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Paint and Sip Business

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A Guide on How to Open a Paint and Sip Business

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on May 3, 2022 Updated on July 19, 2024

Investment range

$6,050 - $13,600

Revenue potential

$90,000 - $364,000 p.a.

Time to build

0 – 3 months

Profit potential

$36,000 - $73,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Starting your paint and sip business? Here are the most vital considerations:

• Location — Choose a suitable location for your paint and sip business. Consider factors such as visibility, accessibility, parking availability, and proximity to other businesses.
• Venue — Create a comfortable and inviting space for your events. Ensure you have adequate seating, tables, lighting, and ventilation. Consider the ambiance and decor to create a fun and creative atmosphere.
• Equipment and supplies — Invest in high-quality painting supplies , such as easels, canvases, brushes, paints, aprons, and palettes. Ensure you have enough supplies for all participants.
• Services — Decide on the range of services you will offer, such as public paint and sip classes, private parties, corporate events, team-building activities, and themed events. Consider offering specialized services like kids’ painting classes, date night events, or holiday-themed workshops to attract a wider range of clients.
• Licenses — You will need to get a liquor license if you plan to serve alcohol.
• Register your business — A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple. Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the best LLC services on the market.
• Legal business aspects — Register for taxes, open a business bank account, and get an EIN .
• Partnerships — Partner with local businesses, such as wineries, breweries, and restaurants, to offer joint promotions and cross-promote services. Consider hosting events at their venues to expand your reach.
• Online presence — Take your business online and get listed on Google Business and Yelp, and encourage your customers to leave positive reviews.

Interactive Checklist at your fingertips—begin your paint and sip business today!

You May Also Wonder:

Is a paint and sip business profitable?

Yes, a paint and sip business can be very profitable. You just need to find a good location, set your studio up well, and put your passion into the business and you can make good money.

What kind of paint is used at paint and sip?

The type of paint commonly used at paint and sip events is acrylic paint. Acrylic paints are favored for their fast drying time, versatility, and ease of use, making them suitable for beginners and providing a fun and interactive experience.

How can I differentiate my paint and sip business from competitors in the market?

To differentiate your paint and sip business from competitors, consider offering unique themes or specialized painting techniques, providing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, and offering additional services such as private events. 

How can I expand my paint and sip business to reach more clients and markets?

To expand your paint and sip business and reach more clients and markets, consider offering mobile paint and sip services to bring the experience to different locations, or partnering with local businesses or event venues.

How can I source and provide art supplies for my paint and sip business?

To source and provide art supplies for your paint and sip business, establish relationships with reputable art suppliers or wholesalers who offer a variety of paints, brushes, canvases, easels, and other necessary materials. Consider bulk purchasing to get cost savings. 

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting a paint and sip business has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you.

• Growing Market – Paint and sip popularity is expected to continue to rise
• Good Times – The whole point is to relax and enjoy a bit of creativity
• Good Money – Make about $35 per person per two-hour session
• Tough Competition – Everybody’s getting in on this hot new market
• Liability – Need to keep an eye on alcohol consumption to avoid DUIs

Paint and sip industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – The US paint and sip industry was worth $115.2 million in 2021 after expanding 4.5% each of the previous five years.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/paint-sip-studios-industry/ ))
• Growth forecast – The US paint and sip industry is projected to see modest growth the next five years. 
• Number of businesses – In 2021, 714 paint and sip businesses were operating in the US. 
• Number of people employed – In 2021, the US paint and sip industry employed 4.449 people. 

Trends and challenges

Trends in the paint and sip industry include:

• Purchasing a paint and sip franchise is a potential opportunity for entrepreneurs. Franchise Chatter ranks Painting with a Twist the number one paint and sip franchise opportunity in 2022.
• Virtual paint and sip classes are rising in popularity, creating an opportunity for paint and sip entrepreneurs to broaden their potential market.

Challenges in the paint and sip industry include:

• Many companies are entering the market, making the industry much more competitive.
• If you sell liquor at your paint and sip classes, you will need to have a liquor license. Even if people bring their own, you need to be aware of how much people are drinking due to the potential for liability. 

How much does it cost to start a paint and sip business?

Startup costs for a paint and sip business range from $6,000 to $13,000. Costs include studio space rental, space preparation, and supplies.

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your paint and sip business, including: 

• Paints and other art supplies like paintbrushes

Start-up Costs	Ballpark Range	Average
Setting up a business name and corporation	$150 - $200	$175
Business licenses and permits	$100 - $300	$200
Insurance	$100-$300	$200
Business cards and brochures	$200 - $300	$250
Website setup	$1,000 - $3,000	$2,000
Studio space rental	$2,000 - $5,000	$3,500
Space prep and supplies	$2,500 - $4,500	$3,500
Total	$6,050 - $13,600	$9,825

How much can you earn from a paint and sip business?

The average price of a paint and sip class is $35 per person. Your profit margin after rent, supplies, and overhead should be about 40%.

In your first year or two, you might hold five classes per week for 10 people, bringing in more than $90,000 in annual revenue. This would mean $36,000 in profit, assuming that 40% margin. As your studio gains popularity, you might do 10 classes a week for 20 people each. At this stage, you’d hire staff, reducing your profit margin to around 20%. With annual revenue of $364,000, you’d make a healthy profit of $73,000. At this point, you might want to consider opening more locations.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a paint and sip business. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Finding a way to stand out in a new and competitive market
• The startup costs of a studio and art supplies

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a paint and sip business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research paint and sip businesses in your area to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a paint and sip business that has guest local artists teach classes or one that serves alcoholic beverages instead of having guests bring their own. 

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as a private party paint and sip business, or virtual paint and sip classes.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Plan your paint and sip classes and experiences

In addition to paint and sip classes, you can offer private paint parties, sell alcoholic beverages or snacks and hors d’oeuvres. 

How much should you charge for paint and sip classes?

The average price for a paint and sip class is $35 per person, and classes typically last two hours. Check paint and sip class prices in your area to make sure you’re competitive. After rent and overhead costs, when you’re running the classes by yourself, you should aim for a profit margin of about 40%.

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

The target market for paint and sip classes is broad, typically ages 21 to 64, so you should spread out your marketing to include sites like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. You also could target business owners who might book a paint party as a team event. You can connect with them on LinkedIn or find them on Google or Yelp and call them directly. 

Where? Choose your paint and sip location

The location of your paint and sip business can greatly impact its success. Look for a spot in a central and convenient area, such as a busy shopping district or a popular entertainment hub.

Depending on the type of paint and sip business you plan to start, you may also want to consider the proximity to other entertainment venues or dining options, to create a full night out for customers.

When selecting a location, ensure that it meets all necessary safety and regulatory requirements for paint and sip businesses. By strategically choosing the right location, you can establish a profitable and successful paint and sip business that offers a fun and unique experience for customers, while standing out in the competitive entertainment industry.

You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Paint and Sip Business Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “paint and sip” or “painting parties”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Canvas and Cocktails” over “Date Night Paint and Sip”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Paint and Sip Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary : Brief overview of the entire business plan; should be written after the plan is complete.
• Business Overview : Overview of the company, vision, mission, ownership, and corporate goals.
• Product and Services : Describe your offerings in detail.
• Market Analysis : Assess market trends such as variations in demand and prospects for growth, and do a SWOT analysis .
• Competitive Analysis : Analyze main competitors, assessing their strengths and weaknesses, and create a list of the advantages of your services.
• Sales and Marketing : Examine your companies’ unique selling propositions (USPs) and develop sales, marketing, and promotional strategies.
• Management Team : Overview of management team, detailing their roles and professional background, along with a corporate hierarchy.
• Operations Plan : Your company’s operational plan includes procurement, office location, key assets and equipment, and other logistical details.
• Financial Plan : Three years of financial planning, including startup costs, break-even analysis, profit and loss estimates, cash flow, and balance sheet.
• Appendix : Include any additional financial or business-related documents.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you’re planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to paint and sip businesses. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your paint and sip business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist, and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you’re completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a paint and sip business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept. 

Step 8: Apply for Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a paint and sip business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

You’ll need a liquor license if you’re serving alcohol. Check with your state for requirements.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your paint and sip business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as My Studio Engine or Event Espresso , to manage your online events, party bookings, ordering, and payments.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial. 

