personalized wood signs and other decor items. This core offering is significantly enhanced by higher-margin private party bookings. These events often have a minimum attendee requirement and command a premium price, which can substantially increase the average revenue a franchise owner earns.

Based on financial data from 2024-2025, public workshops contribute about 55% of the total revenue, while private events make up around 40%. The remaining 5% is derived from ancillary sales, including non-alcoholic beverages (in states where BYOB is permitted), take-home DIY kits, and pre-made signs. Sales of pre-made signs have shown a notable 15% year-over-year growth.

Specialty workshops, such as those focused on doormat painting, serving tray creation, and seasonal decor, represent a growing revenue segment. These are projected to increase from 10% to 15% of total workshop bookings by the end of 2025. These specialized classes typically carry a higher price point, averaging $75-$85 per participant, thereby enhancing the overall profitability of the franchise locations.

Understanding the financial commitment is crucial for anyone considering this franchise opportunity. The initial investment for a franchise ranges from $65,489 to $89,761, with a franchise fee of $25,000. Franchisees are also required to have a minimum of $25,000 in cash and a net worth between $100,000 and $500,000. For a detailed breakdown of these costs, you can refer to How Much Does a Board & Brush Creative Studio Franchise Cost?

The royalty fee for new units is 6% of gross revenue, with an additional 1% for marketing. On average, units generate approximately $125,549 in annual revenue, with a median of $116,588. Many franchisees find they can reach their breakeven point within 12 months, with investment payback typically occurring around 16 months.

How Much Does A Board & Brush Franchise Cost?

When considering a franchise business model like a DIY studio franchise, understanding the initial investment is crucial. For those looking into a wood sign painting franchise, the total initial investment to launch a new studio falls within the range of $65,489 to $89,761 as per the latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). This figure encompasses various essential startup costs, providing a clear picture of what is involved in a Board & Brush franchise.

What is the initial franchise investment?

The core of the initial outlay is the franchise fee, which is set at $25,000. Beyond this fee, significant capital is allocated towards setting up the studio. This includes costs for studio build-out and construction, estimated between $25,000 and $60,000. Initial inventory and supplies, vital for a creative studio franchise, will require an investment of approximately $8,000 to $12,000. Additionally, it's wise to have a financial cushion for the first three months of operations, with an estimated range of $10,000 to $20,000 for operating capital. Prospective franchisees should also factor in professional fees for legal and accounting services, typically ranging from $2,500 to $5,000. The franchisor also recommends a dedicated budget for initial marketing and grand opening activities, suggesting an amount between $5,000 and $7,500 to effectively build momentum for the new venture.

What are the ongoing franchise fees?

The franchise agreement details several ongoing fees that are integral to the franchise business model. A primary component is the royalty fee, which is set at 6% of gross sales. This payment is made weekly and ensures continued access to the brand's assets, proprietary project library, and ongoing operational support. In addition to the royalty, franchisees contribute 1% of gross sales to a national brand fund. This fund is dedicated to marketing and advertising efforts, with a significant portion allocated to digital marketing campaigns like social media and pay-per-click advertising. Franchisees will also incur a technology fee, approximately $250 per month. This fee covers essential operational tools such as the proprietary booking system, website maintenance, and email marketing platforms, all critical for the smooth operation of a creative studio franchise.

For those contemplating how to start a Board & Brush franchise, understanding these financial commitments is a foundational step. It's also worth exploring What Are Some Alternatives to the Board & Brush Creative Studio Franchise? if this specific franchise opportunity doesn't align perfectly with your investment capacity or business goals.

Is Board & Brush A Good Franchise To Own?

What is the profitability of a Board & Brush franchise?

The profitability of a Board & Brush franchise is a key consideration for many potential owners. Data from the 2025 FDD indicates a strong performance, with the top 25% of studios reporting an average gross revenue of $375,420 in the 2024 fiscal year. Estimated net profit margins for these top performers range between 15% and 20% after accounting for standard business expenses like royalties, materials, and rent. Across all reporting studios in 2024, the average revenue was $289,150. Achieving this level of profitability often hinges on the owner's ability to effectively manage operational costs, such as labor, which typically falls between 20-25% of revenue, and the cost of goods sold, usually around 15-18% of revenue. Securing a favorable lease agreement also plays a significant role.

