Home-based small-run clothing maker

Emerging fashion labels, boutiques, market sellers, performance and dance groups, and individuals wanting custom pieces.

A set price per garment or per batch, plus charges for pattern adjustments, sampling and rush jobs.

• Industrial or domestic sewing
• Pattern reading and basic cutting
• Quality control and consistency
• Quoting and time management

• Check with your local council whether a home-based business needs approval, especially if you have machines running or visitors
• Public liability and contents insurance that covers business equipment at home
• Australian labelling rules for fibre content and care, which you may need to follow for clothing you supply; check with the ACCC
• Pricing too low for the time involved, which is the common trap with small runs
• Get an ABN and check when GST registration applies to you

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on the machines, materials and workspace set-up you need. These are estimates, so price your equipment before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically around $600 to $3,500, depending on the size of your runs, your clients and the hours you work. Pricing too low for the time involved is a common trap with small runs.

Check with your local council whether a home-based business needs approval, and that your insurance covers business equipment at home. Also check Australian labelling rules for fibre content and care with the ACCC, and when to get an ABN and register for GST.