ive done lots of store displays for a couple shops here in Michigan-
one shop gives me a kit & pattern to make- then the same amount of fabric for me to make a second one if i want- or i can just have the fabric for what i want- and i get to keep the pattern-
another shop pays anywhere between $50 & $100 for the top only made- i get to keep the patterns & scraps-
and the 3rd shop i work for pays me (again between $50 & $100) and lets me have the finished item when she is done using it-
so---it is really up to you & what will work for your situation- do you want to give up the quilt after the display is over? would it be more cost effective to just give fabric instead of $$? do you want to just pay someone and be done with it?...you may want to talk to to your display sewers to see what they might prefer too- i tend to do more sewing for the shop that pays me & lets me keep the scraps & patterns (she is very generous when she puts the kits together- and includes everything necessary- thread, fusable if needed, freezer paper if needed- anything that is needed to make the project- i do enjoy making for the other 2 shops too- when they need me to do something...i think all 3 shops have good ways to do it.

Fair price for quilting displays
 

Thanks everyone.

I use to make tops for my local quilt store before I became a longarmer. Our deal was that I would get store credit in the amount of fabric that the sample took. For example, if the total yardage for a sample was 7 yards, I received a 7 yard credit. Other stores in the area allow the piecer to keep the quilt after they no longer need the sample, but I liked my arrangement better. A friend is now making the samples and they have continued with the yardage credit.

Welcome! You will love this board and all the laughter and wisdom on it, and as you see many of us have done samples for pay, fabric, trade, longarm services, or just to grow new LQS businesses. When you hire someone make sure you let the quilter know upfront your timing needs, expectations for the sample ( just the top, or quilted and bound?) and ask for samples of their work ( how are their points, 1/4 seams, miters, etc). Good communications will prevent disappointments on both sides. Also, ask for honest feedback about the pattern so you can correct direction or yardage errors and advise potential customers of the level of difficulty. Good luck and keep us up to date . Miriam

You're in Arlington? I'm just east of you, just North of Terrell.

I make quilts for our local shop and we worked out that if I make the quilt during the times that it is slow then I am earning my pay. The quilting and binding I charge her for and we trade it for fabrics that I would like to make my own quilts.

Vicki,
When I made store displays for various quilt shops it was done as follows.
The shop gave me the pattern and the fabrics to complete the project. Then when it was finished being displayed I was given the top to do with as I pleased. I did have one shop that when they were finished with the display they would have the top quilted and then give it to me.
By the shop supplying the fabric it is a deduction for you on taxes and the stitcher has a beautiful quilt when you are done with it

Lots of great ideas out there. I go with fabric at discount then the quilt is there's after display. But i would get someone to do consistent work so there is a constant change with seasons and reputable work.

this is the most popular and most used method. Many shops if not offering LA services need only display TOPS not quilts. Bags, aprons, etc are always completely finished though!

Welcome aboard the board. I am orginally from St. Peter, graduated from Park High when they still had a high school.
Good luck on the new shop.