Helmet Prices

i was wondering what would be the price range for a mystery ESB fett helmet?

There's one on e.bay right now.

You looking for a painted one or a raw cast that you can clean up and paint yourself?

Umm painted one

I would figure it this way:
Approx. $200-$250 for the helmet and another $200-$250 for the paintjob.
SO your looking at about somewhere in the ball park of $400-$600 for a painted one. And that is a very conservative price. I have normally seen them go for much more.

**** just for the helmet i seen Full suit stormtrooper armor for $500

Ya but your talking about a super rare helmet that needs to be professionaly painted, its like a vader helmet, there exspensive.

Sticker shock when building or even considering building a Fett will knock most folks down. Especially the helmet!
There is a wide price range too! There was a mystery helmet on RPF for $285 with the face shield and alluminum stalk! All part were Raw!
Trooper armor that is $500 is for the armor and helmet unbuilt only! Thats not considering the Body glove,gloves,boots,and blaster and assembly!

All I can say the helmet and anything else FETT takes quite a comittment both in work and $$$!
Goodluck!
shunned

I just sold my ESB helmet for 650.00 and thats pretty inexpensive compared to some of the buckets ive seen. I saw a MSH-1 (esb) go for over a grand.

I doubt there'd be a TOTAL of 500 bucks in my suit, and it looks fine to me.
The trick...make it yourself.
If there's someone...(or someones)...making 200-250 bucks for painting a helmet, they oughta be ashamed of themselves.

500 bucks? I wish mine was that cheap

DarthBish wrote:

If there's someone...(or someones)...making 200-250 bucks for painting a helmet, they oughta be ashamed of themselves.

You are comparing apples to oranges. There are a few artists (and I do mean artists) here that invest not hours or weeks into a paintjob, but months. Factor in their time, level of skill, and meticulous details, not to mention using the same paints as used in the originals (compared to off-the-shelf sprays), then $200+ is not unrealistic. I paid quite a bit to have my helmet painted, and those who have seen it can attest that it was money well spent. I paint armor and such regularly, but the helmet is what makes or breaks a costume, so I left it to a pro.

As I have said since day one, this hobby is not a cheap one. You can invest as much time and/or money into it as you want depending on how accurate you want your costume to be. It all boils down to how happy you are with the finished product. If you are content with your own, then that is all that matters.

DarthBish wrote:
If there's someone...(or someones)...making 200-250 bucks for painting a helmet, they oughta be ashamed of themselves.

Boy, have you got a lot to learn...

Time is $$$$ pure and simple.

I wouldn't even think of touching a Fett bucket for less the $300 if I did one, they arn't worth the headach for anything less.

I used to charge $100 to build and paint models when I did them for people in the past and that was CHEAP!!

I have gotten many repeat customers as they knew my work was excellent and at a good price.

After talking with the model building pros and showing my work to them I realized I was low balling my self by as much as 100% on my prices.

I could have easliy gotten $200+ or more for some of the builds I have done, but I wouldn't have had as many repeat customers at that price.

Then I got smart and started my pricing based on complexity, it would start at $100 and go up.

Time is money, and it is NOT cheap!!!

Lynn

What happen to those times u traded a Chicken for a helmet

Quote:this hobby is not a cheap one. You can invest as much time and/or money into it as you want depending on how accurate you want your costume to be

So this would suggest to me that unless you're willing to spend a lot of money, your costume won't be "accurate".
Forgive my "French" here but that's the biggest load I've read in my life.
How do you think that's gonna read to any newbies here??
I'll tell you how it's gonna read, they're gonna think "Well gee, I don't have much money to invest so I guess I just won't bother.
This is the ONE thing that annoys me about this board. Sure it's a good source of info, but dudes it's also becoming a gigantic billboard for people making a buck at the expense of other Fett lovers.
Look around you.........there's very few "How to's" but a HELLUVA lot of "This guy will sell you's" or "This guy will paint it for you provided you've got the moola"

Now, as for you Lynn, don’t tell me “I’ve got a lot to learn” and put your sarcastic little next to it.
I’ve most likely been around longer than you have “Boy”, and I’ve learnt that it’s generally people like you, charging as much as they do, that cause over-inflated prices in everything, not just Fett gear.
So to use a well worn Aussie expression "Pull your head in"

DarthBish wrote:

Now, as for you Lynn, don’t tell me “I’ve got a lot to learn” and put your sarcastic little next to it.
I’ve most likely been around longer than you have “Boy”, and I’ve learnt that it’s generally people like you, charging as much as they do, that cause over-inflated prices in everything, not just Fett gear.

Your funny, At the age of 37 I'm hardly a "Boy" and I have been building and painting things for 30+ years...

I'm a pro at what I do, time is $$$ that is just the way it is.

Do you your job for free???? I hardly don't think so, neither do I. If you don't see it that when people charge for to do something then that is your problem. As I said, You have a lot to learn in this subject.

My prices are cheap and my work is top notch, I just wish I had the time to still do it.

I have done over 40 jobs for people in 2-3 years with many repeat customers, Time is $$$ and my prices are hardly over-inflated.

I still have people today, 2 years after I have stopped building for people, still ask me to do stuff and I have to turn it down just because I don't have time.

Lynn

Don't presume to "know me" to point of what you think I need to learn. Thanks Pal.

I guess there's only one way of seeing what's justified and what's not.
Why dont you give us all a little breakdown of the $250...(spelt d.o.l.l.a.r.s)...that you think you're justified in charging for a bucket paintjob.
I cant imagine the masking tape and paint bill being much more than $30.
So, even if you charged $10 and hour that's.......hmmm, let me see, 20+ hours.

Gee, you think you'd be quicker with 30 years of practice.......but then again, you are a "pro"
g g

Ok, take it easy now. Bish, as you said yourself, the key is to make it yourself. Many of us here do just that, and save alot of jing by doing so. It also tends to be "a learning curve" as people learn, they get better, and upgrade their suit over time. Here, like at the RPF, people who have interest in having a Fett costume, but are unwilling or unable to do it themselves, sometimes become members here. They are as welcome here as any other member. They come here looking for sources of parts, info, etc. I think it is fortunate that there are members who can supply items, whatever the price. Nobody is forcing anyone else to buy goods or services. If you can do it yourself, That's great, but if you can't, there's others here who offer. Anyone here is welcome to offer their services, for whatever they think is a fair price. If someone thinks they can offer paintjobs for a lower price, and still be worthwhile for them to do, I'm sure they'd be well recieved. Nobody here is preventing people from offering "budget" services, but for some reason, they aren't in abundance. Maybe those who don't like the current market rates, should sacrifice their own time and provide the service at what they deem to be a "fair" price.

