Shop for different types of ice shavers

Many different types of shave ice machines exist for making snow cones. If you're shopping for a commercial snow cone machine, most are electric or battery operated machines for shaving a block of ice.

I recommend: You can either shop for a simple ice shaving machine at Concessionstands.com that you use with a block of ice and that electrically shaves the ice into a cup, or you can shop for a snow cone machine that creates a flurry of shaved ice in a box. Boxed snow cone machines also can store a pile of shaved ice for you to scoop as needed. Snowizard also offers ice makers for making block ice to shave.

Look for small or hand-cranked ice shavers

If you need to make snow cones for a smaller event, for home use, or want to get an old-fashioned feel, try a smaller model or a hand-cranked ice shaving machine.

I recommend: Many snow cone makers come in a smaller model designed to shave just a single serving at a time. You also can find good hand-cranked machines at 1-800-Shaved-Ice--tiresome for a concessions venture but a nice old-time aesthetic for summer events.

Shop used for a more affordable snow cone machine

Snow cone machines aren't a great short-term investment because of the high cost and short season of usability, but if you just want to try one out for the summer, shop for a used snow cone machine.

I recommend: ACityDiscount offers new and used options for a number of restaurant and catering supplies, and you can narrow your search for snow cone machines to just the used options that are available.  Or, if you just need the machine for a few days, you can rent the machine and all of the materials from Air Castles and Slides.

Stock up on snow cone syrups and accessories

After you've bought a snow cone machine, you'll need supplies such as cups, spoons and syrups to serve the icy treats to your customers. A wheeled-cart will ease moving the snow cone machine from place to place.

I recommend: If you're buying a box snow cone machine, you'll need a cart to transport and set up the ice shaving machine. Many makers of snow cone machines also sell advertising signs, scoops and gloves for operating the machine. You'll also want to shop for a variety of syrups, as well as bottles and dispensers for the syrups, cups to put the snow cones in, and special straws and spoons.