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Collaborate with Local Businesses: Forge partnerships with local restaurants, cafes, or event spaces to cross-promote your Paint and Sip events, tapping into their customer base for increased exposure.
• Local SEO  — Regularly update your Google My Business and Yelp profiles to strengthen your local search presence.
• Leverage Social Media Influencers: Identify and collaborate with local influencers who align with your brand, encouraging them to attend and share their experience on social media platforms to reach a broader audience.
• Themed Events and Promotions: Create themed painting events tied to holidays, seasons, or popular trends, and offer promotions or discounts to attract a diverse audience and keep your offerings fresh.
• Student and Senior Discounts: Implement special discounts for students and seniors, targeting these demographics with tailored promotions to make your Paint and Sip events more accessible and appealing.
• Gift Certificates and Group Packages: Introduce gift certificates and group packages to encourage repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals, capitalizing on the social nature of the Paint and Sip experience.
• Interactive Online Presence: Engage your audience with interactive content on social media, such as polls, quizzes, and behind-the-scenes glimpses, fostering a sense of community and anticipation for upcoming events.
• Local Artisan Collaborations: Partner with local artists or artisans to feature their work at your events or offer collaborative workshops, enriching the overall experience and broadening your appeal to art enthusiasts.
• Community Events and Sponsorships: Participate in or sponsor local community events, fairs, or fundraisers to raise awareness about your business and build a positive reputation within the community.
• Customer Loyalty Programs: Implement a customer loyalty program with incentives like discounted tickets, exclusive events, or freebies for frequent attendees, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging repeat visits.
• Engaging Email Campaigns: Build and maintain an email list to regularly update subscribers on upcoming events, promotions, and exclusive offers, keeping your business top-of-mind for potential attendees.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that set it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your paint and sip business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your paint and sip business could be: 

• Grab some wine and friends and come express yourself! 
• Fine wine and canvases to create your masterpiece
• Private painting parties with top wines and signature cocktails

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a paint and sip business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in paint and sip classes for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in paint and sip classes. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a paint and sip business include:

• Class Instructors – oversee classes, customer service
• General Manager – scheduling, ordering, accounting
• Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Paint and Sip Business – Start Making Money!

Paint and sip classes have seen explosive growth and show no signs of slowing down. Starting a paint and sip business is a great way to make a good living while creating a fun space for people to escape their cares and have a great time. If you create a calming, appealing space and deliver reliably pleasant experiences for your guests, the sky’s the limit. 

You’ve started in the right place, gathering all the business know-how you need, so it’s time to break out the canvas and embark on your new paint and sip adventure!

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Paint and Sip Business Name
• Create a Paint and Sip Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Paint and Sip Business - Start Making Money!

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Painting Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 3,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their painting businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a painting business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Painting Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your painting business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Painting Business

If you’re looking to start a painting business, or grow your existing painting business, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your painting business in order to improve your chances of success. Your painting business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Painting Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a painting business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business.

Personal savings is the other most common form of funding for a painting business. Venture capitalists will usually not fund a painting business. They might consider funding a painting business with a national presence, but never an individual location. This is because most venture capitalists are looking for millions of dollars in return when they make an investment, and an individual location could never achieve such results.  With that said, personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for painting businesses.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

If you want to start a painting business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. Below are links to each section of your painting business plan template:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of painting business you are operating and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a painting business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of painting businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the painting industry. Discuss the type of painting business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of painting business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of painting businesses:

• Residential Painting : this type of painting business focuses on home painting services and offers interior and/or exterior painting at a residential property.
• Commercial Painting: this type of business focuses on a commercial properties such as an apartment complex or strip mall and offers both interior and/or exterior painting services.

In addition to explaining the type of painting business you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of customers served, number of positive reviews, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the painting industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the painting industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your painting business plan:

• How big is the painting industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your painting business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your painting business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: homeowners, homeowner associations, apartment complexes, small business owners.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of painting business you operate. Clearly, homeowners would respond to different marketing promotions than a small business, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most painting businesses primarily serve customers living in their same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other painting businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes handyman services and construction companies. You need to mention such competition as well.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other painting businesses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be painting businesses located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What types of painting projects do they take on?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide quicker painting services?
• Will you provide paint colors that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a painting business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of painting company that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to painting, will you provide plastering, handyman services or sell paint products?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your painting company. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your painting business located in a busy retail district, shopping plaza, mall, etc.  Discuss how your location might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your painting marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local websites
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your painting business, including sales, customer service and painting.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to complete your 10 th apartment complex, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your painting business to a new city.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your painting business’ ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing painting businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing renovations or successfully running small businesses.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you paint one home per week or three per week? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your painting business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a painting business:

• Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of equipment and supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your office location lease or a floorplan of apartment complexes or commercial buildings you are working on.  

Putting together a business plan for your painting business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the painting industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful painting business.

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Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.  

Click here to see how Growthink’s professional business plan consulting services can create your business plan for you.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Sip And Paint Business Plan Template & Guidebook

If you're thinking of opening a Sip And Paint business, you've probably been wondering how to write a business plan using my 7 step process. You're not alone. Most sip and paint business owners have no idea how to write a business plan, and end up getting frustrated and never finish the task. But not you!

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• How to Start a Profitable Sip And Paint Business [11 Steps]
• 25 Catchy Sip And Paint Business Names:
• List of the Best Marketing Ideas For Your Sip And Paint Business:

How to Write a Sip And Paint Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your sip and paint business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your sip and paint business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a sip and paint business:

Our purpose at Sip & Paint is to provide our customers with a fun and creative way to enjoy a night out, by offering guided painting classes with a twist – the option to enjoy a glass of wine or other beverage while they paint. Our mission is to become the go-to destination for sip and paint events in the region, offering a wide range of classes to suit every interest and skill level. We are committed to providing exceptional customer service, with knowledgeable and friendly staff who can help customers understand their options and make the best choices for their needs. We aim to provide a comfortable, welcoming environment where our customers can relax, unwind, and let their creativity flow, and to deliver an exceptional sip and paint experience that exceeds our customers' expectations. We believe that everyone deserves to enjoy a fun and creative night out, and we strive to help our customers achieve that through our sip and paint events.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Sip And Paint Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your sip and paint business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my business?
• What are the products and/or services that I offer?
• Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
• How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
• How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your sip and paint business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your sip and paint business includes the following elements:

Target market

• Who is your target market?
• What do these customers have in common?
• How many of them are there?
• How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

• Who are your current customers? 
• Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
• How can their experience with your sip and paint business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

• How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
• Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
• Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
• How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

• Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
• Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
• What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

• Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
• What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
• What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
• How many of your customers do you instead will return?

Form an LLC in your state!

4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

• The equipment and facilities needed
• Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
• Financial requirements for each step
• Milestones & KPIs
• Location of your business
• Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a sip and paint business?

To run a sip and paint business, you will need a few key pieces of equipment, supplies, and permits. These include:

• Art supplies such as paints, brushes, and canvases
• Beverages and snacks
• A permit to operate your business (depending on location)
• Business licenses and permits for business activities (if applicable)

You may also need to hire and train staff to provide the sip and paint instruction and manage customer service.

5. Management & Organization of Your Sip And Paint Business.

The second part of your sip and paint business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

• How many employees you need in order to run your sip and paint business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
• The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
• How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. Sip And Paint Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a sip and paint business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a sip and paint business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your sip and paint business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your sip and paint business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your sip and paint business plan:

• Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
• Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
• Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
• Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
• Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
• Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sip And Paint Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a sip and paint business.

A business plan is a document that outlines the goals and objectives of a business, as well as the strategies and tactics that will be used to achieve those goals. It is important to have a business plan for your sip and paint business because it helps to focus the efforts of the company, communicate the business's goals and objectives to potential investors, and provide a roadmap for the business to follow. Additionally, a business plan can be used to help secure funding from investors or lenders, who will want to see that the business has a solid plan in place before they provide funding.

How to write a business plan for your sip and paint business?)

To build a business plan for your sip and paint business, start by researching your industry, competitors, and target market. Use this information to define your business's goals and objectives, as well as the strategies and tactics that you will use to achieve those goals. Next, create a financial plan that outlines your projected income, expenses, and profit. This should include a projected income statement, cash flow statement, and balance sheet. Once you have all of this information, you can use it to create a comprehensive business plan that outlines the goals and objectives of your business, as well as the strategies and tactics that you will use to achieve those goals. A well-written sip and paint business plan contains the following sections: Purpose, Products & Services, Marketing Plan (including Marketing Strategy), Operations/Management Plan (including Operations/Management Strategy), Financial Plan (including Financial Forecasts), and Appendixes.

Can you write a sip and paint business plan yourself?

Yes, you can write a sip and paint business plan yourself. Writing a business plan is a valuable exercise that can help you clarify your business idea, identify potential challenges and opportunities, and develop a roadmap for success. While there are many resources and templates available to help you write a business plan, the process of creating one is ultimately up to you.

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Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

11 Steps to Successfully Start a Paint and Sip Business

Maybe you’ve been to a paint and sip night and had a seriously good time. Or maybe you’ve just heard about it and it struck you as a good idea. Either way, learning how to start a paint and sip business can be a great first step towards this potentially being your next money maker.

Since the mid-2000s, paint and sip studios have continued to gain traction as a creative and fun way to relax. If you haven’t been to one, they basically involve people sipping wine or other alcoholic drinks while they work on group painting lessons.

Let’s be honest, there’s a bit more of a focus on the drinking aspect at these events. But the art part can be fun too!

(True story: I still have the piece I created at my first paint and sip night.)

And the paint and sip business model is projected to continue to rapidly increase in popularity, especially as world economies continue to return to pre-2020 operations.

So this detailed guide offers step-by-step instructions about how to start a paint and sip business in 2021 and beyond. It also explores some facts about paint and sip franchise opportunities.

