Sail repair and alterations from a workshop

Recreational sailors, small racing crews, marinas, yacht clubs, sailing schools and charter operators.

Hourly shop rate or a quoted price per repair, plus materials. Busy periods come before and after the sailing season, and repeat work comes from marinas and clubs.

• Heavy-duty sewing or willingness to learn
• Knowledge of sail cloth and hardware
• Accurate measuring and patience
• Customer service

• Check whether your city or county requires a business license or home occupation permit
• Check HOA, zoning and lease rules before running a workshop at home
• General liability insurance and cover for customers' sails while in your care
• Work is seasonal in colder areas, so plan for slow months
• Sales tax registration with your state may apply to materials, so check your state's rules

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on your sewing equipment, workspace and supplies. These are estimates, so price machines and materials before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on your customers and the season. Work is seasonal in colder areas, so plan for slow months.

Check whether your city or county requires a business license or home occupation permit, and check HOA, zoning and lease rules. Also check insurance for customers' sails in your care and state sales tax registration.