Originally Posted by
Jan in VA
Hindsight is definitely 20/20, isn't it. I'm sorry for your predicament!
There have been so many conversations here on the Board about this subject that I admit to being surprised when someone else has been burned. Most of us advise at least THREE 'absolute' rules:
ALWAYS get a written contract.
Always get a deposit for the fabric/supplies.
Always charge appropriately for YOURSELF - even if you lose the job.
I recently read the best comment about this last one that I've ever heard...."Prices define the quilting clients I get. If I set my prices too low, I will have to work with some low quality clients.”
Jan in VA
Excellent advice! Just one note to add....in addition to charging a deposit, make that deposit large enough to cover the cost of all fabrics/battings/thread and make it non-refundable....also put in writing that when the quilt is finished, she has 30 days to finish paying for quilts or the quilt becomes yours (you should never have to wait to be paid and never let the quilt leave you without being paid completely)....ok, that is maybe more than one tip, but experience makes me do things that protect me.