Originally Posted by andifar
I am feeling these repeated requests are a sign that it is time for me to jump into my own quilting business, with the goal to leave the corporate zoo behind as the activity ramps up. I would be honored to have your input - should I consider making a shift from hobby to professional. I have a mid arm quilting machine and frame, 4 sewing machines, serger, and low-end embroidery machine. Equipment is not an issue to get started.
What do you think?
I personally would not see converting a hobby to a profession a problem by itself, some of the most successful entrepanuers are those that have pursued a passion. But it requires that you not just be successful at the passion, but at business as well. Marketing is key, you have to know how to market and sell yourself - where and how to advertise. Word of mouth may work in the short term, but it won't bring you to retirement. You also need to make sure that the income the business brings can afford the other expenses that were not present when it was a hobby - insurance, marketing, advertising, and any professional services (accountants, web designers and hosting, etc.). I still work for a living so I can provide insurance, our business could NOT afford health insurance for the two of us.
And you have to consider the intangibles - will you enjoy being home all the time? Will you miss the interaction with co-workers? Do you have the self discipline to get the job done instead of playing? And will you still enjoy working on YOUR OWN stuff when your done "working"?
After you've considered everything and figure you can make a go of it, I say LIVE THE DREAM!!!