I need help in determining how much to charge for my sewing work. Virginia J.,
e-mail
If you're creating garments and selling them, you can determine a good starting price by keeping track of the time spent on each garment, plus the cost of materials. Determine what you need to make per hour to make it worth your while, multiply that by the time spent and add in the material costs. Then consider if anyone will pay this price, or if it's below what you think it's worth. Visit boutiques in your area and see what they're charging for similar garments--then set your price. You can always adjust your price in the future--just don't sell yourself short.
For alteration pricing guidelines there is an extensive list provided in Altering Women's Ready-to-Wear and Altering Men's Ready-to-Wear both by Mary Roehr. She has compiled the prices over the last fifteen years and from all areas of the United States. Her book Sewing as a Home Business might also be helpful to you. Order these books from Mary Roehr Books & Video, 500 Saddlerock Circle, Sedona, AZ 86336, (800) 291-6764 or (928) 282-4971, www.maryroehr.com.
This information was current when published in the January 2004 issue of Sew News. No guarantee is made regarding availability. Stay up-to-date with current sources by subscribing today!