A notable benefit of this creative studio franchise model is its potential for diverse revenue streams. Studios that actively focus on booking corporate team-building events and large private parties can experience profit margins that are 5-7% higher than those relying solely on public workshops. This diversified approach can significantly boost overall financial performance.

What support does Board & Brush offer franchisees?

When evaluating if Board & Brush is a good franchise to own, the level of franchisor support is a critical factor. The franchisor provides comprehensive assistance throughout the entire process. This support begins with site selection and lease negotiation, where they leverage national real estate partnerships to identify optimal locations for new creative studio franchise units. Understanding how much does a Board & Brush franchise cost to open is just the first step; knowing you have support in securing a prime location is invaluable.

The Board & Brush franchise training program is extensive. It includes a multi-day session at their corporate headquarters, covering essential aspects of operations, marketing strategies, project techniques, and the utilization of their proprietary software. Following this initial training, franchisees receive on-site support during their grand opening week, ensuring a smooth start to their new venture. This comprehensive training is a cornerstone of the board and brush franchise opportunity.

Ongoing support is also a significant part of the franchise offering. Franchisees gain access to a dedicated franchise business consultant who provides continuous guidance. Additionally, they benefit from a vast online library of marketing materials, monthly marketing plans, and the continuous development of new project designs to keep the studio's offerings fresh and appealing to customers. This robust support structure is designed to help owners navigate the steps to becoming a Board & Brush franchisee and foster long-term success in their DIY studio franchise. For a detailed breakdown of the financial commitment, interested parties can explore How Much Does a Board & Brush Creative Studio Franchise Cost?

Operating Procedure To Start A Board & Brush Franchise

What are the Board & Brush franchise requirements?

To be considered for a Board & Brush franchise, prospective franchisees must meet specific financial qualifications. As of June 2025, this includes having a minimum liquid capital of $50,000 and a minimum net worth of $150,000. These figures are in place to ensure you have the necessary funds for the initial investment and ongoing operational capital. The franchisor also looks for candidates who demonstrate strong leadership, management, and interpersonal skills. While direct art experience isn't a prerequisite for this creative studio franchise, a genuine passion for the DIY concept, a commitment to community involvement, and prior sales or marketing experience are considered highly beneficial.

A crucial aspect of the Board & Brush franchise requirements is a dedication to upholding the brand's operational standards. This typically involves a commitment to being an owner-operator, at least during the initial phase of the business. Furthermore, you must demonstrate a willingness to adhere to the established franchise business model and the marketing strategies provided by the corporate team.

How do you start a Board & Brush franchise?

The journey to starting a Board & Brush franchise begins with an initial inquiry submitted through the company's franchise website. This initial step is followed by an introductory conversation with a franchise development representative to explore the opportunity and confirm mutual alignment. This is a key step in understanding what is involved in a board and brush franchise.

Following this, you will proceed to a formal application process. This includes a thorough review of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), which contains vital information such as the specific Board & Brush franchise agreement details and financial performance representations. During this due diligence period, it's highly recommended to connect with existing franchisees to gain firsthand insights into the operations and profitability of a board and brush franchise.

Once your application is approved, the final stages involve signing the franchise agreement and paying the initial Board & Brush franchise fee, which is $25,000. Subsequently, you will commence the site selection process. The franchisor's dedicated real estate team will then guide you through the subsequent phases, including the build-out of your studio, comprehensive training, and all preparations leading up to your grand opening.

Understanding the financial commitment is essential. The total estimated initial investment for a Board & Brush franchise ranges from $65,489 to $89,761. This includes the initial franchise fee and covers other startup costs. As a franchisee, you will also be responsible for ongoing fees, including a 6% royalty fee and a 1% marketing fee, based on your gross revenue. For those looking into the financial aspects, understanding the How Much Does a Board & Brush Creative Studio Franchise Owner Make? can provide valuable context.

The franchise business model emphasizes an owner-operator approach, especially in the early stages. This hands-on involvement is often a key factor in driving success for this wood sign painting franchise. The franchisor provides a comprehensive training program designed to equip franchisees with the necessary skills to manage operations, marketing, and customer engagement effectively for their DIY studio franchise.

