How do I

[windrunner17]

I take my tools and active projects everywhere, including the VFW where I tend bar a few nights a week. The regulars have grown used to seeing me doing all sorts of things including crocheting as well as carving. I have a few items that are almost ready for a finish, but I have not yet figured out whether just to clear coat them or to use stain and or paint. One of the regulars at the VFW wants to buy a dolfin that I made. It is only my third attempt at this art ( the first two being musical notes). How do I figure out what to charge him?

[Claude]

Write down a dollar value on a piece of paper. Then consider the person wanting to buy, how long it took you to carve it; if you're happy with the result, either add or subtract a dollar from the amount, and see how you still feel. After you've done this a few times, you'll reach a value where you think you're getting a bad deal. At that point, add a dollar back in, and ask yourself if you're happy again. If the answer is yes, then that's the amount to sell it for. If not, add another dollar and see if you're happy...etc...

Claude

[CarverFromNoWhere]

I like to factor in what it the cost for me to make it was, wood, sanding supplies if used, glue, finish and heat electricity can be also if ya rent a work space. The I never really keep track of it by the hour so I take it it's quality what I do or don't like then add int he supplies and what I think its worth. After that I ask some close friends what they think of the price.

Something like a Dolphin I think if it's a grainy wood like walnut or butternut, oak something thats pretty on its own a clear or a wax wil so a great job, if it's basswood I like to use a wash or acrylics.

After a while you will get the hang of it, I was suprised by my first sales when people just came up to me and asked how much? Not if it was finished or even for sale just how much.
Carl

[DManning]

I think Claude has defined the process well.
I do a lot of carving at my watering hole after work, too. One of the barmaids is probably my biggest customer (she's bought seven bears so far). In her case, we agree on a price and then I just don't tip her until the price is met. That way, she pays my labor with her labor. It works for me.
The only problem I've found with "bar sales" is the way the regulars know what everyone else does or says. If you give a discount to one, count on being pressured for a discount to all the others (whether you can stand them or not).
Dan

[DiamondWillow]

How about serving him lots of booze and then setting your price HIGH!!!!....

Just kidding.....I think you are getting lots of good advice, until you got this one.....

Gene