Table of Contents

How to start a paint and sip business

There are various important steps involved in opening a paint and sip studio. Here’s a step-by-step action list to base your efforts on:

1. Define your business model and paint and sip business plan

A paint and sip business appeals to many entrepreneurs because the model is based on a combination of fun and creativity. They are excellent locations for corporate outings, girls’ nights out, Bachelorette parties, and other casual events. So, you’ll need to give some thought to the specific business model you will develop.

For instance, some paint and sips sell alcoholic beverages on-site and others operate on a BYOB basis. Some focus more on painting instruction, and others focus more on the imbibing aspect. 

Take your time and develop a unique paint and sip business plan that represents your vision.

2. Choose your paint and sip’s name

Choosing the name for your paint and sip business is important but it should be fun! 

I like to brainstorm with pen and paper so that I can see the “personality” of each potential name instead of just typed text. Remember that this is your vision and there are no set rules. 

Some of the most popular paint and sip franchises today are Painting with a Twist, Pinot’s Palette, Wine & Design, and Board & Brush. Just let your mind and sense of humor run free and jot down some ideas. You’ll probably be surprised at all the exciting variants you come up with!

You’re going to need a professional website if you want to succeed in any type of business today. When you do decide on the name for your new paint and sip venture, waste no time securing a domain name. This is very important because you want the URL for your business to match its name.

Personally, I use Hover for buying my domain names, as they’re very cheap, secure and have been great to work with whenever I’ve had any questions.

For example, at the time of writing this, the one below is still available – which is absolutely perfect for a paint and sip business! (I actually genuinely can’t believe it’s still available…)

3. Create your business’ website 

Your business website is a very important asset for your company. After all, it may be one of the first things that potential clients see when deciding whether to book you for an event. 

You can easily launch your website yourself – even if you don’t have any tech experience!

See our step-by-step guide on how to start your own site to see just how to do this in less than 20 minutes .

In particular, you’ll want to make sure your website looks as professional as possible, while matching the fact that this is a fun business to be in. 

You could actually do this yourself, especially if you use a theme like Kadence . It’s free and makes it very easy for non-techies to design their own sites.

That said, you may want to consider buying a readymade theme or even hiring someone to make a custom one for you. Check sites like Fiverr for this.

If you go with the latter, choose a designer who makes you feel comfortable and confident in their abilities. Tell your website designer about your vision for your paint and sip company. “Paint” a clear picture so that the designer can deliver the best product possible.

4. Satisfy the legalities

Each local community in every state has its own set of ordinances that dictate how new business entities are registered. Call your local Chamber of Commerce and inquire about the laws you’ll need to meet to start a paint and sip business.

Understand that you’re likely going to need a business license, liquor license, insurance, building inspections and zoning permits. Make sure that you meet all laws and regulations to ensure that your business doesn’t incur problems and/or fines in the future.

(After all, no one wants their business to turn into an illegal side hustle .)

FYI: If this all sounds a bit hard, take a look at this service offered by BetterLegal . For a flat fee, they’ll have your business up and running in two business days . All you have to do is spend five minutes filling in some forms and they’ll take care of the rest.

5. Secure your business’ location

Paint and sip businesses may require physical brick-and-mortar locations if you go down the route of offering this. The alternative is those paint and sip businesses that can be booked to come to events or where you may hire different spaces for each event for people to then attend and get a new “feel” at each one. 

That may actually be better for you if, say, you see your paint and sip business as being more like a weekend job .

But if you do prefer to start your paint and sip business in one set place, you won’t be surprised to hear that location is going to be a very important aspect of the business to consider. This is why you shouldn’t rush into leasing a location that is not going to suit your immediate and long-term needs. 

Paint and sip studios require room for painters/drinkers to relax, let loose, and enjoy their experiences. A spacious location in a busy, safe district is ideal but can be expensive, especially for a new enterprise. You’ll have to balance physical location, spaciousness, safety, and other considerations that are budget-friendly in your unique situation.

You may also be interested in: 11 Simple Steps to Start a Popcorn Business

6. Define your services and prices

After you understand more about the expenses associated with your lease, licensing, website development, and other vital overhead costs, you’ll need to clearly define your services and what they will cost. These will vary based on the types of experiences you intend to deliver to your customers.

For example, you should decide what to charge for private parties, corporate events, and for people who just walk in off the street (if you choose to cater to that demographic). 

Will you have a team or operate solo? Will you need to pay for an art instructor’s time per session? Will waiters or waitresses serve drinks? Consider rent, utilities, wages for your team, and other mandatory expenses.

Set your prices so that they cover your expenses plus allow you to turn at least a modest profit. You can then hone your pricing schedule to maximize your profits, over time, as you understand all of your business’ metrics more thoroughly.

7. Develop your online presence

While it’s true that paint and sips are in-person businesses, your online presence will still have a lot to do with your success. Along with your professional website, you’ll need to establish some social media profiles on big-league venues like Instagram and Facebook to advertise your business. That said, Twitter and maybe even TikTok could also be good to establish depending on the target demographic of your customers.

Related: 6 Proven Ways to Make Money on Snapchat

Your social media pages will help you both attract new customers and retain existing ones. People rely on technology to keep themselves in the know. I know I use social media posting and marketing to inform my customers about upcoming events, contests, giveaways, and whatever else I can think of to entice them and let them know that I care about them!

Make sure you post key information like your hours of operation, location, phone numbers, email addresses, and social media profile links. I use an online form for booking and it is amazing! Make it easy for your visitors to get what they want and move on with their days.

And because paint and sips are largely about expressing creativity, most of your wine-sipping patrons will be all too happy to share their artistic creations with your social media audiences – which can be a great way for you, in turn, to reach even more potential paint and sippers. Make it fun!

8. Booze and painting supplies

Not surprisingly, a paint and sip business relies on a ready supply of both painting supplies and alcoholic beverages. As a business owner, you’re going to need suppliers for both, and the less expensive the better. 

Research the best suppliers for paint, canvases, easels, brushes, cleaners, drop cloths – and wine! 

Remember that while quality is always important, most patrons of paint and sips are more concerned with having a relaxing good time. So just search for suppliers that meet your needs without overstressing your new business budget. 

Approach shopping with fun in mind first and it will all work out fine.

9. Marketing your paint and sip business

Social media marketing is definitely a vital element of almost all types of businesses today. According to Entrepreneur , at least 97% of all Fortune 500 companies engage in social media marketing on one or more platforms.

However, don’t forget that you can still advertise in traditional marketing vehicles like local newspapers, television ads, radio spots, billboards, and others that can be very cost-effective. 

You could also consider hosting a local charity event. Explore your options to maximize your marketing efforts with minimal expenditure.

You may also be interested in 13 Steps to Successfully Start a Lipstick Business

10. Planning your team

All businesses require more than meets the eye to make them function smoothly and profitably in the long run. It’s not always possible to do everything yourself, and even if it is, it can be exhausting and make you dread doing it again and again. You may very well need to hire some help, especially as your paint and sip business grows.

So ask yourself some honest questions about the amount of help you’re truly going to require. Don’t set unrealistic goals for yourself and end up burning out. Plan your labor cost to be beneficial to your customers, yourself, and the long-term success of your operation.

And this doesn’t have to necessarily include staff in the traditional sense, especially if you’re planning to hold the paint and sip events yourself. For example, if you’d like some help in managing your online presence or in handling the administrative side of things, why not check these virtual assistant websites and get a VA rather than someone onsite?

11. Book your first event

When you launch any business that offers a service, the very first time you have a paying customer can definitely be nerve wracking.

And the same is absolutely true when you first start a paint and sip business! But the best way to face this is head on by booking your first event and building your experience in these.

It can actually work well if you tell the attendees that it’s your first one and so they’re essentially your guinea pigs. You could even offer them a discount to start to build your list of satisfied customers, while also asking them to give feedback at the end. That way, you’ll be able to immediately start learning what works and what doesn’t, to adjust your future events accordingly.

Is a paint and sip business profitable?

Paint and sip industry growth patterns continue to be positive, with this type of business proving to be profitable for many entrepreneurs. This is especially the case for those who have tapped into opportunities like hosting corporate events and parties, while also offering other services, like art lessons.

That is, some owners use their paint and sip locations as studios for art lessons to accentuate their earnings. Of course, you don’t have to be a skilled artist to start a paint and sip business. Remember it’s about having fun and expressing creativity in a relaxing environment.

The paint and sip business model has continued to gain traction since 2007. Undoubtedly, as world economies reopen in 2021 and beyond, paint and sip studios will continue their upward trend in popularity. 

Some leading US-based paint and sip franchises are now positioned for international expansion. Modern paint and sips now offer customers amenities, including in-house cocktail bars, advanced art instruction, blacklight classes, and more diversified product offerings including high-quality art supplies and fine wines.

Paint and sip industry statistics continue to show no signs of diminishing returns in this burgeoning market space, making it a great potential income stream for a small business owner. 