Well, before Bish gets this thread locked, I thought I'd chime in.

I used to make sets of sintra armor all the time. I started by dremmeling the stuff in my basement sitting on the floor with a cardboard box as a workbench. Despite the sore throat from the sintra fumes (yeah, I was ignorant to the dangers), the hours of working and risk of injury (dremmel disks snapped and flew in my face a lot of times on tight corners) I still sold them to help finance my own suit.

Costs
Sintra = roughly $5 of sintra per suit.
Dremmel = let's say $3 in wear on my dremmel and disks (just a guess)
My health and safety = free but not cheap
Time = let's say 5 hours per suit if you include making my own boxes

Average sale price on Ebay = $65

That's $11.40 per hour for my semi skilled labour.

Now, try having something custom built in another country and shipped to you home and offer the poor sap $11.40 per hour to do it. Good luck!

Now, as far as newbies and accuracy go - yes, accuracy costs money. That's why I never complained that my knee darts weren't "accurate" because I used about $0.30 worth of hardware from work to simulate darts. I wasn't ashamed of them at all. If I insisted on importing a dental tool from England to put in my helmet's cheek - I better not complain about costs.

Now, if I try to sell you a Canadian voice amp for $200 US that I just walked to the store and bought for $43 US, then you can call me a **** thief.

My 2 cents...I'm falling on the side of Lynn here. I'm one of the fortunate souls who does not need any painting sevices and I really enjoy doing that kind of thing myself. However, having painted several helmets in the past I also know the amout of effort and time that go into them. 20+ hours is not at all unreasonable.

If there people highly skilled at building/painting, (and I can think of a few), who are offering their skills, I think simple economics dictates that they be compenated according to their skill, just like any other area of our economy. Quality always costs more anywhere you look from cars to furniture to someone finishing your basement. You can't expect a master of his craft to give away his product for peanuts.

Quote:
This is the ONE thing that annoys me about this board. Sure it's a good source of info, but dudes it's also becoming a gigantic billboard for people making a buck at the expense of other Fett lovers.
Look around you.........there's very few "How to's" but a HELLUVA lot of "This guy will sell you's" or "This guy will paint it for you provided you've got the moola"

THANK YOU and WELL SAID, its about time someone said it!!
I agree with you BISH, I've been a freelance artist/painter for over twenty yrs now and I think that the MSH "unpainted" helmet is SOOO over priced to start with that adding "additional" charges like, Time , Labor, TALENT/aka SKILL, is WAY over priced on this board...and completely unfair.
I love Fett, but your comment is the biggest reason why I don't post here much, not enough real specifics on "HOW TO's".
By the way I have two "Do it yourself" helmets, ESB and ROTJ. WAY CHEAPER than any top rate helmet on this board, and I consider ALL my artwork top rate.........GREAT POST BISH.

I personally have been doing most of the work myself on my helmet. I chose a M_S Enigma helmet due to its quality as well as price. Yes it was a raw cast and yes I did have to do alot of the work myself to get it ready for painting. I have spent quite a few hours getting it ready for painting. Would I spend $500-$600 on a helmet. No, because I know I can do it myself for less and use the extra cash towards another part of the costume.
Rogue Studios painted some helmets for TDH members a while back and yes he charged a price for it. I think he did somewhere around 6-8 helmets. It took him a few months to complete the job for them members working countless hours in doing so to acheive precision screen acurate quality. I personally feel he was justified in his price which I was told was above $250 for the paint job.
He has a thread on these boards which lists every color he uses to paint the buckets as well as a tutorial in doing them yourself.
SO, if you think it is not justifiable to pay the price he is asking to paint it for you. Then you have the option to "Do it yourself" with the techniques he layed out for you.
BTW, I am painting my helmet using Rogue Studios Paint Selection forthe airbrush and after I purchased all the colors needed, the price for just the paints was $75 for the 16 different colors needed.
This is an expensive hobby and I welcome any newbie to come and begin working on their own costumes. You CAN do it on a budget but be ready to do alot of the work yourself which is more rewarding in the end anyway.

PS. Thank You to all those that have spent countless hours working on projects and doing the research so we can all have the best costume possible.

E2K13 wrote:
I would figure it this way:
Approx. $200-$250 for the helmet and another $200-$250 for the paintjob.
SO your looking at about somewhere in the ball park of $400-$600 for a painted one. And that is a very conservative price. I have normally seen them go for much more.

Great points, But let see the actual totals...
I'm talking..

Helmet price: "MSH", maybe $80-$200.($80.00 is what I paid for my first MSH helmet, had a slight crack, Thanks Marrow-Sun)

Supplies:
Paints: You stated 75.00$?? for all 16 accurate paints..

Masking: Tape:7-10$, or masking fluid: 12-13.00$

Visor: 10-12.00$

Aluminum/range finder: 12-25.00$

Sand paper: 10-12.00$

Finishing: Dull coat Testors 5-6.00$
Very General, but am I missing anything in regards to the basics?

TOTAL: 340.00$(high side with helmet being 200.00$, which is too high in my opinion)

After that you're saying that a quality paint job/labor "very conservatively" is almost an ADDED 300.00$ or MORE ....????????????

That's Ridiculous, talk about poking your eyes out..!!!!
Just doesn't make any sense to me.

Spideyfett wrote:

you're saying that a quality paint job/labor "very conservatively" is almost an ADDED 300.00$ or MORE ....????????????

That's Ridiculous, talk about poking your eyes out..!!!!
Just doesn't make any sense to me.

Why ridiculous? A decent spray job on a M/C crash helmet over here (UK) would cost you more and take half the time.
Your paying not only for parts/paint but for the level of skill involved. Pay cheap, you get cheap. Pay for quality (ie more expense) ,you get quality. If you have the money to have a professional paint it (which I don't) I say pay for it. If not then do the best job you can possibly do yourself ,but don't begrudge those who can afford as that just comes over as being bitter.

DarthBish wrote:
Don't presume to "know me" to point of what you think I need to learn. Thanks Pal.

Anytime! Glad to help in that area.

We are just on the opposite sides of the fence on this, you don't want to pay to have something done, so you do it your self.

Other people don't want to or can't do it so they go to someone who can and they will pay for it.

I don't do a break down of the fees for services rendard, 40+ jobs done I never have, never will, never needed to, never have been asked to because people knew I WAS REASONABLE and there was NEVER a question of kind of breakdown of what I did. I could have gotten alot more for my services, but I wouldn't have done as many jobs either at higher prices.

My fee's have always included all materials, paints, equipment at times, and what ever else needed to do the job.

If I took 1 hr to build and paint something or 50 hrs to do something, my fee would be based on complexity but the base prices for building a kit was always $100, period.

