If you have a talent for sewing and a taste for fashion then you have the basics for a wonderful part time home business – sewing.

Are you interested? A sewing business will require your time,  a dedicated work space, a sewing machine and accessories, supplies and a business plan. 

So, what exactly will you need to start a home sewing business?

First, you will need to consider the kind of items you are going to make.  There are a multitude of things you can sew: home decorations and accessories, bags, toys, pet clothes and, of course, children’s, men’s, and women’s wear.  The options are almost endless: you can do repairs, make costumes, dance wear, or do custom sewing. If you are not sure of what kind of sewing to do, then start by identifying your most likely customers.  Determining who will buy your products will help you determine what you should make and sell.

The first consideration of a sewing business is, of course,  a reliable sewing machine.  If you have been sewing for a while then you probably have a good sewing machine.  But if you are planning to buy a new one, then be sure you buy a very good one.  A sewing machine will normally cost from $129 to $6,000, depending on the model, brand, and functions it includes. Get the best you can afford.

In addition to your sewing machine there are other major items you may need but these are items you could plan on purchasing as your business grows. You undoubtedly have most of the other items you will need such as measuring tapes, iron, rulers, scissors, needles, dressmaking dummy, etc. 

When starting any home based business, the most difficult problem is letting people know about your business. Because of the cost, initally most of your advertising will have to be by word-of-mouth so you will have to rely on your friends, relatives, and family to help you get the word out.  They will be the primary promoters of your business. 

You can advertise in the local newspaper, post on community bulletin boards, and place flyers around your  community.  Local businesses may be willing to display small posters and/or your business cards.  A good way of getting known is by contributing your skills to community events such as local theatre groups, church activities, charitable events, and craft fairs.  These are great ways of meeting potential customers and with some, such as art and craft shows, earning extra income.

If you decide to work at home you  will have to be sure there will be enough space for your equipment, accessories and supplies as well as space for visitors that drop by for fittings.

When working at home and you have small children, it is advisable to keep your work space closed from the rest of the house.  This will help assure that little hands are not creating hours of extra work for you as well as keeping them safe from your equipment. 

You will probably need a business license and tax number. This is not a problem and your local Chamber of Commerce will be able to tell you what you need and how and where to apply. 

If you have good sewing skills, a good business head, and some spare time you should be able to earn a very good part time income. Why not try it?