Curtain Making Business: Practical UK Guide Under £300: UK Costs, Tools & First Customers
Startup Cost: £50–£300 | Difficulty: Beginner | Time to Start: 7 Days | Business Type: Local
Many curtain makers start by sewing at the kitchen table and taking samples to homes in their own postcode area.
Real UK Business Example
Thriving Curtains Co Made-to-measure curtain workroom in Leeds supplying installers across Yorkshire. Sample books drive home consultations without retail rent.
What is a Curtain Making Business?
You measure windows, make up curtains and blinds to order, then fit them. Work comes from homeowners, landlords and small developers who want something better than off-the-shelf options.
Video Breakdown
The linked video walks through the actual process, costs and first jobs for a low-cost curtain service.
Watch the full video on YouTube for the full walkthrough.
Key Takeaways
- Start with a basic sewing machine and sample books rather than a full workshop.
- Charge £25–£45 per metre made up, depending on fabric and lining.
- Home visits remove the need for retail premises.
- Local Facebook groups and trade suppliers in Leeds or Manchester provide steady leads.
- Keep initial fabric stock low and order per job to stay under £300.
- Thriving Curtains Co in Leeds supplies installers using sample books only, avoiding rent.
Startup Costs in the UK
Most people reach their first client for well under £300.
| Item | Approx. Cost (UK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Second-hand sewing machine | £40–£80 | Check local Facebook Marketplace or charity shops. |
| Measuring kit and basic tools | £15–£30 | Tape, square, fabric shears, pins. |
| Sample books and business cards | £0–£40 | Request free books from wholesalers. |
| First fabric and lining | £30–£80 | Buy only after securing the job. |
| Public liability insurance | £10–£15 | Monthly policy via comparison sites. |
Total outlay usually lands between £100 and £250 before the first payment arrives.
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Domestic or light industrial sewing machine
- Steel tape measure and spirit level
- Fabric shears and cutting mat
- Steamer or iron for finishing
- Sample books from two or three wholesalers
How to Start
- Register as self-employed with HMRC online, takes ten minutes.
- Collect free sample books from wholesalers in Manchester or Leeds.
- Measure a few windows at home to practise pricing.
- Post in local Facebook groups and Nextdoor with before-and-after photos.
- Quote jobs including fabric, making and fitting, then order materials only after deposit.
- Carry public liability insurance before the first fitting.
- Ask the first three clients for photos and a short review.
Earnings & Scaling
One or two jobs a week at £300–£500 each can bring in £1,200–£2,000 monthly once established. Many makers stay solo; others add an assistant or pass fitting work to local installers when volume grows.
Pros, Cons and Risks
Pros:
- Low overheads when working from home
- Repeat work from landlords and estate agents
- Flexible hours around family or another job
Cons:
- Physical work carrying poles and fabric
- Seasonal dips in January and February
- Need to chase payments on larger jobs
Risks:
- Errors on expensive fabric eat margins quickly
- Competition from national blind companies
- Damage claims if fittings fail
UK-Specific Tips
- Keep records of every job for HMRC self-assessment.
- Offer a 10% discount for cash payment on the day of fitting to speed cashflow.
- Join the local chamber or small business Facebook group for trade referrals.
- Check whether your council requires a street trader licence for home visits.
FAQ
How much fabric should I keep in stock?
Start with none. Order only after taking a 50% deposit so you avoid tying up cash.
Do I need a van?
A small hatchback works for the first year. Larger jobs can be delivered by the fabric supplier.
Is public liability insurance essential?
Yes. One dropped pole through a window can cost far more than the monthly premium.
Where do I find first customers?
Local Facebook groups, estate agents and letting agents are the quickest routes in most UK towns.
Conclusion
A curtain making service fits the under-£300 model if you begin with samples and home visits. Browse more ideas at MicroBiz365.
