I need some helpful suggestions on how to get my longarm business off the ground. I bought a new longarm in January and I have quilted over a 100 quilts so far for American Hero Quilts and other charity groups with a few actual customer quilts but am having difficulty getting it going. Any suggestions would be great especially if they don't cost an arm or a leg to do. I have a website and I have listed numerous postings on Craigs list in my area but still very slow response. Thanks!

can you advertise at a few LQS? The one near me usually has a few business cards at the check out for various quilting services

Business cards at the LQS are a must! You could handwrite a message saying $10 or 20 off your first quilt. Generating word of mouth is the best and that takes time. Call some local guilds and see if you could do a little show and tell. I wish you great success!!!!

I have taken in business cards and a flyer with a "special" pricing or incentive to the LQS but not much luck from that yet. I don't know if it is just the economy right now or what.

Perhaps you could offer to quilt a sample for one of the LQS classes. That could then display you work and show others.

Is there a local guild in your area that you can join?

You could also advertise in your local guild's newsletter. Usually this is a really inexpensive way of getting your name out there.

Offer to do a "trunk" show at the LQS showcasing your work -- or maybe at a club meeting....

I would love to visit your website/ I need the address. I have a few quilts that are too large for me to quilt at home. Anne

This is an excellent suggestion sewjoyce. I think the only way you can generate business is for quilters to see your work!

I think it's important to enter shows to showcase your skills and post photos of your work on the net. I would be much more inclined to send my top to someone who's work I was familiar with.