No longer desire client patronage?

Hi,

This is a very interesting thread! I would like to share my
thoughts…

  1. This is my business and nobody tells me what to do. When people
    show up unexpectedly and want me to clean/repair something (for free
    or for oodles of noodles), I state that I am solidly booked up with
    planned projects and orders. and return their stuff on the spot.
    Another way is to tell them that I do not have the tools/am not set
    up for this type of service. Or, I tell them that if I did repairs I
    would have no time left to create my artwork, and as such, do not
    take in repair work. I politely refuse without it seeming to be any
    reflection on the “customer” even though it actually often is.

  2. I do it my way. I have a “friend” who was forever giving me
    everything she broke, including 2-dollar base metal jewelry. :-0 I
    am expected to do repairs for free, including any materials needed.
    The last time, and I stress the word last, she gave me a bracelet
    with three strands of silver cable and pearls held at each end and
    together in the middle with two jump rings. One of the strand shad
    snapped on both sides and was now dangling by the jump rings. I told
    her I was not set up for this type of repair, opened the jump rings
    to free the snapped strand, and suggested with a friendly smile she
    finish the “repair” at a place who “could”. Took me two seconds.

  3. Time wasters/groupees/wannabees. This is the trickiest one because
    a potential sale is always in the air. Many times people will come in
    to see how I make things. and, most want extensive and time consuming
    explanations and attention. These people do not usually buy anything,
    however!!! Still, you never know so I don’t like to alienate people
    or hurt their feelings. For this type, I have several methods,
    depending on the situation. The easiestis telling them that I need to
    clear the studio NOW because I will be working with dangerous fumes
    and chemicals, and have no extra safety mask. Fire drill!!! My studio
    is in the gallery so this is not a problem! I was once a wannabee and
    like to encourage people to study/learn this craft. Many kind people
    have generously helped me on my road to knowledge and I too am happy
    to share. And so, I explain a few quick things and then refer them
    for additional to courses. I also give workshops and let
    them know that they can always sign up with me for certain pieces of
    knowledge.

Anyone can stay inside the gallery and look at my stuff for as long
as they like. I am glad to inspire! I also enjoy telling the stories
behind my work. When it becomes obvious that I am their free
entertainment for the day and time is a-wastin’, I tell them that I
need to get back to work now but they are welcome to stay as long as
they like. I immerse myself in my work, and my face and actions
discourage any further chit chat (but not impolitely because I may
still get a sale).

  1. Water tight guarantee/warranty. Make sure that the customer is
    totally alert to how jewelry should be treated after sale and explain
    instructions very clearly. Give them a printed out card to "remind"
    them. This is your disclaimer, disguised as a guarantee/warranty.
    Bottom line is that I never cut myself off from anyone on a permanent
    basis, no matter how obnoxious or unreasonable, but I do take control
    of any situation. After all, it’s my turf.

Keep shining,