“Over the five years to 2022, industry revenue is projected to grow . Contemporary art lessons and socialization has become a considerable growth segment as the sheer number of people interested in learning to paint in informal settings increases ; this trend is not expected to slow.” Profitable Venture

You may also be interested in: 7 People Who Make $10,000 a Month Just From Their Side Hustle

How much is a Painting With a Twist franchise?

According to the Painting with a Twist website, aspiring entrepreneurs can expect to incur initial investments between $120,500 and $260,000. Further, you must have at least $80,000 in liquid assets and a net worth of at least $200,000.

This broad range in the amount of initial investments needed is due to differences in real estate values and permitting fees in different locations. 

Painting with a Twist justifies the rather steep initial investment, stating that they have already worked out most of the details of the operation that cause most new business owners to fail. They also offer established vendors and insider information about where to rent space, how much square footage is best, and other nuances that new owners would not be privy to.

The initial investment in a Painting with a Twist franchise covers startup costs for:

• 2 months rent plus a security deposit on the location for the business
• Travel and living expenses during training
• Advertising for the Grand Opening
• Equipment, furniture, and fixtures
• Building permits and licenses
• Legal and accounting costs
• Initial inventory

Other costs covered by the initial investment include computers and software, architectural expenses, signage, leasehold improvements, and design fees. That may seem like a lot but it should be for that amount of initial investment. 

Of course, you don’t have to start a paint and sip business as a franchised operation. You are free to develop your own business model to outshine even the most well-established franchise!

How profitable is Painting With a Twist?

There are now 283 Painting with a Twist franchise locations in the United States. The profitability of any one location depends on various factors including local demand, labor expenses, lease rates, and more. The company website offers no direct insights as to the profitability of individual franchise locations.

That said, the fact that it has grown so much does indicate that this is indeed a profitable way to start a paint and sip business. This is further supported by sources like Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 list , which is released every year.

Painting With a Twist has been ranked on that list each year since 2014, with its highest rank being in 2018 at 168. Given how many franchises there are in the US, this is a fairly impressive result.

Final thoughts on how to start a paint and sip business

Going through the process of learning how to start a paint and sip business may take some time, but given that paint and sip industry statistics are showing serious growth in this sector, it can definitely be worth it.

You could always skip a few steps by finding a paint and sip business that’s for sale or even by opening up a franchise, like Painting With a Twist. That said, while this comes with a lot of advantages from a setting up perspective, this can be more expensive than doing it yourself. As such, whichever paint night business is best for you will depend on your own situation.

But whichever way you go, it’s safe to say that this is one of the more fun businesses you can launch!

Anna is the founder of LogicalDollar and a personal finance expert, having been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Reader’s Digest, Bankrate, MSN Money, Yahoo! Finance, CreditCards.com and many more. With more than 10 years of experience in the financial and legal industries, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in these fields, as well as her own journey in turning $60,000 in debt into a thriving investment portfolio, she’s committed to helping others get on the path to financial freedom.

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Painting with a Twist Franchise Costs $122K – $261K (+ 2024 Profits)

• June 20, 2024

Painting with a Twist , founded in 2007 in New Orleans, Louisiana, is recognized as the pioneer of the paint and sip franchise model. The concept, which emerged in the wake of Hurricane Katrina as a form of carefree escapism, offers a unique blend of art and social entertainment.

Participants enjoy a relaxed, festive environment where they can paint while sipping on their favorite beverage, guided step-by-step by artist-entertainers. The franchise started expanding in 2009 and has grown across 39 states in the United States. Headquartered in Mandeville, Louisiana, Painting with a Twist stands out by providing a non-traditional art experience that emphasizes fun over technique.

It caters to a predominantly female demographic, although it is designed to be enjoyable for all adults. The franchise model has proven successful with its scalable approach, incorporating multiple revenue streams such as in-studio events, private parties, and retail offerings.

All you need to know about Painting with a Twist

Franchise fee

Initial Investment

$119,000 – $256,000

Revenue per year (AUV)

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Initial investment

Here’s what you can expect to spend to start a Painting with a Twist franchise.

	Amount
	$25,000
Real Estate Lease for Premises – 2 months*	$4,500 – $17,000
“Grand Opening” Advertising	$2,500 – $4,500
Training Expenses (salary expenses)	$1,500 – $3,000
Travel and living Expenses while Training	$1,500 – $3,000
Insurance	$1,500 – $3,500
Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment	$14,000 – $25,000
Other Prepaid Expenses	$1,000 – $3,500
Opening Inventory	$3,000 – $5,000
Signage	$4,000 – $8,000
Leasehold Improvements	$30,000 – $90,000
Computer Hardware & Software	$2,000 – $4,000
Legal, Accounting & Organizational Costs	$2,000 – $8,000
Additional Funds – 3 months	$25,000 – $40,000
Design Fee	$1,000 – $1,500
Architectural	$2,000 – $5,000
Liquor License	$1,000 – $15,000
Total	$122,000 – $261,000

Note:  The table above provides a snapshot of the main costs associated with starting the most common franchise format (as disclosed in the  Item 7  of the Franchise Disclosure Document). For a complete overview of all the expenses involved with the various formats offered by the franchisor, please consult the Franchise Disclosure Document.

Franchise fees & Royalties

Here are the main ongoing fees the franchisor will ask you to pay going forward to run the franchise.

Initial Franchise Fee

The initial franchise fee for a Painting with a Twist franchise is $25,000. This fee is due when you sign the Franchise Agreement, is fully earned upon payment, and is non-refundable.

Royalty Fee

The royalty fee is 6% of weekly Gross Sales. This fee is automatically withdrawn within five business days after the end of the prior week.

Marketing/Advertising Fee

The system advertising fee is 2% of weekly Gross Sales. This fee is also automatically withdrawn within five business days after the end of the prior week.

Technology Fee

The technology fee ranges from $55 to $105 per month . This fee covers state-of-the-art digital, e-commerce, and other modern ordering capabilities.

Lease or Rent Fee

Lease or rent fees vary based on location and terms negotiated with the landlord. Typical real estate costs for the premises range from $4,500 to $17,000.

Transfer Fees

The transfer fee is 30% to 50% of the then-current initial franchise fee, depending on whether the transfer is to a current franchisee or a new franchisee and whether it involves a relocation.

Management Fees

The management fee is 20% of the Gross Sales of the Franchised Business over the time period that the franchisor operates the business on behalf of the franchisee. This fee is due if the franchisor temporarily operates the business due to the franchisee’s incapacity or default.

Franchise pros and cons

• Exclusive territory protection : Painting with a Twist allows its franchisees to operate in a protected territory defined by geographical demographics. The parent company does not license any other franchise or operate a competing business in the development area.
• Semi-absentee ownership : The franchise presents a passive investment opportunity. Franchisees can hire managers to run their franchises and pursue other obligations.
• Third-party financing : The franchisor has relationships with third-party partners to fund its franchisees for their startup costs, franchise fees, equipment, inventory, and ongoing costs.
• Marketing support : Painting with a Twist provides its franchisees with vigorous marketing and advertising systems to help them reach a wider target market and increase their sales. These are national media, online marketing, regional advertising, email marketing, web development, and loyalty program apps.
• Training and grand opening support : The franchisor has a detailed training program for its franchisees to learn the business system, growth strategies, sales, compliance, and customer service. Also, it provides them with grand opening guidance and ongoing support on operational and performance reviews to help them run and scale their franchises.
• Site selection: The franchisor offers its franchisees general site selection guidance to identify a suitable site for their studios and helps them with designs and construction.
• Multiple revenue streams : The franchise offers its franchisees a variety of ways to earn and offer great customer experience through in-studio events & private parties, retail paint kits, and even DIY-style walk-in experiences.
• Not a home-based business : The franchise cannot be operated from a home or a vehicle. The franchisor requires franchisees to have a fixed office space, retail facility, or warehouse.
• Competition : Its competitors include Painting and Vine, Sipping N Painting Highland, and others.
• Not a global brand : The franchise does not have locations outside the US. It may have difficulty penetrating international markets.

How to open a Painting with a Twist franchise

Opening a Painting with a Twist franchise involves several steps, designed to ensure you are a good fit for the franchise. Here are the main steps to follow to open a Painting with a Twist franchise.

1: Assess Your Financial Readiness

• Understand Financial Requirements: Ensure you have the minimum cash liquidity of $80,000 and a net worth of at least $200,000.
• Review Total Investment: Be prepared for a total investment ranging from $121,500 to $261,000, including a $25,000 franchise fee.

2: Submit an Application

• Fill Out the Application Form: Provide your personal and financial details through the franchise application on Painting with a Twist’s website.
• Application Review: Your application will be reviewed to assess your financial stability and suitability for owning a franchise.

3: Participate in Discovery Day

• Attend Discovery Day: Visit the company’s headquarters or a designated location to gain deeper insights into the franchise operations.
• Meet Existing Franchisees: Interact with current franchise owners to understand their experiences and gather practical insights.

4: Secure Financing

• Explore Financing Options: Consider third-party financing options if your personal funds do not cover the total investment.
• Financial Approval: Obtain approval for financing through Painting with a Twist’s recommended or approved lenders.

