How to Brief a Maker and Get Better Quotes for Custom Work

To commission a custom piece, write a request that explains what you want, what it is for, how big it should be, how many you need and when you need it, then add photos or sketches. The clearer your brief, the more accurate and comparable the quotes you receive. This guide shows what to include, how a weak request differs from a strong one, and how to choose between replies.

Start with the purpose

Say what the piece is for and where it will be used. A sign for a garden gate needs different materials from one for a bedroom wall. A mug for daily use needs different printing from a display item. Purpose helps a maker suggest the right material, method and finish, even when you have not decided yet.

What to include in your request

Work through this list and include whatever applies:

• What it is. Describe the item in your own words.
• Sizes. Give measurements in cm or mm, or the space it has to fit.
• Quantity. One, ten or a hundred changes both price and method.
• Materials. Name a preference (wood, acrylic, cotton, resin, PETG) or say you are open to suggestions.
• Colours. List them, and add a photo or colour reference if matching matters.
• Text and wording. Write it out exactly, including spelling and any names or dates.
• Deadline. Give a "needed by" date and say whether it is firm, such as an event, or flexible.
• Budget. An honest range helps makers propose something that suits, and it is optional on Hire a Maker.
• Photos and sketches. Even a rough drawing or a photo of something similar says more than a paragraph.
• Location and delivery. Say whether you can collect or need posting.

If your idea involves a brand, logo, sports team or character, remember that makers need permission to reproduce someone else's artwork, so ask for an original design or supply your own.

Weak and strong requests

These short examples are written to illustrate the difference. They are not real customer stories.

Weak request

I need some custom signs. How much?

A maker cannot price this. They do not know the size, material, wording, quantity or date, so they must ask questions or guess.

Strong request

I would like 12 table number signs for a wedding on 14 June, each about 30 cm wide, in pale wood with black lettering. Each sign needs its table number, with "Sophie and Dan, 14.6.27" underneath. I would like them to stand on small easels. I have attached a photo of a style I like. My budget is around £150 in total, and I am in Stockport. I can collect or have them posted.

This gives the maker the size, quantity, finish, wording, deadline, budget and delivery in one message. They can reply with a clear price and timing straight away.

The same approach works for any craft. A 3D printing brief might list the object's measurements and the material. A vinyl, sublimation or embroidery brief might supply the artwork, garment type and sizes. A laser cutting, CNC or resin brief might detail dimensions, thickness and finish.

How to compare replies

Put the replies side by side and look beyond the headline price:

1. Does it match your brief? Check size, material, colour and quantity.
2. What is included? Look for design time, finishing, packaging and postage.
3. Timings. Compare when the maker can start, finish and deliver.
4. Ideas and advice. A good reply often suggests improvements you had not considered.
5. Examples of previous work. Look at their profile photos for quality and style.
6. How they communicate. Prompt, clear answers are a good sign.

The cheapest quote is not always the best fit. Pick the maker who understands your idea and gives you confidence.

Agree the details in writing

Once you choose a maker, confirm everything in writing, for example in the message thread:

• Final design, size, material and colours
• The exact wording or artwork
• Total price and what it covers
• Delivery or collection arrangements and dates
• What happens if you want a change

Ask to see a proof or mock-up before production, especially for text, names and dates. Check spelling and dimensions carefully, and say yes only when you are happy. Price, payment and delivery are agreed directly between you and the maker. Hire a Maker does not take payments, take a commission, or take part in the agreement, so settle how and when payment happens before work starts.

Questions people ask

Do I need to know what I want before I post a request?

No. A rough idea, a photo and your budget are enough to start. Makers can suggest materials and methods.

Should I include my budget?

It is optional, but it helps. A maker can then propose the best option within your range instead of guessing.

How many photos can I add?

Hire a Maker lets you add up to 4 optional photos or sketches to a request.

What if I want to change something later?

Message the maker as soon as you can. Changes are easiest before work begins, and a revised price or date should be confirmed in writing.

Can I contact a maker directly instead?

Yes. You can browse makers by craft and location and message them from their profile.

Ready to commission your piece? Post a free request and you will sign in with a link sent to your email. Choose the craft that fits best, such as 3D printing, vinyl and Cricut or laser cutting and engraving, and see how it works if you would like the full picture.