i need opinion from anyone. i am in process of designing a sculpture for someone in tx. they originally want 100 pieces now supposedly they are down to 20. I have been redesigning this piece now for over 3 weeks. They did not like this, i changed it, they did not like that, i changed that. Finally sent them a picture of a final design. Now all of a sudden they want my prototype, sent to them ups for final approval. So i went from 100, to 20 to 1
I am not in the market of sending prototypes. I am sure this is for xmas. actually they are an oil co in tx with i am sure a lot of welders. I feel like i am getting jerked around and i told them they are running out of time since i have 4 shows in 6 weeks time for the holiday need your opinion
Comments
thanks i think so too.
Congrats to you Steve. Nice way to end/start 2011/2012.
Well for those that made a comment, the order which all said was a scam was not. got an order for 40 pieces and the money was good. Also after they got the order they wanted 20 more without a card holder. Actually just got a ck for the rest of the money yesterday
Dear Allen:
How devatastating for you! If it sounds too good to be true.....
Back to the original question: glad it worked out (but it's not over til you get your moo-la!). I agree with the writers who request money up front or at least materials ... sorts the tire-kickers from the real buyers. The only time I don't do that is when I've worked with the customer before and KNOW they're good for it (drives the Mr. crazy, but I've never been stiffed). -- Tracey
For my art I ask for a deposit of at least half of the cost and the remainder due at completion of the piece and before delivery If they have "special" materials they wished used, then they have to pay for those upfront. I make sure everything is spelled out in a written agreement so that there are no misunderstandings and each of us have a copy. Even in my photography, I have a $50/non-refundable deposit provided to keep a date open for a client and the balance due when services are rendered. Then if the client changes their mind and cancels, I haven't totally lost as the deposit provides a little something for having kept that date/time specifically for them. They are allowed to change the date without a problem, but if they cancel they understand that the deposit will not be returned.
So glad to hear that your little problem was resolved and that you even have MORE orders because of it. Good luck to you in getting everything done by Christmas. I am sure you'll have no problems completing the task at hand.
Communication and information put into writing is the only way to handle commissions. Warren is right! And I usually do what Melanie has written about...and either get a % up front or have them pay for your supplies or both. Keeps things business like and above board. This is a hard lesson to learn for a lot of artists. We are trusting and usually very giving and honest and expect our clients to be that way also....swollow hard, state your artistic intention, talk it through with the client and put it in writing..shake hands and go make some fabulous art!
And Allen, sorry you got in the middle of a Nigerian scam...go with your gut, if it seems wrong (asking for $$ back from a too large check or credit card line of credit!) walk away!
is it not said that no question is a dumb question, we hear that all the time so no question is a silly question
Larry Berman
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