The non-negotiable "cost of creation"

Instructions
This calculator helps you determine the Minimum Viable Price (MVP) for your chainsaw carvings by calculating your total costs for labor and materials.
Step 1: Enter Time Investment
1. Design Time - Enter hours spent on planning, sketching, or designing your piece
2. Prep Time - Enter hours for log preparation, marking, or setup
3. Rough Carving Time - Enter hours for initial shaping and rough cuts
4. Detailing - Enter hours for fine details and precision work
5. Paint - Enter hours for painting and color application
6. Sealing - Enter hours for applying sealants or finishes
Step 2: Set Your Hourly Rate
1. Hourly Rate - Enter your desired hourly wage in dollars per hour
Example: $30/hour means you want to earn $30 for each hour of work
Step 3: Enter Material Costs
1. Cost of Wood Blank/Log - Enter the cost of your raw material
2. Chains & Equipment Wear - Estimate costs for chainsaw chain wear, sharpening, and equipment maintenance
Default: $5 (adjust based on your actual usage)
3. Propane, Paint & Sealants - Enter costs for finishing materials
4. Other Hardware - Enter costs for any additional materials (screws, bases, mounts, etc.)
Step 4: Calculate Your Price
1. Click the "Calculate Price" button
2. The calculator will:
- Multiply your total hours by your hourly rate
- Add your total material costs
- Display your Minimum Viable Price (MVP)
This calculator gives you your cost-based minimum. Your final selling price should also reflect your artistic value, market demand, and business goals.
Disclaimer: The Chainsaw Carving Pricing Calculator provides price estimates for informational purposes only. The creator is not liable for any financial, business, or pricing decisions made based on its output. This tool does not constitute professional financial or legal advice. Actual market prices may vary based on local demand, economic conditions, and individual negotiations. Use at your own discretion and risk.
Grab the Chainsaw Carvers Log
The Business Log Book For Chainsaw Carvers
Inside:
Carving Documentation Sheet
Helps with tracking and learning
Certificate of Authenticity
Simple template to give buyers, includes your info, wood type, date, and care instructions
Customer Information Card
Builds business relationships
Expense Tracker Sheet
Monthly & Daily log for material costs, equipment maintenance, fuel, etc.
Event Checklist
Everything needed for craft fairs and exhibitions
Maintenance Log Sheet
Track chainsaw service, chain sharpening, bar maintenance
Your information will never be sold.