Unhappy Customer - Advice needed..
#53
I would measure the backing each time and I would present the customers with a written bill also stating on it what kind of quilting design they wanted. Have them sign it. Some people can't be happy. I have a friend who always wants things cheap and will badmouth to get it. Don't let this woman upset you.
#54
Junior Member
Join Date: Oct 2011
Posts: 276
I think you are letting this person live rent free in your head. Your price was more than reasonable. But I would put it in a contract form with date and both of you signing it so it doesn't happen again. And then there is no need to say something you may regret later. I have a feeling she does this often and others are aware of her ways.
#55
Super Member
Join Date: Jan 2011
Posts: 3,200
She should have done the math- plain and simple!! The only safeguard in the future is to give a written rough estimate and have the customer sign the duplicate copy. Make sure they get a copy. At $.01 an inch, she got a "DEAL". I hope that in the future, you will develop a LAQ checklist that will state backing requirements (will be returned unquilted unless the backing is at least 4" wider on all four sides), threads clipped, .... This could be emailed to customers or just signed off on by customer at the drop off of 1st quilt. Some folks are just plain difficult so please put this experience aside. We can't please some people no matter what!
#56
Junior Member
Join Date: May 2010
Location: Salem, NY
Posts: 203
sounds like you were reasonable and upfront about the cost. VERY reasonable. I live in a small community and love my longarm gal, she is fair with her pricing, sounds like the quilt you did was more custom- I wonder why her sister didn't do it???? I also get charged for the thread used...still fair. I know better than to take a quilt that doesn't have AT LEAST 8" extra on sides and top/bottom. I let the longarm gal choose the pattern- she hasn't disappointed me yet! Draw up a "contract" and go over it with your customer prior to accepting their top.
#58
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: Seward Alaska
Posts: 319
Now I wonder why she didn't bring it to her sister? Could it be her sister is tired of quilting her quilts at a cut rate and didn't want to touch that one? Tell the whole story to your quilt guild friends in case she bad mouths you so they know the truth. Time to write up a contract for clients to sign so you both know what to expect.
#59
Now I wonder why she didn't bring it to her sister? Could it be her sister is tired of quilting her quilts at a cut rate and didn't want to touch that one? Tell the whole story to your quilt guild friends in case she bad mouths you so they know the truth. Time to write up a contract for clients to sign so you both know what to expect.
That was my 1st thought too...why didn't she take it to her sister in the 1st place. I bet you she will be back in the future asking you to do another quilt for her...
#60
Super Member
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Central Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA
Posts: 7,695
My one and only "quilt by check" experience was much more expensive, just a simple pantograph, and a very quick turn over time. Having said that, on a very limited budget, I still consider the price I paid to be very reasonable, because she did what I could not, and did a fine job, and got it back to me quick. We agreed on a price up front, she clearly told me what was involved, and I gave her the agreed amount. Your customer got a screaming deal, got what you promised, and some extra work done, and was not happy. She has a problem, not you. Wish her a nice life, and move on. Others will see the deal you are offering and be quite happy to pay you to do what they need done. It takes all kinds. Peace.
(I am thinking your price got between her and her crown royal supply........)
(I am thinking your price got between her and her crown royal supply........)
Last edited by madamekelly; 02-10-2016 at 09:56 AM.
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