New Kiltmaker?

[Moosehead]

OK folks, decided it was time to put this question to you all (that's y'all, to our southern cousins ). Call it market research, 'cause if you guys don't know, nobody will.

I am seriously considering going into the biz. In this part of the country, there is only one kiltmaker that I know of, up in Cape Breton. Now, I'm looking at only making hand-sewn, traditionally-cut, wool kilts and kilted skirts. Especially solid colours, although tartans would be part of it. Hand sewn sporrans and garter ties (fingerwoven). Possibly jackets. Handknit hose.

Where I live, I can get some good tax breaks, initially at least. There will be no overhead, so prices will be very low in comparison to most.

So, is there a call, especially for the solids? Or, am I just in a working rut (even though I already work from home, in marketing)?

Hit me hard, 'cause it could be a big step.

[Dreadbelly]

I think there will always be room for one more dedicated hard working person to make it in just about any business. I'd say go for it and follow your heart and be happy, because that is a lot more important than money in the long run. That, and I truly believe that a lot of people are burned out on big business and malls and Wal Marts. More and more people want that personal touch, that extra special feeling of knowing that they are getting special attention and custom service. I think that is part of why so many of us love kilts in the first place. I can't say that people will beat down your door, I don't know, but I will venture a guess that as word spreads and the new online economy based on cottage industries picks up, that you will at least have a pleasurable way to spend your days and probably some shiny nickles to show for it. You will probably work longer hours and carry more on your shoulders, but I believe you will have a lot more to show for it. And that alone makes it worth while, at least in my own humble opinion. It no longer makes sense to be a drone for somebody else. I believe it is better to be your own man and make your own wealth, rather than farm wealth for somebody else.

I have just started my own business, and have all of the weight and worry of it on my own shoulders, and plan to be self supporting out of it. I am back in college, learning jewelry smithing, and am currently digging my self out of a hole to see the light of day after being buried so long in a disability cycle.

If you reach for the stars and miss, at least you wont come up with a handful of mud. I read that someplace. Go and do your own thing.

[Mattg]

I think it's a great idea! There can never be too many kiltmakers!

[davedove]

Sure, go for it. One piece of advice I can think of is to not take too many orders at once, and be realistic about completion times. If you overestimate the time and get a product done early, customers are pleasantly surprised. If you underestimate they will become frustrated.

[possingk]

Moosehead,
Don't know if you have seen this thread but I think it sheds an interesting light on your planned venture. There were quite a few comments from kilt makers that are currently running thier own shops. I wish you nothing but luck in your venture though. A friend of mine and I have thought about it as well. Just couldn't find the time or money to start something.

[Colin]

Are you counting all the established kiltmakers in Nova Scotia as competition? I would, I would also consider any online source competition.

If you go forward with your plan, I wish you all the luck and hope your business success beyond all your hopes.

[cavscout]

I'd suggest cranking out 1 or 2 initially and test the waters that way. A few good reviews from members and friends can drum up some more business and give you a good feel for the market. If all goes well, open the gates and go for it. Best of luck!

[Moosehead]

That would be wonderful for any business . . . but it seems too good . . . are you not going to pay yourself?

Had planned on it. Actually, the wife would pay me, the company in her name. Why? Because there would then be no taxes at our end. No income tax, no taxes on goods delivered here, and they would all be delivered. My basement is now a workroom/office, so no rent etc. No extra bills that I'm not already paying.

Are you counting all the established kiltmakers in Nova Scotia as competition

The only kilmakers (as opposed to retailers) that I know of are MacIsaacs in Cape Breton. And yes, everyone else would be considered competition.

[Mattg]

I'd suggest cranking out 1 or 2 initially and test the waters that way. A few good reviews from members and friends can drum up some more business and give you a good feel for the market. If all goes well, open the gates and go for it. Best of luck!

And ya know, if you're unsure of it, just send me a couple kilts and I'll test 'em for ya

[mkmound]

. . . There will be no overhead . . .

That would be wonderful for any business . . . but it seems too good . . . are you not going to pay yourself?

We all admire your altruism!!!

Mark