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JK Knives

JK Knives

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Mar 6, 2001
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When I am starting a knife for a customer, I always email them to let them know, and give them a ship date. I always ask them to let me know that they are ready to pay at that time. If I do not get a reply back, I do not complete that knife, so please don`t expect me to ship it at that time! Show a little courtesy and send a reply email.
 
Seems like the minimum to ask. This, and prompt payment when the knife is ready. I have a hard time with customers that "disappear" when their knife is ready...grrr...
 
Seems more than fair. Communication seems to be at the root of all problems. It doesn't take too much time to peck out something on the keyboard.
 
You don't ask for much yet you give a lot. A little common courtesy is not much to ask for.
 
wow.
seems like you've been having a lot of issues with last minute dropouts lately.
personally, I greatly appreciate that level of communication.
 
Hi Stomper -

Very reasonable request.

Your time is your money.

best regards -

mqqn
 
1066vik said:
wow.
seems like you've been having a lot of issues with last minute dropouts lately.
personally, I greatly appreciate that level of communication.
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If it keeps up at this rate I will be closing the doors in April.
 
well that would suck!
you have some nice designs, and at some point I hope to own at least one, but currently funds are tight, which is why I haven't ordered anything yet.
best of luck!
 
John, I think it may be appropriate to start asking for half down or all up front, or some sort of deposit to defray your costs. I know Mark Wohlwend is now taking payment first and shipping the product second. He has money is hand then for his effort.
Doesn't seem unreasonable since when I go to Target, I buy first, THEN get to leave with the stuff.
 
I have developed a business model that seems to work. I won't go onto details but I never ship a knife unless I have the money. I also don't take an official order unless a deposit is paid. I have been burned to many times in the last few years. John, sometimes you have to think of yourself my friend!
 
It's sad to hear that people cannot honor their word. I agree with those who have posted here John. You are an artisan with the steel, and as any artisan who is commissioned to do work, they are provided funding in order to even start the work. It is a business, it is your livelihood... I say at least deposit before materials are ordered or any work is started. I support you in any decision you make, as long as it's keeping your pieces of art coming out to the people for years of enjoyment.:D
 
Rockywolf said:
John, I think it may be appropriate to start asking for half down or all up front, or some sort of deposit to defray your costs. I know Mark Wohlwend is now taking payment first and shipping the product second. He has money is hand then for his effort.
Doesn't seem unreasonable since when I go to Target, I buy first, THEN get to leave with the stuff.
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I agree 100%. You should not have your livelihood endangered by people who cannot follow through. It's a shame that people can't honor their word. I have said it time and time again. If you don't have the money right then, do not say I'll take it. It can be hard letting go of the time honored tradition when your word and a hand shake was all you needed. Times have changed.

m. wohlwend said:
I have developed a business model that seems to work. I won't go onto details but I never ship a knife unless I have the money. I also don't take an official order unless a deposit is paid. I have been burned to many times in the last few years. John, sometimes you have to think of yourself my friend!
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As someone who has purchased one, and fixing to be 2 knives from you, I am perfectly fine with the way you do business Mark. :thumbup:

I have a few customs in the works right now from different makers. In each case I have offered deposit/half or full payment immediately. What they do with that offer is up to them but I am willing to pay all up front. I realize that some makers do not like to do that but I always offer so that they know the level of my commitment.

Like Mark said take care of yourself John. You are far too talented to get into trouble over a few flakes. I'm sure your customers would not mind coughing up some money up front. I know I don't mind a bit.
 
I am working on a new ordering policy, as soon as it`s done I will post it here and on my website.
 
I would have no problem putting down a deposit for a knife and then when the knife is completed gladly paying up front then recieving the knife. You cant order anywhere else in the usa and get your product then pay and I would not find it a bother to do the same for an good honest product. Especially when your reputation is as good as it is that is not too much to ask in my opnion- Joel
 
John, I'm sorry to hear about your latest unfortunate experience. I don't make knives, but for all of my leatherwork I take half the cost before I start, then the second half when I finish and provide pictures but BEFORE I ship. I hope your new policy works well for you!
 
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