How To Start A Home Sewing Business

89

By creativelycc

Be Your Own Boss

Having a home sewing business can be an exciting, fun and profitable adventure for the person who loves to sew. What a way to make a living by doing what you love right from your own home. Operating a home sewing business has many advantages and a few disadvantages which will be covered in this article. Making money right from the comfort of your home by sewing is wonderful!

With the economy being the way it is today and the job market not back on track yet, having a home based sewing business can supplement an income or be your sole source of income. Since almost everyone needs a seamstress at least one time or several times in their lives, there should never be a worry about not having enough work.

There are so many different things you can do from a home based sewing business, it's all up to you. Just take a while to think about what you are good at sewing the most and enjoy making and would like to sell. Then do a little research to see if there is a great need for it, if there is then take the chance and start your business.

The following is a list of what you could do from your home with a sewing business:

1. Provide alteration services

2. Specialize in making custom made curtains

3. Make clothes from patterns for customers

4. Make costumes for customers

5. Make bridal gowns or provide services for bridal gown alterations

6. Make bridal veils

7. Specialize in making baby clothes or childrens' clothes

8. Specialize in making pajamas

9. Specialize in making uniforms

10. Make a variety of different items to be sold

The list is never ending as to what you could do with a home based sewing business. Some people have embroidery sewing machines and make only embroidered T-shirts for their customers.

What To Do First

Decide where in your home you would like to have your sewing business. You could run it from a spare room in your home if you have one, designate a part of the living room or bedroom for it, or even a large closet will do. Just be a little creative and positive and see what may happen. If you absolutely have no where to park your business in your home, you can always place your sewing machine on your kitchen table and sew from there. I did that for years when my kids were little and didn't have a spare bedroom to set my business up in.

It's always good to check with your town office to see if you will need to acquire a license, and then it's a good idea to look at your state's government website for tax compliance issues. Adding your business to your home insurance policy is always a good idea in case of damage to goods if the unfortunate should happen.

After you've decided what you're going to do with your home based sewing business you should choose a name for it. Choosing a name for your business can sometimes be very challenging. Sometimes when you think the name you chose is unique to your specific business, surprise, you may then find out that it's already taken! That happened to me. When I chose a name for my sewing business and then checked the domains online - unfortunately I saw that it was already taken, and so were my second and third choices. Oh well, finally, I was able to come up with something that is unique and my very own.


Buying What You Need

You probably have everything you need already to start operating your home sewing business. Having a comfortable chair, cutting table and storage unit in addition to your sewing machine makes a world of difference for working comfortably and for organization. There are many sites online that sell furniture specifically for a sewing room and remember, the cost of the furniture will be a tax deduction.

A serger is a good investment if you're going to operate a home sewing business. Although it takes some time and patience to learn how to operate one, the time and the money is well worth it. Your garments look very finished and professional when a serger is used in addition to your sewing machine.

Advantages Of Operating Your Sewing Business From Home

There are many advantages to operating your sewing business from home. The first one is that you are your own boss and can make your own hours. If you're a morning person, you can arise before the sun comes up and start working or if you're a nighthawk and get to bed late, you can sleep in and start working whenever you want.

You don't have to worry about the stressful rush hour traffic or other commuting problems. You just get up when you want and you're already at work to start when you want.

When you work from home there are many tax deductions that will benefit you greatly. Remember, everything you buy and use for your business, whether it be material, furniture, machines or sewing notions are all tax deductions. Just remember to keep all of your receipts.

By working from home you save big time in rent that you would have to pay if you had your business elsewhere and in utility costs that would incur.

Disadvantages To Operating A Home Based Sewing Business

There are a few disadvantages to operating a home based sewing business. First is the fact that you will be at home most of the time and may start to experience a little cabin fever. Interruptions are a biggy, phone calls and visits from friends and family can be a potential problem since everyone knows you're at home most of the time.

It is wise to have a set time set aside for work and to let everyone know that so interruptions will be few. Then there's the possibility to procrastinate, leaving a project for later and then stressing out trying to make a dead line.

If you have very young children at home, it can be a challenge trying to finish a project when they need your attention. You may have to work when they are taking a nap or when they go to bed at night.

Wonderful Modern Technology

Having your own website would greatly enhance your home based sewing business, there are many web host companies that offer great rates and have very easy steps to building your own website saving you much from hiring someone to build it for you. You could then easily sell your items from your website.

