I have made some stamped sterling bracelets and copper bracelts, some
with sheet, some with half round wire, low done, and Crazy 8 (probably
sort of a flatness on top from Thunderbird Supply). I am still
perfecting doing this on 1/2 round wire and in general. I would like
to hear suggestions, comments on pricing this type of bracelet. I know
it depends on the gauge, the cost, but also how about how many times
the bracelet is stamped. So far I am only doing simple stamp work.
I’d appreciate feedback on how other people are pricing this type of
work. I am Native American, and a lot of other Native Americans do
this style.
Thank you for any comments.
Sharon Perdasofpy
Perdasofpy Designs
Midlothian TX 76065 USA
Email: @perdasofpy
Tel: 972/723-2984
Sharon, one way to gauge prices is to go to flea markets and check
out the prices for bracelets of copper and of silver which have been
imported from Mexico or India or the like. For any potential
customer, and for yourself, you’ll need to be able to describe or
imply how your product is superior to the imports, since many of the
imports sell for prices which would not be financially viable for you
(I assume). I assume your bracelets are more visually interesting,
but the competition from imports of low-end-priced jewelry is a good
place to start checking. On the other hand, many people enjoy buying
from the person who actually made a piece, so you have that in your
favor, in terms of pricing. Good luck.
Judy Bjorkman
Hi Sharon-
This is a very basic fomula that I heard years ago. I’ve loosely
followed it,but arriving at a price for a piece is always challenging.
There are so many variables, retail at shows, vs. wholesale, and then
there is consigment. But, don’t undersell yourself. This simplified
formula, I sorry i can’t even recall exactly who provided it, makes
no considerations for tools, rent , equipment, etc.
Cost of materials (stones, metal) + Labor (set an hourly rate for your
time)+ *also, have a fixed price for any special stone settings or
techniques. Perhaps, in your example an additional amount for each
stamp. Then, add all together and add 20% of the total, for design.
Now, putting a nominal figure on design seems implausible to me.
Maybe that’s why the 20% figure has always stuck in my head. Most
importantly, price must be an amount that you feel is fair and
you’re comforatble with. If a piece has special attributes or unusual
findings, charge for them.
Good luck,
Allison Griffith
www.aagdesigns.com
judy - when i started about 5 -6 years ago upon seeing the plethora of
jewelry being made in other countries for practically nothing i
learned the lesson that guides my designs: DO NOT REINVENT THE TIRE &
TRY TO SELL IT IN AKRON. while i admire the patience of the american
chain makers, if you make a side by side comparison with chains from
abroad (here come the brickbats from chain people) the major
difference between them will be the price. no one can work more
cheaply than workers in 3rd world & emerging countries. bottom line:
don’t create frustration for yourself - spend that energy on making
your work stand out by itself - ive