Can you explain what a cottage industry is?

Cottage industries are small-scale manufacturing businesses often run from home, focusing on physical labor and producing unique, hand-crafted products. They play a significant role in developing countries‘ economies and can be important for employment in rural areas of developed countries. These industries have historically focused on sewing, garment-making, and other crafts, and continue to serve markets that desire unique, hand-crafted products. Additionally, modern cottage industries can include niche markets such as costume design for competitive dancers and figure skaters.