With your own business you would be able to make as much money as you want or as little as you want, it's all up to you. There is great satisfaction to having your own business and being your own boss. Overall you will end up having more time for family and friends, doing what you want and not feeling the stress that you would have with a Monday through Friday 9 - 5 job.

Good Luck!

When your ready to start your home based sewing business, check out my article for suggestions on how to write a simple business plan at the following link:

Take Care

Comments

BkCreative profile image

BkCreative Level 6 Commenter 2 years ago

I'd like to do this. I am so ready to make clothes. I'm thinking lovely African textiles, and pure wools and linens - things that are hard to buy to fit you. I'd keep it simple too. Hmmmm. The serger sounds worthwhile.

You know why I'd like to do this? We've become a 'one size fits all' culture - yet we have 800 different shapes - and in cheap cuts and fabrics - well be are becoming the grunge nation.

OK - thanks I'm giving this all some thought!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Hi BK Creative

African textiles are beautiful as are quality wools and linens. And you're right, this is a one size fits all culture which is not realistic. By making clothes for people you can customize them to their shape and size. You would have a great business living in Brooklyn NY and yes the serger is worthwhile to make your garments look professional. It just takes a little patience to learn how to use one, the sales persons in sewing centers are always helpful in demonstrating how to use one. Good Luck!

TamCor profile image

TamCor Level 2 Commenter 2 years ago

I think this is a great idea, and one that can work out really well for lots of sewers! I used to sew a craft item-goose outfits-when my kids were young. I made my own patterns, and since it was a really popular thing, I had a hard time keeping up with the demand at times, believe it or not, lol.

Now, I sew because I like to create...I "re-do" dresses into Halloween outfits, or take old items and turn them into something else, like curtains, which I did a hub about not too long ago!

I would love to make a business out of it, if I could work it out. Your hub was just what I needed to give me that little "push" to check into it more, thanks! :)

Tammy

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Hi TamCor,

I am so happy that you are inspired to think about starting a business. From reading about your prior sewing skills, I know you can do it. Just take the chance, you will be very happy that you did! And it's great that you can make your own patterns, there is so much potential in this type of business for you. Good Luck!

prasetio30 profile image

prasetio30 Level 8 Commenter 2 years ago

Very nice information, you have great tips about how to start and run home sewing business. Many people have succeed with the business like this in my city. With their dedication they got loyal customer and most of them have good income. Good work and thumbs up for you.

Prasetio

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Thank you very much. There are so many people that have the talent to sew and could make a living if they started a business in their home.

LindaCaldwell 2 years ago

I too love to sew, and also make goose clothes, and sell them on ebay. Good Luck to you and your new sewing business!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Thank you very much Linda!

mquee profile image

mquee Level 1 Commenter 2 years ago

My wife is a very talented lady and loves to sew. She is also an excellent. She is planning a home sewing business with a web site. I am going to have her read this hub. Thanks for the good advice.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Tell your wife that I'm sure she will be successful in her sewing business, just stay positive and don't give up!

brenren57 profile image

brenren57 2 years ago

I retired from my own home sewing business. Although it was a good idea for a while, my husband got tired of the paperwork and I never made enough to make it worthwhile. It was more of a tax write-off than a profit. My bottom line: don't undersell your services. Charge enough - you're worth it. I'm constantly being asked if I'm still doing any sewing. There are LOTS of people out there looking for you. Good luck all.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Thank you for your comment! My sewing business is unique where I make items and sell them online on my website. I'm not providing services for the traditional alterations and mending although I can do it. I did do some alterations and your right you don't make enough money that way. The way I'm promoting my items online has a much better financial return.

Eileen Hughes profile image

Eileen Hughes Level 3 Commenter 2 years ago

Wow, that was a really comprhensive article. It should inspire others to follow your ideas from this. Well done.

Beadinggem profile image

Beadinggem 2 years ago

This is a very helpful hub! Thanks for your comment on my hub. I actually did the reverse to you. I had a small sewing business making bibs before I switched to jewelry making.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Thank you very much Eileen for the nice comment, I hope it does inspire others to sew!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Thank you Beadinggem, I think I'll try adding jewelry to my sewing business when I get good at it. I'm excited about it now!

