Sew Heidi is a business coach and educator who helps freelance fashion designers build better businesses. She joined me on Ditching Hourly to compare notes on the similarities and differences between freelancing in fashion vs. freelancing in software. Spoiler alert: There was a lot more in common than you might expect.

In this episode, we discuss the journey of fashion freelancing, the business of fashion design, the complexities of product development, the transition to permanent freelancing, and the business-building principles for freelancing. Our guest Heidi shares her success story of becoming a fashion freelancer in 2009 and building a six-figure income in just 30-40 hours a week. We discuss the roles and processes involved in the fashion industry, from fashion design to pattern-making and textile design. We also cover the importance of niche-down and positioning for business success and the importance of cash flow and finance. This episode is full of valuable insight for anyone looking to become a successful freelancer of any type.

Heidi’s Bio

After running a brand I grew to hate and working 60+ hours in a toxic fashion job, I almost burnt out of the fashion industry. But then I found freelancing. I reached $100k+ and was living my dream, working when I wanted, traveling, and I never worried about paying the bills.

I worked for myself, earned steady income, and loved my clients. #winwinwin

Since then, I’ve taught 1000s of fashion freelancers to do the same through my free content, my podcast, and my program, Freelance Accelerator: from Surviving to Thriving (FAST).