quite often people who enjoy the quilting hobby decide they would like a shop- they open, invest huge amounts of $$ and do not have the resources to keep themselves afloat long enough to break even or ever make a profit- instead of enjoying their hobby-now they are dragged down by a job-that is long-hard hours with little to no compensation. just because we are capable of making wonderful quilts- or teaching classes- it does not mean we are (qualified) to operate a business- it takes time, resources, a real sense for business (and the education) marketing expertise,
you may find many of the successful shops are ones that are owned by business people- who may have started quilting even years after opening their store...they opened a store because they are business people with a love of textiles, or crafts, love quilts & quilters- to have a successful store the business aspect has to come first...it's unfortunate when good intentions, hopes & interest just isn't enough to keep you afloat.
i do know 2 ladies who opened a store and were open and quite busy for 7+ years---they closed simply because they were tired of being tied to the store - wanted to travel- teach- expand their interests-instead of being stuck day after day working in a retail setting...opening a store should always be very carefully researched, thought through, a good business plan in place- someone knowledgable in the business part should be involved- it's not something that should be entered into (because it would be fun) --- your hobby is fun- owning a store is no longer enjoying your hobby---it's a job! and any self-employed business owner will tell you- you put in 30 hours a day- 9 days a week! it is a full time- consuming venture-- and maybe once in a while you will have some time to make something- or do something you enjoy