U Neek profile image

U Neek 2 years ago

Very thorough and well-written. I've had a home-based business of some kind going on for years, including sewing! You did a great job of covering pros and cons. One of the pros that helps us out a lot is the tax deduction. Happy sewing!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Hi U Neek,

Thank you so much for your comment. You are so right the tax deduction is a big help!

prowork profile image

prowork 2 years ago

I have to say I loved this . I know what you mean about people coming by for a visit . It seems some people think becouse you are home you are not working and this is far from true . Some people think they always have time for me , like they are the center of the world so you have to set your boundries . Good Job , I loved your work .

FashionFame profile image

FashionFame 2 years ago

I just loooooooooooved your hub. What a fine work!! Working from home is a great idea. Joining your fan club and would like to invite you too.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Hi prowork,

Thank you so much for your comment, you're right we just have to set our boundaries when we are working at home or we'll never get the job done. Thank you again.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Hi FashionFame,

Thank you very much for your comment, I can never say enough good things about working from home. Thank you again.

raisingme profile image

raisingme 2 years ago

I am emailing the link to this Hub to my sister-in-law who is a wonderful seamstress and who has been looking for something to do from home - this hasn't even occurred to her but it's perfect! Thank you. Well written and well laid out!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Thank you so much rasingme for emailing this link to your sister. I hope this hub will inspire her. She sounds like a talented lady. Thank you so much for your comment!

Kind Regards profile image

Kind Regards 2 years ago

creativelycc, What a well-written and informative hub. I enjoyed reading it so much. Thank you. Kind Regards

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Thank you very much Kind Regards!

TroyM profile image

TroyM Level 1 Commenter 2 years ago

My mother in law tried this, but passed away form cancer before her biz became a reality. Neat idea to have your own sewing biz!

RosWebbART profile image

RosWebbART 2 years ago

Great hub; when I left college I set up a design and sewing business; I did the lot ; pattern cutting ; sewing design ; book keeping....but I loved every minute!!! Thanks for this hub ; I may start sewing again....

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Thank u so much TroyM for your comment, so sorry to that your mother in law passed away before she made her business a reality.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Thank you very much RosWebbART for your comment. So happy to hear that you may start sewing again, you sound like you're very talented!

barryrutherford profile image

barryrutherford Level 5 Commenter 2 years ago

I was just wondering what the advantages of having a Serger are ?

great hub by the way !

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

A serger leaves a professional finish to the seams whereas a sewing machine does not. It is to ones advantage to have both machines, because some seams can't be serged. Thank you very much for your comment!

Lady Guinevere profile image

Lady Guinevere Level 6 Commenter 2 years ago

I also had a sewing business for over 5 years. I have been sewing since Junior high and my oldest daughter is in her early 30's. There are several ways to make professional looking seams without a serger. They did that way before the serger ever came about.

so blurrrrr 2 years ago

helphelphelp

lender3212000 profile image

lender3212000 2 years ago

That's one thing I definitely wish I would have taken the time to learn how to do! Excellent hub.

glue272 2 years ago

this is cool.

2012phones profile image

2012phones 2 years ago

i evern more donot know how to sewing , shame

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Yes Lady Guinevere, you can use other techniques to give a professional look to seams such as the french seam which my mother always used. She never owned a serger. I personally like sergers because of fast way to produce professional looking seams. I guess it's a matter of personal preference. Thank you very much for your comment!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Hi Lender3212000,

You can still learn to sew, it is never too late! Thank you so much for your comment!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Thank you glue272 for your comment!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 years ago

Hi 2012phones,

Give sewing a try, I know you can do it! Thank you for your comment!

Debbie Cook profile image

Debbie Cook 24 months ago

I did alterations for several years - both at home and at our small business. It is a great way to earn income especially if you are personable and hard working.

The interuptions is the most difficult hurdle. Others think that if you are at home that you have more time to help them out with errands and babysitting because it is more difficult for them to leave their jobs. You have to be firm and learn to say no.

You can specialize in one or two types of alterations. Hems and zippers will keep you busy and you will not have the stress of taking on jobs beyond your comfort level.

I preferred to pick-up my alterations from a business instead of having clients come to my home. Small clothing stores and dry cleaners are fruitful sources of clients.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 24 months ago

Thank you very much Debbie for you comments, I commend you on doing alterations. I know how to alter, I just don't like doing it.

