A Profile of a Top Home Business Owner

  Blankets by mpandrich

Name:  Megan Pandrich

Location:  UK

Type of business:
Hand crafted crochet blankets, ponchos, throws and scarves

What does your business do?
My business makes hand crafted products for individuals.

When did you start your business and why?
I have always crocheted since I was younger. I moved to Bradford, and when I was on maternity leave, I decided to get a website. It has been running for about 10 months now. I was very bored on maternity leave and so decided to fill the time I would make blankets and other accessories.

How many people are there in your company?
2

What's the toughest part of running your business?
It's very time consuming, an average blanket takes over a week if done for 4 hours a day.

What's fun or makes it all worthwhile?
I love the end result, I also like the fact that adults and kids all over the UK may have one of my blankets on their bed, it's a pride thing really.

What would you do differently if you had to start all over again?
I would probably buy a massive selection of wool in bulk, which I have only done recently. It would have saved me a lot of money.

What's next for you and your business?
Well I have just expanded and taught myself how to make scarves, ponchos and hats, so I will be promoting them on the site.

What advice do you have for others just starting out?
Research the market. Try it on ebay and if it doesn't sell well there, it is unlikely to sell, as ebay is such a wide marketplace and there are always people wanting something. If there is no-one after your product on ebay it is likely that not many people are looking for it.

Previous jobs or businesses?
Waitress, Nanny, Mother's Helper, Assistant Hotel Manager, Bar Person, Glamour Model

Education or School of Life?
10 GCSE's and 3 A' Levels. Also 2 years at university.

Is there are particular person or event that led you to go into business?
My mum inspired me as she always said that the skills I learnt as a child would be useful, and she was right!

Favourite colour?
Purple!

Contact info:
Megan Pandrich

Website:
http://www.mpandrich.co.uk