Small-Batch clothing label sold online

Shoppers who want distinctive, limited-run pieces, often found through Instagram, TikTok or word of mouth.

You sell each piece for more than it costs to make. Limited drops, pre-orders and made-to-order pieces help keep stock and cash tied up to a minimum.

• Sketching and design (by hand or software)
• Pattern making and garment construction basics
• Social media and photography
• Costing and pricing

• Clothing labeling rules: check the FTC requirements for fiber content, country of origin and care labels
• Children's clothing has extra safety rules, so check CPSIA requirements before selling
• Register for a seller's permit and sales tax with your state if you sell taxable goods
• Check home occupation permit, HOA or lease rules if you work from home
• Unsold stock can tie up your cash, so start with small runs
• Avoid using copyrighted or trademarked designs and logos

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your designs, sampling and size of each production run. Treat this as an estimate. Unsold stock can tie up your cash, so start with small runs.

Monthly revenue is typically around $300 to $3,000, depending on your collection, pricing and how well you reach shoppers. This is revenue, not profit. You can start with about 10 hours a week alongside other work.

Check FTC requirements for fiber content, country of origin and care labels, and CPSIA requirements for children's clothing. Also check seller's permit and sales tax with your state, and home occupation, HOA or lease rules.