How to Sew for a Living

If you love to sew, turning your passion into a career seems like a natural step. Starting a sewing business will give you the opportunity to put your creativity and talent to work for you. Follow these steps to sew for a living.

Instructions

1. Draw up a business plan. Even if you intend on running a very small business, creating a plan is a great way to lay out your needs and goals.

2. Determine your specialty. Some people are custom dressmakers while others focus on embroidery work. Some sewers do alteration and repair work only. If you particularly enjoy and excel in a certain area of sewing, feature that service.

3. Develop your sewing skills and expand your knowledge of the industry. You must work hard to keep your skills sharp and be open to learning new techniques. When clients come to you with specific requests for a particular style or fabric, you must be able to provide what they want in order for your business to succeed.

4. Make sure you have all the equipment you need for your new business. Purchase a sewing machine that will meet your needs. There are computerized sewing machines available today that have many advanced features. You may also want to purchase a serger, a type of overlock sewing machine. Don't forget about basic sewing equipment or notions, such as scissors, pins, needles, thread, fabric and measuring tape.

5. Set your prices. Consider how much time you'll need to complete various projects and how much materials will cost. You may do some research to find out what other sewing businesses charge in your area.

6. Market your services. Take out an ad in the newspaper or yellow pages. Distribute flyers promoting your business. Utilize word-of-mouth advertising and encourage your clients to recommend your services to others.

Resources

• Sewing.org provides sewing resources and education.
• Paccprofessionals.org has information for makers of custom clothing.