Contacting Guide

Version 1 — July 25, 2026

You're about to message an independent craftsperson. Two minutes here will make the conversation better — and protect you both.

How commissions usually work

A good first message says what you want, roughly when you need it, and your budget range. The artisan replies with feasibility, a quote or range, and a timeline. Custom work commonly involves a deposit (often 25–50%) with the balance on completion. Every studio runs differently — ask how they work.

Spotting a scam

Most people here are exactly who they say they are. Watch for the exceptions:

• Overpayment tricks. Anyone who "accidentally" sends too much and asks you to refund the difference is running the oldest scam on the internet.
• Pressure to leave the platform immediately — especially to continue in apps or channels that can't be reported or traced.
• Payment methods with no recourse: wire transfers, gift cards, crypto from someone you've never worked with. Prefer methods with buyer/seller protection, and get the agreement in writing.
• Prices wildly below what the work could possibly cost. Handmade takes hours; someone offering it for almost nothing is selling something else.
• Links and attachments you weren't expecting. Don't open them; report the message.
• Sob stories and urgency. Legitimate commissions survive a day of thinking it over.

Protect your information

Never share passwords, financial logins, card numbers, or identity documents in messages — no commission requires them. Share a shipping address only when work is actually underway, and only with the person making the piece.

Etiquette

• Read the artisan's page before asking what it already answers.
• Name your budget honestly. "What would something like this cost?" is a fine opener; haggling after a fair quote is not.
• Custom work takes time. Ask for a timeline once, then trust it or don't commission.
• Silence is an answer. If a studio doesn't reply, move on rather than sending follow-up after follow-up.
• Be kind. You're talking to the person who will make your thing with their hands.

If something goes wrong

Use Report on any message that feels off — it flags the conversation for review. Block stops further contact instantly. If money is involved, contact your payment provider promptly; Craftworker does not process payments and cannot reverse them.