Starting a curtain making business in Kenya is one of the most practical and profitable ideas today. With real estate growing, families upgrading their homes, and offices seeking modern interiors, the demand for quality curtains keeps rising. Many Kenyans are now turning this skill into a reliable source of income — whether as a full-time venture or a side hustle. If you’ve ever thought about joining this market, here’s a simple, friendly guide to help you get started.
What Skills Do You Need to Start a Curtain Making Business?
You don’t have to be a professional designer to start a curtain making business, but you do need basic skills. These include measuring windows correctly, understanding fabric types, cutting, stitching, and styling curtains. You also need good customer service skills because curtain buyers often need guidance on fabric, colours, and design. Many entrepreneurs choose to take a short course to sharpen their skills and learn industry tricks that help them stand out.
How Much Capital Do You Need to Start?
The beauty of a curtain making business is that you can start small and grow gradually. For beginners working from home, you mainly need a sewing machine, starter fabrics, threads, lining, tape, and basic tools like scissors and measuring tape. With around KES 20,000 to 50,000, you can kick off confidently. Costs rise if you plan to open a shop, but even then, it remains more affordable than many other startups in Kenya.
Where Should You Locate Your Curtain Business?
Location plays a huge role in the success of a curtain making business. Places with high foot traffic such as shopping centres, market areas, and upcoming estates offer excellent visibility. If you’re starting from home, you can still market your work online and deliver to clients. Many curtain entrepreneurs begin with home-based operations before expanding into physical shops.
How Do You Source Fabrics and Materials Affordably?
To run a profitable curtain making business, you need reliable suppliers. The most popular wholesale markets for curtain fabrics in Kenya include Nairobi’s Eastleigh, Kamukunji, and various textile shops in major towns. Buying in bulk lowers costs and allows you to offer competitive prices. It’s also wise to build relationships with consistent suppliers who offer variety and quality.
How Should You Price Your Curtains?
Pricing in the curtain making business depends on fabric quality, design complexity, and customer preference. Most entrepreneurs charge per metre for both fabric and stitching. Ensure your prices cover all costs — including labour, transport, and time — while remaining fair to clients. Transparent pricing builds trust and makes customers more likely to recommend your business.
How Do You Attract and Retain Customers?
Marketing is key, especially for a new curtain making business. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are powerful tools for showcasing finished work. Posting clear before-and-after photos, customer reviews, and short videos helps build strong visibility. Offering free measuring services, timely delivery, and friendly communication also keeps customers coming back.
What Challenges Should You Expect?
Like any business, a curtain making business comes with challenges. Fabric prices can fluctuate, customer preferences may change, and trends shift quickly. Some clients may also request urgent orders. The best way to navigate these issues is by staying updated on market trends, building strong supplier relationships, and continuously improving your skills.
Is Training Important Before Starting?
Training is one of the best investments you can make before starting a curtain making business. A formal course teaches you industry standards, design principles, costing, fabric selection, and customer handling. It also helps you avoid common mistakes that new entrepreneurs make. Training boosts confidence and professionalism, making your business more competitive from the start.
Ready to Start Your Curtain Journey?
A curtain making business is one of the most accessible and rewarding ventures in Kenya. With the right skills, tools, and dedication, you can create a steady income while offering a service that is always in demand. If you want to start strong and gain industry-level expertise, consider exploring a professional course at Finstock Evarsity College. It’s a great step toward building a successful and sustainable career in the world of curtain design.