I don’t blame you one bit for avoiding commissioned and I have only done a few. lol. Choosing the fabrics, finding the design or creating your own thing, then getting to do the quilting onto it is part of the fun, enjoyment and therapy in quilting. :)
Absolutely. I don't mind working with someone, but it is a bit hard when it becomes something almost store-bought by the end of it. It's just hard to explain to someone who doesn't quilt, and if they DO quilt, they'll likely make their own. lol.
Hello Beth. Don't know how I missed your latest Vlog. But when you talked about Sashing and building on the spine, well I wish you could build me a new spine 🤣 I really enjoy your Quilting work. As 1st mentioned to you sometime ago my Mother Quilted a lot when I was growing up as a child. She worked a regular job in HR at what was then Willis Jeep in Toledo Ohio, until it folded and retired from the Lucas County Operation Center. She's 85 now and can't Quilt any longer due to health issues. But she did sell her art work from home. Many people Loved her Quilts. Beth, You're So Blessed to have such a Vast Carrier. And have always enjoyed what you did on Y&R. Was disappointed that the writers didn't have you in the storyline as part of the celebration of life for Neil Winters. I met Kristoff St. John in San Diego a few years ago at the Black Film Festival in The Gaslamp Quarter. He was such a Kind Down To Earth Man. Please forgive me if I sound too personal, But Your a Very Beautiful Woman and Actress. I had to opportunity to take a selfie with Kristoff. Hopefully the day will come when I can take a selfie with you. 💞🌟 I forgot to mention, I didn't catch the acting bug until after watching Ian Mcdiarmid play the role of Emperor Palpatine in Return of The Jedi. I went to London in 1996 with a group of the American Coaster Enthusiasts, we would travel to ride the best Rollercoasters in world. While in London I wanted to tell Ian Mcdiarmid what a fantastic job playing the most Evil Villain in The Universe. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you, Ellex. I am very disappointed I wasn't there for today's airshow as well. Kristoff was a fabulous, funny, kind and talented man. I miss him so much. I'm glad that the show does remember and honor him. And I'm glad you got to meet him and see for yourself. All the best as always.
Such an interesting discussion. This frequently comes up in my online sewing groups as people are asked to sew for someone or decide they want to sew for profit. I often wonder how anyone makes any money creating anything because there are so many hidden costs, no matter what they are creating and the added stress of timelines to meet buyers' expectations. Thankfully, there is personal joy and satisfaction that comes from being creative or we would all stop. Thanks for sharing your free motion quilting, it's always fun to watch. Have a pleasant weekend!
It's very personal also what we think we're worth and what our love of hobby is worth to us as well. So many times other quilters ask me what I think a certain of their quilts is worth to sell...so hard to even start sorting that out. Anyway you look at it, the answer is 'what someone will pay.' Not always the same! Thanks for joining in!
Love this conversation, as I’ve always said : “ People will pay for what they love. The $30,000. worth of machines I have are for my pleasure, my hobby. I quit quilting for others , because my husband was sick , we downsized. Sold my long arm last year. Quilt on my embroidery machine now. But my little business, I had only a few customers that kept me as busy as I wanted to be. Just do what you love and it’s not a “JOB”. “Quality not Quantity “
Very interesting that you had this conversation, a good friend of mine and I had decided to start joining some craft fairs she actually did one a week ago, I went to check things out and in doing so I found out the entry fee alone was $175. There is no absolutely no way to break even with that much less make any profit, so I was talking to my husband about possibly opening my etsy back up but once again as you pointed out the fees are crazy ridiculous not to mention how competitiveit is there. I have a small base of friends and friend of friends I make things for but not enough to really pay myself back. As far as making a living off my craft, I'd be living in a van down by the river. 🤣 but makers are gonna make and I have so much stuff now I could practically open a store and fill it. So What's a gal to do? 🤷🏼♀️
Exactly!! Perhaps there's a less commercial craft fair you can join at some point...one for a church or sponsored by schools, etc. where you can just donate a fee and sell your stuff there. It's so hard to decide what can reach an audience of buyers and is worth the cost. Website? Facebook? Well, good luck and we'll hopefully find a happy medium.
I need to refer my family to this vlog when they ask why I don’t start a business! Haha. I am at the stage in my life that I want to enjoy my quilting. I don’t feel the stress of a deadline and I choose the fabrics that make me happy☺️. You make an excellent point about the cost factor also. It’s not a cheap hobby. I would have to be able to access the buyers that would enjoy my choices as much as I do. I’m not sure I have that much drive. I will quilt ,however, until they take away my sharp objects and motorized machines😂😂. Your daughter is young and has a fantastic mentor,,,,, I bet she can do it!
I know I’m one of those people who have asked you about selling your products!! 😍 I LOVED the colors of the fabric that were in the quilt that you showed us towards the end. Hope you’re doing well & staying safe!!
