019 · Open a Sewing Workshop

If you can handle a sewing machine with dexterity, then you have gold in your hands. Why not open a clothing repair and remodeling shop? It’s an activity that’s not only profitable but also environmentally friendly, as the clothes you work on won’t end up in the trash right away. Less waste and extra money for you. Obviously, it’s better not to dive in blindly and to know how to proceed to avoid mistakes and give yourself the best chance to succeed. That’s what I propose to explore in this article.

• Here's the program
• Introduction
• Environmental impact
• Where is the best place to start?
  • At home
  • Opening a boutique
• The importance of service quality
• What services will you offer?
• How to set your prices
• How to find clients
• How to learn to work with a sewing machine
• Which machine to buy?
• Tips and tricks
• Conclusion
• EcoTips
• Pros and Cons
• Information recap

Introduction

You’ve probably all been there: You’ve just come back from a shopping spree in town, but the dress you bought and wanted to wear for dinner tonight is a little too long. Or you’ve hung up your favorite pants somewhere on the subway and one of the back pockets has ripped.

So, what to do? Hopefully you’ll have an aunt or cousin who can quickly fix the problem with her sewing machine, but honestly, how many of us know someone like that? Not many, I think.

This little situation simply illustrates the fact that, even though we don’t see them often, sewing rooms are still very useful.

It’s true that clothes are getting cheaper and cheaper because they are produced in countries where labor is cheap such as China, Turkey, Bangladesh, etc., but there are several elements that incite more and more consumers to change their behavior: the fight against waste, pollution, and climate change.

Environmental Impact of the Clothing Industry

I’m going to make a little aside here to show you how important it is to repair your clothes instead of throwing them away to buy new ones (when it’s possible, of course). First of all, there is pollution. As I explained in my article about selling t-shirts, the clothing industry causes a lot of pollution because it uses many chemicals that mostly end up in our waterways, our water tables, and the ocean.

There are also big problems with growing and harvesting raw materials, such as cotton, which uses a lot of water and phytosanitary products during its growth and even ends up impoverishing the soil because of intensive farming practices. And let’s not forget the greenhouse gases generated during transportation between countries where these materials are shipped during the manufacturing process.

And then, a garment that is repaired is a garment that will not be thrown away (therefore less waste), but above all, a new garment that will not (necessarily) be bought.

So, of course, this environmental dimension and behavioral changes alone do not guarantee that your new sewing workshop will be a success, but it is an important element nonetheless.

Cotton is the most widely used material on the planet for making clothing. However, the way it’s cultivated is quite catastrophic for the environment. Repairing a garment, therefore, helps reduce the environmental impact of the textile industry.

Where is the best place to start this activity?

First of all, find out what the local competition is like. If where you live is already teeming with sewing shops, it will be very difficult for you to get started, so it’s best to look elsewhere.

Next, you’ll have two options to choose from. Each has advantages and disadvantages, so here, again, it will be up to you to decide.

At home

This is perfect if you have the space, if your house/apartment is presentable enough to receive your clients, and if you are starting out with no budget. The advantage here is that you will have few expenses to start but also very little visibility. You will have to use all possible means to make yourself known quickly (advertising in all mailboxes, targeted advertising campaigns on social networks, word of mouth, etc.).

Another advantage of working from home is the flexibility it offers in terms of scheduling. You can organize your day according to your personal and professional needs without having to adhere to strict opening hours. However, it can be challenging to separate work life from personal life. Additionally, welcoming clients at home requires that the space is constantly clean and tidy, which can represent an extra workload.

Opening a boutique

This solution increases the risk of failure because it requires a larger basic investment and a constant minimum income in order to cover all operating costs (rent, electricity, maintenance, etc.). But in return, you will have much more visibility (if you choose a good location), and thus you will build up a clientele much more quickly.

By opening a shop, you also gain increased credibility with potential clients. A physical shop is often seen as a sign of seriousness and professionalism. Additionally, the possibility of attracting walk-in customers can significantly boost your revenue. However, this choice comes with certain drawbacks, such as the constraints of fixed opening hours, which limit your flexibility. Managing a shop also involves greater responsibility, particularly regarding the security of the premises and compliance with legal and tax regulations.

I advise you to study the question carefully before making any decision. If you are just starting out, it might be best to begin at home and then open a store once you have acquired some real solid skills and a number of loyal customers.

If you live in a big city, there might be a third solution that I thought of: a collective workshop. If you know (or are looking for) two or three people with the same goal as you, you could rent a workshop together and share the costs. Of course, each of you would have your own specializations and clientele, but it’s an idea worth exploring. Just remember to make it official in order to protect yourself in case of litigation.

The importance of service quality

To establish a strong trust relationship with your clients, the quality of the service you offer must be a top priority. Punctuality in your commitments is a key element, as it demonstrates your seriousness and respect for your clients’ time. Additionally, you must communicate transparently about deadlines and costs to avoid any misunderstandings and maintain a clear and honest relationship.

