“Turning Everyday Mending into a Profitable Sewing Side Hustle”
For many sewists, alterations and mending offer a steady, practical way to earn extra income. While sewing clothing from scratch or selling handmade items online can be rewarding, sometimes the fastest path to income comes from the people in your own community who need help with everyday repairs.
Think about it: people are constantly in need of someone who can hem pants, take in a dress, repair torn seams, or replace a broken zipper. These are small jobs for a skilled sewist, but they’re often frustrating tasks for those who don’t know how to sew. That’s where you come in.
Why Alterations and Mending Can Be Lucrative
High demand in every community: Many people don’t own sewing machines, and even fewer know how to use them. That means everyday clothing repairs are often outsourced.
Low overhead: Most jobs require only thread, needles, and your sewing machine—supplies you likely already have on hand.
Steady local business: Unlike online selling, this work is tied to your neighborhood. Word-of-mouth referrals, fabric store recommendations, and flyers can bring in consistent clients.
Flexible work: You can choose which jobs to accept and schedule them around your own availability.
How to Promote Your Services
If you decide to offer alterations and mending, let people know you’re available. Some ideas include:
Local flyers: Post at banks, post offices, laundromats, coffee shops, and community bulletin boards.
Word-of-mouth: Let family, friends, and neighbors know. Once people are aware, they’ll start spreading the word.
Fabric shops & dry cleaners: Many do not have in-house seamstresses but are happy to refer customers.
Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or community groups: Great for reaching local customers looking for quick services.
Make sure your advertising is clear and easy to read. Mention specific services, such as:
Hemming pants and skirts
Replacing zippers
Taking in or letting out seams
Mending torn fabric or repairing rips
What to Charge for Alterations and Mending
Pricing varies by location, but here are some competitive average ranges to consider as a starting point. Always consider your skill level, local demand, and the time required.
Pant hems: $10–$15
Skirt/dress hems: $12–$20 (more if lined)
Zipper replacement: $15–$25 (depending on the garment)
Take in/out side seams (pants, skirts): $15–$25
Take in/out side seams (dresses, jackets): $20–$35
Simple patch repair or tear mending: $8–$15
Button replacement: $1–$2 per button (with a minimum charge of $5–$10 per job)
💡 Tip: Always set a minimum service fee (example: $10–$15). Even if the repair is minor, your time and skill have value.
Tips for Success
Be professional: Return garments clean and pressed on a hanger covered with a clear plastic covering. Presentation makes a difference.
Be clear upfront: Discuss pricing, timelines, and what’s possible before taking a job.
Keep records: Track your work, customers, and earnings—it makes repeat business and referrals easier.
Upsell gently: If a customer comes in for a repair, you might also suggest adjustments that improve the fit (such as taking in a waistband or shortening sleeves).
Alterations and mending might not sound glamorous, but they’re one of the most reliable ways for a sewist to earn income. With low overhead, flexible hours, and a constant need in your community, this sideline can grow into steady cash flow—or even a full-time business if you want it to.
If you’re looking for a way to supplement your sewing income beyond selling online, consider starting locally by offering alterations and mending services. Not only will you earn money, but you’ll also become a go-to problem solver in your community—someone people trust with their clothes.
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