Operating Procedure For The Franchise Agreement

What are the Board & Brush franchise agreement details?

The franchise agreement for a creative studio franchise like this one typically outlines a 10-year term. This provides a solid foundation for building your business. Importantly, if you're operating in good standing, you generally have the option to renew for another 10 years, offering long-term security for your investment. This structure is common in the franchise business model, aiming to provide stability for both the franchisee and the franchisor.

A key detail within the board and brush franchise agreement is the establishment of an exclusive territory. As of 2025, this territory is usually defined by a specific geographic area, often targeting a population of 50,000-75,000 people. This exclusivity prevents another studio of the same brand from opening too close, helping to ensure market saturation is managed and each location has a fair chance to succeed. This is a critical aspect when considering how to start a board and brush franchise.

The agreement also clearly delineates the responsibilities of both parties. For the franchisee, this includes adhering to brand standards, using approved suppliers for materials, contributing to marketing efforts, and engaging with the comprehensive support structure. The franchisor, in turn, provides support, which includes the vital board and brush franchise training program designed to equip you for success in this DIY studio franchise.

What is the renewal process?

Should you decide to continue your franchise business model beyond the initial term, the renewal process is straightforward but requires proactive engagement. You'll need to provide written notice of your intent to renew between 6 to 12 months before your current agreement expires. Crucially, to be eligible for renewal, you must be in full compliance with all terms of your existing agreement, with no outstanding fees or unresolved operational issues. This diligence is key to understanding what is involved in a board and brush franchise.

To secure the renewal, a fee is typically required. As of 2025, this renewal fee is set at 25% of the then-current initial franchise fee. Based on the initial franchise fee of $25,000, this would place the renewal fee in the range of $6,250 to $7,500. This fee covers the administrative and legal costs associated with preparing and executing the new 10-year agreement, a standard practice in many franchise opportunities.

As part of the renewal, you’ll be expected to sign the franchisor's then-current franchise agreement. This means the terms and operational standards might have been updated since your initial signing. The franchisor may also require your studio to undergo a facility refresh or technology upgrade to align with the brand's latest standards. The estimated cost for such upgrades can range from $5,000 to $15,000, ensuring the brand remains current and appealing to customers.

Understanding these operating procedures is fundamental when evaluating the board and brush franchise cost and determining if this is a good franchise to own. For a deeper dive into the financial aspects and overall viability, you might want to explore What Are the Pros and Cons of Owning a Board & Brush Creative Studio Franchise?

Operating Procedure For Initial Training

What is in the Board & Brush franchise training program?

The franchise training program is designed to be thorough, covering multiple stages to equip new owners for a successful launch. It begins with approximately 20-25 hours of self-guided online pre-training. This initial phase focuses on essential administrative setup, foundational marketing strategies, and an introduction to the brand's core culture and operational philosophy.

The heart of the training is a 4-day intensive session conducted at the corporate headquarters in Hartland, Wisconsin. This hands-on experience delves into every facet of running a creative studio franchise. You'll learn project creation techniques, effective workshop instruction methods, staff management best practices, how to utilize the proprietary booking software, and crucial local marketing strategies. This comprehensive approach ensures you understand what is involved in a Board & Brush franchise.

Following the corporate training, you'll receive up to 3 days of on-site support from a corporate trainer during your grand opening week. This direct, in-studio guidance is invaluable for managing your initial workshops and ensuring a smooth, confident start, which is a significant benefit of this franchise opportunity.

Is ongoing training provided?

Continuous learning and professional development are integral benefits of owning this franchise. The franchisor offers ongoing support through regular webinars, regional meetings, and an annual franchisee conference. These resources are designed to keep franchisees updated on new trends and best practices.

As of 2025, franchisees can expect an average of 8-10 webinars annually. These sessions cover a range of topics, from new project rollouts and seasonal marketing campaigns to operational efficiency improvements. The annual conference, typically a 2-3 day event, serves as a vital platform for owners nationwide to network, attend workshops, and engage in strategic planning with the corporate leadership team.

Furthermore, franchisees have constant access to 'The Toolbox,' a proprietary online portal. This platform is a rich resource library, featuring training videos, marketing templates, operational manuals, and a community forum for connecting with fellow franchisees. This ensures continuous support and knowledge sharing long after the initial training is complete.

