An ex-bookkeeper spent $375 to launch a sewing business: 'I hadn't felt so sure about something like that in a long time'
Eric Lugo runs Stitch Lab ATX, a sewing studio that offers group classes and events to teach basic sewing skills.
TL;DR
- Eric Lugo started Stitch Lab ATX in May 2025 as a side project, which grew into a full-time business within weeks.
- Lugo was laid off from his bookkeeping job in May 2025 and decided to fully commit to his sewing workshop.
- The business began with eight sewing machines purchased for $375 and operated from a friend's warehouse space.
- Stitch Lab ATX now offers around two dozen classes per month, teaching skills from beginner basics to hemming and zipper installation.
- The studio also hosts private events and has partnered with local businesses for pop-up events, increasing its visibility.
- Lugo aims to create a judgment-free, safe space for community and learning, particularly for Latinos and people of color.
- Future plans include hiring more instructors to expand offerings to 30 workshops per month and potentially expanding the business to other cities.
- Stitch Lab ATX's success aligns with the trend of 'funflation,' where Americans invest in hobbies, and a growing desire for community-oriented, offline social events.