How does one become a Commisioned Modeller?

I don't model for a living, but I have built quite a few commission pieces. Like the others have said, most of my work has come by way of mouth and others seeing my work at shows etc. For pricing, I use a simple formula and charge a reasonable rate. I start with a basic OOB build at twice the price of the kit. If the buyer wants modifications or extras, I base it as follows: resin parts I charge 3 times the price of the resin set; figures, if resin see previous, if plastic I charge $5 per figure. If he wants something elaborate on superdetailed, we agree on a price before I begin. I usually am selling to other military members and am not trying to get rich off them, so I keep my prices reasonable.

jwb wrote:

MontanaCowboy wrote: Since I started working at the LHS, I've had one offer for building a car. I was really suprised on the offer, and when he asked me how much, I didn't know what to say! I think I said ninety dollars for a car over two months of work. It looks like he's interested, also. I've wondered how people set prices myself. Didn't know if they based it on hours, kit price, etc. Not that anyone has asked me.... LOL!

 

Since the introduction of diecast, prebuild, mass produced replicas to the market, it has been pretty easy to come up with a fair market value for a custom built model.  If you built a car or plane, see what the same model would cost if sold in diecast and charge the same with a slight mark-up for being unique if you did it in custom markings and modifications.  I have built sailing ships for a number of years on commission and have either negotiated a price based on base costs such as kit and materials plus 150%, or now, I usually charge 20% to 50% over what a prebuilt model from the far east would cost in simular proportions.  I have been building for the interior decor industry, which bases many quotations on both appraised collector values of "one of kind" artisan made and current market value of mass produced replicas.  A model built from a kit kinda falls in between the two.  This is why a model, such as the Revell Cuttysark may fetch around $600 finished in case where as a model of a less popular clippership, scratchbuilt from a set of plans drawn by the builder, may appraise at at least $6000.00.

We have discussed this issue before about craftmanship.  And what we have found is that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.  I am not by any means a great, or even a good modeler, but some some uncanny reason, people like my work and pay for it.  So don't let your "skill" level prevent you from building on a commission.  Just show your work and if someone offers you to build and buy your model, take it with pride.  One thing I would stress, is that NEVER try to make a business out of it unless your willing to make huge sacrifices, it will ruin your enjoyment of the hobby and possibly your lifestyle.

Scott 

MontanaCowboy wrote:

Since I started working at the LHS, I've had one offer for building a car. I was really suprised on the offer, and when he asked me how much, I didn't know what to say! I think I said ninety dollars for a car over two months of work. It looks like he's interested, also.

I've wondered how people set prices myself. Didn't know if they based it on hours, kit price, etc.

Not that anyone has asked me.... LOL!

Since I started working at the LHS, I've had one offer for building a car. I was really suprised on the offer, and when he asked me how much, I didn't know what to say! I think I said ninety dollars for a car over two months of work. It looks like he's interested, also.

Thanks Guys,

 I am always curious about how people make a profession out of what they love.  Like I said I"m know where near even winning a compitition, but maybe in the future!

first off gain a reputation for yourself by building very well done accurate models and winning shows. Get your work outthere display them at shows, contest, HOBBY STORES , and on the net. Then make your services known and easy to contact, word of mouth is the best way. I get asked at least twice a month to build something for somebody, but I don't do that.  Alot of my work sits at 2 local hobby shops.  I can tell you this most people who do want stuff built collect the die cast stuff and want something that looks more realilstic and has greater detail. Many of them have alot of $$$ and just want a one of a kind piece hand crafted piece.

Let people know what you do, friends. co-workers, etc. Decide well beforehand what you'd charge. Show off your work. if someone compliments it/ssays I'd like to have one like that, offer to build one for $X. Also, go to shows and hang around your work. This is easier at open competition where you dispaly all your work in one place, rather that in separate categories. Make business cards and pllace them on the info table.