The time to build and paint a kit is not worth taking my time away from other things in life.

You guys that are bitching about helmet kits and painting prices you need to get a reality check called DON POST STUDIO'S.

That helmet called a DP DLX Boba Fett helmet sold in the mid late 90's for $1000-$1500+ at times when it came out new and people where buying them up like hot potatoes, and they were grossley inaccurate and had terrible paint jobs, and looked hidious, yet people where still gobbling them up.


Now we have the most accurate of helmets and some top notch people offering awesome painting services that are the most accurate to date and very affordable at a FRACTION of the price of a complete DP DLX....

Get real, you need to think of the DP DLX to put you back into reality of bucket prices and services..

Lynn

~Pay cheap, you get cheap. Pay for quality (ie more expense) ,you get quality.~

I have to disagree, that is not always the case.

Quote:
not then do the best job you can possibly do yourself ,but don't begrudge those who can afford as that just comes over as being bitter.

Have you ever charged anyone for your artistic ability? Or been commissioned to paint or design anything? If so then you know, as I, that quality/ "Skill" does cost. But I think we can all understand that, don't you.
With that being said and out of the way, then lets look at the OVER-Pricing that is going on. After all that's really what I 'm talking about.

As an artist I know that I could over price and get away with it, but I don't, its called Ethics. And many people know that there are members on this board that don't know the first thing about painting their helmets (aka the whole reason we are here) and are taken advantage of with over-pricing. So if we look at the "actual totals" then lets just see were most of the cost is...This term "Skill" is over rated and way over-priced, even coming from an artist.
In the end I'm one of those who can afford it, But chose not to. SO I say "DO It Your Self" (U.S.A)....

P.S there is no reason to suggest that someone is bitter when its something you don't agree with.

Not to mention,
In your line of work, how much do you get paid per hour? If you add up the cost of supplies and add on labor expense, you will see how much of a bargain it really is.
Especially if the painting process takes more then a month. It isn't grunt work, it takes skill. So figure it by a skilled tradesmans rate if you want to be technical.

did you guys know there are hair people out there that charge $500+ for a freakin haircut??? That makes $250 for a custom paint job very reasonable to me.

Maybe those that offer services or goods to the members of this "billboard" should all stop offering. There's plenty of info here to get people started. Let everyone fend for themselves in finding stuff. There's rubies stuff, DP stuff, and whatever you can make yourself stuff. I'm not worried, I made ALL of my own stuff, so I'm covered. I'm hoping that those who think the market is unfair, are using Rubies, DP, or stuff they made themselves. I'm wondering how many here have actually built their own bucket from scratch. I'll bet I could count them without taking off my shoes. I myself, made a bucket, sized for kids, just because some members asked. I don't even have kids. Now, I consider my rates for these to be quite fair, but others might not. If someone's not happy with the price of an item at one store, they go to another. So, rather than whine about what someone here is charging for something, find another source.

Quote:you don't want to pay to have something done, so you do it your self.

Errrr...............actually I've never said that "Lynn Ol' Bean"
I'm more than happy to pay a reasonable price for anything. I just think that $250 is a shameful price to charge for painting a bucket, and I stand by that.

As for the DP DLX, I'm sure there are many fans out there who are as happy with it's quality as you are unhappy with it. This is yet another example of the "It's not mine so it must be a poorer quality" cancer that's regrettably infesting some parts of this forum
And as for it's price....Well, licensing costs money dude, need I say more??

Hey............and did you know that there's people out there silly enough to PAY $500 for a haircut

QUOTE:
__________________________________________________ ___
I'm more than happy to pay a reasonable price for anything. I just think that $250 is a shameful price to charge for painting a bucket, and I stand by that.
__________________________________________________ ________

Actually, $250 is about the ballpark figure for a good paint job. I sold a DP '95 that I had repainted on eBay a few weeks ago. I paid about $35(yeah, I can't believe I got it for that, either!) for the helmet and after the repaint it went for $236. That's what the buyer thought it was worth, not what I was charging for it. These are luxury items paid for with discretionary income. If the consumer is willing to pay that rate, good. If not, they are free to seek other avenues. There's nothing shameful about it.

Afettfullofdollars, for your 9th post you show remarkable wisdom. Welcome aboard!

Thanks. It's good to be here.

They're only "luxury items" as you so quaintly put it coz some people choose to charge that much for their work....and others , who believe that this is their only option, chose to pay it.
It's not the price of the paint and materials that drives up the price. It's what some "moneygrubbers" hold their hands out for that jacks it up.

I implore you people, don't be sucked in by how others put forward rationalisations of "skill", and how much they think they're worth just because they might've banged a couple of Lego blocks together and then slapped some fingerpaint on them at the ripe old age of 7.

It ain't worth it........and if you don't pay it.......they won't charge it......

DarthBish wrote:
It ain't worth it........and if you don't pay it.......they won't charge it......

Do you work for free and put your blood, sweat, tears, and sometimes frustrations for a minimal dollar amount? I don't hardly think so.

You just don't get it..... I'm done.

Lynn

Ohhhhhhhh don't be such a freakin' "drama queen". I never said give your service away for free.
I just suggested that everyone should be more reasonable with what they charge.
That way, instead of a Fett costume being a "Luxury Item" it can be within the reach of anyone that shares the same love of the character that we do.
If anyone can see anything wrong with that I'll be very surprised.

Okay Bish, I respect you and your opinions but just so we are all clear, let's be specific:

Paintjob - $250 (estimate) - how much would you charge or be willing to pay for a super accurate paintjob?

Helmet - $250 (estimate) - same question, how much do you think a raw kit should sell for?

This way we can see where your coming from. Cheaper isn't a very exact term.

I am interested as well to see what you think is "Reasonable" Bish.
One thing to also keep in mind is that alot of these people that are offering the helmets and paintjobs have real world jobs and families. They are in the hobby for the love of it in most cases. A lot of times you will have someone that provides a great service in making a helmet or offering a paint job to a couple of people and then by word of mouth and pictures on the internet it seems there is a high demand for those sevices.
At that point there becomes a trade off. Now the person has to juggle their time between working on a paint job, Working there usual vocation and spending quality time with their family. Now, they do not have the option to take away from their usual job so the quality time with the family has to suffer.
On top of supplies and materials, what is your time worth?
If you were going to spend the next say 6 months working pretty much constantly on projects for other people, what would it be worth to take time away from your wife/husband and kids?
I do know that this is the scenario with alot of the more skilled artists on this board.
As a few other posters here have already said though, if you are not willing to pay the price they are offering, then you always have the option to "Do it yourself". I say more power to you for doing so but there are alot of people that just do not have the skill to do it.

