What do you say to requests....
 

What do you say to requests when you don't really know the person and they ask "2 Avenger Quilts for the boys". Let me start by saying that technically this is for my nieces children. However I don't talk much to my neice or her mother my step sister. If someone would ask, yes I call them my family. But I am only Facebook friends for my dad :)

Anyway - what is the best way to handle a request for something you know you won't make. She offered to "pay for fabric and shipping". Never mind the time it would take to not make 1 quilt but 2. :)

$200 per quilt above the cost of supplies for your time.. and up front fees of $200per quilt- non refundable.. that usually shy's them away..

If you don't want to make them, then don't. You have no obligation to fulfill every request for a quilt, no matter who the asker is. I would tell your niece that have many projects going and know that you wouldn't be able to get to them in a timely manner. If she's miffed, that's her problem not yours. You could refer her to a LQS who might have names of quilters who are looking for business. She might not want the quilts made once she knows how much someone really would charge her.

Tell them you "have commitments that make it impossible at this time". Your commitments are your personal business, no further explanation required. It may include a long soak in the tub, watching endless hours of TV, or making quilts you want to make.

Lori is right on track, the less you say, the less you have to defend. I also agree with Auntpiggy, don't do something that you really don't want to do.

I agree that you shouldn't feel compelled to make something you don't want to make. However it's a little sad that you aren't better friends with your stepsister and her family. If you would like to become closer to them, this might be a good opportunity. But definitely let her know how much the supplies will cost, and that may end the matter right there.

I agree with dunster. This may be her way of trying to get to know you better and have a nicer relationship with you. Only you can decide what you want to do. BrendaK

How about "I'm not taking requests just now. I've got too much on my plate" She doesn't need any explaination beyond that.

And to that, I'll add "AMEN"

I'd just say that I had too many projects already backed up (which is true), but that if I ever got to the bottom of the pile, I'd let her know. Just because you make quilts, doesn't mean you have to make them for everyone who asks. Relative or not, it's gutsy to ask when the relationship is not a close one. Unless, of course, you want to charge her plenty for your time and work. That's a whole 'nother story.