Commission Management: The Complete Guide for Makers
From first enquiry to final handover — how to manage bespoke commissions without losing your mind or your clients.
Why most artisans hate commissions
Commissions should be the most profitable part of your business. Instead, they’re the most stressful. The problem isn’t the work — it’s the chaos around the work: scattered WhatsApp threads, unclear briefs, forgotten deadlines, and clients who ghost after the deposit.
The 7-stage commission pipeline
Every commission follows the same lifecycle. Most makers handle it in their head. Here’s how to systematise it:
Stage 1: Enquiry
A potential client reaches out. Capture their name, what they want, their budget range, and their timeline. Don’t discuss pricing yet — that comes after the brief.
Stage 2: Brief & Scoping
Turn the vague request into a specific brief. Ask: What materials? What size? What’s the occasion? What’s the deadline? This is where you qualify whether it’s a good fit.
Stage 3: Quote & Deposit
Send a formal quote based on your pricing formula. Require a 50% deposit before starting any work. No exceptions.
Stage 4: Design Approval
Share sketches, mockups, or reference images. Get written approval before proceeding. This prevents the “that’s not what I wanted” conversation later.
Stage 5: Production
Track your hours and materials against the quote. If scope creep happens, flag it immediately and renegotiate before continuing.
Stage 6: Final Payment & Handover
Collect the remaining 50% before shipping or handing over the piece. Include care instructions and a personal note. This is where you turn a buyer into a repeat patron.
Stage 7: Follow-Up & Testimonial
Two weeks after delivery, ask how they’re enjoying the piece. Request a photo and a testimonial for your portfolio. This feeds your next commission cycle.
The tool that does this for you
StudioForge’s Commission Kanban board manages all 7 stages in one place — with client CRM, deposit tracking, design approvals, and automated follow-ups built in.