How to Keep Friends From Taking Advantage of Your Embroidery Machine

How to avoid those "Favor Requests:"

Once people know you have a home embroidery machine, the "favor requests" come pouring in. One wants a name on a baby gift, another for their kid's jacket, etc. One or two requests are OK, but what people don't realize is the thousands of dollars you spent on this new hobby of yours.

So how do you deal with that situation? You want to help your neighbors or friends out, but every time you turn around you're heading to the notions store for more supplies - walking away spending another $100!

Here's a little tip on how to get those friends to be your best advocate. Simply say:

"Oh, I wish I could but I'm out of stabilizer and my next paycheck isn't until Friday. Darn, I need another way to support my hobby. Hey, maybe I could do this type of work for you and others like you? Can you think of anyone else that wants this type of embroidery?"

OK, so you don't get a paycheck - use the excuse "...and I promised my husband I wouldn't go back to the notions store until next month".  Or simply say, "...and I've been to the notions store so often they laugh at me," or "...I'm just swamped this week".

Either they will help you gather business, or understand that it takes money to run that machine. If they still don't get it, remind them of the local embroidery store at the mall.

Enjoy your PASSION!

Jean Norton, owner of http://www.AffordableDesigns.net, sells embroidery designs and offers a monthly e-zine offering tips and advice to the home embroiderer. She can be reached at jean@affordabledesigns.net.