Home clothing alterations and repairs

Individuals in your suburb, plus busy professionals, parents and people with special occasion outfits who need a better fit.

A set price per job (for example per hem or zip), with higher prices for complex work like jackets or formal wear. Repeat customers and word of mouth build steady work.

• Confident machine and hand sewing
• Accurate measuring and pinning
• Friendly customer service and fitting skills

• Council approval or conditions for running a business from home, so check with your local council
• Public liability insurance, and cover for customers' garments while in your care
• Risk of damaging valuable or delicate garments, so agree what you will and won't take on
• Customer visits to your home, so think about parking, privacy and safety

Startup costs are typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on the machines, equipment and workspace you already have. These are estimates, so price your own setup, including insurance, before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $3,500, depending on how many hours you work and what jobs you take on. The estimates assume at least about 8 hours a week.

Check with your local council about approval or conditions for running a business from home. Also check public liability insurance, cover for customers' garments, which delicate items you will accept, and parking, privacy and safety for visitors.