I charge different rates for different types of carving. It depends on the complexity of the work. For example, Spoons and bowls are much less complex and require less technical skill than a ship’s portrait or an eagle, and I charge accordingly.
Part of it is that my hair has gone from dark brown to predominantly silver in the years it took to achieve the skills required to carve an eagle or do a portrait.
Clients who appreciate skill need no education about the higher charges for the custom portrait of their boat over the charge for that lovely cherry bowl. No, it’s the ones who act like you are an extortionist or commit blackmail who need the education. As you quote the price, they become indignant.
I explain it in household terms. Carving the spoon is like watering your houseplants. It takes a bit of understanding of how much, how often, and to which plants. But it’s simple enough. On the other hand, the project you are interested in is more like cooking an elaborate gourmet meal of many courses for a dozen people. You have to be a very good, effective, and knowledgeable chef. Only some people have the skill to do it.
We can divide potential clients into three basic categories: those who are knowledgeable about the value and cost of skilled craft, those who can be educated, and those who can be pointed in the direction of a shop selling cheap Chinese-produced junk.
One final note: People are variable and sometimes we are just wrong about people. It’s something that keeps things from being boring.
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I’m happy to give paintings away under some circumstances AND the market here is not made of rich people; I know that, too, but some paintings are beyond price meaning very very very expensive. I guess that’s a kind of subjective price rating “system” but… With a painting there is skill involved, but some canvases themselves cost a lot of money. People don’t think of that when they look at a painting. I label my work so people know what the surface is, but it’s usually pretty meaningless information to most people.
I happily give carvings away also. And consider it part of the privilege of being a craftsperson. Giving a piece to a good and appreciative home just makes you feel good.
but with regard to the second ahlf od your comment it’s as I’ve said some people just need a bit of education, but others either are not interested, don’t care or are nable to learn.