This is my philosophy too. I am happy to take custom orders. It gives me the opportunity to work with colors and patterns I might not normally use and learn new techniques - without me having to pay for the materials. Plus - I benefit by being able to use leftover fabric in scrappy quilts that I can give away, donate, or even sell at bazaars to fund my quilting addiction! I guess it depends on WHY you are considering taking the commission. Do you want to become a professional quilter? Or do you want to just be reimbursed for the cost of the materials for something you would normally do anyway?