Online silk fabric and scarf shop

Home sewists, small clothing designers, bridal and costume makers, quilters and gift shoppers.

You buy from wholesalers or mills and sell at a markup, by the yard or by the piece. Swatch packs, cut-to-order fabric and bundles (fabric plus pattern or notions) raise the average order.

• Knowing fabric types, weights and care
• Product photography and descriptions
• Customer service and order packing
• Basic bookkeeping and inventory tracking

• Check with your state's tax agency about a seller's permit and sales tax collection on online orders
• Check FTC rules on fiber content labeling and care labels, especially if you sell finished garments or scarves
• Color on screens varies, so offer swatches to cut down on returns
• Silk is easily damaged, so check your return policy and keep stock stored away from sun, damp and pests
• Check HOA or lease rules if you store stock or ship from home
• Consider general liability and product insurance

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how much stock you carry and how you set up your store. You can run it from home with a small stock of popular fabrics and offer swatches so buyers can check color and feel.

Monthly revenue is typically around $600 to $3,000, depending on your range, pricing and order volume. Color on screens varies, so offering swatches can help cut down on returns, and a clear return policy is worth setting up.

Check with your state's tax agency about a seller's permit and sales tax on online orders. Check FTC rules on fiber content and care labeling, especially for scarves or finished garments. If you store stock or ship from home, check HOA or lease rules.