267: From $14/hour to $65/hour as a Freelance Sample Maker (Even Though She Was Scared AF to Charge More)
Fashion Designers Get Paid: Build Your Fashion Career On Your Own Terms
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Show Notes
In Part 1, Caroline quit her underpaid factory job to run her freelance biz full-time. But what happened next? This episode is where it *really* gets juicy. Caroline opens up about the exact moment she raised her rate to $65/hour—and how terrifying it felt to say it out loud. She nearly backed down. She literally shook through the call. But she did it anyway.
And now? She’s getting clients directly from LinkedIn, turning down work that doesn’t fit, and building a business that finally *feels* good. If you’ve ever been scared AF to charge more, set boundaries, or step into your power—this episode is for you.
Resources:
020: The Step by Step Guide to Fabric Sourcing for Your Fashion Brand (with low minimums) with Jay Arbetman
266: From Self-Doubt and a Factory Job to Freelance Biz Owner: Caroline’s One-Year Transformation
About Caroline:
Caroline Kuhlman is a sample maker who specializes in collaborating with pattern makers to bring designs from 2D concepts to real-life garments—faster than factories can. Through her hands-on process, clients gain valuable insights that help prevent costly production mistakes. Caroline loves bringing the tech pack, pattern, and materials together for the first time—and proudly calls herself a sewing nerd at your service.
Connect with Caroline:
Email her at [email protected]
Check out her website
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