Home leather repair workshop

Private customers with a favourite bag, jacket or pair of boots they would rather fix than replace, plus people with good-quality second-hand items.

A quote per job based on the time and materials needed, with small fixes like zips and straps bringing steady work and bigger restorations earning more per item.

• Hand and machine stitching
• Patience and an eye for detail
• Matching colours and finishes
• Clear quoting and customer communication

• Check with your local council whether you need approval to run a home-based business
• Public liability insurance, and check whether cover is needed for customers' items in your care
• Dyes, solvents and adhesives need good ventilation and safe storage
• Be clear about what you can and cannot fix, and photograph items on arrival to avoid disputes
• Register for an ABN, and for GST once your turnover reaches the threshold

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on your sewing equipment, tools, dyes and materials. These are estimates only. Many people start from a spare room or garage to keep costs down.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $3,500, depending on the jobs you take on and how many customers you attract. That is revenue, not profit. Estimates start from about 8 hours a week.

Check with your local council whether you need approval for a home-based business, and arrange public liability insurance, including cover for customers' items. Also plan ventilation and safe storage for dyes, solvents and adhesives, and register for an ABN and GST when required.