5: Site Selection and Lease Agreement

• Select a Location: Work with Painting with a Twist’s real estate team to find a suitable location that aligns with market research and company criteria.
• Lease Negotiation: Finalize the lease terms with the assistance of the franchisor, ensuring the location meets all operational requirements.

6: Training and Support

• Undergo Comprehensive Training: Participate in a detailed training program that includes both operational and artistic aspects of running the franchise.
• Receive Ongoing Support: Benefit from continuous support in marketing, operations, and customer service throughout your franchise journey.

Disclaimer: This content has been made for informational and educational purposes only. We do not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the information presented in the article. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other professional advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, advertisement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction.

All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the detailed circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in the article constitutes professional and/or financial and/or legal advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. You alone assume the sole responsibility of evaluating the merits and risks associated with the use of any information or other content in this article before making any decisions based on such information or other content.

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Painting with a Twist

If you're looking for a franchise opportunity that is friendly, artistic, and full of entertainment and camaraderie, Painting with a Twist may be a top contender. Painting with a Twist is a revolutionary concept that combines wine, art, and fun. The franchise itself began in 2007 when Cathy Deano and Renee Maloney desired to uplift a community post-Hurricane Katrina, with skyrocketing results.

The duo hoped to create an environment of fun while inviting people's creative sides to come out by allowing them to feel relaxed and comfortable. Painting with a Twist has over 200 studios throughout the United States and offers a unique concept to its customers.

Why You May Want to Start a Painting with a Twist Franchise

Painting with a Twist has been ranked in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 many times over the past decade. This ranking is based on an evaluation of more than 150 data points in the areas of costs and fees, size and growth, franchisee support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability.

The brand offers franchisees genuine and reliable support. Whether it's looking for vendors for supplies, exploring ideas, or finding the right location, Painting with a Twist has a dedicated team whose sole mission may be to give you what you need to accomplish what's needed.

The Painting with a Twist studio now has thousands of copyrighted artworks, making them one of the biggest art libraries in the industry they helped pioneer, thanks to a couple of million guests who have created more than 10 million paintings since their start in 2007.

What Might Make a Painting with a Twist Franchise a Good Choice?

To be part of the Painting with a Twist team, you should make sure you’re financially ready for an initial investment made up of a franchise fee and other startup costs. You should also prepare yourself for ongoing fees that will include advertising and royalty fees. It may be a good idea to reach out to an attorney or financial advisor to ensure that opening and operating a Painting with a Twist franchise is financially viable for you. Franchisees will also need to meet the company's set net worth and liquid capital requirements.

Painting with a Twist has several revenue streams in additional to traditional paint-and-sip events, including private parties, retail paint kits, and a walk-in "Pop In & DIY" experience where guests can create a project of their choice on their own time. This diversification of offerings may help attract new customers.

How to Open a Painting with a Twist Franchise

Before making any financial commitment or signing an agreement, you must perform your due diligence and establish if this is the right opportunity for you. Speak to existing franchisees and ask questions directed to the Painting with a Twist team.

Painting with a Twist may have a system full of strength and power, evidenced by the fact that more than 30% of its franchisees now franchise at least two studios. At the top of this system are experienced executives who know the franchise like the back of their hands. 

Add a twist to your painting routine and submit an inquiry form today!

Company Overview

About painting with a twist.

Related Categories	, ,
Founded	2007
Parent Company	Twist Brands LLC
Leadership	Todd Owen, CEO
Corporate Address	2121 N. Causeway Blvd. Mandeville, LA 70471
Social	, , , , ,

Business Overview

2009 (15 years)
# of employees at HQ	21
Where seeking	This company is offering new franchises in the following US states: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Wyoming
# of Units	224 (as of 2023)
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Information for Franchisees

Here's what you need to know if you're interested in opening a Painting with a Twist franchise.

Financial Requirements & Ongoing Fees

Here's what you can expect to spend to start the business and what ongoing fees the franchisor charges throughout the life of the business.

The initial fee paid to a franchisor to join their system

Found in Item 5 of the FDD, this may be a flat fee, or may vary based on territory size, experience, or other factors.The franchise fee is an up-front (one-time) cost that a new franchisee pays to the franchisor. This fee is usually due at the signing of the franchise agreement and covers the right to use the franchisor's trademarks, name, and related business systems.

$25,000
Initial Investment The total amount necessary to begin operation of the franchise The initial investment includes the franchise fee, along with other startup expenses such as real estate, equipment, supplies, business licenses, and working capital. This is outlined in a chart in Item 7 of the FDD, showing a range of possible costs from low to high.	$121,500 - $261,000
Net Worth Requirement The minimum net worth you must have in order to qualify to become a franchisee of this company Net worth is the value of a person's assets minus liabilities. Assets include cash, stocks, retirement accounts, and real estate. Liabilities include items like mortgages, car payments, and credit card debt.	$200,000
Cash Requirement The minimum liquid capital you must have available in order to qualify to become a franchisee of this company.	$80,000
Veteran Incentives A discount or other incentive offered to military veterans who buy a franchise with this company.	20% off franchise fee
Royalty Fee A ongoing fee paid to the franchisor on a regular basis. Most franchisors require franchisees to pay an ongoing royalty fee, which is detailed in Item 6 of the FDD. This fee is typically a percentage of weekly or monthly gross sales, but may also be a flat weekly, monthly, or annual fee.	6%
Ad Royalty Fee An going fee paid to the franchisor on a regular basis to support advertising or marketing efforts. This may also be called advertising fee, marketing fee, brand fund fee, and more, but the basic purpose is the same-- to support promotion of the brand systemwide. As with the royalty fee, it is detailed in Item 6 of the FDD, and can be a percentage of weekly or monthly gross sales or a weekly, monthly, or annual fee.	2%
Term of Agreement The length of time your franchise agreement will last. Franchise terms are typically anywhere from 5 to 20 years in length, but are sometimes instead dependent on factors such as the term of your lease. Once your term is up, you may have the option to renew your agreement, typically for a smaller fee than the original franchise fee.	10 years
Is franchise term renewable?	Yes

Financing Options

Some franchisors offer in-house financing, while others have relationships with third-party financing sources to which they refer qualified franchisees.

Painting with a Twist has relationships with third-party sources which offer financing to cover the following: franchise fee, startup costs, equipment, inventory, accounts receivable, payroll

Training & Support Offered

Franchisors offer initial training programs and a variety of ongoing support options to help franchisees run their businesses.

42-62 hours
Classroom Training	72-82 hours
Ongoing Support	Purchasing Co-ops Newsletter Meetings & Conventions Grand Opening Online Support Security & Safety Procedures Lease Negotiation Field Operations Site Selection Proprietary Software Franchisee Intranet Platform
Marketing Support	Co-op Advertising Ad Templates National Media Regional Advertising Social Media SEO Website Development Email Marketing Loyalty Program/App

Additional details about running this franchise.

Yes
Can this franchise be run from home/mobile unit? The business can be run from your home and/or a vehicle, and it is not necessary to have a retail facility, office space, or warehouse.	No
Can this franchise be run part time? This business can be run by the owner on a part-time basis (less than 40 hours per week) and/or as a side business; it is not necessary for the business to be open/run full-time.	Yes
# of employees required to run	4-6
Are exclusive territories available? An exclusive territory is a fixed area in which you are given the right to operate and in which no other units of the same franchise may be opened. Territory size may be based on factors such as radius, population size, zip codes, and more. Details can be found in Item 12 of the FDD.	Yes

Franchise 500 Ranking History

Compare where Painting with a Twist landed on this year's Franchise 500 Ranking versus previous years.

Additional Rankings

Curious to know where Painting with a Twist ranked on other franchise lists? Find out below.

Ranked #1 in DIY/Paint-&-Sip Studios in 2024

Best of the Best

Ranked #477 in 2024

Franchise 500

Ranked #75 in 2024

Top Franchises for Less Than $150,000

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FDD Talk: What You Need to Know About the Painting with a Twist Franchise Opportunity (Financial Performance Analysis, Costs and Fees)

Published on April 15, 2018 by Franchise Chatter Leave a Comment in Art-Related Franchise , FDD Talk: Miscellaneous Franchises , Franchise Earnings , Paint and Sip Franchise

In this FDD Talk post, you’ll learn the following:

• Section I – Background information on the Painting with a Twist franchise opportunity, including relevant news updates
• Section II – Estimated initial investment for a Painting with a Twist franchise, based on Item 7 of the company’s 2017 FDD
• Section III – Initial franchise fee, royalty fee, marketing fee, and other fees for a Painting with a Twist franchise, based on Items 5 and 6 of the company’s 2017 FDD
• Section IV – Presentation and analysis of Painting with a Twist’s financial performance representations, based on Item 19 of the company’s 2017 FDD, including information on the:
• 2016 average, median, high, and low gross revenue for the top third, middle third, bottom third, multi-unit, and all 158 Painting with a Twist franchisees that (i) were open during the entire Measurement Period; (ii) met their required minimum local advertising spend; (iii) provided the franchisor with the required profit and loss information containing the data to be included in Item 19; (iv) were not in default of, or non-compliant with, their Franchise Agreement as of December 31, 2016; and (v) did not transfer ownership of the Studio during the Measurement Period
• 2016 average artist pay, operating supplies, annual advertising, charitable contribution, and rent for the 158 Painting with a Twist franchisees in the sample

Section I – Background Information

13 things you need to know about the painting with a twist franchise.

