This is JUST a hobby
 

I wonder if there is an invisible sign on my roof that says I'm in the sewing business. I've sewn for years and I have had people calling me and out of no where asking me to mend, create, and even alter prom and bridal. I have done some for special people but have ceased to do that except for family. Two years ago when I retired I started quilting. I love my new hobby and the creativity it affords me. Now I am getting calls to make quilts. REALLY? I have to tell people NO...you can't afford me. Quilting takes time and how can you even begin to calculate? I make quilts for my grandchildren and people I love because I want to. I struggle with the "no" word because I care. I just can't get myself into that scene again. I need to learn to say NO and not feel guilty.

You are right when you say they can not afford you. People think you can make them a quilt for what one at a discount store would cost. pennies

I have learned the best way to cut these people off is by saying: "I would love to teach you to make the quilt. It will be a lot of fun for both of us." With this, it has been the last I've heard of making a quilt for them.

I have had that problem as well. I have found if I tell them how much I have invested in fabric, batting and quilting before even considering anything for my time they seem to lose interest. I donate quilts for local fund raisers, so if they want to take a chance on one that way....go for it!!

Word must be out about what great work you do--just take these requests as complements. Like GemState, I have found that if I explain the costs and time involved and that I wouldn't consider making a quilt for less than $1,000, this ends the discussion pretty fast!

Yep, I got the same thing here! People think if you got a sewing machine you can do anything. They think you have nothing else to do with your time. I used to help them, but anymore I just say "no". Sometimes it is a close friend or family member so I usually give in. I know when I retire I could be bombarded with this, if I dont stand my ground. I tell everyone i dont have a shingle out for this!

Learn to say NO NO NO . Do not feel guilty !! Then go quilt.

I learned to say no a long time ago. Because I don't want to, that's why.

I used to have a hard time about feeling guilty when I say no, but I've learned to deal with that and it's not so much a problem anymore. I love making quilts for people I want to make quilts for.... the rest can learn to quilt if they want one. Like GailG I've offered to teach a few people and 2 took me up on it. One is still quilting.... one is not. At least they know what goes into the process now.

Once you finally say No, it gets easier. So give it a try.