You are so right about people thinking your not doing much when working from home and that you can help them out with various tasks, you do have to be firm or you won't get anything done.

My sewing business is unique in which I am designing and making hand made items which will then be sold online at my website.

Thank you again for your comments!

FashionFame profile image

FashionFame 24 months ago

Loved your hub.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 24 months ago

Thank you so much FashionFame!

BrainSpace profile image

BrainSpace 24 months ago

I really enjoyed reading your article. I am starting an online sewing business and will be making decorative pillows. I wonder, do you think there is potential in just making pillows, or should I sew other items as well?

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 24 months ago

Hi Brain Space,

Thank you for reading my hub and I really think that you would do well specializing in creating pillows. It seems like now a days seamstresses who specialize in a certain area have better success. In time you will create so many designs for pillows and with the time and dedication you'll invest in your work, you'll develop your own professional style that will market you pillows well.

Pamela Kinnaird W profile image

Pamela Kinnaird W Level 6 Commenter 23 months ago

Very well written article and lots of great information. By the way, what are goose clothes?

Lamme profile image

Lamme 23 months ago

Very nice hub. I love your idea of making a home business with sewing. Many people love to sew, but your idea takes it a step further. Thanks.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Thank you very much Pamela for your comment, I don't know what goose clothes are either.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Thank you very much Lamme for your comment. It really is great doing something you love as a business!

luvintkandtj profile image

luvintkandtj Level 1 Commenter 23 months ago

Great hub! I'm currently livng over seas. I'm always looking for something to occupy my time while the kids are at school. Also its hard for me to find clothes to fit my figure. I'm short and curvy. I was hinking about starting to sew my own dresses. This would be a great way for me to earn an income, make my own clothes and have a hobby

marbal 23 months ago

In this time of crisis are many opportunities for those who want to start a small business.For those who have passion for sewing is a great opportunity!

Thank you very much!

greenatheart profile image

greenatheart 23 months ago

nice hub! This is a hub that many people do not write about. Especially for our fashion enthusiasts. I'm sure many of would want to know about starting their own sewing home business. All around--kudos!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Hi Luvinkandtj,

I think starting a small sewing business overseas would be great for you. You can tailor clothes to fit yourself and sew for others making an income. The possibilities are endless with sewing. I wish you the best and thank you for your comment!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Hi Marbal,

You are so right, in these uncertain financial times, it would be wise for one to start a business from home. With hard work and determination you can really succeed! Thank you for your comment!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Hi Greenatheart,

Thank you so much for your comment. There are so many people in the world that have the potential to be wonderful fashion designers or seamstresses. With a little encouragement, maybe more people will decide to give it a try!

Whidbeywriter profile image

Whidbeywriter Level 2 Commenter 23 months ago

Very useful info and I agree in these uncertain times working for yourself maybe the answer for some. Great hub I have a link to it from my new cross stitch hub. Cheers!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Thank you very much Widbeywriter!

The Cookie Rookie profile image

The Cookie Rookie 23 months ago

I am looking starting a business of my own. Although baking and sewing are rather different. I found your article very helpful. GREAT POST!!!

Vibhavari profile image

Vibhavari Level 1 Commenter 23 months ago

Very detailed and well written hub.

jeanie.stecher profile image

jeanie.stecher 23 months ago

Nice Hub. Indeed this kind of business works both ways. You could earn income and at the same time have time for your family since your work station is just at home. I find this home business fruitful since not all areas in your community has this kind of business.

fran77 23 months ago

Great advice. Thanks.

vladhendersen profile image

vladhendersen 23 months ago

Wow, I really could be my own boss. Too bad I lack the motivation to start my own company!

bobskeyboardz profile image

bobskeyboardz 23 months ago

my mother actually said this to me and my brother 3 days ago, im surprised Im reading it in detail now!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Hi Cookie Rookie, thank you for your comments and I'm sure you can have a successful baking business!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Hi Vibhavari, thank you very much for your comments!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Hi Jeanie.Stetcher,

Thank you very much for your comments, there is definitely an advantage to having a business which is unique to your neighborhood!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Thank you Fran77 for your comment!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Thank you for your comment Vladhenderson. One day you may be motivated!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

What a coincidence Bobskeyboardz! I say that is confirmation to start a business which I'm sure will do great!

kellydove profile image

kellydove 23 months ago

great hub nice work

hubpageswriter 23 months ago

Great tips especially for moms and housewives. Superb hub.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Hi Kellydove,

Thank you very much for your comment!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Hi hubpageswriter,

Thank you so much for your comment!

