[Callynne]

Mark, in my opinion, this is a very delicate situation! At first glance, since it's a parent that's ask, the thought would be to just do it. But since it's for him to give as a gift, that may make it a very complicated situation.

When it's given, and is a huge success, is your Dad going to want to continue giving such great gifts? It's just human nature, to want to give gifts that are loved! If that turns out to be the case, are you going to want, or be able, to continue doing this?!

I think you need to talk honestly with your Dad about this. Obviously, you are a very generous person....seven Nativity sets, I can't even imagine!!

The key thing to remember here is, as Tom's sister pointed out to him, that this is going to be given as a gift from your Dad, not from you. You need to decide what you feel is fair and you need to decide now, before you get yourself involved with doing it and end up angry at both yourself and your Dad for being in this situation! I'll be interested in hearing how this works out...Good Luck!! Deborah

[Thor]

I think it is so cool that he admires your work so much that he's wanting to give it as a gift.
Consider having given each member of your family (Mom, sister, and brother) a carving or two, and never, never seen any of them displayed "anywhere" in their homes.....and them not acknowledging that you even carve. I think my father (the woodworker and the one who originally inspired me) would appreciate it if he were still here though. I gave up showing any of my carvings to that end of the family years ago!

That doesn't include my husband or children. They all treat my woodcarvings with respect, and want everything I give them carved.

My suggestion is to try to give it to him, and graciously accept what he wants to pay you when he offers. Family appreciation of your skills comes in many forms and being proud of your work is worth more than money.
Thor

[Kenny_S]

A little off base but goes along with Thor......
my sister and brother in law said they liked my carvings a lot.
After giving them several and months passes by, we visited them and where do you think they displayed my carving?

In the bathroom, on a shelf above the throne.
Were they telling me the carvings were _________ or what?

Do you think I gave them more?

[Lynn O. Doughty]

At least it was above the throne and not in it!!

[Mike-in-WV]

Over the years I have given away so many carvings to family and friends it's not even funny. Now in the past two years I have been having health problems and have given many wood spirit walking staffs and canes to doctors and nurses that it was hard to keep up with them.
No way could I or would I charge my Dad or brothers or sisters. Most of my friends have already paid me many times over in the past 50 years we have been friends, as real friends often do.
I have received a few orders from people who have seen these canes and walking staffs so it all comes around sooner or later anyway. Made some good money too. Mike

[Kenny_S]

Mike, I Hope you are feeling better, and continue to do better.
I have wonder what had happen to you as I haven't seen much posting of yours.

Best to you.

[JesusLovesYou]

Do all you can do for your parents while you have them. When they are gone, you'd wished you would have done more. If I were in your place, I'd give it to him and be proud of it.
May God Bless You,
Thomas

[Hugh]

Good topic!! My old Mum passed away this spring, I gave her carvings, she bought carvings from me, some for gifts some for herself. I'd sure like to be able to give her another carving. But I have no problem charging anyone for my work. It is different when your carving to make a living. If carving was a hobby I might look at it differently. Just my opinion.

[Mike-in-WV]

Originally Posted by Kenny_S

Mike, I Hope you are feeling better, and continue to do better.
I have wonder what had happen to you as I haven't seen much posting of yours.

Best to you.

Thanks Kenny. I'm doing better now and hope to be around for a while yet.
If you have any pills laying around that can reverse ageing please send me a few, Lol. Take care, Mike

[Kenny_S]

Good to hear Mike, I have missed your expertise and your carvings.
No, No extra old age pills, I think I have taken them all. Each morning I wake up, I find a new Pain. But then, when the little bride rolls over she sees the same pain.