Debuts Innovative Screen Art Developed by Company Artist and Instructor

1.  At the beginning of February 2018, Painting with a Twist introduced a new and unique way for customers to create customized screen artwork that is weather resistant and eco-friendly. The new art program, called Rebeca Flott Arts Screen Art, is now available exclusively at participating Painting with a Twist studios. The technique uses framed window screens to display painted artwork.

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2.  Led by a local artist, customers use artist mud to fill in sections of the screen and then paint. The artist mud creates texture on the painting and the screen material provides a versatile and unique way to display art. The class is priced at $45 and customers can choose from more than 40 original Rebeca Flott paintings available in the Painting with a Twist library.

3.  Painting with a Twist co-founder Cathy Deano said, “We’re beyond excited to provide our guests with an entirely new way to express themselves through art. We are constantly striving to enhance our guest experience and Rebeca Flott Arts Screen Art Exclusively at Painting with a Twist does just that. Everyone who attends a class will be able to create their own unique masterpiece they can display inside or out.”

4.  Flott’s screen art came to the attention of Painting with a Twist after her handmade screen art went viral on Facebook. The company reached out to Flott and has now inked a licensing agreement with her to bring the screen art painting to its 350 studios. Flott has been a Painting with a Twist artist and instructor in Colorado Springs for the past five years. She has plans to open her own Painting with a Twist studio in Aurora, Colorado sometime this year.

Teams Up with NFL Players Association for Second Annual Super Bowl Event

5.  For the second year in a row, Painting with a Twist partnered with the NFL Players Association’s Professional Athletes Foundation to produce the community event “Smock and Jocks: Painting with the Pros.” Through this partnership, Painting with a Twist and the NFLPA hosted a two-hour event on Friday, February 2, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Roseville Area High School in Minnesota.

6.  Painting with a Twist led an hour-long instructional painting class with more than 10 former NFL players, including Super Bowl-winning defensive back Duane Starks and All-Pro Washington Redskins kicker Chip Lohmiller, as well as dozens of local students. All participants individually painted football-themed artwork on bare 16” by 20” canvases.

7.  Andre Collins, executive director of the NFLPA’s Professional Athletes Foundation, said, “Last year’s event in Houston was so well received that we decided to partner with Painting with a Twist again. Painting with a Twist is a respected organization devoted to charitable campaigns and their efforts to aid and educate local community organizations aligns perfectly with ours. We hope to continue our partnership for many years to come.”

Plans for Significant Expansion in California

8.  At the end of June 2017, Painting with a Twist announced its plans to add five more studios in California by the end of 2017. This is the brand’s most significant expansion in the state since signing its first California franchise in 2013. The company signed single-unit franchise agreements to bring studios to Costa Mesa, Lakewood, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Thousand Oaks, which were all set to open by the end of the year.

9.  The growth in California reflects the brand’s expansion in new markets throughout the country. In the same announcement, Painting with a Twist said that it was also opening its very first studios in Wisconsin, New Mexico, and Arizona.

10.  Michael Powers, managing director of Painting with a Twist, said, “We have finally arrived on the West Coast in more numbers and franchise interest now is the highest that we have received from the Golden State in our franchising history. Our recent appearance on ‘Undercover Boss’ catapulted our brand popularity in areas where we haven’t had much of a presence in the past and we’re now excited to show Californians why we are ranked the No. 1 paint-and-sip studio in the country for the past four years in a row.”

Company History

11.  Painting with a Twist was founded in 2007 by Cathy Deano and Renee Maloney in Mandeville, Louisiana. They wanted to bring business and fun back to their community after it was ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. Deano and Maloney initially called the business Corks N Canvas and the first class was taught in Deano’s barn. The first official Corks N Canvas location opened later in 2007 and by 2009 the business had grown to four studios in the New Orleans area.

12.  Deano and Maloney started franchising the concept under the new name, Painting with a Twist. The first franchise location opened in Lafayette, Louisiana. By the end of their first year of franchising, Deano and Maloney had opened 24 new Painting with a Twist studios. In less than a decade, the company has grown to over 350 locations across 39 states.

Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500

13.  Painting with a Twist has appeared on Entrepreneur’s annual Franchise 500 list every year since 2014. The brand’s highest rank was No. 168 in 2018, while its lowest rank was No. 276 in 2014.

Section II – Estimated Costs

• Please click here for detailed estimates of Painting with a Twist franchise costs, based on Item 7 of the company’s 2017 FDD.

Section III – Initial Franchise Fee, Royalty Fee, Marketing Fee, and Other Fees

• Please click here for detailed information on Painting with a Twist’s initial franchise fee, royalty fee, marketing fee, and other fees, based on Items 5 and 6 of the company’s 2017 FDD.

Section IV – Financial Performance Representations (Item 19, 2017 FDD) and Analysis

• This Item sets forth certain historical data submitted by Painting with a Twist franchisees, including average and median annual gross revenue and certain average expenses, for Painting with a Twist Studios during the period from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016 (the “Measurement Period”).
• As of the end of the Measurement Period, there were 261 Painting with a Twist franchises. This Item sets forth historical data for 158 Painting with a Twist franchisees (the “Reporting Franchisees”). 103 Painting with a Twist franchisees were excluded from the calculations because the franchisees:  (i) were not open during the entire Measurement Period; (ii) did not meet their required minimum local advertising spend; (iii) did not provide the franchisor with the required profit and loss information containing the data to be included in Item 19; (iv) were in default of, or non-compliant with, their Franchise Agreement as of December 31, 2016; or (v) transferred ownership of the Studio during the Measurement Period.
• Painting with a Twist has not audited nor independently verified this information.

Part 1 – Average and Median Annual Gross Revenue (for the Period from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2016)

• The chart below presents the Average Annual Gross Revenue and Median Annual Gross Revenue for all Reporting Franchisees during the Measurement Period.
• “Gross Revenue” for purposes of this Item 19 is defined as the total of all sales invoices or other items or services billed to the customer for all “completed sales” less any discounts during the Measurement Period. Sales are considered “completed sales” when the franchisee collects final payment from the customer or by the date that is one month after final receipt of all products and/or services sold to the customer, whichever is earlier.
• Importantly, Gross Sales does not include any revenue derived from alcohol or retail sales made during art classes, and Painting with a Twist does not currently charge a royalty in connection with any revenue derived from alcohol sales.
• “Median” means that 1/2 of the Reporting Franchisees achieved Annual Gross Revenue that exceeded the Median Annual Gross Revenue, and 1/2 had Annual Gross Revenue below the number presented.

All (158 Painting with a Twist Franchisees)

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10 Questions with Painting with a Twist manager Meagan Smith

At Baton Rouge’s Painting with a Twist  studio, anyone can be an artist. Our local studio of the nationally recognized Paint and Sip franchise started by New Orleans natives in 2007 offers a judgment-free haven of color,  creativity and good times. Manager Meagan Smith shared with inRegister  what she hopes Painting with a Twist customers leave the classes with, besides their paintings.

1. What is a typical day like for you and your team?   

The daytime is pretty relaxed during the week, setting up private parties and registering guests for upcoming classes. The evenings and weekends are when the excitement really happens. We start by setting the stage and the classroom for the featured painting. Guests are welcome to arrive a little early to socialize and start getting “twisted.” Once the class begins, we spend the next two or three hours teaching the chosen painting, step by step. Our main goal is to end the class with happy, confident guests who feel pride in what they have accomplished, while having a great time!

2.  What is the history of Painting with a Twist? When did it open, and how has it grown or changed since then? 

Painting with a Twist began after Hurricane Katrina, when two enterprising ladies, Cathy Deano and Renee Maloney, wanted to rebuild their community while at the same time giving everyone an outlet to relax and enjoy themselves. The first classes were held in Cathy’s barn, but since then they have expanded to 365 franchised locations across the country.

3. What is your professional background? Have you always been interested in art? 

I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in art history with a minor in oil painting from the  University of South Alabama in 2004. After that, I pursued a bachelor’s of psychology at Southeastern Louisiana University , which I received in 2007, with the hopes of incorporating art and therapy together. I have always loved art. Even as a child, I was constantly doodling. Once I discovered colors and paint, I realized that was where my heart lay. Colors, particularly with oil and acrylic paints, have endless and amazing potential.

4. What is it like inside the Painting with a Twist studio? 

Painting with a Twist is first and foremost a place to have fun. Yes, we are teaching you techniques, but if you aren’t having a great time, then we missed the mark. As we say, “We are Fun Art, Not Fine Art!”