Mary 23 months ago

Any person who will do this, will do well. There are not many people who know how to sew anymore. My mom knows how to sew and makes doll clothes for people. She really rakes in the bucks.

maruthirp profile image

maruthirp 23 months ago

It is really great idea. Most of the women in India are housewives and they just stick to TVs and other entertainment sources. Instead keeping themselves unproductive they might do this sewing business. You explained in a nice way creativelycc.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Hi Mary,

You are right, not many people today know how to sew and sadly so many young women don't really want to learn how to sew. I'm so happy to hear that your mother makes doll clothes and is making money from it! Doll clothes is definitely something that will never go out of style. Thank you for your comment!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Hi Maruthip,

This would be great for women in India who are housewives to do. Having a sewing business right in their own home is something they can always make money from. I hope they are encouraged by my hub! Thank you so much for your comment!

liljen23 profile image

liljen23 23 months ago

great hub and congrats on having the "hot hub". Thumbs up..

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Hi liljen23,

Thank you for much for your compliment!

airjordan 23 months ago

Bien Gracias por compartir

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

De Nada Airjordan!

Ann Lee profile image

Ann Lee 23 months ago

I have tried learning to sew, as I sewed in Home Ec in high school. But, it seems like I often have problems with the thread breaking, the bobbin snarling thread, etc. Finally, in frustration, I gave up. I have an innovative idea for a handbag that someone told me was a "million dollar idea" if I could just get someone who did expert work to make it.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Hi Ann Lee,

That sounds like a great idea! There are many avenues to getting an item patented and into production. You can find sources online to help you. The best to you!

yalenova profile image

yalenova 23 months ago

Useful information, great tips. Thank you

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Thank you very much yalenova for your comment!

Glamour Puss 23 months ago

Great hub! As an old fashioned girly girl, sewing is somthing I have been thinking seriously about taking up for some months. Especially since I think that a lot of the old styles of clothing need a revival! Thank you for this enlightening, and interesting hub.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 23 months ago

Hello Glamour Puss,

So happy to hear that this hub has enlightened you to start sewing again. It's great that a lot of the old styles are reviving, they have so much class to them! Take care!

home business 22 months ago

We already had few high speed sewing machines and portable one at home. I tried to practice sewing several times and fortunately I learn some few things of it. It's our way of living and my father is a tailor that's why I can really guaranty that sewing business is one of leading industry here in Philippines.

Wife Who Saves 21 months ago

I used to have my own side business about 20 years ago. I worked full-time during the day and then sewed, quilted or hand-embroidered a variety of home decor items at night and on weekends. I sold them at craft fairs and church holiday fundraisers. I made good money but after a few years it was too much with a regular job. Good luck in your new business. I wish you the best.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 21 months ago

Hi Wife Who Saves,

Thank you very much for your comment and thank you for the well wishes!

pager7 profile image

pager7 21 months ago

This was absolutely useful!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 21 months ago

Hi pager7,

Thank you so much for your comment and the best to you!!!

andrebreynolds profile image

andrebreynolds 12 months ago

WOw, great! you can learn this extra money?

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 12 months ago

Thank you so much for your comment andrebreyolds.

Home Inspector 11 months ago

excellent hub...thank you for sharing

http://HomeInspectionMarketingCenter.com

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 11 months ago

You are very welcome home inspector. Thank you for your comment.

marimccants profile image

marimccants Level 1 Commenter 10 months ago

I am looking for new sewing machine.. Thanks for the information here.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 10 months ago

You are very welcome marimccants. Take you time looking for one because there are so many different types. If you're new to sewing just go with a very basic machine. You'll be surprised as to how much it could do. Good Luck!

hemustincrease profile image

hemustincrease 10 months ago

I am a single mum just now and keep on thinking about whether or not to set up a sewing business. I am self taught and have only been sewing for four years so i think this is partly why i am nervous to get going with this idea. I home school my kiddos and am going to have to do something soon to be able to stay home with them. I am going to have to really settle down and make some kind of business plan to get focused. I enjoyed this hub. You covered a lot without being too wordy. Thanks. I already have a serger which i love. There are so many things you can do with it as well as finish seams. I just need time to learn them all. :) One thing i really want to learn, is how to fix sewing machines. I think that would really be a useful add on to a sewing business. But i can’t find any place local to teach that.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 10 months ago

