Business and Publishing

Custom quiltmaker is kind of interesting job. If you are willing and capable in this job, you can post flyers and business cards in community centers, schools, and retail stores in the way to spread this job to others. Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides. Make yourself known to managers of craft and hobby stores, interior decorators, and managers of home decorating stores. They may be willing to display some of your work or recommend your services to their customers; offer a commission or bonus for business they send your way. Ask friends, acquaintances, and satisfied customers to recommend your services; you can give them a bonus or discount on future business. Rent a table at craft fairs or holiday shows to promote your products. Offer to teach a class at a community school—this will give you publicity and perhaps some clients. You can create and maintain a web site to showcase some of your creations and offer your services.

For the up-front expenses of the job, prepare some samples of your work to show would-be clients. Display photographs in a scrapbook or online. You’ll need a reliable, heavy-duty sewing machine and other sewing supplies and a collection of books and reference materials. Other costs include advertising and promotion. Sell your quilts for a fixed price based on your well-learned estimate of the amount of time involved in creating the item plus the cost of materials. Another option is to sell work on a cost-plus basis, charging one fee for your labor and a second fee for the cost of materials and supplies.