February 19th, 2007, 07:54 AM
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#1 (permalink)
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Junior Member
- Join Date:
- Feb 2007
- Location:
- Canandaigua, NY
- Posts:
- 5
- Liked:
- 0 times
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First timer looking for some advice
Hello,
My name is Todd Curtis. You've probably seen posts like this a thousand times, but I'd really appreciate your input on starting an embroidering business.
I've been an engineer for 20 + years and am at a point where I'm sick of both, the daily grind and living under the constant threat of layoff. I'd like to try my hand at something where I can use my computer background and creativity.
From what I've seen so far, embroidery machines are largely much controlled by a PC. I think I'll be able to pick this part up quickly.
I'm not looking to get rich, but I do want to make a living without spending 24/7 at this. Judging by the number of companies doing this work in my area (yellow pages search) there must be money to be made. I have some ideas on a target market.
How did most of you get your start. A basic machine like a Brother 600 and word of mouth advertising, or did you take a bigger plunge and buy a more expensive machine. Start-up money is (of course) a concern. At the same time I don't want to buy a machine that isn't capable enough to do the jobs that most customers would want.
I want to have a list of questions before I start contacting machine manufacturers. I suspect I'll be getting a sales pitch rather than an interest in my business success.
It seems from what I've read so far that the ability to digitize will give you a leg up. Accurate statement? Does this mean a basic machine like a Brother won't be enough initially?
How many of you have a website.
How does someone new find garments at wholesale prices. It appears to me that this is where you make your money (garment markup).
thanks for your input,
Todd
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