Well, as for myself, I only buy things from people that I know to be reputable(lots of post, long membership, good rating...ect)so I have not had too many problems in that area.As far as selling,I believe in complete honesty.I know it sucks to wait for stuff, and if I sell something already made, I will have it out ASAP.
Considering that almost everything I sell is made from scratch(give or take a couple greeblies which I get from other reputable parts suppliers), and very labor intensive it does take me a while, but I try to determine a realistic time frame, and I state that up front.If it is a rush job, and I know I cannot complete it in the time frame needed by the buyer, I decline the sale, but most of the people I have dealt with are very patient, and very easy to deal with, and I appreciate that.Quality items take time to make, and I am sure everyone here understands that.
My thing is ,if something takes longer than expected, I always communicate that to the buyer.I work full time as well as doing this part time, and on top of daily errands time is precious, and patience is top priority on the buyers part.
If a commission is beyond my capabilities, and time frame, I decline the work.I hate to do that but it is the fair thing to do if I cannot deliver what is promised.
Most of my customers become great friends, and the word of mouth is awesome(so good in fact, that I really do not use e-bay anymore), so as long as you communicate and remain honest, you should never have a problem.
Since all my gear is handmade I really do not do refunds, since money is spent on materials and the time it takes me to build the items.Now if something in life prohibits me from starting a project or finishing it, of course I would refund the money, but not once it is completed and sent to the buyer.
I always stand by my work, and wear and test everything I make just to be sure it is wearer friendly and looks as good as it should look.I do not send out shoddy work.I would not want to receive substandard gear.
To all those who have wondered why I do not sell a lot of unpainted , unfinished stuff, is that i feel I do a really nice job, painting and weathering my work and I have no problem doing custom paint, additions...whatever, so there is no reason to send it out undone.I really do not even figure paint in to the price as the cost of paint is really not an issue.
I feel that I take the headache out of costuming for a lot of people who are not quite that crafty, besides who doesn't like stuff that they can pull out of the box, and wear immediately?To me, that takes a lot of stress off the buyer, and they can concentrate on other aspects of their costume, without worrying about running out to buy hoses ,switches, buttons,elastic, velcro, hinges ect..thus saving gas, and time.
I applaud those who take the initiative to make their own stuff, and I love seeing everybody's work.I am here for those who do not want to do all that or simply do not have the time or the skills.
Also since my stuff takes some time and requires patience on the buyers part, the affordable price is my little way of making up for the wait.I'll leave the price gouging to the oil companies.lolololol
I get great satisfaction when I see people wearing my work, and that is what keeps me going in the world of costuming, as well as all the great friends I have made in the process.
So to everyone who has bought from me, and wore my gear proudly.I thank you all, and it is an honor to call you my friends!!!!
Stay Classy San Diego.lolol