Original soft toys and plush sold online

Parents, gift buyers and collectors who buy through your website, social media and handmade marketplaces.

Direct sales at a retail price, limited-edition drops, pre-orders and the occasional wholesale order from boutique shops.

• Sewing and pattern making
• Illustration or design
• Social media and online selling

• Check the safety standards and labelling rules that apply to soft toys and toys for under 3s, and whether testing is advisable
• Avoid copying characters or designs you do not own, as this risks intellectual property claims
• Product liability and public liability insurance
• Postage costs and returns can eat into margins
• Register an ABN and check when GST applies

Startup costs are typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on your fabrics, patterns, any testing and your website. These are estimates, so budget for your own materials and safety checks.

Monthly revenue is typically around $300 to $3,000, depending on how many toys you sell and your pricing. Postage and returns can eat into margins. It can start from about 8 hours a week.

Check the safety standards and labelling rules for soft toys and toys for under 3s, and whether testing is advisable. Avoid copying characters or designs you don't own, arrange product liability insurance, and register an ABN.