I would say that the safe way to get your feet wet is to work with a temp agency for income as you try woodworking projects on the side. Set it as a goal to become efficient and cost effective to make the things you are making. As you hone in on your niche and shop income finally surpasses the part time assignments, you will be in a better position to make the transition. As people have stated above, health insurance is the big drawback of being self employed. The trick is to earn more, so that it doesn't matter as much. Just be sure you love what you do enough to be the best at it. It will take a lot of sacrifice and willpower to keep from throwing in the towel at first. Thankfully, once you are doing what you are meant to do, doors will open and things will get easier.
ULS 135 watt w/rotary, Mazak QT-6T CNC lathe, Dapra machining center, Sherline CNC, Tormach CNC, Acad, Rofin welding laser, YAG laser w/ rotary, 4500 watt Fiber laser
Boone Titanium Rings