Thank you very much hemustincrease for your comments. Having your own home sewing business would be ideal for you. You would have to follow a structured work schedule to get jobs done along with home schooling your children. It would be challenging but very much possible with an organized plan. Fixing sewing machines along with alterations and other sewing jobs will get you clients. Once you have a few satisfying clients, they will always come back and recommend you to others. Good luck to you!

TroyM profile image

TroyM Level 1 Commenter 9 months ago

Oh, Very interesting home based business. Operating a home sewing business has many benefits. Thanks for sharing your ideas...

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 9 months ago

You are very welcome Troy and thank you for your comments!

Mardraley 7 months ago

Oh,Thanks for the tips.I am planning to start my home sewing business early next year.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 7 months ago

That is wonderful Mardraley, I'm so happy for you. I wish you the best of luck. Take it slow, one step at a time and don't become discouraged. A small business takes time to build.

donna 5 months ago

Nice information. Many years ago - I was a professional seamstress -for about 3 years. Income not quite what I wanted. Alterations were the best income. Making clothes from patterns the worst - I just could not charge what I really needed to, to adequately compensate for my time. Many folks think that if they buy the pattern and material, the final cost of their garment should be less than what a comparable garment would be in the store. Not so!!!! I still sew and was thinking about doing it as a home based business again - might but still thinking. Folks who do this need to give serious thought to what it really costs to do specific things - charge what you must and stick to your prices.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 5 months ago

Hi Donna,

Thank you for your comments. You are so right, it's very hard to charge what the sewing labor is worth. I find that I get more customers requesting alterations; and alterations are not my favorite thing to do.

Maybe you should think about making one particular item and marketing it. For instance, only make hand-bags or wedding veils. That's what I'm thinking about doing in the future.

I agree with you 100% when you say that folks need to give this type of business serious thought and charge what they're services are worth and stick to it. It also helps to have a service price list and stick to it. I wish you the best.

craftybegonia profile image

craftybegonia Level 2 Commenter 5 months ago

Nice hub, useful information. Voted up.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 5 months ago

Thank you very much craftybegonia for your comments!

cbrideau profile image

cbrideau 4 months ago

I really like your article. Very informative, and you gave a lot of options, not just opinions. Great Job!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 4 months ago

Thank you very much cbrideau for your wonderful comment! The best to you!

cbrideau 4 months ago

By any chance, would you consider teaching your skills, by video link? I checked out your website, and your work is incredible. I am sure that others would love some pointers. I am a hands on learner--as I am a self taught quilter. I have made some clothes here and there, but cannot for the life of me follow a pattern. My favorite thing to do, is repurpose old tees into a quilt-top, or fashion some old shirts/jeans into something new for one of my daughters. Just a thougt!

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creativelycc Hub Author 4 months ago

Thank you so much for your wonderful comments cbrideau. I have been asked to do videos and I am strongly considering it. Get yourself a very easy pattern and take it step by step. So many people start with hard patterns and get discouraged. Simplicity has a line of very easy style. You have the talent, especially if you taught yourself how to quilt. Quilting is not easy. Thank you again for your comments.

bloomsandbugs 4 months ago

A great article. Its always very useful to get inputs from someone who is already doing it. I would like to add that etsy.com could be a great place for someone to sell handmade items. Here's one blog that also has a lot of great advice on running a business of handmade items:

http://designinganmba.com/

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 4 months ago

Thank you very much Bloomsandbugs for your very nice comments. Etsy is a great place to sell handmade items. Thank you for the link to the blog. I'll check it out. The best to you.

paxwill profile image

paxwill 3 months ago

Very thorough article. I was wondering, do you think it's more profitable to focus on alterations or making clothes from scratch? For someone who is just starting out, an alterations business seems like it would be easier, and then later they could expand into making clothes.

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creativelycc Hub Author 3 months ago

Hi paxwill,to be honest,you'll probably have more customers requesting alterations. You can really make a decent living doing alterations. Once you have your customers,you can let them know that you can make clothes from scratch too. Some of them will definitely need that service too in the future. Thank you so much for your comments and good luck to you!

