A fast-growing side hustle is making waves among craft enthusiasts everywhere, thanks to one determined 50-year-old in Oklahoma. Mike O’Dell’s quilting kits are attracting attention nationwide and proving that even a busy professional can turn a creative hobby into a booming business.
O’Dell first discovered quilting in 2018, when he decided to design a Star Wars stormtrooper quilt for his children. Eighteen months later, his simple paper-based method of laying out the pattern had turned into a major project—and sparked an idea. He realized that with a bit of help, any hobbyist could produce intricate, eye-catching quilts using foundation paper piecing.
Legit Kits, the company O’Dell launched in 2020, brought in more than $1.25 million last year through an online platform. Another $150,000 came from selling products at Joann Fabrics and Crafts, although the retailer recently announced plans to close hundreds of stores. O’Dell still works at his hospital job four days a week and dedicates one full day to running Legit Kits, along with a team of seven full-time employees and four freelance designers.
Who benefits from this blossoming side hustle? Anyone seeking an artistic outlet that can evolve into a source of income. O’Dell even made an appearance on “Shark Tank,” sharing his journey to combine creativity with modern entrepreneurship.
Discover how a 50-year-old nurse turned a hobby into a million-dollar business
Between managing anesthesia shifts, O’Dell promotes his quilting venture on social media and in crafting communities. He credits this networking approach for driving brand recognition and boosting sales. Although the company broke even last year after covering rent, payroll, and inventory costs, O’Dell plans to draw a $50,000 salary from Legit Kits on top of his nurse anesthetist income.
Ever wonder if it’s truly possible to juggle a full-time job with a thriving side business? O’Dell says yes, though he admits burnout was once a concern. Fortunately, he finds fulfillment in creating something unique and controlling the future of his venture.
These key strategies helped transform an everyday craft into a thriving enterprise
O’Dell stresses the importance of setting goals and reinvesting. Here’s a quick look at some of the factors that helped Legit Kits expand:
| Strategy | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Consistent social media | Strong community engagement and sales |
| Partnering with retailers | Wider audience and improved visibility |
| Flexible budget approach | Sustainable growth and controlled spending |
Before launching your own endeavor, consider how much time, energy, and money you’re willing to commit. Crafting might look simple, but O’Dell’s experience shows that hidden costs often accompany swift sales growth.
Effective budgeting and planned expansion pave the way to future success
With a new monthly marketing budget and a goal of creating more eye-catching quilt patterns, O’Dell remains driven. He hopes to get Legit Kits into more small shops across the country, while delivering fresh designs to keep quilters excited. Above all, he encourages anyone with a creative spark to explore their potential, even if they’re starting from scratch.
Have you been waiting to turn your passion into a real opportunity? Take a cue from O’Dell’s journey: a little determination and a unique idea might just lead to your own million-dollar success.