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First off, I apologize if this is in the wrong thread. Being as how my topic is somewhat related to Painting and Modeling, I thought it appropriate to put it here though.

Recently, I've decided to offer my services in the "Painting Services" thread of the Swap Shop, and have a question about the principles and etiquette, when it comes to paying for the services.

Do most of the commissioners on Dakka accept or ask for payment upfront, or is payment given upon completion of the job?

I'm sorry if this sounds naive, but again, I am new to this, and I would appreciate some openminded and objective advice.

Thanks again!

What I do: I have a contract. It states every minute detail of our agreement, from my responsibilities as a painter to the owner's responsibilities. I usually write down these stuff:

1) Price range per model and service.
2) My responsibilities (i.e. i will only paint, not base the model or else I would add another fee for that.).
3) Owner's responsibilities (provide the bits for conversion, provide a certain shade of paint if I don't have it, request what he/she has in mind and agreement on the test model's color scheme).
4) Payment (usually 50% of the payment up front as mobilization fee, then 50% after I deliver the goods).
5) Reimbursement for additional materials (i.e. glue, super glue, basing supplies etc.)
6) Deadlines of both payments and delivery of models.

Thanks, starsdawn. That really helps!

I don't do deadlines. Makes for a more relaxed service (both for me and my clients). Constant comms are important though. A blog is a really good idea, as is posting WIP threads on every project.