Diana 3 months ago

When filling out a tax form, what type of business is sewing? I am making and selling doll clothes. Would that be under "Retail" or "Cut and Sew Apparel Manufacturing"?

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creativelycc Hub Author 3 months ago

Hi Diana, the best thing to do is to ask a tax accountant. We have our taxes done by an accountant since there is so much more to it when you have a small business. The best to you!

ADenaeH 3 months ago

Is it legal to use books that show how to make things such as fabric flowers, baby items, etc and then sell the items or teach the customers how to make those items?

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creativelycc Hub Author 3 months ago

Hi ADenaeH, It is legal as long as you give credit to the authors of the books.

julie 3 months ago

I am also looking into starting my own sewing business it has alway been my love. I have beein sewing on and off for about 20 years. My problem is I have dont dance costumes and crafts. I want to do alteration, curtains and make clothing. I have done a lot of research on this. I am having a hard time finding client. I have called a lot of dry cleaner and they all have in house seamstress.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 3 months ago

Hi Julie,

When you get your first customer, do an excellent job and they will recommend you to others. That is how I get clients, by word of mouth from other clients. It will happen for you because there is always more than enough work to go around for sewing businesses. I wish you the best!

Millionaire Tips profile image

Millionaire Tips Level 8 Commenter 3 months ago

Congratulations on getting a 100 hub score, and being one of the top 10 best hubs today. These are great tips for how to begin a home sewing business. This is a great money making opportunity for this economy.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 3 months ago

Thank you very much! I love to sew and I'm more than happy to help anyone start a home sewing business. You are right, it is a good money making opportunity for today's economy, the best to you!

marde 2 months ago

hi creativelycc

u did a goodjob by creating dis hub,and thanks for sharing ur experience with us all. Can you prescribe a very good machine that i can u to start my home sewing business?

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 2 months ago

Hi Marde and thank you for your comments. I wish you the best with your new home sewing business. I wrote a hub titled "Which Sewing Maching Should I Buy" You can access it from the link below. I'm sure it can help you to find a good machine that will fit your business. The best to you!

http://creativelycc.hubpages.com/hub/Which-Sewing-

Desert Crafter 7 weeks ago

I recently purchased my serger. Its like a microwave, you wonder how you lived without one! You can do seams on your regular machine, but its very time consuming to do bound & taped seams. French seams are not practical for all seams. If your looking to make money, speed is all inclusive so the serger is a ticket to success of your business. Plus, its fun too!

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 6 weeks ago

Hi Desert Crafter.

That is so true! I love my serger and use it all the time when altering customers' clothing. The finished seams always look professional and neat. Thank you very much for visiting my hub and thank you for your comments.

http://www.requisiteclothing.com/ 5 weeks ago

HiCreativelycc !

I wanted to check up and allow you to know how , a great deal I liked discovering your blog today. I might consider it the honor to operate at my business office and be able to utilize the tips discussed on your web site and also take part in visitors’ remarks like this. Should a position of guest article author become on offer at your end, please let me know.

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 5 weeks ago

Thank you for reading my hub and I'm happy that you will be able to incorporate some of what you learned here in your business. However, this is not a blog. Here at Hubpages we write "hubs" which are articles about subjects we love. This content is published and made available to anyone who searches for it on the internet. The best to you in your business.

Mikayla 4 weeks ago

I'm only 14 and this is VERY helpful to me! I am starting my own Pet Accessories business and I'm creating new accessories to sell! I love to sew and I'm saving up for a horse! WISH ME LUCK! Your article was AMAZING! It has really helped me! :D

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 4 weeks ago

Thank you very much Mikayla for your wonderful comments. I'm so happy that you are starting your own Pet Accessories business. You will be very successful since many people love their pets very much and buy many things for them. So happy that this article was able to encourage you. I wish you the very best for a successful business!

viking305 profile image

viking305 Level 6 Commenter 3 weeks ago

A very interesting and useful article. Starting your own business is an exciting time for anyone and this hub explains the facts.

Thanks for SHARING. Up and useful

creativelycc profile image

creativelycc Hub Author 3 weeks ago

Thank you very much viking305 for your comments. I operate this business part-time and can't wait for the day I'm able to operate it full-time!

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