Everything You Need to Know About Starting Your Own Sewing Business
Did you know that the womenswear industry is worth over $600 billion?
There could never be a better time to start a sewing business. These businesses are easy to create and can be pretty profitable. However, as with any other company, you must have the right strategy.
The following are things you should know and do if you want to tap into this lucrative industry.
1. Have a Thorough Due Diligence Process
Yes, you have the skill, but how will it fit the market needs? As you do your due diligence, focus on the following key areas:
Market Outlook
It is crucial to get a clear picture of how the market operates. Please take note of all the other major players in your locality and identify the niche they serve. If possible, you should determine each player’s market share.
Also, research on consumer trends. Knowing the type of garments that are likely to sell more is essential. Only after you have acquired this information can you select a niche.
Business plan
A business plan is essential for any business.
It provides direction and a way to track progress. You should incorporate all the data on your market research, business model, budget, and goals.
2. Get All the Necessary Permits
Once you have understood the market and settled on a niche to serve, it is essential to legitimize your business.
The first step is usually to come up with a business name. Next, go for a relevant and catchy name for the fashion industry.
Then, find all the licenses and permits required to operate a business in your area.
This is important even if you start a home sewing business, as it will give you credibility. Also, you won’t face the risk of fines and business closure.
With the necessary permits, you can now open a business account to help you keep track of your finances. You should also register for taxes and take up an insurance cover for your business.
3. Find a Suitable Location for Your Business
Where your business is located will play a crucial role in its success. Find a strategic place that will be easily accessible to lots of passersby.
Preferably, it should be on the ground floor, along the street, and have big windows.
This will ensure many people see your designs daily.
Suppose you prefer home sewing. Set aside a working space. Ideally, you should dedicate a whole room to the business.
This will help give you the privacy you need and prevent unnecessary interruptions when working.
Don’t worry if you do not have a spare room. One corner of your living room will work just fine. However, it should be off-limits for everyone else (especially kids).
4. Get the Right Equipment for Your Sewing Business
After securing the premises, you can now shop for equipment.
The sewing machine will be the most important one. But, even on a tight budget, do not compromise on quality.
Do some research before settling on one. You can get more info here on the best sewing machine for your needs.
Some of the other things you will need include:
- Fabric
- Patterns
- Needles
- Iron and ironing board
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
5. Prepare Samples for Your Launch
Before launching, you should have a catalog and samples of your products. Samples will help you to convince clients of the quality of your work.
Have as many as possible. Go for different designs in different colors.
Take pictures of the designs. Better yet, hire models and a professional photographer to get captivating shots. Then, use the images to make a brochure.
6. Get the Word Out
Start marketing your business to get customers rolling in.
You can start by preparing and distributing pamphlets in your area to attract people.
Good places to display flyers are grocery shops, parks, and other public spaces. Also, get in touch with local stations and newspapers and invite them for a feature. Try to create as much buzz as possible.
This is the time to work your network. Tell family and friends about your new venture. Your first few sales are likely to come from this group.
Step up your marketing and create an online presence for your business.
Create vibrant social media channels and get a professional to design your website.
Have all your products and contact information on these platforms. With an excellent online marketing strategy, your social channels can be advantageous.
Bonus Tips to Help You Succeed
For your business to thrive, you must develop different ways to attract more customers and reduce costs. The following are some of them.
Buy in Bulk
Material costs will make up a considerable portion of your expenses.
To reduce them, you should consider buying from retailers during sales. However, the best option would be to go directly to wholesalers and suppliers.
There are online platforms where you can find lots of wholesalers. So you could save as much as 40% of the purchase costs by buying in bulk.
Go to Trade Shows
Trade shows are an excellent way for your business to gain exposure.
In such events, your designs will be seen by numerous people. You will also be able to interact with other players in the industry.
However, you must identify tradeshows related to the fashion industry early. This will enable you to get the best booths for displaying your collection.
Dress the Part
When it comes to the fashion industry, people will associate your dress code with the niche and quality of your work. Therefore, you must always dress neatly and in outfits representative of your designs.
If you focus on formal wear, that is how you should dress. This will also be a subtle way of advertising your work.
Go for It!
A sewing business can be a gratifying way of utilizing your sewing hobby.
Try to find an underserved niche and create your brand within it. Remember to pick a prime location and market your business online.
Check out this article to learn about some marketing tools that can propel your business.
I'm primarily a dad and a husband, then I live. I've been a freelance writer and editor since 2014, specializing in finance, casino, sports, and esports niches. I'm an expert in checking the small print on any T&C site. You can trust me as an expert, especially when it comes to financing and gambling products.
