missred212

Was thinking about doing this and I wanted to know if any of you guys have done it and whether or not they think it is a good idea.

mpspeedy2

The hardest part is getting the customer to pay what your time is worth.

Jingle

No, when you turn a hobby into a job, then it becomes a job. I don't think anyone could make it a success. You would probably have to live in an area with lots of travelers. Just my opinion.

momto5

I did it, and I am as successful as I want to be. I am booked out until August of 2014...I don't make a killing but I do
make a bit of money here and there. I have a business in my home, and as I said, I stay busy. If you want to do it, make a business plan and stick to it; advertise, get the word out that you are reliable and do good work...and you'll have all the work you can handle. But...and yes, this is cautionary...don't go into it thinking you're going to make a mint, 'cause you probably won't...at least for awhile. Good luck!

Peckish

Huh??

I know lots of professional quilters who are very successful. I'm assuming that's what the OP is asking about - people who quilt for others.

I agree with the earlier poster who said getting people to pay what you're worth is difficult.

missred212

I love to quilt. And recently I have had quite a few people ask me to make them something. I have just been making presents. I am single mom of two boys ages 8 and 10 and they are growing really fast. I would like to be home with them. And I thought I could have a small buisness making things that people ask for. One has asked me to make a quilted dog bed for her daughter that loves to pretend to be a dog. How cute is that!

ghostrider

My longarmer has a thriving business, quilts full time and loves every minute of it. She works out of a home studio in a tiny rural town (with no travelers passing through), yet has 250 clients. It's all in how well you market yourself, the quality of your work, and a committment to customer service. Treat it like a business and you'll have a definite advantage.

SlightlyOffQuilter

I think that it depends on the person doing it. Some people are okay with turning a hobby into a business, others prefer to keep a hobby just that, a hobby. Once you take that turn, your hobby becomes your job. You have to REALLY love what you are doing, and be good at it. Remember that turning your love of quilting into a profitable business is going to have alot LESS to do with actually quilting than you think. Networking, advertising, budgeting, paperwork, accounting, taxes, all of that and more go into building your business. Don't look at going into it with rose colored glasses on either. Be prepared to start small and build. Do NOT quit your regular job until you have been able to make enough for 6 consecutive months to cover all your regular bills and expenses for each month. Also remember, being your own boss means you no longer have any medical benefits you may be getting from your current job as well.

Dolphyngyrl

Not me, I hate deadlines.

tessagin

I have enough deadlines to meet. But depends on how bad you also need the money and like above if you canget them to pay for it. Good Luck!