Home longarm quilting studio

Hobby quilters, people who sew quilt tops but don't want to quilt them, and anyone with an inherited or memorial quilt top to finish.

Usually charged per square inch or by quilt size, with extra for custom work, thread, batting, trimming and binding.

• Comfortable with sewing and quilting basics
• Steady hands and an eye for pattern
• Patience and attention to detail
• Clear communication with customers

• A longarm machine and frame is the big cost; compare new versus used and check warranty and servicing
• Check with your city or county about a business license and home occupation permit
• General liability insurance, plus cover for customers' quilts while in your care (often called a bailee policy), is worth checking
• Register for state sales tax if your state taxes quilting services or any supplies you sell
• Customers' quilts can be sentimental or irreplaceable, so agree expectations in writing

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $30,000, depending mainly on the longarm machine and frame you choose. Compare new and used options, and check warranty and servicing before you buy.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $3,500, depending on how many quilts you take on and the hours you work. These are estimates, and results vary with your local customer base and pricing.

Check with your city or county about a business license and home occupation permit. Also check general liability insurance, cover for customers' quilts in your care (often called a bailee policy), and state sales tax rules on services or supplies.