Custom designs- pricing and requesting payment ???

[Former_Member]

I received a request for pricing on custom items. I always struggle with this question, so I responded that price would depend on size, detail, color, and # of drafts, and we can figure something out within her budget. So we continued the convo, she wants a tattoo, gave some specifics but left it pretty vague, just wants me to "do my thing." So I sent her several rough ideas, she likes one and asked for some changes, as I expected.

So I'm at the point where it's time to set a price, and receive payment, before I do more drafts that she may decline. I love doing custom pieces when it's either completely my idea as a gift for someone, or following a format like drawing their name with the colors they choose, etc. It's challenging when it's a completely original concept- but up for their "approval" so it can take many drafts to make them happy.

How do I begin to set a price on the time and effort I put into an original custom design? Or should the price be just on the final product? How much should I do before requesting payment? What if they want many changes after they pay?

Thanks for you help!

[AngelaFichtelJewels]

What did you set up on your policy page?
Did you set up guidelines for custom orders?
In a situation like this I would give her (maybe) 2 (no more than 3) final options to choose from. Set your price based on the work you have put in already, leading up to your final draft. Good luck:)

xoxo
Angela

[Former_Member]

Custom work can be hard to price. Your hourly labor, idea crunching times & all the rest. They never have the true compensation deserved. What do most people charge for similar detailed art work? Is there a price in your head? Are those prices listed on your site?
I agree with Angela, don't give away too many completed drafts. When I need art work, I set up the base fees in advance, usually expecting to have about three adjustments on the final product. When I can, I'll add to the scanned draft, what my ideas are.
A book comes to mind "Logo Font & Lettering Bible-Leslie Cabarga", which discusses this matter. It's available for e-readers if you're interested. I looked into it when I was interested in getting some font work done awhile back.
Hope this helps.

[Former_Member]

I agree with Michael and Blindcat, I would take her ideas into consideration, sketch a couple of drafts along with prices. Customer's usually look to professionals (like yourself!) to make the best decisions. It IS your craft. I have struggled with this as well. We have to remember that it is our artistry that the customer has requested and price accordingly.