I just got email from this company saying they "love my work" and want to know if I'd like to be included on their site, where interested parties can have custom art made for them. According to the site, its $1 a year, and a 10% commission. Sounded o.k. to me- they also have an incredible web site, that makes a
lot of sense, UNTIL I go to sign up and its asking for MY credit card number. I stopped there and jumped over to my good friends at Art Fair Insiders!
Anyone know of these people?
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I am in the process of having a pair of earrings made to go with a necklace that I have.
Supposedly once artist and patron agree on price and design, you "sign" a contract so that the artist isn't left with a piece of art that no one wants. The patron is contractually obligated to purchase the piece once the design is agreed upon.
Yes, I have heard of them and have met the founding partner at the Zapp conference a year or so ago. This is a very legitimate site, one that is making big bucks, pairing artists with customers who are looking for one of a kind goods. They have angel funding, some new connection with Google, and are going to be the big elephant in the room for artists finding unique customers for custom made work.
I know they did a recent expansion and are looking to grow their business more and perhaps you were contacted because of this. I'd certainly make a phone call and ask about that credit card #, sounds very strange to me, but it sounds like Chris has a good idea about that.
They are going to have a section of the show floor at the Buyers Market of American Craft in Philadelphia, February 16-18. Do not dismiss this one as a scam.
thanks so much for the insight
just love this site!
Thanks for asking the question, Wendy. It is this interchange that keeps the site relevant and helpful. We have people here with all levels of background, someone here has the answer to just about any question and we love to help one another. Let us hear what you decide to do.
Why do you think they chose to contact you?
I've never heard of them, and neither did you before they contacted you. And that's the problem. Just like 99% of the sales sites, nobody knows they exist, so how are you going to make any money there?
And them wanting your credit card, you say they charge a dollar a year, and that's where they get their dollar. But just to be sure, never give your debit card number, always a regular credit card.