I think that the time and the quality that are put into the work is well worth the price. I know what little I've done so far on my own is time consuming and if I was to do it for someone else I would expect to be paid for that time. People have families, frinds and lives they could be spending that time with. You have to respect that.

Oh and ah.... You get what you pay for.

I am one of those people who don't have the skill, patience or time to do it myself. I have 4 kids, a house I am saving for, work pilling up, a girlfriend I almost never see, school, plus no talent what-so-ever when it comes to painting. I have tried many, many, MANY times to paint my bucket. It never looks the way I want it to. So I have to go the route of having someone do it for me. If I don't like the price, I tell them it's not in my budget and look for someone else. I decide how much I want to pay, nobody does that for me. I do believe you get what you pay for. But you also have to sometimes settle for less until you can do it yourself or the funds become available to get it done better. If it's great work I have no problem paying for it. But again, it's all about budget for me right now.

Okay I feel the need to chime in. I 've been watching this and can see both sides. I just don't like the "air" where this is. There are many "levels" of skill and financial status here on the boards. Yes some things cost more than others. I agree you get what you pay for (or want). There are some individuals that want a "totally accurate/ as close to the original" Fett that they can get. If they have a resource to get that, albeit armor and paintscheme, then they may need to have someone paint it for them. And yes highly-skilled labor/talent will cost more. If you can't afford it, save up like I'm doing and don't begrudge someone willing to pay that.
I've been trying to get my Fett costume "off the ground" for some time now. I don't have the "expendable" cash like I would like, but pinch where I can. I've been saving up for quite a while for a fiberglass armor and jet pack set. Until I get FG I'll have Sintra. Yes it's expensive but I feel it's worth itOn the opposite side, don't begrudge someone who can't afford it either.
This forum was started by Fett fans for Fett fans, we're here to help each other (at whatever your budget) and NOT ***** at each other and complain. Yes there should always be "reasonable prices" but somethings do cost more. Heck, I've paid anywhere from $30 to $100 just for a freakin 95 DP helmet. Were they worth it? To me yes. I've also bought a Marrow Sun helmet and a couple of kids size from Judz. They in my opinion were well worth the cost, Judz even threw in a defect helmet for free! (Thanks again for that Judz!) All in all we need to help each other no matter what you budget. I feel this forum offers All ranges!

Keep it up!

Geo

DarthBish wrote:

It ain't worth it........and if you don't pay it.......they won't charge it......

Actually, the truth is if you don't pay it they won't DO it. I can guarentee you it will not cause prices to drop. People providing these sevices are not doing it because this is their livelyhood, they're doing it as a favor to those who can't.

Another additional not....

I DO have the skill, but NO time. So in some things I may have to pay more to get what I want. I'm fine with that, accept it, and have to save $$$ until I CAN get it.

"Budget, Speed, High Quality"...Pick two because you can't have ALL three.
A good quote from the Multimedia/Print/Advertising business.

Geo

Ok i'm not a regular poster here, but I am an avid collecter of props, having my own Luke ANH x-wing Helmet and a custom painted one done in my own design which is being painted as we speak by a professional that I trust, why did i go to a professional because I can't paint, I have no skills in this area what so ever, I may be able to build my own props , but painting is quite an involved and delicate thing to do right.

How much is he chargeing me for this helmet ?

$315.00 is for the complete job

but i'll break it down to the quote he sent me

kit assembled. $150
paint job--------------$100
Ear cups mic------- $ 25
Shipping to UK-----$ 40
Total-------------------$ 315.00


$100 is nothing for a high quality paint job

But lets term this a little differently

Your car has a big nasty scratch on it, you can't fix it your self so it goes to the auto shop for a respray

now do you choose

A) The professional sprayer who, know's what to do, how to mix the paints ,get the right colour match and blend in the paint layers so you wont see the scratch anymore

or

B) Choose the little apprentice fresh from college who's only read how to do thing's in a text book and never faced the practical problems that will be thrown at him . i.e paint reacting to something, we've all been there


you would choose the "A" option, no one would go for the apprentice, apprentice's are nothing but tea boys and floor sweepers.

this same theory can be applied to the world of props and costumes

In the prop world it's all about Accuracy,you wan't the closest you can get to the movie seen prop, some people are lucky enough to own the real versions those who don't often build there own, striving for the minutest of detail, it's the same with the costume world, Accuracy is everything to some people and there willing to pay the prices for it, other's are happy just with something less accurate but more appealing to the pocket

The moral of both the prop and costuming world is that in the end you get what you pay for, some people won't pay it some people will.

I know $100 is cheap for a pro paint job, i'm happy with that price cause I know that helmet will kick *** once it's done, i'd of been willing to pay more for it .
A screen accurate correctly painted Vader helmet will set you back a nice $1-1500 looking at that makes me think that $4 -600 for a dented helmet with correct paint job is a steal, I myself just purchased a screen acurate AA/SDS Stormtrooper helmet that set me back $800, I think it's worth it, other's won't think so.

Every hobbie has its high prices, name one that doesnt.

Well It all depends on what you want and what your willing to pay. There's a bucket at every price point.

Let me illustrate.


Well Under 100$




Well Over 100$



Time and detail equals big $$$$

Flan, few words, great point.

...and beautiful bucket! (the second one, that is )

DarthBish wrote:
__________________________________________________ ___________

They're only "luxury items" as you so quaintly put it coz some people choose to charge that much for their work...
__________________________________________________ ___________

Actually, "luxury item" has nothing to do with price. It is simply a term for any good or service that is not a necessity.

Back to point/ original question asked...

How much for a mystery helmet painted?...

How much for unpainted?...

Ballpark for the guys/gals, no rants.

WOW ... this thread has deviated quite a bit since the last time I checked it (about post 4).

I see both sides of the, but would have to agree with what I believe the majority is saying. I'm a part supplier, but am well known (and griped at) by those that know me, when it comes to charging for my time. When I designed the FettLights, I asked other engineers I knew what THEY would charge. The suggestions I had ranged from $200 - 300, based on typical mark-ups for time, investment, skill, etc. I came back to TDH, and had a few people say they'd be willing to pay it. When it all came down to it, I was more than happy charging $100, because I knew more people could afford it, and now there are alot of people proudly displaying my work on their suits. At the time, there were few options for chest lights. Could I have charged more, sure (based on supply/demand). But could I have charged less? Sure again ... I just wouldn't have, because my time/skill IS worth something.

