Home-based dressmaker and alterations

Brides and bridesmaids, formal and event wearers, people who struggle to find clothes that fit, and anyone with a favourite garment to repair or alter.

A quoted price per made-to-measure garment, and set prices or an hourly rate for alterations. Fabric is usually paid for by the client or charged at cost plus a margin.

• Sewing and pattern making
• Taking accurate measurements
• Fitting garments to different body shapes
• Clear communication and quoting

• Check with your local council whether you need approval to run a business from home, especially with client visits
• Public liability insurance is worth checking, as clients visit for fittings
• Get an ABN, and check when you need to register for GST as your turnover grows
• Agree a clear quote and deposit before cutting expensive fabric
• Weddings and event deadlines can bring busy periods and pressure, so be realistic about lead times

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your sewing machines, overlocker, fabric stock, dress forms and how you set up a fitting area in your spare room.

Check with your council whether you need approval to run a business from home, especially with client visits. Check public liability insurance, get an ABN, check when GST registration applies, and agree a quote and deposit before cutting expensive fabric.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $600 to $3,500, depending on the mix of made-to-measure work and alterations and how many hours you put in. The estimates assume at least about 8 hours a week. Be realistic about lead times.