Sewing school in a small rented studio

Hobbyists, parents of children and teens, hen and birthday party groups, and local groups wanting a craft session.

Course fees, drop-in workshops and party bookings, plus sales of fabric, notions and kits. Hiring other tutors can add more classes.

• Strong sewing and pattern skills
• Teaching groups of different abilities
• Marketing and basic bookkeeping

• Rent, business rates and lease terms; check them carefully before signing
• Public liability insurance, plus employer's liability if you hire tutors or staff
• If you teach under-18s, check safeguarding expectations and whether DBS checks are appropriate
• Fire safety, electrical testing of machines and risk assessments for the premises
• Quiet periods such as summer, so keep a cash buffer

Startup costs are typically around £5,000 to £20,000, depending on the studio you rent, how many machines and cutting tables you buy, and your insurance. These are estimates, so check them against real quotes.

Monthly revenue is typically around £1,500 to £7,000, depending on how many courses, workshops and parties you run and what you charge. These are estimates, not guarantees, and quiet periods such as summer can lower income.

Check rent, business rates and lease terms before signing. Also check public liability and employer's liability insurance if you hire tutors, safeguarding and DBS checks if you teach under-18s, and fire safety, electrical testing of machines and risk assessments.