Bespoke clothing studio at home

Private clients who want something that fits perfectly: brides and wedding guests, formal and event attendees, and professionals wanting standout tailored pieces.

A quoted price per garment covering design, materials and labour, usually with a deposit upfront and the balance at the final fitting. Alterations and repeat commissions add steady work.

• Pattern making and garment construction
• Fitting and tailoring
• Sketching and design
• Managing client expectations and timelines

• Check with your local council whether you need approval to run a home-based business with clients visiting
• Public liability insurance, especially with clients attending fittings at your home
• The term 'haute couture' is protected in France, so check before using it in your marketing; 'bespoke' or 'made-to-measure' is safer
• Cash flow: take deposits to cover fabric, and agree deadlines carefully for weddings and events
• Register for GST once your turnover reaches the threshold

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your sewing equipment, fabrics and studio setup. Taking deposits from clients can help cover fabric costs while you work on each garment.

Check with your council whether you need approval for a home-based business with clients visiting, and consider public liability insurance for fittings. Also check before using the term 'haute couture', which is protected in France, and GST registration.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how many commissions you take. You would typically need at least around 12 hours a week. Agree deadlines carefully for weddings and events.