50-Year-Old Finds Lucrative Side Project Earning Over $1 Million Annually

Starting back in 2018, Mike O'Dell created one of his first quilts for his children.

Using a kitchen floor as his workspace, he crafted a Stormtrooper image from Star Wars on graph paper measuring 5 by 6.5 feet. He then divided the image into sections, which were overlayed with fabric and sewn together. After sewing the fabric, he threw away the paper templates, sharing his method.

The quilting endeavor began in 2018 and took him 18 months to conclude. Despite being a nurse anesthetist based in Oklahoma City, O'Dell found the foundational paper piecing technique, which involved quilting atop the design, surprisingly accessible even for a newcomer.

Creating a New Enterprise

Recognizing a business opportunity, O'Dell decided to commercialize quilting kits with officially licensed designs featuring wildlife, various scenes, and popular figures. Leading to the establishment of Legit Kits in 2020. The enterprise generated over $1.25 million in sales online last year and an estimated $150,000 in revenue from Joann Fabrics and Crafts.

O'Dell dedicates a day weekly to steer Legit Kits, functioning both as its CEO and Creative Director, while balancing a demanding hospital role four days a week. His team comprises seven permanent employees and four freelance designers who support the business during his medical duties.

Balancing Roles and Revenue

Marketing through platforms such as Facebook and crafting groups has been crucial in building and maintaining business visibility. Legit Kits achieved financial break-even last year after considering costs like inventory, salaries, and a $4,500 monthly rent for a 4,500-sq-ft production site.

As a nurse anesthetist earning $240,000 annually, O'Dell also plans to draw a $50,000 salary from his burgeoning side venture this year.

Insights and Aspirations

Reflecting on his journey, O'Dell shares that his creative exploration was driven by adding artsy elements to traditional craftsmanship. His wife's early quilting efforts inspired him, bringing back memories of his early job producing computer manuals during high school.

Concerned about burnout, O'Dell mentions that his side business provides relief from stress, particularly the kind found in the medical field. He maintains full ownership of Legit Kits, treasuring the autonomy it grants him.

While reminiscing about the early days when selling a million appeared as hitting the jackpot, he notes the surprising realization that substantial portions must be reinvested into the business.

Future Prospects

Dedicated to expansion, O'Dell has focused on enhancing marketing efforts with an initial $10,000 monthly budget. This strategic investment is already yielding returns, evidenced by a $6,300 revenue from a $900 Facebook spend in the first week.

His vision for the future includes increasing his pattern portfolio and gaining visibility in retail, tapping into quilt boutiques and local shops nationwide. With an aim to design 100 unique patterns, he remains committed to evolving the quilting field and growing Legit Kits further.