5. What sets your company apart? 

This studio is not only a part of the No. 1 “Paint and Sip” franchise in the country, but we are also No. 1 in Louisiana and No. 12 in the nation. Baton Rouge studio has amazing instructors, helpful friendly staff, and a great selection of paintings. Our online gallery has thousands of paintings. We find the best paintings in the gallery and bring that selection to the customer each month. There is always something fun, new and different to choose from.

6. What is one thing you think customers should know about your classes that they may not be aware of? 

We have so many paintings to choose from, and some may be a bit intimidating for first-timers. In actuality, all of our paintings as designed for everyone. If there is a difficult shape, we will have a sketch or stencil to help them along the way. We know people come here to have a good time, not to stress out.

7. How do you keep your ideas for paintings up to date? 

We have over 365 studios in the Painting with a Twist family. Artists from across the country help build the library and make it as large and diverse as it is with almost 9,000 paintings.

8. Can you share a hint about anything fun coming up this summer? 

We have three kids’ camps coming this summertime. Kids’ camps are a great way for fledgling artists to explore their potential. We will do a different painting each day and a big self-portrait throughout the week. Each camp will have a different theme: Across the Country June 4 through 8, Into the Deep June 25 through 29, and It’s Magical July 16 through 20.  

9. What are some paintings that have been favorites over the years?

We have a great selection of paintings to choose from, but there are a few classics that are always customer favorites. Some of our most popular paintings are “Walk by Faith,” “Happy Hydrangeas,” and “Wicked Moonlight.”

10. Do you have any tips for first-time painters at Painting with a Twist? 

Painting can be very intimidating for a first-timer, and oftentimes people do not realize how important the brush strokes are. You are twisting and turning the tip of the brush to lay down the paint & create the image–only ever working with the paint on the end of the brush. I recommend playing with the brush strokes and getting comfortable with the shape and size before trying to create a painting for the first time. The great thing about acrylic paint is that it dries very quickly and you can paint right over any “mistakes” you may have. However, the most important thing to remember is to have fun and don’t give up because practice makes perfect!

For more about Painting with a Twist, visit paintingwithatwist.com .

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After Hurricane Katrina, Cathy Deano and Renee Maloney looked for a way to help their neighbors de-stress during that difficult time. They discovered a magic combination – adult beverages and art.

The pair founded Painting with a Twist ® (PWAT). The company creates a meaningful, fun experience - customers sip wine while painting together. Today there are over 340 PWAT Franchise locations nationwide.

Here’s the story of how two good friends became franchise owners and how they are successfully growing with funds from an SBA loan.

Trying to Keep Up

Mary Grupka and Lisa Scibetta worked together for 10 years for the American Red Cross, a hard and often stressful job. Both women frequently worked 70 – 80 hour weeks and spent lots of time on the road.

“If we keep this pace up we’re going to be 70 without doing anything else,” they thought.

“We had an “a-ha” moment when we realized we weren’t getting any younger,” says Mary, speaking from her PWAT studio in Buffalo. “We wanted to do something that was fun and happy and had always talked about different opportunities on days when the job was tough.”

An Out-of-the-Blue Question

One day, out of the blue, Lisa asked, “Have you ever thought about opening a business? I’m thinking of a franchise.” Lisa told her that she and her daughter had gone to a PWAT event and thought it was cool and fun. Mary attended a session one Friday evening with her adult children and had a great experience.

“It was the first time I’d painted in 30 years. For a couple of hours, everyone was happy and checked their cares at the door.”

Lisa started gathering the paperwork necessary to open a franchise and together the pair flew to Louisiana to meet with founders.

“We had two goals,” they say. “One: failure was not an option. Two: we needed to balance our lives.”

Going For It

“We used both self funding and an SBA loan to get off the ground. It took about $130,000 to get up and running.”

To find artists to staff the studio and run classes, the women gathered resumes, connected with local colleges and used social media.

“We held mock classes and picked the best candidates to create a fun, cross-generational culture. By the time we opened, we had a group of people that had our backs. Three years later, our original group is still with us.”

Lisa describes their early experiences.

“We were excited and terrified. We traveled with the team to New Orleans for training and then hosted a soft opening to get our legs underneath us a little bit.”

Keeping Up With Demand

Soon, the studio couldn’t keep up with demand. Lisa and Mary found themselves having to turn business away.

“When we first started, we were only thinking about one studio as a bridge to retirement and to support ourselves. Strategically it was a good opportunity for us to be the next ones to open another studio. Buffalo is big enough for two.”

They came across a perfect site for their second PWAT studio in a plaza setting next to a popular restaurant with lots of foot traffic. The pair went thorough the franchise process again, hired a manager and launched their next studio.

They opened the second location without a loan.

“That turned out to be a rookie mistake,” they admit. “There are always so many more expenses that come up when you get in the weeds.”

Mary and Lisa used credit cards and a line of credit to cover the unexpected costs, planning to pay them back easily. However, summer is a slower time at PWAT studios and they found themselves unable to get ahead on paying off the expensive debt.

Lisa says, “We needed to do something. We had a good relationship with a local bank. They simply weren’t responsive to our questions regarding consolidation and we were frustrated by their lack of follow up.”

They knew there had to be a better way. If they could get their monthly bills back down to one logical payment, they could create some breathing room.

The women started Googling and came across SmartBiz Loans ™ . They were skeptical at first.

“You hear horror stories,” says Lisa. “That merchant cash advance was a bad decision and we weren’t sure we wanted to go through the process of an SBA loan again.”

Like many SmartBiz ® customers, the pair was pleasantly surprised with the ease and speed of the SmartBiz Loans application.

“One of the things we appreciated through the process was that we didn’t waste any time. Ken (their SmartBiz Relationship Manager) was great. There were clearly nights he stayed late to get our stuff done. It exceeded our expectations.”

Mary and Lisa secured a $100,000 SBA loan from a SmartBiz Loans bank partner with low rates and a ten-year term. They immediately put the low-cost funds to work.

“Our first step was debt consolidation,” they report. “We were putting out $6,000 a month and now we’re paying $1,100 a month. It’s a significant savings. We’re staying ahead of the curve instead of just trying to keep up.”

Now that they have additional cash flow, they plan to launch new marketing and advertising initiatives. PWAT has an excellent reputation in the community with great word-of-mouth referrals. They can now increase traditional channel marketing with creative strategies, like offsite events, to target their key demographic.

Working Side-By-Side

How do Lisa and Mary work side-by-side every day?

“One of us does back office support and marketing. The other concentrates on sales and customer service details. We compliment each other very well and this provides us with balance.”

Because of their Red Cross background, both Lisa and Mary wanted to include a philanthropic element along with small business ownership. 

PWAT made that easy - a core value of the company is to focus on giving back. Painting with a Purpose is a monthly fundraising event held at all Painting with a Twist® locations.

“It’s important to us in our little corner of the world to make a difference,” they say.

Now that both studios are humming along, the pair is focused on the future.

“Our expectation in a year from now is to continue to be more solid and stronger,” says Lisa. “In five years we’ll be five years closer to retiring. In that time we want the business to continue to succeed and sustain itself a little more. Everyday there’s a new crop of people with kids and people turning 21. We constantly reinvent ourselves to keep the energy high and keep reaching our audiences. We want a happy, healthy balance.”

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Special Product

Candle making workshop.

• stars Coffee & Canvas

Reservations close 1hr prior to class time. An artist will guide you through our candle making process in this short but sweet art class. We use natural soy wax & have 24 fragrances to choose from. You can blend fragrances to create your own signature scent and chose your own label to customize it even further. Only during this candle making workshop can you also use our special add-ins which include crystals, glitter, and dyes. Feel free to bring your own unique vessel (antique teacups look sweet!) and we will pour up to 10oz of wax in the container of your choice (or just use our classic glass jars pictured). You can also bring your own embellishments! The candle must cool for 2 hours before being taken home so plan to pick it up later or stay in the studio to paint some of our DIY wood projects while it cures. * Arrive 10 minutes early to get checked in, smocked, and in your seat. Wine, beer, snacks and soft drinks are available at our Inspiration Bar. Please note that Colorado law prohibits BYOB. * Location: NW corner of Powers Blvd & Constitution between Einstein Bagels & Wells Fargo. * Please see our refund/cancellation policy below.

All ages welcome unless otherwise noted on individual events. Must be 21 years of age or older with a valid ID to purchase beer or wine.

Alcohol Policy

We serve wine, beer, & non-alcoholic drinks at our Inspiration Bar. Colorado law prohibits BYOB.

• Refrigerator available
• Wine chiller available

Can't make it to this event, but love the artwork? We will notify you the next time we schedule it! Just enter your email below. We will not use this email for any marketing purposes.

Customer Consent to Use Online Credit Card Payment for Purchase

In order to purchase Painting with a Twist products and services online or on your mobile device with a credit card, we need your consent. Your consent permits the charge to your credit card, and prevents disputes and chargebacks without just cause, in addition to mitigating the risk for fraudulent charges. This Painting with a Twist online credit card use consent applies to Painting with a Twist's mobile and online products and services, and all disclosures, notices, receipts, statements, and terms and conditions related to our products and services that you electronically access. You agree to provide us with true, accurate and complete email address and other contact information related to this purchase and your Painting with a Twist online account.

