[Sue in Eureka]

Good morning everyone;

I have a dilemna. I have a cyber friend that I email with a few times a week. I have done a concert with her every year for the past three years along with other friends but I only see her once a year. She wants to purchase one of my carvings but I'm not sure about what to do. I feel funny taking money from a friend but then again she's not a close friend. We send each other birthday-Christmas cards and this type of thing.
I would appreciate your in-put. Maybe others of you have this same dilemna.

I've gotten an opinion from a couple of others but they are totally opposite each other. I think I know what to do but would love feed back.

Thanks in advance,
Sue

[Sue in Eureka]

I neglected to tell you this friend lives in another state. I don't know if that will affect your answers or not.

Sue

[squbrigg]

Do the carving....the best you can do....and charge her a fair price, maybe a bit of a discount, but still a fair price. Anyone who likes your work enough to ask for a piece, is willing to pay for it. Your skill and time are worth it, and your friend would not ask unless she was willing to pay!

I have run into this several times, and over time have learned to value my own work, because others do. Make sure you agree to a price up front though, no surprises on either part.

I have also bought pieces from friends,
and have no difficulty with paying a fair price.

Bob

[Sue in Eureka]

Thank you for the in-put Bob. I don't like these kinds of dilemnas!
Sue

[Doug Ridley]

Price it just like you would to anyone else.

Doug

[Dylan]

Never cheat yourself. Bob's got some good advice, follow it and you won't go wrong.

Dylan

[Sue in Eureka]

I am just a beginner so I have never gave thought to anyone wanting to buy something. I'm shocked actually!

Thanks,
Sue

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

Go with what Bob just told you.....I have a hard time charging friends also, but have found that when I give something to them, they don't appreciate it, probably feels it has no value since I gave it to them, but that doesn't stop them from coming up with a half dozen other "little" projects they expect for free! Save yourself some headaches, charge a fair price and be done with it, if it isn't worth that to them, then they were just fishing or curious in the first place! Dave

Are you in Eureka California Sue? I was a police officer there for a number of years.

[Sue in Eureka]

I'm getting good sound advice from you all and appreciate it so much.

No I am in NC. This town is so small Mayberry could kick the crap out of it.

Sue

[Ashbys]

Sue,

I am a beginer as well , and I was shocked the first time I was asked toi sell a carving.

My wifes Aunt saw one and asked what I would charge for it, When I told her she quickly took out the cash and paid me for it. She was happy , and so was I.

Do the carving , put your price on it and if she truly wants it she will pay it without question. And both of you will be happy .

Ash