How to Make Money with Clothing Alterations & Repairs

The fashion industry isn’t just about designing new clothes—alterations and clothing repairs offer a profitable and low-investment way to earn money. Many people need adjustments to their clothes, whether it’s resizing, hemming, or fixing tears.

If you have sewing skills, you can turn this demand into a successful business. Here’s how to make money with alterations and clothing repairs.

1. Learn the Most In-Demand Alterations & Repairs

Before starting, focus on the most common alterations and repairs that people need:

✅ Basic Alterations:

✔️ Shortening or lengthening hems (pants, skirts, dresses).
✔️ Taking in or letting out clothes for a better fit.
✔️ Adjusting waistbands on trousers and skirts.
✔️ Shortening sleeves or modifying jacket cuffs.

✅ Clothing Repairs:

✔️ Fixing torn seams or holes.
✔️ Replacing zippers and buttons.
✔️ Patching up fabric tears.
✔️ Reinforcing weak seams.

💡 Tip: The more skilled you are, the more clients you will attract! Invest in training if necessary.

2. Set Up Your Alteration Business

🔹 Choose a Business Model:

There are different ways to operate an alteration business:
✅ Home-Based Business – Work from home and have clients drop off their clothes.
✅ Mobile Alterations – Offer pick-up and delivery services.
✅ Partner with Local Stores – Work with dry cleaners, boutiques, or tailor shops.
✅ Open a Shop – If you have the budget, rent a space in a busy area.

🔹 Essential Tools You Need:

To provide professional services, invest in:
✔️ Sewing machine (basic and overlock/serger for finishing edges).
✔️ Scissors and fabric cutters.
✔️ Measuring tape, rulers, and fabric chalk.
✔️ Hand sewing needles and thread in different colors.
✔️ Zippers, buttons, hooks, and fasteners for replacements.

💡 Tip: Start small with basic equipment and upgrade as your business grows.

3. Price Your Services Correctly

Your pricing should be competitive while still allowing you to make a profit.

🔹 Example Pricing in Kenya Shillings (KES):

• Shortening trousers/skirt hem – KES 300 – 600
• Taking in a dress/shirt – KES 800 – 1,500
• Replacing a zipper – KES 500 – 1,200
• Waistband adjustments – KES 700 – 1,500
• Patch repairs – KES 300 – 800
• Suit jacket alterations – KES 1,500 – 3,000

💡 Tip: Charge based on the complexity of the work, fabric type, and time required.

4. Find Clients and Market Your Services

To make money, you need a steady stream of customers. Here’s how to attract them:

🔹 Social Media Marketing:

✅ Create a Facebook Page & Instagram Account for your business.
✅ Post before-and-after photos of your work.
✅ Share customer reviews and testimonials.
✅ Offer discounts or referral rewards to encourage word-of-mouth marketing.

🔹 Network Locally:

✅ Partner with boutiques, dry cleaners, and wedding dress shops that don’t offer alterations.
✅ Leave flyers and business cards at local fabric shops and fashion schools.
✅ Attend local events and let people know about your services.

🔹 Offer Convenient Services:

✅ Provide home pick-up & delivery for busy customers.
✅ Offer same-day or express service at a premium price.
✅ Give loyalty discounts for repeat customers.

💡 Tip: Always deliver high-quality work on time to build a strong reputation.

5. Expand Your Services for More Profits

Once your business grows, consider adding:
✔️ Wedding and Bridal Alterations – Many brides need custom dress adjustments.
✔️ Suit Tailoring – Offer resizing services for men’s suits.
✔️ Custom-Made Clothing – If you are skilled, start designing custom outfits.
✔️ Teaching Sewing Classes – Teach others how to do basic alterations.
✔️ Sell Sewing Supplies – Offer buttons, zippers, and fabrics to customers.

💡 Tip: Diversifying your services can increase your income and attract more clients.

6. Manage Your Business for Success

To stay profitable:
✅ Keep records of income and expenses.
✅ Maintain a fast turnaround time to keep customers happy.
✅ Improve your skills by learning new sewing techniques.
✅ Build relationships with repeat customers through great customer service.

💡 Tip: Even if you start small, your alteration business can grow into a full tailoring shop!

Final Thoughts: Start Earning from Alterations Today!

Making money with alterations and clothing repairs is a great way to turn your sewing skills into profit. By offering quality services, marketing effectively, and setting fair prices, you can build a successful and sustainable business.

🎓 Want to Learn Professional Tailoring Skills?
Join Delight Tailoring Fashion & Design School for expert training in garment alterations, repairs, and sewing techniques.

📞 Call: +254 722 533 771 / +254 724 566 088
🌐 Visit: delight.ac.ke for more details.

🚀 Turn your passion into a profitable business today! 🧵💰👗