Originally Posted by LeslieFrost
Here's what I'm thinking:
Customer would supply the binding fabric, either pre-washed or not, as customer chooses. I would give guidance on the yardage needed for the size of quilt. I would cut the 2.5" strips on the straight grain, do diagonal seams.
Machine stitch to front, hand stitch to back.
After Googling prices, I think my dime per foot is low.
Any other thoughts?
Here's how I do it for my customers....
When they drop off their quilt, I have an invoice form that I have built in Excel. All I have to do is enter their measurements, and it shows what their prices would be for an all-over design, custom, etc. and they can choose according to their budget.
It also shows how many linear inches of binding they will need to go around their quilt, and how many inches of fabric they would need to cut their bindings. If they have already brought fabric with them, they are assured that they have enough. Then, my form shows prices based on whether they have prepared the binding, if they just want it attached to the front of the quilt, or if they need me to create the binding, and finally if they want me to hand stitch it for them. Just like the quilting, they can see prices and choose accordingly. Most folks choose to have me attach it to the front for them, particularly if it's a large quilt.
A lot will depend on how fast you can do a binding. Do a large quilt, and determine your price per hour. Then, break that down into linear feet (or inches), and set your rates from there. If you start with too low of a rate, you will be working for a dollar an hour, and you will get frustrated quickly. If you start too high, you won't have any customers! The best approach may be to say that your new (low) prices are introductory, and for a limited time only. If you create a brochure that reflects those low prices, make sure you include the words "Prices are subject to change without notice"....