Start a haberdashery shop with sewing workshops

Local sewers, knitters and crafters, plus people wanting supplies for repairs, costumes and school projects, and workshop attendees.

Product sales at retail margin, plus workshop fees, kits and sometimes an alterations service.

• Strong sewing and craft knowledge
• Buying and stock control
• Customer service
• Teaching or running classes

• Shop rent, business rates and lease terms, check what relief may be available from your council
• Public liability insurance and buildings or contents cover
• Stock can tie up a lot of cash and slow sellers cost money
• VAT registration becomes compulsory above the turnover threshold
• Planning and change-of-use rules for premises, check with your council

As an estimate, startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on your premises, lease terms and how much stock you buy. Stock can tie up a lot of cash, and slow sellers cost money, so plan your buying carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on your location, stock range and how many workshops you run. That is revenue rather than profit, so rent, stock and other running costs come out of it.

Check shop rent, business rates and lease terms, including any relief your council may offer. Also check public liability and buildings or contents insurance, VAT registration above the turnover threshold, and planning or change-of-use rules for your premises with your council.