Leather workshop with small range and custom orders

Independent shops and boutiques, direct customers online and in person, and people ordering bespoke pieces or small branded runs for businesses.

A mix of retail sales, wholesale orders at a lower price per item, and higher-value custom commissions. Repeat orders from shops help make income more steady.

• Pattern cutting and leather machine sewing
• Product design and quality control
• Pricing for wholesale and retail
• Selling to shops and handling customer orders

• Check the lease terms, business rates and any planning or use restrictions on the premises
• Public liability, product liability and cover for your tools, machinery and stock
• Employer's liability insurance if you take on staff or an apprentice
• Wholesale margins can be tight, so cost each item carefully before agreeing prices
• Check the safe use and storage of dyes, glues and solvents, and fire safety in the unit

Startup costs are typically around £3,000 to £12,000, depending on your premises, machinery and materials. These are estimates, so price your own tools, leather stock and insurance before you rent a studio.

Monthly revenue is typically around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on your mix of shop orders, direct sales and commissions. Wholesale margins can be tight, so cost each item carefully before agreeing prices.

Check your lease terms, business rates and any planning or use restrictions on the unit. Also check public liability and product liability cover, employer's liability if you take on staff, and safe storage of dyes, glues and solvents.