Anna Bell

What questions do I ask for this to result in a positive experience? My favorite are "Aunt Anna, I will love any quilt that you make and I will sleep under it." I have lost enthusiasm over most other requests from the self-imposed pressure. I would appreciate input on things that have worked for other quilters.

Thanks!
Anna

kathy

unless someone is planning to pay me my price, I only make them a quilt if it's my idea! don't feel pressured, would you buy her a new couch just because she wanted you to? it's about the same money.

PaperPrincess

- Tell your SIL that you & she can go shopping, she can pay for all the materials & then you will teach her how to make the quilt.
- Tell her that you charge $350 for a crib and the prices go up from there. What color would she like?
- Say I'm flattered you like my work, but I don't do commissioned pieces.
I would not feel obligated to make a quilt for anyone who just requested it.

bearisgray

Is there any background to this?

Sich as - have you made quilts for other members of the family?
If so - were there any "conditions"?

I like the "would you buy her a couch?" comparison. It is more apt than I realized.

Do you LIKE her?

I think taking someone shopping is a good idea. I think very few non-sewers have any idea of how much it costs to make a quilt (or anything else, for that matter) because of the prices that are seen in the stores for quilts and comforters.

huskyquilter

First off, ask yourself if you really want to make this quilt and if you have time. Choose a sample project and create a one sheet that shows average material cost, average time spent making a quilt, and break down what one would normally charge for a handmade item. I'm not sure if you're planning to charge her, but even if you don't this will be helpful for her to be able to conceptualize the amount that goes into making a quilt, most people really don't know and feelings can get hurt or pressure put on just because of a lack of clear communication.

Secondly, ask HER what her expectations are in the following areas:

1. Time frame - does she want/need it by a certain date and by extension are you willing and able to complete it by that date? This is the most important thing to clarify with her and I think the thing that could cause the most pressure and frustration on your part. There's nothing worse that being under the gun on a project you have no desire (or incentive) to work on. If she's not going to pay you beyond materials (see below) than make sure she understands that you will work on this when you want and there is no due date.

2. Design - tell her you require her to be involved in the design process, especially if she is paying for the quilt. Ask her what room it's for, what colors are her decor in that room, have her look on pinterest and show you some ideas of what she likes (modern, traditional, etc), and find out how big she needs the quilt. Once you have a basic design, present it to her, along with budget for materials costs, labor costs, and a completion date that won't put you under a deadline you can't handle.

3. Cost - this is both cost of materials and opportunity cost. Remember economics 101? Opportunity cost is equal to the stuff you'll be missing out on if you invest your time in this project. Be clear with her about how much time you think it will take you. If she is not paying you, set the expectation that it will be done on your terms and not hers and it can take years to complete a quilt. Also, tell her you require payment in advance and if she approves the design payment is not dependant on whether she likes the final product or not. You can't custom order something and then change your mind without suffering some kind of loss.

Onebyone

Why ask questions? If it is to be a gift then make whatever you want it to be. If she is paying for it then you choose the pattern and she selects the fabric. I give very few, if any at all, options when making a quilt for someone.

Pagzz

I think you can look at it two ways. If you absolutely don't want to make her a quilt and/or don't think she would value it, then get tough and say I don't have time, sorry. If you want to make quilts without being dictated to or on a timeline then say come with me and pick out one fabric you like and I will build it from there and you will see it when it gets done but I can't give a definite time when it will be complete because it is a creative process.

Sandygirl

Do you have any quilts already made that you could offer her? I know that I have a few just collecting dust that I never Use and no longer cherish. I would get input on colors then make a simple DP9. IF you are so moved. People really dont need to be involved in "choices" besides the colors. Otherwise it will get complicated. If she as admired a specific quilt that you have made, perhaps that would be a starting point. Keep requests simple. Or decline. Your choice always.

sandy

cjsews

I usually just ask for color choice and size. If I don't really want to make one, I just tell the person I will add them to the bottom of my to do list which is always changing. Iay at some time be willing to work on one for this person. Otherwise they keep moving to the bottom

Quiltngolfer

I usually turn down requests by saying I have a long list of quilts to make, so won't have time. This is a true statement too. I have made quilts for my kids and grandkids. All except one I have chosen the patterns and fabric myself. I did allow my grandson to pick his pattern from patterns I have collected. I have made quilts for a few friends, but it is always a surprise from me with the fabric and pattern of my choice. Quilting is my joy, and I don't want to be stressed with deadlines or specific requests. My kids usually claim a quilt if they see it before I finish making it. I have been able to keep very few of my quilts.