Monogramming Service

Baseball caps, sweatshirts, and jackets with company logos on them . . . you’ve seen them everywhere. You have a knack for knits and for transferring a company’s identity to the appropriate material. Or maybe you simply want to monogram initials onto towels, blankets, and other home accessories for the marriage-minded. Whatever your specialty area, you’ll need some equipment and marketing savvy to get your business off the ground. Silk screening is a good place to start; check your local art supply shops for information and creative options. For the more advanced monogrammer, research thermal transfer devices or computer-aided sewing machines in business and trade publications before making an expensive purchase.


This business can be started on a modest budget. However, depending on the equipment you invest in, you could spend as much as $15,000 or more to get started. You will most likely need to insure any equipment purchased, plus any supplies. Expect to earn back your initial outlay in about two to three years, based on an income potential of $20,000 to $50,000 per year.


Advertising and marketing skills will play an important role in making this business a successful venture. Monogramming is much more than just initialing towels, and you’ll need to convey that in every piece of literature you send out, particularly on your business cards.

Approx. cost of start-up: $5,000 to $15,000


Approx. potential earnings:$20,000 to $50,000


Typical fees: $3.50 to $100 each piece (depending upon items chosen and number of units/volume discounts)


Where to promote: Yellow Pages, local school districts, direct mail to companies


Qualifications: Some sewing skills or ability to operate monogramming equipment


Things needed: Monogramming equipment, business cards


Required staff: No


Hidden costs:Insurance