Welcome to Sewing Tips

Pick A Specialty

There are so many different types of sewing that can be done, it is important to refine what it is that you want to do. Focus on an area that you enjoy. This is where you should concentrate your energy, develop your skills, and build your reputation.

Be Unique

Talk to potential customers to find out what they want and can't get from services currently available. Add a unique twist to your service to set it apart from the rest, such as offering a service for elderly and/or disabled persons, where you do on-site fittings and pick up and delivery.

Choose Carefully

You are in private business; you are not a public servant. You have the right to accept and deny work or customers based on your preferences. If you do not feel comfortable with a specific job or working with a specific person, decline the work. Trust your instincts.

Continuing Education

There are always new techniques and methods being developed. Keep on learning. Read as much as you can about your specific field of work. Seminars, workshops, and expos are great to keep current and get revitalized.

Build a Reputation

It is easier to develop a good reputation if you have a specialty and become known for your skill in that area. The old saying, “Jack of all trades, master of none”, is true. Mastery in a specific area will help your clients recognize and appreciate that skill.

Get It In Writing

Make a contract or receipt that specifically states agreed upon work, condition and amount of materials or garments taken in, price, and due dates. Have the customer initial or sign this document.

Set Boundaries

You set the rules for your business. It is especially important to set guidelines for clients when you work at home. Have specific work hours or see clients by appointment. If you allow customers to drop by anytime, they will do just that – day, night, weekends, holidays, etc.

Re-evaluate Your Plan

Periodically review your business plan and goals. Make adjustments based on what is happening in your business and your specialization as your skills and interests become more refined.

Time Your Work

Keep track of how much time it takes to complete each job. Use a small timer that can be turned on and off with interruptions. Keep a journal of these times for use in quoting prices of future jobs and assessing your prices.

Honesty

Don't promise something that you can't deliver. Be honest. If you don't know how to do something, tell the client and don't take that job. If you think you can do something but have never done it before, inform the client and let them decide whether to contract with you.

Professional Organizations

Find Professional organizations that can offer support, education, and credibility to your work. Also check out local business groups that will add to your credibility and assist in building your reputation in the local community.

Advertising

It is beneficial to have a niche or unique service to focus on when selling your service. Determine your target customers and direct your advertising to them. Remember, in this field, you are advertising yourself as well as your service.