The Wargaming Woodworker
The commission process
All commissions start when you contact me! The best way to do so is to either email me at thewargamingwoodworker@gmail.com, contact me through my Facebook page, or to use the Contact Me page on this website. When it comes to commissions, I think that the most valuable tool is good communication. I pride myself on making this a personalized process that involves the client as much as possible. I want to make whatever project you envision a reality, and the best way to do so is to keep those lines of communication open. I am willing to at least consider ANY project. If I can't realistically build it with the skills and tools I have, then I will tell you. Likewise, I only take on one or two commissions at a time, so if I accept your commission, you can be assured that it will get my undivided attention. Below is a sort of breakdown of the process. Want some info on the different types of lumber? Check out my "About the Wood" page.
Step 1: Discuss What You're Looking For
As I said above, step one is to either email me at paulj1096@gmail.com or use the Contact Me page on thsi website. I am willing to consider a commission for any wargaming-related project that I feel I am actually capable of executing. The first step is to communicate to me what you're actually looking for. If you have a very specific end goal in mind, we'll discuss what you envision and I will give input on how I can meet that goal through woodworking.
Likewise, I also realize some clients aren't interested in a completely unique project and instead simply want to buy something already designed and ready to roll. I offer a couple of "stock" options that can be found at the Pre-Designed Commissions page .
Step 3: Pricing and Materials
The digital model is both a tool for me to use to build the project as well as a gauge for calculating the material costs of the project. I price the wood according to the board footage required to complete the project. Likewise, I will incorporate other costs (magnets, felt, leather, etc.) that might play a role.
Lastly, I will give you an estimate of how long it will take for me to complete the project and what that time is "worth" to me. I don't have a hard and fast number for this. Setting an "hourly" rate seems unreasonable to me, because I am still learning the woodworking trade, and I don't think it's fair that I charge you extra if I need time to research a technique or fix a small error. Instead, I offer you a quote, and then we can negotiate to a final price if you're not satisfied with it.
Step 2: Digital Model
Once we've agreed upon the project you're looking for, I'll begin drafting a digital model using Sketchup. If you have specific materials you want used, I will keep that in mind in the design stage. I often find it helps a ton to use reference material and research to assure the best end product, and I often encourage clients to provide pictures of similar items or even sketches of their own to give me some direction.
Once you've received the digital model and approved it, we can discuss the wood and materials want, the price of the commission, and any specific details you would like included in the final project.
Step 4: Build!
This is the best step of all. Once you've approved the 3-D model and the price quote, I get to work. As I'm working, I will provide work in progress photos and updates at as frequent a pace as you would like. Likewise, if I come up with different ideas during the build or need input on some detail that needs to be different, we'll discuss this. I'm all about communication, and I find that involving the client in the build as much as possible makes for the best outcome!