It's a great problem to have ... but jeez, it's hard. My mom's friend saw my bedroom quilt and asked me to make one for her. PERFECT! Except ... she said "I trust you ... just pick something"

I'm trying to figure out the best way to get information from someone who knows nothing about quilts ... does she want a more modern/graphic type of thing? The only color she gave me was green ... I know I need to talk with her and see what other info I can get - but do any of you have any ideas of what questions I can ask to get the right info?

TIA!
Beverly

First thing to ask is what is she willing to pay, explain that quilt fabric, batting, etc., is pretty expensive. You wouldn't want to use poor quality fabrics and have it fall apart. Second, get a deposit. I have a friend who had a friend that "always wanted" a quilt, she didn't get a deposit, she's made the quilt, notified the "friend" it was done, and hasn't heard or seen the "friend" since. Third, you need to know what she likes: modern, country, etc., size of the bed, does she like the old time wrinkled look, if so, don't prewash the fabrics. These are all things I can think of right now that you definitely need to find out, before you start on her quilt, she may be thinking you'll make it for under $100, you can't compete with Wal Mart, K Mart or stores like that.

I agree! And sometimes people pay a 'compliment' by saying, 'make one for me', never really intending on buying one from you. You need to solidify the 'order'. Get a deposit, etc. People don't have any idea how expensive a 'home made' quilt can be. They think that because it's home made, it's cheaper than Wal Mart, K Mart, JC penney, etc. Heck you can get a decent quilt- that's actually pieced & quilted at Penney's for $59.99 on sale for a King! No it's not as great as home made; however, it's not bad-especially at that price. We can't make a quilt for $60.00.
Regards,
MaryAnna

I never allow my customers to trust me with what they want. I either bring a few magazines and let them decide the pattern or go all the way to the fabric store with them and ask them to select the colors and maybe even buy her own fabrics. It seems a lot cheaper to them because I only charge for the labor, thread and batting.

I make mainly wallhangings and when someone mentions they like something I have made I show what I have already and they either buy right there, or ask for one in particular on different colors or different size.

Is better to be open from to the start to prevent dissapointment.

I had a discussion with my local quilt shop and they suggested charging by the square. I had been making 9 square 12X12 for $75 and they seem to think that was on target. These quilts are flip and sew, very funky (bright colors) and meant to be baby quilts with little emblishment. If i embellished i would consider charging more. Mine are going to be sold in a specialty shop and she is confortable doubling the price. It is a lot of handwork but at least I do enjoy it.