*NO REFUNDS* All sales are final. We hire artists and prepare supplies based on reservations. Thank you for understanding our policy must remain firm and supports small business in our community. Should you need to cancel your reservation, please do so asap so that another individual has the opportunity to make a reservation in your place. We are happy to offer store credit to use on a future class or a take home kit if you cancel your reservation no later than 2hrs before the scheduled class start time. Store credit will expire 1 calendar year from the date of issuance. No call/no shows will not receive store credit. Sorry, but no exceptions.

Planning an event?

Wanna plan some fun?

If you can think it, we can create it! At Painting with a Twist, the fun is endless.

• 240 locations
• 1,500 Artists
• 15,000 Unique painting events

Celebrating something special?

Throw a private art party.

• Host a private party and the host paints FREE*
• Limited time promotion through August 31st!
• You choose the painting! Thousands of options...
• Perfect for birthday parties, team building, bachelorette parties, & more
• Mention this offer upon booking

*Party minimums and participation vary by studio. Valid for private parties booked after 5/14/24. Must host party by 8/31/24.

The following upgrades are available for this event.

You will be able to select upgrades for each seat on the next step of the checkout.

UPGRADE YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH A DIY candle !

Our DIY candles are so fun to make!

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Arrive 30 minutes early to pour your own custom scented candle.

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10 Of The Most Amazing Twisted Skyscrapers In The World

Can the modern architecture ever cease to amaze us? We have had amazing buildings and tall towers with hundreds of floors. However, none of these buildings come even close to the beauty of the twisted towers that are a new craze among architects. The trend began with the design of the Turning Torso by a Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava which was completed in 2005. The idea, of building skyscrapers and residential buildings with a twist, has since been embraced by designers all around the world.

We gathered the best of these twisted buildings for you, have a look at the list and enjoy!

Turning Torso (Malmo, Sweden)

The first of its kind, the Turning Torso, is a residential skyscraper in Sweden. It is located in Malmo and is the tallest one in the whole Scandinavia. The architect, ‘Santiago Calatrava’ designed the 54-storey building. It reaches a height of 190 meters (623 ft) and consists of 147 apartments.

Cayan Tower (Dubai, United Arab Emirates)

This tower, also known as the Infinity Tower, is constructed by Cayan Real Estate Investment and Development and is located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is designed by Skidmore, Owings and Merrill SOM architectural group that are famous for their other designs, including the Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the Trump Tower in Chicago. The 306-meter tower consists of 73 stories. It was the tallest high-rise twisted building when it opened up in 2013.

Al Tijaria Tower (Kuwait City, Kuwait)

Al Tijaria Tower, also known as the Kuwait Trade Center, is a helix inspired building with an exterior made of aluminum and glass. It is located in Sharq area in the Kuwait City facing the Sour Street. The 41-storey building has a height of 218m (715 ft). The body of the tower twists by 80 degrees as you climb from the first floor to the last.

Evolution Tower (Moscow, Russia)

The Evolution Tower is one of the most mesmerizing towers on the list. The 55-storey building resembles two ribbons wrapping around each other. With a twist of 3 degrees at every floor; the whole tower turns a total of 135 degrees. It is also known as the City Palace and the Wedding Palace. The building was completed in 2015, and upon completion, it won the Emporis Skyscraper Award 2015.

Avaz Twist Tower (Sarajevo, Bosnia, and Herzegovina)

The Avas Twist Tower is in fact, the headquarters of a Bosnian newspaper company called  Dnevni Avaz.  It is a 176 m tall skyscraper and is located in Sarajevo, Bosnia, and Herzegovina. Beginning in 2006, the construction of the tower took two years. It was chosen among the ten most beautiful buildings in the world, by a German company ‘Schüco.’

Al Majdoul Tower (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)

The 244m (801 ft) high, Al Majdoul Tower is under construction in the city of Riyadh, Saudia Arabia. The completion of the project, by Consolidated Consultants Group, is expected in 2017. The building will have a total of 54 floors offering exciting activities not only during the day but also for the night-time.

Tao Zhu Yin Yuan (Taipei, Taiwan)

The carbon-eating tower, designed by Vincent Callebaut Architectures, is expected to be completed by September 2017. The 21-storey building is a complex that is built to reduce energy consumption by utilizing natural lighting and ventilation. The design includes rainwater recycling and rooftop solar panels. The building will have 42 sustainable apartments with facilities.

Shanghai Tower (Shanghai, China)

This one is an absolute beast being the world’s tallest twisted building with a height of 632 meters (2073 ft). The super-skyscraper is a 127-storey building with the world’s highest observation deck and the world’s fastest elevators with a speed of 20.5 m/s. It is located in Lujiazui, Pudong, Shanghai and is owned by the Shanghai city government. The building opened to the general public in February 2015.

Diamond Tower (Jeddah, Saudia Arabia)

The Diamond Tower is one of the tallest skyscrapers. It is still under construction in Jeddah, Saudia Arabia. The 93-storey, 432-meter (1,417 ft) high twisted tower is a residential building which will become Saudia Arabia’s second tallest building upon its completion in 2019.

United Tower (Manama, Bahrain)

The twirling structure of the United Tower was developed by Cooperation Investment House and constructed by Ahmed Al Qaed Construction. The 50-storey building is located in Bahrain Bay close to the City of Manama. Its octagonal structure twists counter-clockwise to give a 360-degree view of the Bay. The 200m (656-ft) high skyscraper mostly consists of 5-star hotels.

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• What Is Painting With A Twist
• The Leadership Team
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• How Much Can I Make?
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News & Blog

5 fast facts about Painting with a Twist franchise

Did you know that painting with a twist franchise invented the franchised paint and sip business and 4 more fast facts below..

It’s true. Someone has to be first, and Painting with a Twist was that someone. We started out after Hurricane Katrina as Corks & Canvas, and we quickly learned how much people loved the concept.

If you’ve been considering owning a paint and sip business, Painting with a Twist should definitely be on your short list. We pioneered the field and we continue to innovate. Our fresh leadership team has deep franchising experience. In other words, people who have executed this business model successfully, hundreds of times, for more than a decade will be with you every step of the way.

Here are five fast facts you should know about Painting with a Twist:

We invented the franchised paint and sip business category . There may have been some mom-and-pop concepts out there. And speed painting was a thing — an artist friend of our founders suggested it to them when they were looking for a business together after Hurricane Katrina. But Cathy Deano and Renee Maloney put their own twist on the idea, added wine and voila — a new franchise category was soon born.

We didn’t set out to become a franchise. People demanded it . Cathy and Renee never even thought about franchising at first. They simply wanted to find a business that would allow their community in the New Orleans suburbs to get their minds off all their troubles. The concept caught on so quickly and so well, however, that people began approaching them about opening a franchise. Over a decade later, Painting with a Twist boasts approximately 300 studios open or under development in 39 states, and we’re continuing to grow. 

People think we’re an art instruction franchise, but we’re really an entertainment franchise. Painting with a Twist isn’t about becoming a great artist. It’s about taking a few hours away from the daily grind. It’s about escaping from all your worries. It’s about connecting with friends and soon-to-be friends in a place that’s fun and creative. With drinking. What could be better? As a franchise owner, your customer service skills and networking abilities will be far more important than any artistic talent you may or may not possess. This is the perfect franchise for someone who is passionate about people and making connections.

Regular charitable giving is part of our brand mission . Every month, our franchise owners host an event called Painting with a Purpose. It’s just like a regular event at Painting with a Twist except that proceeds go to a deserving local nonprofit organization. It’s one of the key pillars of our brand, and to date we’ve raised over $5 million for charities nationwide.

Our art library includes 15,000+ copyrighted works . And it’s growing all the time. Individual franchise owners hire artists who contribute their own original pieces as well, so if you open a studio you’ll be able to host events where your guests can paint the city skyline in your hometown. The diversity of topics is one of the many things that drive guests to our studios and keep them coming back. It’s all part of the customized marketing plan we’ll help you develop when you join the Painting with a Twist franchise team.

Download a free copy of our Business Model eBook.

If you’d like to learn more about becoming a franchise owner with Painting With A Twist, we’d love to hear from you. You can explore more about our brand on our research pages, or download the Business Model eBook by completing the form below. 

Disclaimer: Painting with a Twist, L.L.C. franchise retail studio locations are independently owned and operated.

This website and the franchise sales information on this site do not represent an offer to sell a franchise. The offer of a franchise can only be made through the delivery of a franchise disclosure document. Certain states require that we register the franchise disclosure document in those states. We are not directing the communications on this web site to the residents of any of those states. Moreover, we will not offer or sell franchises in those states until we have registered the franchise (or obtained an applicable exemption from registration) and delivered the franchise disclosure document to the prospective franchisee that complies with applicable law.

Painting with a Twist is a registered trademark of Painting with a Twist, L.L.C., used under license. All rights reserved.