I do like Virtualbernie. I give them a price quote for my labor based on the quilt pattern they think they want and explain the price may change if they decide they want a different pattern. Next I give them a list of everything they will need to purchase for the quilt and let them know I will go to the LQS with them if they would like for me to do so. This lets everyone know in advance what to expect as far a cost and also weeds out those that are expecting to either get a free quilt or pay $25 for one.
I also let my family and friends know that I may be retired but this is my new job and that I do not work for free. LOL