Quilting Fabric Stall for Fairs and Guilds
Take curated fabric, kits and tools to craft fairs, quilt shows and guild meetings.
- C$3k-12k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.
What it is
A mobile quilting supply stall. You sell fabric bundles, kits, patterns and tools at craft fairs, quilt shows, farmers' markets and guild meetings, with optional online orders to follow up.
Your first three steps
- Make a list of quilt shows, craft fairs and guild meetings within driving distance, and note their vendor fees and application dates
- Buy a small range of bundles, kits and best-selling tools from wholesalers, and build a simple table display
- Apply for a few events and collect email addresses so you can sell online between shows
Who pays
Quilters at shows and guild events, craft fair visitors and gift buyers.
How it makes money
Retail margin on fabric and supplies, with higher sales on bundles and kits at busy events.
Skills that help
- Display and merchandising
- Selling face to face
- Planning stock and event schedules
- Careful packing and loading
Watch out for
- Check which vendor permits or business licences each market or municipality requires
- Check GST/HST and provincial sales tax registration, and how you will collect tax at events
- Commercial general liability insurance, which many events require
- Event fees and travel costs, plus slow winter months for outdoor events
- Heavy loading and unloading of fabric bolts and display gear
🔒 Full research report for Canada
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start a quilting fabric stall?
Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on how much fabric stock, display gear and vehicle space you need. Event fees and travel costs add to your running costs.
How much can a quilting stall earn?
Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many events you attend, your stock and your location. Winter months can be slow for outdoor events, so plan for uneven income.
What permits and rules should I check for a market stall?
Check which vendor permits or business licences each market or municipality requires, how to handle GST/HST and provincial sales tax at events, and commercial general liability insurance, which many events ask for.
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Photo: Hans on Pixabay