Edward Prince Furniture Design - Services - Commissioning
Commissioning new work is a special experience of relating to a craftsman through a design as a patron. The commissioning process can vary according to the size and type of the piece, but here are some general guidelines.
Commissioning furniture is easier and more enjoyable than you may imagine so long as the process is transparent. Irrespective of a pieces size the aim is to create a well designed original piece of furniture that enhances and compliments its environment and will bring pleasure to those who see it and use it.
There is a lot of trust involved in the commissioning process. The client has to trust the maker to produce what they want to the standard they expect, on time. The maker has to trust the client to be realistic about what they want, and will pay for the amount of work involved. Most of this trust is assured in the development process before any work begins. As the maker, a high quality of cabinetwork and finish are the only criterion for accepting commissions.
Tips for an enjoyable commissioning process
- Give as much background information as possible. Where will it go, what will it be used for, what size do you have in mind? Arrange a meeting and develop a brief together. If you are thinking of any particular materials or have any visual references, even just quick sketches, bring these along for discussion at this first meeting. The more thought out the brief, the more exactly to your liking will be the result.
- Communication is the key to a successful commission.
- The best commissions are a collaborative effort but allow flexibility during the initial stages. Once the basic design is agreed establish the design fees. Work that is out of the ordinary can involve extra costs. If the price fits your budget the design can be detailed and accurately priced. Once those are accepted, a contract exists and you will be expected to pay a deposit.
- Be honest if you don't like the design, before it is too late or too costly to change!
- Always confirm specifications and agreements in writing.
- It is usual to allow the item to be photographed for the portfolio and possible promotion. The copyright of the design remains with the maker and your commission may result in the making of similar pieces. This is a logical and normal part of a designer/maker’s creative development. However, as a courtesy, your permission will be sought to make any exact copies of the piece you commissioned.
- Be patient and enjoy the experience. Commissioning can be a slow process but it can also be highly rewarding. After all it's not every day that you collaborate with a skilled craftsman.
Beautiful furniture enhances the enjoyment of your surroundings and in the current climate of globalization and mass production on the high street, I am proud to be able to design and create unique work which leaves a personal human touch in our mechanized generic world. Much time and care is invested into each hand crafted item, there is a great sense of satisfaction in making beautiful furniture and immense pleasure when it is well received by the customer.