Well I am so surprised that they were sold as soon as the people saw them. I had no idea what to charge as I suppose I view my work in a different light than others do.
Not looking for pats on the back here but
I wasn't prepared for the "how much" when
I brought them out.
So, I sold the green flip flop for less than the white one. My friend Helen said that I had charged too little for the white flip flop, so I added when selling the green one.
The white quilt which is the little one on the right I sold for $50.00 now that was properly priced as it is about 36" square.
I think the flip flops is really popular here as everything about the property has some reflection of the shoes. I can see myself having to make a few more for next year.
I looked in etsy this morning and the prices are from Gees Bend (!) pricing to what I consider good to sell prices.
It is difficult to part with works of love, but I did it. I still have my little Maine houses quilt which I didn't show, but I am sure that it will sell when the right people are here.
I am happy with the money as here in Florida, I can get free shipping for all US locations, and there is always Joann's sales. I bought a large cutting mat there for $25.00 with a 60% off coupon. The original mat is cracked. Also bought a new cutter for half price. The fabric prices are not too bad, but there is coupons available online for Joann's all the time and instore sales....I have some fun ahead of me!
Just a little story. Yesterday there was a few of us by the pool, complaining of the weather but still hearty souls having cocktails, when a couple joined us who are from Illinois. The woman was wearing a Notre Dame sweat shirt. I asked how she got it and she said her granddaughter is in first year at ND.
I sent an email to the neighbour's daughter who is there and now.....for the rest of the story.....they are dorm mates! Got a picture and a lovely note from them! Small world indeed.
7 comments :
it is hard to price quilts - you have to think of how much it cost to make it and then remember to add in a reasonable amount for the time spent making it.
have fun in the sun!
Nanci, the world is getting very small indeed! Your time is the most valuable part of making a quilt, so don't undervalue yourself.
I am like you I go somewhere and see the prices on some quilt and almost faint. But then if I see an heirloom quilt I understand the price. Depends also how much I am spending on the materials that go into making it! Look on Etsy and see how much your type of quilts are selling for to give you ideas.
3 times the value of the fabric, batting, thread you have put into the quilt used to be the rule. I think that is low, but its a starting point for you Nancy. As Jennifer said, do not undervalue your work. Making quilts is time consuming.
I for one, think the Quilts of Gee's Bend are very over priced. Just my opinion.
Little story.......sorry I should email you but......a friend of mine is looking to see her quilts, all professionally machine quilted. One she spent $560 on for custom quilting. The regular Joe/Jane does not understand that, so I'm thinking she may have to rethink her selling price and possibly take a loss. BTW, I would never spend that kind of money to have a quilt done by a long arm quilter. Its way beyond my budget.
Nanci,
I would price my work at what the market will bear. If they sold instantly, then they were definitely underpriced and I would raise my prices accordingly, but that's just me. On the other hand, I think the Quilts of Gee's Bend are way over priced, but they are definitely selling a brand, not just a quilt. Women seem to have a tendency to under-value their own work. I also think we're uncomfortable pricing it at a level where at least SOME of the people would say "That's too much money!" No one wants to hear that! I think that's why the gallery concept is so popular, you only hear the good news. 8)
Take care,
Susan in Texas (actually in Louisiana again this weekend)
It is a strange world we live in Nanci and what a co-incidence. Pleased that you have sold your quilts but don't underestimate just how valuable your time is in these things. Enjoy the cocktails.
Life is full of freaky coincidences isnt it?
Im thrilled that you sold some of your creations. I think its hard to work out what to charge for a genuine hand made article. I get asked a lot by people at work to make quilts but I wouldnt know what to charge!
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