With that said, I know people who repair electronics and charge $40+ PER HOUR. Personally, I can't see charging that myself, but wouldn't fault someone who does. If that's what his time is worth, great. If no one pays that, will he be out of business? Not likely. I've had customers damage circuits made by me (they acknowledged the fact that it was their fault, not a defect). What did I do? I repaired the circuits for free, or for the cost of parts, depending on the extent of damage. One of these repairs took me a couple of hours due to the extent of the damage, but I didn't charge for my time. Point? The guy that paid what I asked (which I didn't think was too much) put his faith not only in my work, but in my services. Because of this, I've done free repair jobs,as well as being approached about fixing the work of others.

Personally, I believe that if you can do something yourself, go for it. If you can't, and can afford it, pay someone to help you out. But if you can't afford someone's work AND don't have the skill to do it yourself, you shouldn't insult them ... people charge what THEY feel they deserve for the work. They have a skill/talent/part that others don't. And if people are paying for the services/product, then there are others who agree.

Thanks for letting me be long-winded.

EDIT: Just wanted to say thanks for posting the prices as requested in the original post. I have a painted "Mystery" helmet that I hope to keep, but may *have* to sell ... and had NO idea what they were running for these days.


ATM
ShackMan

[qoute]Your car has a big nasty scratch on it, you can't fix it your self so it goes to the auto shop for a respray

now do you choose

A) The professional sprayer who, know's what to do, how to mix the paints ,get the right colour match and blend in the paint layers so you wont see the scratch anymore

or

B) Choose the little apprentice fresh from college who's only read how to do thing's in a text book and never faced the practical problems that will be thrown at him . i.e paint reacting to something, we've all been there


you would choose the "A" option, no one would go for the apprentice, apprentice's are nothing but tea boys and floor sweepers.


[/quote]

and they will fork over $800 to fix that scratch with a smile on their face
i worked in autobody for just over 10 years, took the college classes (funny thing is i remember doing more work than reading)and started as the tea boy and floor sweeper, worked my way up and am now manager/painter in a custom shop. i can see the point as 99% of the college kids cant make the transition from doing a job in 2 semesters to now do it in 2 days. now i feel i have more knowledge in this subject than 99% of the people here. I have given my advice in several threads here with quite abrasive feedback mostly to what kinda filler, primer, paint. anyways, as to could i paint a helmet, most definatly, would i do my own, nope. The painting i do to the layering on a helmet is totally backwards like inside out compared to inside in (if that makes sense) i would probably drive myself to the nut house trying to paint a helemt. i will convert an old construction saying here "dont let a car painter work on your helmet and dont let ahelmet painter paint your car. but if you feel the need od some ghost flames on your helmet lol

back to the topic i seen some real good lookin painted mystery helmets on ebay for around 400

I can't help but ask myself why some of these "fantabulous" fee-charging painters don't put up a few detailed tutorials saying what paint/colour/technique they use and how to achieve various effects??

i have a fiberglass mystery helmet , and i painted it myself to match my armor.......i have under 3 bills in it ( 300 ).........and its NOT for sale.....you can see it on the 501st web site.....i'm BH4889 !!.......or on the ohio garrison web site......www.ohio501st.com.......again, bh4889

DarthBish wrote:
I can't help but ask myself why some of these "fantabulous" fee-charging painters don't put up a few detailed tutorials saying what paint/colour/technique they use and how to achieve various effects??

Eh?
I've only been on the boards for around 8 months and in that time I have seen several threads listing everything from which paints to use, what colors and what techniques are best. Could we do with more, of course, you can never have to much information. But to gripe about them not providing information seems to me not only unfair but also unjustifiable.

DarthBish wrote:
I can't help but ask myself why some of these "fantabulous" fee-charging painters don't put up a few detailed tutorials saying what paint/colour/technique they use and how to achieve various effects??

I have, ask Jedi-Bob.... His bucket came out awesome using my guides!! I remeber others saying my guides have helped in the past as well and asking me how I do it.

I have posted many times in threads in past in several threads wether it be being in my own threads, or others.

Others have too, I have used Rouges Studios techneques he has freely posted here several times to show to do it.

So don't go saying there arn't tutorials floating around when they are. Sure, they may not be on "one localized place" but they may be mixed in with other thread topics, but they are there none the less.

Lynn

DarthBish wrote:
Ohhhhhhhh don't be such a freakin' "drama queen". I never said give your service away for free.
I just suggested that everyone should be more reasonable with what they charge.

I never said you did, but if I charged less then what I feel is worth my time and effort I may as well as do it for free and thus is not worth my time to do the project.
It is that pure and simple, I name my price the people say yes or no and it is that simple, I have never been turned down because my price was too high.

Lynn

DarthBish wrote:
I can't help but ask myself why some of these "fantabulous" fee-charging painters don't put up a few detailed tutorials saying what paint/colour/technique they use and how to achieve various effects??

Lynn has, on SEVERAL occasions posted very detailed info about how he does his helmets. Lynn's a super guy, with incredible talent. Finding those two traits in such a combination is rare. It seems to me that you've come to expect something for nothing. Another product of our country's latest times.

Making a Fett costume is within ANYONE's grasp. Having a top-notch, almost perfectly accurate paint job that looks as good at one inch away as it does from 30 feet, is NOT in everyone's grasp. Some can do it themselves if they have the time and talent. Some can afford to have a pro do it for them. Some can do neither. Simple as that. (And believe me, I'm a person who has spent PLENTY of time in the "neither" category, so I speak from experience.)

What kind of car do you drive? We drive a Ford Ranger (me) and a Dodge Grand Caravan (my wife). They do the job for us. Can we afford something bigger/better? Not really. Does that mean that instead of settling for what we can afford, we should ***** and moan for the car manufacturers to lower there prices on the luxury cars so that we can get those? No. Heck no. That's ludicrous. (By the way, your definition of what constitutes a "luxury" item was vastly incorrect, as already pointed out.)

The bottom line:
<UL>
<LI>If you think the price is outrageous, don't pay it.
<LI>If you think the price is fair, but can't afford it, start saving your pennies or bartering services/goods.
<LI>If you want to do it yourself, there are PLENTY of threads here with EXTREME detail on how to do it yourself. Use the search feature or start reading through the threads. It's that simple. Really.[/list]
Bitching about prices and demanding that prices be lowered so that "it can be within the reach of anyone that shares the same love of the character that we do" reeks of socialism and turns my stomach. Instead of bitching, do something. Or ask for help instead of demanding it.

And you still haven't answered the question about what you think "fair" prices are for the helmet and the paint job.

Thanks Wayne!

I too am still waiting to hear on "Mr. Bish" as to what he thinks is a fair price as he has been asked.

Lets talk a Vader helmet, if you took it to a autobody shop to do it, as some have, you will pay any where from &#36;100-&#36;300+ for it depending on your area and the body shop.

Would they guilty of "ovecharging" you for painting your bucket, NO, because they will becharging you what it would be like to paint a car.

