Forum adverts like this one are shown to any user who is not logged in. Join us by filling out a tiny 3 field form and you will get your own, free, dakka user account which gives a good range of benefits to you: No adverts like this in the forums anymore. Times and dates in your local timezone. Full tracking of what you have read so you can skip to your first unread post, easily see what has changed since you last logged in, and easily see what is new at a glance. Email notifications for threads you want to watch closely. Being a part of the oldest wargaming community on the net. If you are already a member then feel free to login now.

Hey Dakka. I have recently been approached by several people asking if I comission paint.

While flattered I have no expierence reguarding comission painting.

First thing I need to do is set rates.

My question to the masses is; What level would you say my painting is at...

Below Tabletop
Tabletop
High Tabletop

I wont even add showcase as I feel I am nowhere near that level.

I will add a range of pictures and a link to my gallery.

I really appreciate your time everyone. Brutal honesty appreciated

http://www.dakkadakka.com/gallery/user/56970-FatBoy.html

Honest opinion its above table top. everything is very clean, no mold lines, smooth coats, washed and highlighted.

Like my only issue is the Tau shoulder pad has some issue where it met the spure (it appears it was torn off and damaged)

7/10 would rate again.

From a quick glance it looks above tabletop. Just make sure your rates accurately reflect the amount of time it takes you to paint them.

I would say the painting is better than table top, but I deduct marks for a lack of attention to detail. The (I'm assuming) liquid green stuff on the Immortals shoulder pads needed sanding or filing, it jumps right out in a bad way, as well as the already mentioned shoulder pad on the Tau. I would be a less than happy customer with those flaws.

Awesome. Thanks everyone. I will do better with all the little details. I wish I had done better with the fireblade and immortals shoulders. I just got back from the hoby store. Bought files and clippers and sand paper.

Been working this whole time on basic hoby tools.

High end tabletop; definitely up to par. Good luck, now you just need to build a rep and client base.

I'd price the two tau at around £20 per model as part of a batch of at least 5 models. Ramp that up to around £50 if done singly.

Quick advice;

Do not do 'mates rates'. This leads to expectations on false premises later and can ruin friendships. It is better to work for free as a gift or as a swap for something (tangible) you want.

Do not initially promise deadlines. You paint so much faster in your mind / plans than in reality. Only experience of working while watching a clock will let you make more accurate judgments in timing. Promise consistent progress once a job is started, post WIPs and leave it at that.

Keep track of what you're paid and pay out for tax purposes. Getting audited sucks (it happened to some folks I know).

winterdyne wrote:
I'd price the two tau at around £20 per model as part of a batch of at least 5 models. Ramp that up to around £50 if done singly.

While I agree with winterdyne, this is why I don't get things commissioned 20GBP (so about 35 USD) is redonk in my mind for a mini. With that being said, you should definitely get paid that much if people are willing to pay for the job (because it's quality like that)

I may be highballing a bit (certainly for the single figure rate I'd expect a better job), it depends on what they're actually like. Light more from the front for better shots.

Don't work for less than minimum wage is the golden rule; mini painting is hard, skilled work at the end of the day. If you'd be better off painting walls and ceilings or flipping burgers, go do that instead; your sanity and wallet will both thank you.

Also, I'd strongly advise against (regularly) doing silly 12 hour paintfests in an attempt to 'cut days off' a timescale. It's a surefire recipe for burnout. Save that crap for deadlines / competitions.

Thank you winter. Your painting is stunning btw. I wish to hit that level at some point.

Burnout is a bit of a concern. I work as an idustrial paramedic. That means essentially...sit in the med room until someone gets hurt. Lots of time to paint at work.

I am painting a few minis for trades atm. I will post pics here for the client to check as well. One is (Im pretty sure) Comisar Yarrick. There is a Russian looking fellow too. Client said hes a conscript based char. He also gave me 3 Russian female minis that look like Comisars. I think theyare from Raging Heros.

Here is the Russian fellow for those interested. He had a mile of paint on him. Had to soak and toothbrush and dental pick him. 3 hours of work to get him clean. I pinned him together and magnetized his overcoat. He will be used with Talaran (Desert guard, not sure if thats the correct spelling). Figured he wont want a heavy winter coat on the dunes.

Thanks again folks. Ive learned a lot already. Its much appreciated

(Will correct typos later, typing on a phone....sigh)

That's a high tabletop, maybe even character standard. Its subjective of course but its certainly not below tabletop. You'll do alright.