Good practices when commissioning handmade knives

[ysforge]

Here's a good example of a knife that I'd not take the order for without a deposit (unless you're a repeat customer):

I doubt I will be able to sell this knife, even though it's what the customer wanted.

This cutomer had to cancel, so I'm stuck with the knife now, Maybe I'll use it in the shop, at least it's sharp

Tony

 

[rlinger]

I take reasonable deposits. I have so far refunded a couple. I am now specifying deposits are non-refundable. My material costs are high and being in line is worth something when it means another has to wait longer.

RL

 

[jhiggins]

What Bill said........Money up front puts too much pressure on you........Unless it is something completely "wild", it will eventually sell to someone else if the customer backs out.

My $.02 worth.

Robert

Pretty accurate for me, Rob. Here's my policy:

1. No money up front.
2. The knife gets made - the customer sends payment.
3. When payment arrives the knife leaves the shop. Its that simple.
4. If customer backs out, no harm done - someone else will buy it.

 

[Dan Gray]

Pretty accurate for me, Rob. Here's my policy:

1. No money up front.
2. The knife gets made - the customer sends payment.
3. When payment arrives the knife leaves the shop. Its that simple.
4. If customer backs out, no harm done - someone else will buy it.

I for give you
you're young in the full time trade yet