Is that a fair price to paint a Vader bucket? HECK YES!! Black has got to be one of the most ***** colors to paint because if it is not done right, every little defect will show on it when finished.

Sure you can do it yourself and have it come out great, but it still will take alot of work to do it right and if you take it to someone else to do it, you'll pay for it.

Lynn

DarthBish wrote:
I can't help but ask myself why some of these "fantabulous" fee-charging painters don't put up a few detailed tutorials saying what paint/colour/technique they use and how to achieve various effects??

My friend, I give you one of the most comprehensive color list and technique threads on painting an ESB Boba helmet that is on this site:

http://tdh.prop-planet.com/viewtopic...c=6556&forum=2

This is but one of the many tutorial threads on this site. Oh and Rogue Studios does paint helmets as well. Is it worth the price he charges for the paint job? Well, I have seen many people that have been his customers and no complaints as of yet.

All you need to do is jump on the search feature of the site and look through the painting threads. THere is a wealth of tutorials on here.
www.starwarshelmets.com has a pretty darned good one as well.
I hope this helps you in your search Bish. Helping each other out is what it is all about on this board. Just don't begrudge the man/woman that charges for their time and services. If it is too expensive for you, don't buy it. If you can't do it yourself, give it your best shot till you can afford what you deem reasonable.

Quote:
And as for it's price....Well, licensing costs money dude, need I say more??

That just drives my painting price point even more!! Thats all the more reason that justifies the prices of the fan bucket prices and painting cost because they are cheaper, in most cases, to get a fan bucket with pro paint job, and even cheaper if you do it yourself, verses a high collectable DLX Fett from DP or Rubies that is inferior.


Lynn

Oh my god! It's been a long time since I posted here but ****, I just couldn't let this one go by!

Darthbish, what you have said here (over and over again) is without doubt the biggest insult toward prop artists I've ever encountered since I joined the scene. I think your worst attacks are directed toward Lynn which by the way is a well respected prop builder/painter both here and over at the RPF.

You clearly have no idea how much time, money and efforts that goes into the making and painting of an accurate ESB Boba helmet! Just like Lynn I have offered my building and painting services over the years, so far without any complaints. I ALWAYS go to extreme Lents to make sure my customers gets the most accurate and well made products available. That takes time! Just stop for a second and think what actually goes into making an ESB Boba!

First you're sent a raw fiberglass helmet. This sucker needs to be cleaned, cut, filled and sanded. This is not something done in a flash! During this proses you're also working with materials that are VERY bad for your health.

Then you need to research, collect images and carfully study them, make up plans how to tackle the project and so on. Do you think this is done over a night?

Then comes masking, painting and weathering. Ask anyone who's made a screen accurate ESB helmet and they'll tell you what a cute little project that is!

When I charge people for my service it's always based on how long time I think the project will take to finish. My last Boba helmet which I made for a friend as a trade for he's services took me more then a month to complete. Sure, I only worked on the evenings since I too have a daytime job. That was a month were I spent almost ALL my free time to make this bucket as good as I possible could. In fact it took so much work that I will never accept another ESB helmet. If I by any means should change my mind I would easily charge &#36;400 for the job. Why such a ridiculous high price? Course that's how much a month worth of my evenings costs! You actually think I (and other painters) are gonna give that to you for free just because you like Star Wars too!?

Also, your whining about people not sharing their secrets are also complete BULL! "How to's" are all over the web but you actually have to make the effort to search for them, not everything gets served on a plate. I've put up "how to guides" for almost all my projects. I also spend countless of hours in front of my computer answering e-mails from people who ask for tips and help. I do that because I think it's fun to be able to help others who share my hobby.

Here's the last Boba helmet I made:

If you like it my tutorial it can be found here:
http://www.starwarshelmets.com/

If you don't think you're up to it send me a MSH helmet plus 400 bucks and I'll CONSIDER making it for you.

Steve.

You said it Steve.

Do us all a favor, try doing a helmet yourself, and then come over here and ***** about people's prices.

Geo wrote:
Back to point/ original question asked...

How much for a mystery helmet painted?...

How much for unpainted?...

Ballpark for the guys/gals, no rants.

Last I knew an unpainted one goes between &#36;200-&#36;250.
I paid &#36;200 for the I had 2 years ago.

Lynn

Very good Steve!
You hit the nail right on the head....

Time is money, my time away from the family and shorter sleeping nights to get stuff done just dosn't happen for cheap, it ain't worth it.

I miss doing the work for others because I love to hear how they love it when they get it and I enjoy helping people out, but I barley have time to do my own stuff anymore much less tackle on others work.

Lynn

I paid &#36;400 for an ESB fiberglass, painted mystery something or other. That was maybe 4 months ago.

I think the bottom line should be that you can't put a price on someone ELSE'S time.

None of those mentioned do these offers as a full-time job. While the prices may seem unreasonable to some, I'm sure the wives and significant others of those doing the painting (and other services) would put an even higher price on time spent away from family and other events.

If the price is too high, shop around. You may find a cheaper price, you may even find a better paintjob. That simply means that THAT particular artist does not put as high a price on his/her evenings and weekends. It's not a fault, or a flaw in their thinking, per se, but a choice. It is THEIR choice as to the pricing, just as it is YOUR choice to agree to let them do the work.

I would imagine that the busier an artist is, the higher the price of their free time. And there is no way in heck that the artist is going to lower that price simply by having others grumble about it. The artist would simply not offer their services to those doing the grumbling. I would think that the only reason for an artist to lower their price is if they receive enough negative feedback on the quality or time involved. (There it goes again: speed, quality, budget).

I've enjoyed reading this thread, as it has given some insight to both sides of the arguments. My opinions are my own, of course.

Well said Batninja!

Lynn

I just hope ALL of us keep up the real artistry, work and helpfullness and not let bitterness sway us from our dreams and helping each other out.

Keep up the great work guys, what I have seen albeit affordable and unaffordable is inspiring!

I think it's a little funny how some people are sharing their feelings and thoughts but Bish has not come back in a while. I think we are all in agreement for the most part. That's pretty cool. I was waiting for this to get a little ugly and it really didn't. This may not mean much but I wanted to say thank you to all who posted and kept it civil and grown up. I work with a bunch of irresponsible, childish people. Coming here is a great change. So again, thank you.

Gee, TERRIBLY sorry Laan........It's a little thing called the international time line, and another little thing called sleeping.

lets make sure this stays civil fellas and within the ambit of the CoC

sean

The fundamental point that I'm trying to make is that for any newbies out there, don't let some people here make you think that the only way you'll have a good suit is by forking out big bucks to "X" for "Y".
Have a look at this http://tdh.prop-planet.com/viewtopic...=10218&forum=2 I am completely STUNNED that the painter of this helmet would be embarrassed. It's beautiful, and yet he apologies for it's shortcomings.
This is the mindset that worries me. "That something is not good enough because it hasn't been painted by a "professional"

It seems to be quite difficult for some of you out there to accept that a person can have this opinion and HEAVEN help him/her if they express it.

