Monday, August 25, 2014

Back by Popular Demand

Last month, I finished a wedding sampler for my co-worker, Avery, and his bride, Shirnesha. I sent a picture to my boss's wife, Linda, as she and my boss were going to the wedding, and I knew she'd appreciate the stitching, as she's done some cross-stitch herself.  She immediately sent me a request, asking me to stitch one for her daughter, who's first anniversary was coming up at the end of August.  She said she'd pay me whatever I wanted for my time and the materials needed.

I'd never stitched anything on commission before.  I had no idea what to charge.  I asked my stitching facebook group what they thought, and got many responses.  Finally, I decided on minimum wage for my time, and the cost of materials.  Every hour I worked on it, I worried that it'd be so expensive that Linda would balk at the final price.

Well, I finished the piece, including my time for framing it in 13 hours.  Here it is:

Tara & Jesse (based on Heirloom Memories Ornament (Victoria Sampler)
Stitched on 28 ct. Antique White Monaco fabric.

I love how this turned out - I really like the dark purples.  I charged Linda $107, and she didn't even bat at eyelash at the price, immediately handing me a check for the full amount.  But I learned something about myself.  I would rather stitch for myself or for a gift for someone than on commission any day.  I was too worried about pricing to really enjoy the stitching.

Happy Stitching!

Marilyn