I understand completely. Back when I was making dolls, the church I attended was raising money and asked for items to go into a silent auction. I put together a basket with an 18" doll, 2 cute seasonal dresses-christmas and Easter, I crocheted some accessories etc easily worth a min of $50. I went to the silent auction and didn't see my doll set. Later I found one of the lady's who set up the auction thought it would be a cute present for her granddaughter and dontaed $5 for it.
I was furious, because I made my dolls to give to children at a local children's hospital. I sold some for ~$35 each occassionaly to support my fabric and stuffing needs.
The next time they came to me asking for a doll I gave them $5. "That's what my work is worth to you people."