This was my first commission job – a Walnut, corner broom closet for my neighbor. She had an old carved panel she wanted me to incorporate into the front. I completely whiffed on the cost estimate – told her I thought materials would be about $400, turned out Total material costs were $850 – yikes I hate when that happens! Cost of Walnut here in Southern California has gone through the roof!
In the end, I'll probably end up making about $10 an hour. Turns out it's really tough making money building furniture. I'm retired from my real job and it's not like I'm trying to feed my family with this work. I just thought it would have at least some nominal economic reward. I confess I'm a little discouraged. I'm sure the primary economic problem here is my poor estimation skills. I just wonder how any professional woodworker survives?
Best, Mike