Online cotton fabric and yarn shop

Home sewers, quilters, knitters, crochet makers, small craft businesses and emerging designers.

You buy in bulk and sell at a markup per metre, per skein or in bundles, with extra sales from sample packs and bulk-buy discounts for regular makers.

• Knowing cotton types, weights and weaves
• Basic online selling and photography
• Organised stock and packing

• You need an ABN, and GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold, so check with the ATO
• Claims like 'organic' or 'Australian made' must be accurate, so check ACCC guidance on product claims
• Check whether your council needs approval for a home-based business and stock storage
• Tied-up cash in stock that doesn't sell, so start with a small range
• Check public liability and product insurance with a broker

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how much opening stock you buy, your website and photography setup, and packing supplies. Starting with a small range can keep the figure lower.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $5,000, depending on your range, pricing, marketing and how many hours you put in. Treat this as a rough estimate rather than a promise.

Check that you have an ABN and when GST registration applies via the ATO. Make sure claims like 'organic' or 'Australian made' are accurate under ACCC guidance. Also check council rules for home businesses and stock storage, and your insurance needs.