Laan, your last comment was obviously tainted with a certain "He must've gone into hiding" edge, and to be referred to as "insulting" by others, when I'm merely expressing an opinion is equally as rude.
For a bunch of people, the majority of who seem to live in a land that supposedly upholds the value of "freedom of speech", you've certainly discouraged me from ever wanting to post again.

The Almighty says, "Quit stalling and answer the frickin' question!"

Seriously Bish, how much would you charge for an accurate ESB paintjob on my MLC-1?

If you're thinking <&#36;100 then you'll be a busy man from now on. If your only talking about &#36;25 or &#36;50,then I don't understand the indignation.

DarthBish wrote:
I am completely STUNNED that the painter of this helmet would be embarrassed. It's beautiful, and yet he apologies for it's shortcomings.
This is the mindset that worries me. "That something is not good enough because it hasn't been painted by a "professional"

Actually I find the humility refreshing.

I am by no means a professional but I think people appreciate mine and other peoples work none the less. The people on this board go above and beyond whats necessary to make Noobs (myself included)feel welcome and appreciated. I think Bish may have us confused with another forum.

Thats just my 2 cents.

Bish, I was in no way trying to slam you. I was merely saying we are asking you questions and have had no response from you. I am, as well as others, are very curious to your opinion in this. Jodo_Kast asked you again what others have asked you. how much would you charge for an accurate ESB paint job on my MLC-1? I don't know if you just don't see the questions, are thinking about them, or don't want to answer. But to be quite honest, it's the way that you come across. It feels very harsh to me. If I'm taking it wrong, my apologies. Again my opinion, people are being rubbed the wrong way by how you come across. Instead of being so sarcastic, try a different approach. But, third time is the charm, my opinion.
I have already said my peace and will refrain from saying anything more. But I do however look forward to your answers.

I haven't thought about what I'd charge because I wouldn't put myself in a situation where'd I'd paint someone elses gear, and I can't imagine ever being in the situation where I'd pay someone to do it either. I'd much rather to it myself.

I'm honestly not trying to be a smarta** here, but when someone compliments my suit the feeling of accomplishment that I get when I can say "I did it myself" has gotta be more fullfilling than saying "thanks....I paid a dozen or so other guys to put it together for me".

When I paint/make something, it's a labour of love....I've never thought about what I'd charge "myself", but to me 250 seems too much...........

Bish, it's totally cool that you take pride in "doing it yourself". I'm the exact same way.

But realize that when you can do it yourself for free, ant dollar amount seems like a lot.

As for the "must be perfect to be accepted", I've felt that maybe once in the last year I've been here. My armor is sintra and my ESB flamethrower was dowel with hardware glued to it but mostly everyone has been extremely kind.

As a fellow Do-It-Yourselfer I understand where you're coming from. Just don;t be so quick to judge motives based on prices. I wouldn't give up time with my girls for less than &#36;20 / hour. Even at that, I hate to do it. (unless I'm troopin' that is )

I haven't said anything on this thread cause I have had too much fun reading it. I must say that considering the amount of time and energy that people like Lee and Lynn put into their helmets and other peoples helmets, I think 250 is a fair price for it. I have painted several helmets for a friend of mine and charged him a little more than the price of paint just so I could have a helmet to practice on. I have painted 2 of his helmets in this fasion, they both came out OK I was not totally pleased with them, but he sure was. When it was time for me to decide weither or not to paint my helmet, I decided that I would gladly pay Lee what ever price he asked to do it because I knew it would be perfect. With mine I always see something I want to change, but when it is given to the pro I can't see anything I would change. I figured I spent 250 on a MSH2 helmet I wasn't going to waste my time giving it a so-so paint job. I got the best helmet, I want the best paintjob and will pay for the talent it takes to make it that way.

Oh, and can anyone else see the irony in the fact that I'm hounded to give an estimate on what I'd charge to paint something, and why.

And yet when someone else is asked a similar question and gives "this" answer.

Quote:I don't do a break down of the fees for services rendard, 40+ jobs done I never have, never will

It's ok??.

DarthBish wrote:
Have a look at this http://tdh.prop-planet.com/viewtopic...=10218&forum=2 I am completely STUNNED that the painter of this helmet would be embarrassed. It's beautiful, and yet he apologies for it's shortcomings.
This is the mindset that worries me. "That something is not good enough because it hasn't been painted by a "professional"

It seems to be quite difficult for some of you out there to accept that a person can have this opinion and HEAVEN help him/her if they express it.

Before we get too far from Bish's point, I'd like to reflect back on the thread he posted as his example. If you look at the replies, the GROUP responded rather politely, giving the member a "pat on the back", and telling him he should be proud of his work. So, how is it that the group is giving newbies a "pay someone else for an accurate job" view of things?

I'm someone who doesn't think highly of my own work, I admit it. I've had people give me great reviews, yet I'm my own toughest critic. I've also known other people with the same feelings, and this particular post was apparently started by one such individual. However, this post was pointed-out to us to reflect how the board is giving a negative view to newbies. And from what I've read, the group is doing a great job at trying to do just the opposite. If someone (myself included) doesn't think highly of his/her own work, the group shouldn't be to blame.


ATM
ShackMan

DarthBish wrote:
Oh, and can anyone else see the irony in the fact that I'm hounded to give an estimate on what I'd charge to paint something, and why.

And yet when someone else is asked a similar question and gives "this" answer.

Quote:I don't do a break down of the fees for services rendard, 40+ jobs done I never have, never will

It's ok??.

Bish,
what he was saying in his post is that he is not going to give a breakdown of Supplies, Shipping, Labor Etc. He would put a general price for services rendered and call it that.
Now you on the other hand have repeatedly said that you think the prices being charged are outrageous.
All that has been asked of you is that if Price A is way too inflated, then what would you consider a reasonable price for the same services rendered?
I have personally steered Newbies in the direction of tutorial threads as well as given as much advice as I can on topics because I too am a do it yourselfer much like yourself.
I agree that there is no feeling like that of holding the final product in your hands to say Hey Man, I did this!
I can see that you are agitated and think many of the guys here aer attacking you but they are just trying to see where you are coming from man.

Yeah, but see even if I think my helmet is ******, now that I've done it myself I know how hard it must be for those who make, what in my opinion, are better paint jobs and I in no way shape of from can critisize their asking price.

