I had a woman I worked with ask me to put together a quilt, she had several blocks her kids has made with that liquid embroidery, but it was sentimental to her. I bought the sashing, batting and backing, hand quilted (not a lot) but I had a little money and time in it. She asked me "how much do I owe you" not sure what to charge, but was hoping for at least 50.00. Well, she handed me 10.00, Never again, If I make something for someone the amount is discussed upfront.

I used to be heavy into cross stitch and I had a favorite shop I went to. One of the reasons I liked her was because she carried imported linens and fabrics. She was smart. Once I told her what I wanted she would calculate how much it would cost and tell me BEFORE she cut anything. There were a few times when I said "what?" and went with a lower priced piece. For a quilter that might mean that your client would go somewhere else. None of these civilians understand how much it costs to put together an heirloom.

when I'm "asked" to make something I always tell THEM to buy the materials. If I make it as a surprise obviously I don't expect any payment

I always so no because I tell them quilting is my FUN!! and if I begin making them for others it becomes a job!! I have enough work and I don't need more work. Usually they understand that statement.

Oh I do it my self every time when something comes up with grand kids I say oh I will make a quilt for them. Gees! Go back to mom will!

I think that maybe, just maybe, you are in "Dire Straits:".

If you want to get paid for your time, conversation should go like this -

"can you make two quilts for these two sisters?"

"yes, I usually get $X.xx for a quilt that size, and fabric costs $X.xx, are you sure you want to spend that much?"

Gives them an easy out if they are NOT willing to spend the money, and gives you a commitment if they are willing.

I have said this before on the QB, what is it about us that makes us want everyone to like us? If someone expects me to work for free, I don't really care if they like me or not. Tough tooties. My time and expertise has VALUE - if I choose to gift it to someone I will, but I am not going to be a doormat to make someone else happy.

Now that you are already hip-deep in the situation, is there anyway you can get something "In-kind" from the requester? in other words, if she makes cakes or does taxes, for instance, ask for something from her in return.

I quilt because I enjoy it. I make gifts for others. I would not even want to take on making something for someone else even if I get paid for it. If I make a quilt that I am not sure what I am going to do with it, I can always donate it.

Exactly!!!! A few years ago my DIL's sister was expecting a little girl. I told DIL I would make her a baby quilt. The next day I recieved a call from DIL's sister telling me the colors in the baby's room. I made it exactly the way I had already planned.

Just an idea, but why not tell them that if they want quilts, they have to come shopping with you to buy the materials. Then they can have the fun of picking out the fabrics and your peace of mind will be assured when you see them pay for it all. As for the time, if you don't want to make a quilt you can always say, "I wish I had the time, but I'm afraid I don't right now." For me, all my quilting and sewing has to be a joyous experience - even the seam ripping part - or it's just not quilty.