How to Start an Embroidery Business  -  Ideas to Get Started

Embroidered designs are seen on everything from T-shirts to bath towels.  There’s plenty of need for embroidered products; you just have to find your niche within the market. People like the personalized designs of embroidery to show off on themselves or their pets. You could target your services to pet stores, sporting goods stores, or maybe even your local golf courses. Another option might be to target local businesses to see if they want a variety of items to use as promotional products.

Skills & Tools

To get started, you will need to invest in a good embroidery machine. There are low end machines intended for personal use but you’ll probably be disappointed in them in the long run (and your customers might be too).  It is worth the extra expense to go for a professional model.  You can choose between a single head and multi head units.  If purchasing a professional machine doesn't fit into the finances, consider a least. You can see Melco for potential equipment and other embroidery business help.

The good news is you don't really need much or any experience with the machines. Most companies that sell these machines provide you with the training and are just a phone call away in case you have questions or problems.

If you're running this as a home-based business, you might want  to sell your items at local craft shows to start getting your business known in your community. Contact various businesses, teams and start getting your work seen.

You’ll also need a dedicated area of your home to do your work, as the equipment and supplies will take up more space than you might imagine.  Find a sturdy table and storage units for your products and supplies.  If you're working in a retail space, make sure you have enough room for working and the displaying/selling your products.

Other Things You Need

In addition to the emboidery equipment, threads and other supplies, you need a few sources for good quality clothing and apparel for your designs. You also need a way to digitize images so you can embroider them. This is another skill set that you can develop on your own, or you can a company to perform the service for you.

Showcase Your Products with Your Own Website

Find online customers and showcase your unique products, by making your own website. You can try a free 10-day trial of a site builder here.