The key to establishing a successful embroidery business is zeroing in on the market that best suits your specific capabilities and interests. To do this, you need to understand yourself, your business and the potential market.
Consider your personal interests. Do you like sports? Enjoy boating? Are you a dog lover? Maybe you spend your free time combing the beaches for unusual shells. Whatever your hobby, the point is to think about what potential markets might be developed based on your specific interests.
Be realistic about your available funds. Some markets will require a higher initial investment than others. Determine what your operating budget is and stick with it, especially in the beginning. Search out markets that suit your present financial situation.
Do your research. Start with the Yellow Pages. How many embroiderers are in your area? What are their specialties? Compile a comparison chart of prices and services. Is there a particular niche that is not being covered? Make a list of the different groups and organizations in your area. You will find that almost every organization uses embroidery or would like to.
To get you started, here's a look at some potential markets and niche ideas: