So I'm a vendor now???

**Strapped-4-Cache** · 07-23-2010, 07:37

Before my daughter went on a trip with another family a few weeks ago, I grabbed a bunch of my cheap WM ripstop and created hammocks for all of the kids on the trip, along a double-layer version for the mom taking them.

My wife just called me to let me know of a comment passed on to her by the mom who headed up the trip. There are several people in Michigan that have seen my DIY rigs and want to know how much I'd charge to make some more.

These hammocks are very simple Traveler-style knockoffs, but they’re nothing as nice as Brandon’s rigs. The whipping is done with cheap polyester cord, the suspension is made of the inexpensive Harbor Freight straps, and the adjustment for the suspension is the original cam buckles for those straps. Not graceful, not light, but easy to hang and adjust.

I’ve just gone through another several yards of ripstop creating shells for a couple of UQs, so I guess I’m going to have to get some sources for more fabric online. My local WM no longer carries fabric and I cleaned them out when it all went to 75% off.

Like a said in an earlier thread I started, I don’t see how any of our forum members make money on the products they sell. By the time I factor in the cost of all the bits and pieces, and charge for the time to make it, the cost of the items exceeds what people would be willing to pay. I’ve got to admit that I was flattered that other people would want some hammocks like the ones I made, but I’m pretty sure that when I give a price for one they may reconsider having me make one for them. They could probably get an ENO cheaper.

Just figured I’d share. The comments I got made today’s workload (at my real job) a bit more bearable.

- Mark (S-4-C)

**Hawk-eye** · 07-23-2010, 07:51

DIY projects ... at least for the average guy are seldom cost effective ... but it can happen. Most of the joy comes from just making it. If you can do it for a savings of any kind ... even sweeter.

The group cottage industries work hard for their profits I'm sure ... and while I like making my own gear when I can or have the time ... I appreciate good gear from those guys and gals.

**Bubba** · 07-23-2010, 08:01

Any pictures of your work? You must do good work and I'd love to see it. Its nice that you received such a response.

**GvilleDave** · 07-23-2010, 08:57

I know what you mean. When you count all your costs for materials even using the WM fabric that leaves a precious little room to recoup any labor. When I compare that to what Tom Claytor charges for his "No Net" - $40, I am blown away.

DIY for me will remain a hobby that I enjoy and I don't count my labor as a cost, rather I chalk it up to recreation so for me DIY is a savings.

**Ramblinrev** · 07-23-2010, 10:10

Cottage industry is a tough way to make a buck. Eventually, if you are any good, you reach a point where you need to make a decision between doing it in your spare time... which becomes non-existent.. and taking the leap from the "real job" to jump into the depths of trying to make your living solely from the industry you love. It's scary and it needs a certain mindset and products. There's nothing wrong with the hobbyist selling a few items to his friends and cohorts. But to really make the cottage industry go you have to believe that what you are charging is not only fair to everyone but worth the expenditure. IMO trying to compete with the "big boys" leads only to frustration and bitterness. But if you have something unique and of value to offer, then knock yourself out. Set the price just at the choke level after expenses and start slow and small. (IOW can _you_ quote the price without choking? If so.. you are priced too low. A little gag is not a choke.)

**Strapped-4-Cache** · 07-23-2010, 10:38

Nope, I’m not planning on making gear on a regular basis, other than for myself. I almost turned a hobby into a business once, only to have all of the fun sucked out of it. Not gonna happen again. The main thing that initially tempted me about selling a few is that I’m going to need to replace my laptop soon. There’s just not enough profit in the venture to make that happen, though.

I imagine I can make a limited run of hammocks for the people that are interested, IF the work can be done without losing any money. Breaking even is fine, and making a bit on the side is even better. I imagine, though, that when I price everything out and give a quote that most of the interest will disappear.

That’s fine. It’ll give me more time to work on the sleeve for my IX UQ. I’ve created a rough copy of Mac’s design on InsulBright, which is NOT the same as IX, but the steeply discounted material from the WM stock reduction made it worth picking up. It’s allowed me to have an UQ for both my wife and myself at a fraction of the cost. Once the sleeve design is worked out I’ll be able to have reversible material to cover the white UQ, depending on need. Breathable ripstop on top, DWR on bottom, various colors, etc. I have plenty to keep me busy with my own gear without adding other stuff to the mix.

**WonderMonkey** · 07-23-2010, 13:02

Increasing profit on an item to the point of coming close to "worth it" is an interesting exercise. Buying in bulk, having a repeatable process and getting skilled enough to lower your production time are all key. AND maintaining or improving quality! Nothing new to the crowd here.

I occasionally buy in bulk to reduce costs and do a local "group buy" type thing with a few Scouting organizations in the area as well as some of my normal clients.