Melissa, lol, not complaining in the least of course! Glad we have folks who like what we do!! I haven't forgotten, and will keep you posted if I get that studio sale put together!! xx
Hi Beth, I keep missing u live on a couple of blogs but it is always a pleasure to hear from you. I too are thinking of selling more of my quilt sold a few, it’s my hobby so I make sure I make enough to cover material and a little for myself. When I think of charging the way you should I don’t think a non quilter would understand, so far I do sell to friends and family. Just finish one for my stepdaughter who is getting married.
Yes, and this is a definite problem with all areas of art. Pricing. And how to communicate to buyers what it takes. Glad you've found a balance for yourself.
WOW! Thanks for sharing! I totally agree, if people are not into a particular art/craft they do not understand the cost for supplies and time. I have a hard time putting a price onto something. Ex. I was asked by an acquaintance to make pillows out of her mother's sweaters. I bought the pillow inserts, fabric and thread were from my stash. I had to design etc. I kept track of my time and passed along this information to the client. She paid me what she felt was reasonable. Definitely NOT an area that I was comfortable with and have learned to say so. Now, I have a neighbor that wants me to turn a counted cross stitch piece which is HUGE into a wall hanging. I quilt, craft, create because I love it and NOT to earn a living or I would starve. I am not at a comfort zone to sell my work.
Even when not making for a living, it's fair when friends ask for custom work for them to know what it will cost and cover that. Hard with what to ask for time spent especially. ugh.
I understand and so glad you shared that. I don’t quilt, But I do make prayer junk journals. I have had the worse time making a price because the time is crazy. People don’t want to pay for the time and then add the cost of materials. Then if they start asking can you do this and this, I say the price will go up because you have to find what they are trying to describe. So I don’t take orders like that. And yes I am doing what I love. I found this conversation very informative. Whatever craft you do as an artist it is the same process in selling. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this and hope to share more of it. For I struggle with what to charge! Have a great day quilting!
Yes exactly. I don't think it's that folks don't want to pay for special services...I just think they don't know what is involved. Just shopping for supplies seems like invisible time and could take hours and hours. Anyway...thanks for commenting. Your journals sound amazing!
I agree, folks dont understand how expensive it is to make a quilt. I charge by the hour, going rate around here is 15 to 25 an hour. I track all my time on a spreadsheet. Yes, people can go to the big box store, however, you get what you pay for that may not last as long as a handmade quilt. I sometimes find it stressful to make a quilt for a client, being retired, I dont want to have a "job", but I love making quilts..so sometimes it is a tradeoff. I think everyone needs to find that sweet spot for them between a "job" and a hobby.
Wow! Agreed. I just do what I want now. No pleasing others. If they like it great if not I do like it! Nobody wants to pay what it's worth. Except a charity quilt where you sell raffle tickets? There you can make money. But then you give it away! I dont do professional quilting. I quilt on my machines. You said so much! BTW...love your quilting but you know that!
Thank you for that conversation and information about going from hobby to business. Very new to all of this as far as long arm and I have already found with a few “commissioned” pieces, I seem to lose the “therapy” of it. Interesting too about selling platforms and all the “takes” from the profit.
This is a discussion we have in my sewing groups and I have with other quilters, we are all in agreement that quilting is not a money making operation. I have tried to explain to I non quilters that I would rather give a gift of a quilt rather than try to explain the costs associated with making the quilt. I have made many quilts that have been mostly for family or dear friends hoping that they will be cherished. It makes me happy and money can't buy that.
Eva, I know it's touchy, but it's good we talk about it at least. Maybe it helps inform those who don't do this particular art form, and helps us be reminded of our skill and value.
Most of my work are gifts for family and friends. The times that I were paid always goes back in to buying more quilting supplies. Lately, I have been doing family dog/cat portraits using raw edge applique with thread painting. I have been asked by others would I do their pet dogs and also one was a horse. I will make excuse not to. I know the hours I put in and I know that they most likely will not pay me what I think would be close to fair. I am thankful that I get to do what I love in my retirement!
Etsy. Recently I watched another video where the person talked about cost of selling their art via this type of "store." As a buyer I had NO idea the cost to the seller.
It used to be quite reasonable, but has gone up and up and up. Disappointing since that expense is either absorbed by maker or passed on to buyer and cost goes up everywhere.
I don’t blame you one bit for avoiding commissioned and I have only done a few. lol. Choosing the fabrics, finding the design or creating your own thing, then getting to do the quilting onto it is part of the fun, enjoyment and therapy in quilting. :)
Absolutely. I don't mind working with someone, but it is a bit hard when it becomes something almost store-bought by the end of it. It's just hard to explain to someone who doesn't quilt, and if they DO quilt, they'll likely make their own. lol.
