This question came in a few weeks ago…
Hi, Debra.
My question is this:
I have had an idea for a long time about doing cross stitch projects for some extra money. I’m in my 40s, and I’ve been a cross stitch enthusiast for about 30 years with many, many projects under my belt, both easy and difficult.
photo credit: virgo200745
I don’t just specialize in cross stitch, I can do other forms of needlework like plastic canvas and needlepoint. I also have collected over 1,000 patterns from many cross stitch catalogs over the years that are stored in a closet in a spare room, which I go through from time to time when I want to stitch something special for a family member. I also have other catalogs that have plastic canvas and needlepoint patterns in them, but my largest collection deals with cross stitch. I also know what it’s like to not have the time to finish that latest project that I started a year or so ago.
My idea was this: What if someone could hire me to finish their cross stitch project or find just the right pattern for a special birthday, wedding, or holiday to stitch for them because they want their gift to be something special, that was homemade, picked out specifically for them? I had done this for family members as favors (although one insisted on paying me because she was so grateful that I took the time) because they didn’t know how to cross stitch and wanted something for an empty wall in one of their rooms. That’s where my idea got started.
What’s your opinion on this idea? Are there more people out there like me who would like to help others with the unfinished projects or want to provide a service to people who love the look of a cross stitched piece of art but who don’t have the desire to do one themselves?
I’m not really sure where to go with this idea, and then I stumbled onto your site. Any insight you have would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time.
Linda
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Hi Linda,
This is an interesting idea! I like it! The only problem I see is actually making enough money to make it worth your time. Stitchery is labor intensiv, so be very careful that you charge enough for your time. Price yourself a bit higher than your first thoughts.
If someone needs your service they should be willing to pay for it. A few less customers paying you more money per job… works out to the same income. But… you would still have time for a life! 
Hope this is helpful… Debra