You should also pay close attention to the specific needs of each client. By paying close attention to their needs and adjusting your services to meet them, you demonstrate that their satisfaction is your top priority. This personalized approach helps to retain your clients and also strengthens your reputation as a trustworthy professional in your field.

If you have other professional or family obligations, this activity is also perfect for being managed from home as a side hustle. A few clients are enough to generate a welcome supplementary income. Moreover, it suits both women and men, contrary to some stereotypes.

What services will you offer?

This activity is mainly divided into two categories: creation and retouching (or repair). The first one being more technical and requiring a real mastery of the trade, and thus a much longer learning time, I focus here mainly on the second one.

The retouching and repair services you can offer are not limited to clothing but also include accessories (hats, scarves, gloves, etc.) and home fabrics (curtains, pillows, sheets, etc.). In fact, you could be working on any piece of fabric, even the more “exotic” ones like backpacks or camping tents, for example (a case I experienced). Anything that can be repaired is good to go, right?

In addition to alteration and repair services, it might be interesting to offer customization services. For example, you could offer to embroider initials on clothing, customize bags or accessories with specific patterns, or even transform existing pieces into something new, like turning a shirt into a skirt or a dress into a top. This type of service can attract a broader clientele interested in originality and bespoke items, thus setting you apart from the competition.

There are also niche markets that allow you to stand out by targeting specific demands. For example, you could specialize in alterations for special events (weddings, parties, ceremonies) or technical clothing (sportswear, uniforms, work wear).

Moreover, if you possess the right skills, offering style consultation services could be a great addition. You could assist clients in selecting the best alteration choices to enhance the fit and style of their clothing or provide advice on how to update old garments. This personalized service can increase customer satisfaction and encourage positive word-of-mouth.

Finally, you could offer textile cleaning and maintenance services. Many clients are looking for complete solutions where they can have their clothes altered, repaired, and maintained in one place.

How to set your prices

Setting your prices requires a methodical approach. To begin with, you need to have a clear idea of your fixed and variable costs. These costs include necessary materials (thread, needles, fabrics), overhead expenses (rent, electricity, insurance), and, of course, the time you dedicate to each project. The best approach is to determine an hourly rate, which will allow you to easily calculate the cost of each service based on the time spent.

Next, conduct a market study to know the prices charged by the local competition and position yourself accordingly. Research similar workshops in your area and analyze their rates. This will give you a basis for setting your own prices while considering your costs and positioning. Don’t aim to be the cheapest at all costs, as pricing too low could project an image of lower quality service and reduce your margins to an unsustainable level.

One solution to increase your prices would be to position yourself in the high-end market, targeting a demanding audience willing to pay more for high-quality service. Of course, this implies offering impeccable services and using top-quality materials. This positioning requires specific marketing that emphasizes craftsmanship, exclusivity, and attention to detail.

Keep in mind that your business will evolve, just like your clients’ expectations and market conditions. Don’t hesitate to adjust your rates based on these factors while continuing to offer excellent value for money. Test different pricing strategies, analyze customer reactions, and refine your approach accordingly.

Opening a sewing store means more customers and more work space, but also more costs and therefore higher prices. Think before you leap, but it’s the best option if you’re still in the learning phase.

How to find clients

The best way to find your first clients is to start by tapping into your personal network: inform your friends, family, and acquaintances about your business. Word-of-mouth remains one of the most effective methods for attracting clients. Don’t hesitate to ask them to recommend your services to their circle or even share your contact on social media.

Consider collaborating with other local businesses. For example, clothing stores or fabric shops can be valuable partners. Offer them a partnership where they recommend you to their clients for alterations or customizations.

You could also offer exclusive discounts to the clients of these stores, encouraging both the shops and their customers to choose your services. Participating in local events, like craft markets or fairs, is another excellent way to get yourself known and demonstrate the quality of your work in person.

Finally, you can also strengthen your online presence. Set up a straightforward yet appealing website where potential clients can learn about your services, view examples of your work, find your workshop location, and easily get in touch with you. Be active on social media to share photos of your work, sewing tips, or even testimonials from satisfied clients.

How to learn to work with a sewing machine

If you are really interested in this job but you don’t know anything about it, there are several ways to learn it quickly enough and without it costing you an arm and a leg. The easiest and most flexible is to simply follow tutorials on YouTube. While doing a little research, I came across a lot of very well-done short videos.

If, by chance, you have someone around you who owns a machine and knows how to use it well, you could ask them to teach you for a certain amount of money or in exchange for various services (cleaning, DIY, shopping at the supermarket, lessons that you could in turn give them, etc.)? This would be ideal because you would then have a private teacher and could start doing practical work right away.

The other option is to simply enroll in a day or evening class to learn the trade. This will probably take longer and be more expensive, but it will also be more structured. And then you could get an official diploma, which is not the case with the Internet or a mentor. It’s up to you to decide which solution is best for you.