Hello Beth. Don't know how I missed your latest Vlog. But when you talked about Sashing and building on the spine, well I wish you could build me a new spine 🤣 I really enjoy your Quilting work. As 1st mentioned to you sometime ago my Mother Quilted a lot when I was growing up as a child. She worked a regular job in HR at what was then Willis Jeep in Toledo Ohio, until it folded and retired from the Lucas County Operation Center. She's 85 now and can't Quilt any longer due to health issues. But she did sell her art work from home. Many people Loved her Quilts. Beth, You're So Blessed to have such a Vast Carrier. And have always enjoyed what you did on Y&R. Was disappointed that the writers didn't have you in the storyline as part of the celebration of life for Neil Winters. I met Kristoff St. John in San Diego a few years ago at the Black Film Festival in The Gaslamp Quarter. He was such a Kind Down To Earth Man. Please forgive me if I sound too personal, But Your a Very Beautiful Woman and Actress. I had to opportunity to take a selfie with Kristoff. Hopefully the day will come when I can take a selfie with you. 💞🌟 I forgot to mention, I didn't catch the acting bug until after watching Ian Mcdiarmid play the role of Emperor Palpatine in Return of The Jedi. I went to London in 1996 with a group of the American Coaster Enthusiasts, we would travel to ride the best Rollercoasters in world. While in London I wanted to tell Ian Mcdiarmid what a fantastic job playing the most Evil Villain in The Universe. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you, Ellex. I am very disappointed I wasn't there for today's airshow as well. Kristoff was a fabulous, funny, kind and talented man. I miss him so much. I'm glad that the show does remember and honor him. And I'm glad you got to meet him and see for yourself. All the best as always.
Such an interesting discussion. This frequently comes up in my online sewing groups as people are asked to sew for someone or decide they want to sew for profit. I often wonder how anyone makes any money creating anything because there are so many hidden costs, no matter what they are creating and the added stress of timelines to meet buyers' expectations. Thankfully, there is personal joy and satisfaction that comes from being creative or we would all stop. Thanks for sharing your free motion quilting, it's always fun to watch. Have a pleasant weekend!
It's very personal also what we think we're worth and what our love of hobby is worth to us as well. So many times other quilters ask me what I think a certain of their quilts is worth to sell...so hard to even start sorting that out. Anyway you look at it, the answer is 'what someone will pay.' Not always the same! Thanks for joining in!
Thank you for sharing your ideas. You always have the best saggestions
Glad you tuned in and said hello!!!
Love this conversation, as I’ve always said : “ People will pay for what they love. The $30,000. worth of machines I have are for my pleasure, my hobby. I quit quilting for others , because my husband was sick , we downsized. Sold my long arm last year. Quilt on my embroidery machine now. But my little business, I had only a few customers that kept me as busy as I wanted to be. Just do what you love and it’s not a “JOB”. “Quality not Quantity “
FABULOUS feedback of your experience! Yes!! Do what you love. Thank you for sharing your journey. My very best to you and your husband. xx
Very interesting that you had this conversation, a good friend of mine and I had decided to start joining some craft fairs she actually did one a week ago, I went to check things out and in doing so I found out the entry fee alone was $175. There is no absolutely no way to break even with that much less make any profit, so I was talking to my husband about possibly opening my etsy back up but once again as you pointed out the fees are crazy ridiculous not to mention how competitiveit is there. I have a small base of friends and friend of friends I make things for but not enough to really pay myself back. As far as making a living off my craft, I'd be living in a van down by the river. 🤣 but makers are gonna make and I have so much stuff now I could practically open a store and fill it. So What's a gal to do? 🤷🏼♀️
Exactly!! Perhaps there's a less commercial craft fair you can join at some point...one for a church or sponsored by schools, etc. where you can just donate a fee and sell your stuff there. It's so hard to decide what can reach an audience of buyers and is worth the cost. Website? Facebook? Well, good luck and we'll hopefully find a happy medium.
I need to refer my family to this vlog when they ask why I don’t start a business! Haha. I am at the stage in my life that I want to enjoy my quilting. I don’t feel the stress of a deadline and I choose the fabrics that make me happy☺️. You make an excellent point about the cost factor also. It’s not a cheap hobby. I would have to be able to access the buyers that would enjoy my choices as much as I do. I’m not sure I have that much drive. I will quilt ,however, until they take away my sharp objects and motorized machines😂😂. Your daughter is young and has a fantastic mentor,,,,, I bet she can do it!
lol, thank you, Vickie!! Yes to everything, and more! Quilt on for the love of it!!
I know I’m one of those people who have asked you about selling your products!! 😍 I LOVED the colors of the fabric that were in the quilt that you showed us towards the end. Hope you’re doing well & staying safe!!
