Never Give Away Your Mural Painting For Free
Posted by: THAT Painter Lady in Faux Business SkillsOh.. I went on a rant about this… sometimes you will be asked to do a mural painting for free… out of the goodness of your heart… Let me just be clear… don't ever… ever give away your mural or faux painting for free:
Hi Debra! I just stumbled across your site and I love it!
Ok, so I really need some help.
I am a painter who is just starting out in the mural business. I've done a couple for myself and family, but haven't had a real client YET.
Recently, I found someone who will be opening a school for mentally handicapped children and is wanting the walls painted in all of the rooms (ie. bubbles, frogs, etc).
Since I looked at this as a way to build my portfolio I told her that I would donate my time.
Now, I'm starting to get second thoughts. I will be meeting with her in a couple of days and I know the rooms are going to be big and the work will be extensive.
How do I go about getting something out of the deal? I honestly look at it as advertising for myself and my business, but I don't want to run myself into the ground over it. PLEASE HELP!!!
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And here is my rant about giving away your mural painting for free:
No No No… you don't give away anything for free… even if they are a
non-profit group… they have money to spend.
You must present yourself professionally and present them with a
contract for the work you will be providing.. If you want to give them a
discount, because they are doing something great for the community…
great.
But… don't give a discount because you are new… or are doing it for
the advertising… or doing it because you want to build a portfolio.
The reality is… you need a contract. This protects both of you. You
will have a signed document that details exactly what you will do and
when the work should be accomplished.
The other party has a contract… so they can see exactly what you are
going to do for them and they can't ask for you to do more, unless they
pay more.
This paid contract will also cover all your expenses. Your paint, your
time, your gas…. etc.
Never ever give your mural painting for free. When I was new… I fell into this trap… and it didn't help me get one cent of paid work.
You don't have to charge a mint, just a fair amount for the work.
If they don't want to pay you… don't get depressed or discouraged. It
happens to all of us. We all have to grow a thick skin in business. It's
just business.
Move on…
If they do want you to work… contact the local newspaper immediately
and talk to someone in the lifestyle section or business section… a
reporter is best. Tell them what you are up too, and would they like to
come take some pictures for a story! Don't wait until the work is done
and the business is open. Then that day care business will be the new
story and you won't be.
Technorati Tags: mural painting, painting for free, small business profit, business to make money
Write back if you need more help about mural painting for free.








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