The initial investment for a franchise typically ranges from $65,489 to $89,761, with the franchise fee being $25,000. This investment includes essential elements for launching your creative studio franchise. For those considering alternatives, it's helpful to explore What Are Some Alternatives to the Board & Brush Creative Studio Franchise?

Operating Procedure For Marketing And Sales

What marketing support is offered?

When you consider the board and brush franchise opportunity, the marketing support provided is quite comprehensive. It kicks off with a detailed grand opening marketing plan, backed by a budget ranging from $5,000 to $7,500. The corporate team offers a 90-day playbook designed to build local buzz and drive those crucial initial bookings for your creative studio franchise. This structured approach is key for any new franchise business model.

The franchisor takes the reins on national and regional digital advertising campaigns. These are funded by your 1% brand fund contribution. As of 2025, these campaigns, running on popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google Ads, are responsible for an estimated 25-30% of web traffic and leads directed to local studios. This means you benefit from a consistent flow of potential customers.

Franchisees receive a complete toolkit of professional marketing materials. This includes monthly social media content calendars, email marketing templates, high-resolution imagery, and print-ready designs for flyers and local advertisements. This extensive support system significantly simplifies the local marketing efforts for owners of this wood sign painting franchise, making it easier to attract customers.

How are sales generated?

Sales for this DIY studio franchise are predominantly driven through an online booking system. Customers typically pre-register and pay for public workshops and private parties online. Effective digital marketing, especially on social media, is absolutely critical for funneling traffic to your local studio's booking page. In 2025, this channel accounts for an estimated 60-70% of all bookings. Understanding how to leverage social media is vital for success.

A substantial portion of sales, approximately 35-40%, originates from inbound inquiries for private parties and corporate events. Franchisees receive training on actively networking within their communities, building relationships with local businesses, schools, and organizations. This proactive approach is essential for securing these highly valuable group bookings, which can significantly boost revenue.

Repeat business and customer referrals form a cornerstone of the sales strategy, contributing an estimated 20-25% of annual revenue. The enjoyable social experience provided by the studio encourages customers to return for new projects and to recommend the franchise opportunity to their friends and family. This organic growth is invaluable for long-term profitability and solidifies the franchise business model.

Operating Procedure For Daily Operations

For a franchise owner or manager, the day typically kicks off with administrative duties. This includes reviewing the day's workshop schedule, checking online registrations, and promptly responding to customer inquiries received via email and phone. Following this, the focus shifts to preparing for the day's scheduled workshops, ensuring everything is in place for a smooth operation.

What are the typical daily tasks?

• Material Preparation: A significant portion of the day, especially on workshop days, is dedicated to preparing materials. This involves cutting and sanding wood, creating personalized stencils using a vinyl cutter, and organizing paints, brushes, and other necessary supplies for each registered guest. This prep work is fundamental to the efficiency of the franchise business model.
• Workshop Execution: During workshop hours, the primary focus is on customer service and instruction. Staff guide guests through a step-by-step process for creating their projects, cultivating a fun and social atmosphere.
• Post-Workshop Activities: After the workshops conclude, tasks include thorough studio cleanup, managing inventory, and planning for the subsequent day's events to maintain operational flow.

How many staff are needed?

A typical studio operates with a lean staffing model. As of 2025, most locations require one full-time owner or manager and 3 to 5 part-time employees who serve as instructors and assistants.

For a standard workshop accommodating 20-24 guests, the ideal staffing level is one lead instructor and one or two assistants. This maintains a staff-to-guest ratio of approximately 1-to-8 or 1-to-12, ensuring personalized attention and a high-quality customer experience.

Labor costs are a critical metric for the profitability of this creative studio franchise. Owners are trained to manage staffing levels based on workshop bookings. For 2025, successful franchisees aim to keep total labor costs, including their own salary, within the range of 20% and 25% of gross revenue.

Understanding these daily operational procedures is key to managing a successful franchise. For those considering this franchise opportunity, it's also beneficial to explore What Are Some Alternatives to the Board & Brush Creative Studio Franchise? to ensure it aligns with your business goals.