Melissa, lol, not complaining in the least of course! Glad we have folks who like what we do!! I haven't forgotten, and will keep you posted if I get that studio sale put together!! xx
Hi Beth, I keep missing u live on a couple of blogs but it is always a pleasure to hear from you. I too are thinking of selling more of my quilt sold a few, it’s my hobby so I make sure I make enough to cover material and a little for myself. When I think of charging the way you should I don’t think a non quilter would understand, so far I do sell to friends and family. Just finish one for my stepdaughter who is getting married.
Yes, and this is a definite problem with all areas of art. Pricing. And how to communicate to buyers what it takes. Glad you've found a balance for yourself.
WOW! Thanks for sharing! I totally agree, if people are not into a particular art/craft they do not understand the cost for supplies and time. I have a hard time putting a price onto something. Ex. I was asked by an acquaintance to make pillows out of her mother's sweaters. I bought the pillow inserts, fabric and thread were from my stash. I had to design etc. I kept track of my time and passed along this information to the client. She paid me what she felt was reasonable. Definitely NOT an area that I was comfortable with and have learned to say so. Now, I have a neighbor that wants me to turn a counted cross stitch piece which is HUGE into a wall hanging.
I quilt, craft, create because I love it and NOT to earn a living or I would starve. I am not at a comfort zone to sell my work.
Even when not making for a living, it's fair when friends ask for custom work for them to know what it will cost and cover that. Hard with what to ask for time spent especially. ugh.
@@BethMaitlandDramaQueenBeeUnltd So true!
I understand and so glad you shared that. I don’t quilt, But I do make prayer junk journals. I have had the worse time making a price because the time is crazy. People don’t want to pay for the time and then add the cost of materials. Then if they start asking can you do this and this, I say the price will go up because you have to find what they are trying to describe. So I don’t take orders like that. And yes I am doing what I love. I found this conversation very informative. Whatever craft you do as an artist it is the same process in selling. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this and hope to share more of it. For I struggle with what to charge! Have a great day quilting!
Yes exactly. I don't think it's that folks don't want to pay for special services...I just think they don't know what is involved. Just shopping for supplies seems like invisible time and could take hours and hours. Anyway...thanks for commenting. Your journals sound amazing!
@@BethMaitlandDramaQueenBeeUnltd exactly right. They don’t understand. Most definitely a process! Hugs
I agree, folks dont understand how expensive it is to make a quilt. I charge by the hour, going rate around here is 15 to 25 an hour. I track all my time on a spreadsheet. Yes, people can go to the big box store, however, you get what you pay for that may not last as long as a handmade quilt. I sometimes find it stressful to make a quilt for a client, being retired, I dont want to have a "job", but I love making quilts..so sometimes it is a tradeoff. I think everyone needs to find that sweet spot for them between a "job" and a hobby.
Yes! Balance is everything, and sometimes, viewing it as a hobby income may take some of the pressure off and keep things enjoyable.
Wow! Agreed. I just do what I want now. No pleasing others. If they like it great if not I do like it! Nobody wants to pay what it's worth. Except a charity quilt where you sell raffle tickets? There you can make money. But then you give it away! I dont do professional quilting. I quilt on my machines. You said so much! BTW...love your quilting but you know that!
Patti, yes. and charity quilts are a whole other vlog post!! Quilt what you love!
Thank you for that conversation and information about going from hobby to business. Very new to all of this as far as long arm and I have already found with a few “commissioned” pieces, I seem to lose the “therapy” of it. Interesting too about selling platforms and all the “takes” from the profit.
This is a discussion we have in my sewing groups and I have with other quilters, we are all in agreement that quilting is not a money making operation. I have tried to explain to I non quilters that I would rather give a gift of a quilt rather than try to explain the costs associated with making the quilt. I have made many quilts that have been mostly for family or dear friends hoping that they will be cherished. It makes me happy and money can't buy that.
Eva, I know it's touchy, but it's good we talk about it at least. Maybe it helps inform those who don't do this particular art form, and helps us be reminded of our skill and value.
Most of my work are gifts for family and friends. The times that I were paid always goes back in to buying more quilting supplies. Lately, I have been doing family dog/cat portraits using raw edge applique with thread painting. I have been asked by others would I do their pet dogs and also one was a horse. I will make excuse not to. I know the hours I put in and I know that they most likely will not pay me what I think would be close to fair. I am thankful that I get to do what I love in my retirement!
Yes!! So much to staying happy, Tammy. And your portraits sound amazing. For the love of quilting indeed.
Etsy. Recently I watched another video where the person talked about cost of selling their art via this type of "store." As a buyer I had NO idea the cost to the seller.
It used to be quite reasonable, but has gone up and up and up. Disappointing since that expense is either absorbed by maker or passed on to buyer and cost goes up everywhere.