Home-Based car seat and trim repairs

Private car owners, classic and modified car enthusiasts, and small dealers who need quick interior fixes.

Fixed price per repair or per part, often with trade work from local dealers and valeters. Some work can be done on customers' parts that they drop off or post.

• Sewing, ideally on a heavy-duty machine
• Careful measuring and pattern making
• Taking trim apart without damaging it
• Photographing and promoting your work

• Check your lease, mortgage or home insurance allows business use, and whether you need permission from the council
• Public liability insurance, and check how customers' cars or parts are covered at your address
• Noise, deliveries and customer visits can upset neighbours
• Take care around airbag seats and seat sensors, and refer on work you are not confident doing safely
• Foam and glue fumes need good ventilation

Startup costs are typically around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on your sewing machine, tools and materials. These are estimates, so check prices for the equipment you need before you start.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £400 to £2,500, depending on how many jobs you take and their size. Starting part-time can help you build up gradually, and these figures are only estimates.

Check your lease, mortgage or home insurance allows business use, and whether you need council permission. Also check public liability cover, neighbour impact from noise and visits, safety around airbag seats, and ventilation for foam and glue fumes.