The business of crochet has seen a boom in recent years. From stylish tops and bags to swimwear, bucket hats, and home décor, many women, especially in Nigeria, are turning their love for crocheting into a profitable business. One such woman is Kolade Mayowa Bolade, popularly known as HookedbyLade, who has had several celebrities, e.g., Veekee James and Sola Sobowale, wear some of her pieces.
Whether you’re a skilled crocheter or just starting, this guide will walk you through how to start and grow a successful crochet business in Nigeria.
1. Understand the crochet industry
Crochet is more than a hobby—it’s an art form that blends creativity with entrepreneurship. The rise of social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest has made handmade fashion trendy and desirable again. In Nigeria, where fashion and creativity are big business, crochet products appeal to both young and mature audiences looking for something unique and sustainable.
Before you start, take the time to research the industry so you have firsthand information. Understand what’s in demand, as this will help you carve out your niche.
2. Write a business plan
Your business plan doesn’t have to be complicated, but it should serve as a roadmap. Here’s what to include:
Business Name and Description: What will your brand be called? What kind of crochet products will you sell?
Vision and Goals: What do you want to achieve in the first year? How much do you plan to earn?
Products and Services: Will you sell ready-made pieces, take custom orders, or teach crochet classes?
Target Audience: Who are your ideal customers (e.g., fashion lovers, new moms, students, or décor enthusiasts)?
Marketing Strategy: How will people know about your business?
Financial Plan: How much will it cost to start, and how will you make money?
Having a clear plan helps you stay focused and attract potential investors or partners if needed.
ALSO READ: How To Start A Profitable Resin Art Business
3. Estimate your start-up cost
Crochet is relatively affordable to start compared to other fashion businesses. Here’s a breakdown of common start-up costs:
| Item | Estimated Cost (₦) |
|---|---|
| Crochet hooks (various sizes) | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Yarn and threads (different textures and colors) | 20,000 – 50,000 |
| Scissors, measuring tape, needles, and accessories | 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Branding and packaging materials | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| Social media tools | 5,000 – 15,000 |
| Marketing and social media promotion | 10,000 – 30,000 |
| Miscellaneous | 5,000 – 10,000 |
Estimated Total: ₦60,000–₦150,000 (depending on your scale)
You can start small and reinvest profits as you grow.
4. Identify your target audience
Your crochet business will thrive if you know who you’re creating for. Ask yourself:
Are my designs trendy and youthful or classic and timeless?
Do I want to sell to students, working-class women, moms, or fashion enthusiasts?
Will I sell in Nigeria alone or target customers abroad through platforms like Etsy or Instagram?
Once you define your audience, you can tailor your marketing, pricing, and designs to suit their preferences.
5. Develop your brand identity
Your brand should reflect your creativity and uniqueness. Select a catchy name, design a straightforward logo, and establish a cohesive color palette. This helps your crochet business stand out online.
Think about what story your brand tells: handmade, sustainable, stylish, or affordable luxury? That story will attract the right buyers.
6. Market your crochet business
Marketing is where most crochet entrepreneurs succeed or fail. In today’s digital age, visibility is everything, and you should have a marketing strategy to make sales.
Here are proven ways to market your crochet business in Nigeria:
Social Media: Create accounts on Instagram, TikTok Shop, Facebook, and Pinterest. Share photos, behind-the-scenes videos, and tutorials.
- Marketplaces: Utilize marketplaces like Etsy and Amazon Handmade to reach a broader audience.
Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with micro-influencers or fashion content creators who can showcase your work.
WhatsApp & Facebook Groups: Join fashion and handmade business groups to promote your designs.
Craft Fairs & Pop-Up Events: Attend local markets and fairs to display your items physically.
Referrals & Word of Mouth: Encourage satisfied customers to refer friends and reward them with discounts.
Remember, consistency and authenticity are key.
7. Have a pricing model
Pricing your crochet products correctly is crucial. Don’t just consider the cost of materials—include your time and creativity. A simple formula you can use:
Selling Price = (Cost of Materials + Time/Skill Value + Overheads) + Profit Margin
For example, if it costs you ₦20,000 to make a crochet bag and you spend 3 hours creating it, you might price it at ₦60,000–₦80,000 depending on design complexity and target market.
8. Scale and diversify
Once your business is stable, you can look for ways to grow and scale:
Teach crochet classes (physical or online)
Sell crochet patterns or eBooks
Expand into export markets
Collaborate with fashion designers
Launch a YouTube or TikTok channel to build a community
These will not only bring extra income but also build your authority in the crochet space.
In conclusion, starting a crochet business in Nigeria is an exciting and profitable venture for creative entrepreneurs. With the right plan, dedication, and marketing, you can turn your passion for yarn into a sustainable income stream.
Remember, success doesn’t happen overnight. Keep learning, stay consistent, and let your work speak for itself.