Why should I say a price??......I've already said that I beleive 250 is too much, and since then I've been berated for every other point I've tried to make, why the heck should I leave myself wiiiiiiiiide open for more abuse??

DarthBish wrote:
Why should I say a price??......I've already said that I beleive 250 is too much, and since then I've been berated for every other point I've tried to make, why the heck should I leave myself wiiiiiiiiide open for more abuse??

Ok, you have acused people in this thread of being Drama Queens and such so you haven't been completely cordial yourself in your viewpoint. I guess it boils down to the fact that you were making a bold statement with a lot of passion behind it but do not want to back that statement with anything to gauge it by.
I am not sure if you are talking in this Thread or about another but I haven't seen anyone berate you nor abuse you yet in this thread.
You jumped into this thread on the defensive from the get go.
I have been interested in your viewpoint as have several others.

I just have to put my few words in here, ignore them as you will.

I see both points to this argument. When it comes down to it, if you think the price is too high, you don't need to pay it. Shop around! Or paint it yourself!

It's your choice.

I've looked at prices for Buckets on e-bay. And they can be highly priced, though so can Stormie Helms (and they have less of a paint job!) Personally I'm going to paint my '95. But my first upgrade will be a bigger bucket, which I'll get painted by someone else. The reason for this is that due to my location (New Zealand) I find it hard to get.. well mostly everything **** thing involved with Fett and I'll find it easier to just get the whole thing done in the states before sending it over. Those are my reasons for it, not everyone will agree with them.

In re-reading this particular forum I think everyone has argued their points, but this is nearly becoming a flame-fest.

Bish, you have got a point. But your reaction to Lynn's first statement was aggressive and got progressively worse.

And Lynn's reply was light-hearted but due to the joy of the written word, it can be read as sarcastic.

And it just got worse from there...

Now it seems that the arguments aren't expanding, they are just repeating.

Ah well... there's my contribution. Not sure what reaction to expect from this, but hey!

You make a good point, my reaction may have been aggressive but it was in response to what I believed was a degrogatory term.
If I took it the wrong way there's been plenty of opportunities for the way it was said to be clarified, and yet there's been no such clarification. Therefore I can only assume that it was meant the way that I took it.

Whew I was sent a link to this thread and it took me awhile to get to the bottom. It looks like everyone has good points to present I can see the view of both sides. I'm not going to try and sway anyone's opinion in anyway since I feel all points are valid and there is no sense is stirring the logs.

I would like to state first and foremost I personaly do not use this board as a billboard if you look through my posts I don't think I have ever made offers for my services except for one time and that was it. I have been approached to paint or build items by direct contact from interested parties. I and several other folks have made posts on how to assist painting and building your helmet there is no big secret past that except experience and knowledge and that is what I feel you pay for when you have a helmet built for you. Talent is a plus that you do not pay for, just part of the package.

I wouldn't get too intwined as to what cost what etc. the bottom line is is it worth it to you since you are the one who has to be pleased with the final product. I mean the exact same helmet may cost &#36;150 on Ebay on one day and you might nab it for &#36;100 on another has nothing to do with anything except what you as the consumer are willing to pay. The same goes for build ups and paint jobs. I have a studio scale model I paid &#36;1800 for and I have to scratch build most of the metal cages and the spine which cost me another &#36;200 and I had to teach myself soldering with a mini torch. Anyway I don't have half the time involved in this model as it takes to paint a Fett accurately and I have been told if I sell it that I should be asking around &#36;6500 for the model completed. This is what the maker of the kits gets for these. Would I pay that much for this model? No, because I can do it myself for &#36;1800 or so. There are not that many folks inclined to build it for their own or do not have facilities to set up a shop buy the needed tools and supplies or even have the PATIENCE to do a project. Now these folks are willing to pay what it is needed to get the desired product.

Actually if you ask my wife she is pretty pissed I didn't charge enough for these helmets and without build up it was on average around &#36;350 a helmet. I painted 8 of these at the same time and I spent months of research talking to folks that worked on the original helmets and suit I amassed a huge phone bill talking to these folks and 8 months of my time in research before I threw the first color. I'm not defending my prices in any way as a matter of fact one individual on this board sold a helmet I painted for &#36;1250 on auction and even after my charges he profited well over &#36;500 on this helmet, do I feel bad? NO absolutely not because I charged what I felt the work was worth if he made more on it that is fine but this brings to question what is to stop anyone else from doing the same? It's a dual edged sword if you ask me and we're not all bad guys for offering our serivces.
Also another issue I have not seen brought up is customer service. When you take on product and perform a service you now have a customer and you are responsible for their satisfaction on product delivery. At this point this customer may email you every day asking questions or you may never hear from them at all. This may be questions on changing something or adding something and believe it or not this is work too. You also have to provide feedback on your progress with me it's not everyday but if I have made progress you will know about it and that is why I post it on the board it's not to parade my wares if you get my meaning.

I do not slap paint on and ship it out the door what you get from me is a helemt that has all of the beat up and used properties of a movie prop helmet that is the basis of my work. These(the real helmets) get tossed around and scratched up like crazy it gives it character this I feel is what my customer pays for.

I hope this doesn't sound like a big advertisement since a lot of you know I am not taking on additional work right now to work on some of my Models that I have been wanting to finish and some personal Fett stuff too. But this is an disagreement that could go on and on and we should all come to a agreement to disagree and press on. If you need help all you need to do in PM anyone on this board and they will help you or point you to who will. I can see the frustrations but there is no need for it just ask and we'll help.

Take care and drop me or anyone here a PM if you need help.

"I would be doing myself and the band a disservice if I didn't play the hell out of this thing!"

OK...since everyone has pretty much stated their arguments...I think it's time for a group hug!

Roger that!

I think what we all need is

MORE COWBELL!

Copy!

Darthbish... If I offended you in any way, then I'm sorry and I apologize, none of my comments were ment that way.

My first comment "Boy, have you got a lot to learn." was not meant to offend you, but I still stand by it.

As stated by Rouges Studios, it takes more then just a little coat of paint to get the job done, and that takes time which equals &#36;&#36;&#36;.

Group hug every one.

Lynn

can i take off the flak jacket now? Looks like all is clear

All right, who is buying the first round at C3 over this?

Whoa... did I fix things? what's up with that? usually I just make it more broken!

E2K13 wrote:
All right, who is buying the first round at C3 over this?

I think that should be Seeker.

judz dwedd wrote:

E2K13 wrote:
All right, who is buying the first round at C3 over this?

I think that should be Seeker.

In that case, he can buy the first 2 rounds! LOL

Somebody's gonna have to let him know, sinc he never visited this thread.

ok........in retrospect I was a little bit "snippy" too
Apologies accepted.