Hey guys I just want to go over a few tips for those who want to be a maker and take commissions.
1. Don't beg people for money to get started
This is a pretty common thing I see. Someone wants to start a fursuit company so they ask around for people to give them money for supplies. This is very unprofessional and can lead to some complex situations where the person who gave money is unhappy with the result because you have no experience yet. Save up or wait until you can afford materials. A decent head can be made for less than $100.
2. Don't take commissions before you practice first. This one goes with the first tip. Too often I see people offering commissions just to tell everyone interested that they have no examples. Again this is very unprofessional. If you want to start a fursuit business do it the right way. Start with some easy things like tails, ears, and paws to get a feel for working with the fur. Then move on to making a head.
3. Research. Before you begin making anything watch lots of different tutorials . and find the methods you think will work best for you. This way if something isn't working once you begin you have alternative options for building the suit.
4. Wait until you are 18. I know a lot of people will disagree with this one but I think it's very important. Do not take commissions or sell suits until you are a legal adult. It is actually illegal in most places to sell items as a craftsman if you are under age. If you are underage it's a great time to start practicing. Make items for yourself or friends. The more you practice the better your work will be when you will be ready to sell them!
5. Get a business/sales permit. In most places it is necessary to register your business. This can be pretty easy and is done online in most cases. This is especially important if you plan on selling items at events. Once you're ready to start your actual business look into this. If you sell things without one you could get in big trouble and have to pay some pretty hefty fines Fines.
6. Create policies. You don't want to just randomly take commissions without any kind of policies. Create these for payments, refunds, commission types, shipping, and anything else you'd like to keep consistent with your commissioners. Look here for the full guide.
7. Create a business PayPal account and make a wordpress website. Having a more professional PayPal account can help make your customers feel more secure with the process. Make invoices for payments and keep track of your sales. Don't ever take snail mail for large sums of money in cash. If stolen it falls under your responsibility for accepting payment that way. A website can help build you brand and create trust for your business in the community.
8. Make a brand. Come up with a catchy name for your company and make a logo or have a logo made. This should be done before making your website, getting your permit, and setting up your company. Make sure the name isn't in use already.
9. Be available for your customers. Make sure to answer Inquiries and questions asap. Be kind and keep in contact while working on their orders. Create a bond with your clients!
10. Have fun. Enjoy your work and have pride in it! This will improve the quality of your work. I know all the business stuff can seem intimidating but you can get the hang of it pretty quick. Being a fursuit maker is a wonderful hobby or career. You get to make people happy and bring their dreams to life. You can then start making all kinds of fursuit event fursuits for kids.
That's all for now. I hope this can help some of you who are just starting out. Remember these are tips more for people who want to make a business out of it. Some of it is unnecessary for those who are just doing it for fun. Thanks for reading!
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