I have a wonderful customer base and I encourage inquires about my work even if it doesn’t lead to sales. I enjoy the engagement. But every so often I get the rude customer. The scenario goes like this:

Customer: Hi, I was wondering can you make a king size rainbow Crochet blanket for $50

Me: Thank you for inquiring.  King size Crochet blankets start at $$

Customer: What, I can get a blanket at Walmart for less than that! Your stuff is overpriced!

I say a happy mantra and wish the evil human being a good day. Damn my good customer service skills! They could have said that it was out of their price range and went about their day. Nope, just insult my work instead.

You can have a sewing machine or a knitting machine, but there is no such thing as a crochet machine. Each stitch is an 1/4 of an inch or less. A King size blanket is 114 x 120. This blanket will take 100 working hr. Quality material can cost $100+. I’m not the best at math. But I think I lose out here. Last I checked, you can’t get custom work at Wal-Mart.

I’m going to speak for many artisans out there. This is a hard hustle. The world is used to quick, cheap, faceless business. I’m not going to knock anyone for looking for a deal. I love a discount. I have a stack of coupons in my purse right now. But if you are looking for custom original work, be prepared to pay for it.

That is not a threat, it’s a fact. Hard work, skill and pride go into your handmade items. Nothing is made overseas in factories. The artisans and crafters are not going on lavish vacations or making it rain on a Tuesday. We are regular people with families, mortgages and a dream.

Most of us are CEO, Custom Service, Accountants, Shipping department and Marketing all rolled into one. Don’t forget we are doing this while working midnight shifts, checking home working and making it to the latest sporting events for our kids.

If you come across a talented small business owner, respect their craft, even if it’s not your cup if tea.

Any small business owners have experience with these kind of issues?