At the risk of sounding callous and heartless, I would like to go on record as saying the state of the economy is totally irrelevant. The ability to generate income while pursuing your passion is unquestionably the ideal aspiration. Expanding your embroidery hobby into a profitable business doesn't have to be a mind-boggling venture, or, put you into debt. Whether your goal is to own a small business, financially justify your hobby, have a little extra pocket money, or you need a full-blown exit strategy from a stressful corporate job - we can help!

With a little bit of leg work and not much money, a profitable new business can blossom.

Step One - Create an Identity
Decide on a name for your business. Check to see if the domain name has been taken. You don't have to start your business with a website, but purchase the domain name before someone else does. It is not expensive. There are numerous online companies that will search names for you, such as www.godaddy.com and www.domain.com. At this time, ".com" is the most popular extension for businesses. Establishing an online presence (i.e. website) can be accomplished on many levels; from the most basic to highly integrated. Having your domain name as your email address (and not @yahoo.com), is a definite boost to your credibility.

Go to your bank and ask the new accounts person what documentation is necessary to open a business account. They can point you in the right direction to get the necessary business credentials for your area. Depending on your location, you may need to register your business, get an assumed name certificate, or other permits. (Some fees may apply.) If you are opening a business account, be sure to shop around for prices; they can vary greatly.

You will definitely need a sales tax permit. (No fee for this one.) Search the internet for information for your state. Be sure to find out what the sales tax collection requirements are in your area. A sales tax permit is also required to buy merchandise for resale at wholesale cost.

Step Two-- Look like a Pro
Create and print some business cards. Be sure to include a way for people to reach you, such as email. Only give a phone number if you are sure it will be answered "professionally" and not by a preteen rocking out to VH1. I like to use my cell number and have an appropriate voice message.

The business cards serve multiple purposes:

1. Keep some on hand at all times to hand out if the subject comes up in conversation. If you look professional, friends and neighbors are less likely to ask you for freebies and will pass on your name to others.
   
2. Have a supply of cards to use as a tag for EVERYTHING YOU DO! Purchase a tag gun at an office supply store, or a quilt basting gun from your local sewing store, to attach the cards to the label of the embroidered item.
   
3. Don't forget the back of the card. That is great real estate to share more information. Let people know what else you do; monogramming, spirit wear, clubs, corporate apparel, custom designs, gift baskets, etc. Care instructions are also appropriate. If you have monogrammed white dish towels with polyester thread, the recipient would like to know the item can be bleached.

Step Three -- Spread the Word
Always give embroidered gifts (and don't forget your tag)! There is no easier way to market your new business. When the mother-to-be opens the adorable burp cloths at her baby shower, everyone in the room will see your tag as the gift is passed around the room. The same goes for the monogrammed linens at the bridal shower and the fleece blanket at the child's birthday party.

Think of all the gifts you can give. Here is a short list of ideas:

Charitable contributions are another method of spreading the word. Always volunteer to contribute a gift basket (of embroidered items, of course) to the silent auction, door prizes to the school carnival, or embroider the Cub Scout den flag. People will notice your work, and ask about it. (Don't forget to have a business card ready.) Not only do charitable contributions make you look good, they can also be tax deductable.

Not only is "word of mouth" advertising cost effective, it works! The husband of the third grade teacher who just received the monogrammed tote bag needs polo shirts with embroidered logos for his sales force to wear at a trade show. Then, the logistics manager of the same company see them and wants some knit caps for his delivery personnel to wear in the winter. Then, his wife, who owns a pre-school, would like to offer sweatshirts and backpacks to students (which also is a great way of passive marketing to the neighborhood). Then, one of the preschool student's mother is in charge of the team apparel for the high school lacrosse team and gives you a call... And, all of this can come from a single tote bag, if you have your card attached on all your products so you can be found.

As you develop experience in different niche markets, it is even easier to develop more business in that future market. For more information and education, including free projects, free designs and free thread for growing your business, visit SewMeHow.com. See what you can do, we can sew you how!

"Sew" long for now!
Tamara