And if you’re looking for a structured, comprehensive, and online learning solution, know that there are online training platforms available. Sites like Udemy, Superprof, Reed and Domestika offer a variety of courses dedicated to sewing, ranging from the basics of using a sewing machine to more advanced techniques in creation and alteration. These courses are often accompanied by explanatory videos, step-by-step guides, and sometimes even forums where you can ask questions to instructors or interact with other learners.

The advantage of these platforms is that you can progress at your own pace, according to your availability, while having access to quality educational resources. Additionally, some of these courses are offered by recognized professionals in the field, which can add value to your learning experience.

If you have the possibility to invest a bit more, consider purchasing specialized books. Many books on sewing detail the basic techniques, as well as complete projects that you can follow step by step. These books can serve as long-term references and accompany you throughout your journey, even after mastering the basics.

You can combine several of these methods to acquire a solid practical and theoretical education. But whatever path you choose, the important thing is to practice regularly to gradually master the sewing machine and build confidence in your skills.

Which machine to buy?

There is no need to invest in an expensive professional machine if you don’t already have one. You can even find a second hand one in excellent condition. The main thing is that it has all the necessary basic options, but also that it is robust and accurate. My mother, for example, had a Bernina sewing machine that she kept for over 30 years! But there are other brands that must surely be just as good (Singer, Brother, and probably others).

If you’re just starting out and you’re not yet sure how often you’ll use the machine, it might be wise to begin with a simpler, more adaptable machine. Electronic sewing machines, for example, often offer intuitive features like automatic settings and predefined stitches, which can make learning easier. However, if you’re considering buying a mechanical machine, make sure it’s easy to maintain and that spare parts are readily available.

Consider checking the warranty offered by the manufacturer and the availability of after-sales service. A sewing machine, even a second-hand one, may need adjustments or repairs over time. A good warranty and responsive after-sales service can save you a lot of trouble.

Don’t forget to assess your specific needs. If you plan to work with thick fabrics like denim or leather, make sure the machine you choose can sew these materials without difficulty. Similarly, if you plan to do embroidery work or decorative stitching, check that the machine has the appropriate functions for these tasks.

I’m not going to tell you to buy this or that model because I don’t know much about it myself, but the best thing to do is to talk about it with someone you know who owns (or has owned) a sewing machine, or even to read some comparative articles that you can find via Google. You can also rely on the reviews left by customers on some online sales platforms.

On the left is my mom’s old machine (which still works great), on the right is the latest generation Bernina machine, complete with touch screen. It seems that technology is evolving 😁.

Tips and tricks

To wrap up this article, here are a few tips that can help you stand out and maximize your chances of success.

• Offer a subscription service: Propose a monthly or yearly subscription where your clients can benefit from unlimited alterations or a certain amount of sewing work at a preferential rate. This ensures a regular income stream and fosters customer loyalty.
• Collaborate with local shops: Create partnerships with local clothing stores to offer your services directly in-store. This allows you to reach a clientele that might not have considered using a sewing workshop.
• Offer express alteration service: Provide a 24-hour alteration option for clients in a hurry. This service, with an additional fee, can attract those who need quick solutions for last-minute events.
• Use a loyalty system: Set up a loyalty program where clients accumulate points with each visit, which they can then redeem for discounts or free services. This encourages regular visits to your workshop.
• Integrate a style consulting service: Offer an additional service where you advise clients on alterations based on their body shape and style preferences. This personalized service can differentiate you from the competition and offer added value.
• Organize sewing workshops: Once you’ve gained enough experience, offer beginner sewing courses or thematic workshops (alterations, clothing creation, etc.). This generates additional income and attracts new clients.
• Launch a blog or YouTube channel: Share sewing tips, tutorials, or clothing care advice through a blog or YouTube channel. Besides promoting your skills, this will help you attract a wider audience and position yourself as an expert in your field.
• Offer a dyeing service: Add a dyeing service to give your clients the option to refresh or transform their clothes with new colors.

Conclusion

I admit that at first I thought I was just proposing the idea of doing some sewing work at home for family and friends, but finally why not get into it 100%? So, it’s more of a job than an idea to make some extra money, but I think it’s a good idea, and there is a way to earn a decent living. As long as you live somewhere where there is demand, enough people, and not too much competition, of course.

That’s not all. It’s also important to adopt a thoughtful and well-structured approach (as often, by the way) to start with minimal risk, implement an effective local marketing strategy to establish and grow your business, and ensure customer loyalty by offering consistently high-quality service while remaining flexible and able to adapt to the changing needs of the market.

Starting your sewing workshop won’t be easy, especially in the beginning, as you’ll have bills to pay and probably few clients. But if you persevere, act methodically, with intelligence, invest in the quality of your work, and build strong relationships with your clients, your efforts will eventually pay off.

What about you? What do you think of this idea? Are you considering starting your own sewing workshop? What’s holding you back or motivating you? Feel free to share all of this in the comments.