Estimating costs and charges

[Sgian Dubh]

I've been using a method of estimating furniture projects for many years now, well about three decades really as it's evolved from a simple basic structure to something more comprehensive, ie, it now describes more processes or tasks, and allows for newer methods of work, although CNC production techniques aren't properly accomodated. I am aware every professional develops a system of estimating costs, time involved to make a project, and what to charge a customer, and the system I use certainly won't suit everyone.

The system works well for me in my area of specialism, ie, one-off pieces of furniture, and I can adapt it to other woodworking projects, eg, built-in work, batch production, architectural doors, and so on. On the other hand I fully understand that other woodworkers might find the whole approach outlined there unhelpful-- it depends on how you work, how your business is structured, and so on.

I developed the document Estimating for Furniture Makers: is the price right?several years ago.

Note. May 11, 2018. It's no longer available on my website, therefore the link has been removed. Slainte.

 

[maltrout512]

Thanks for sharing. I must admit that my pricing to make furniture is along the same lines as yourself, but does not go into as much detail. Amounts to the same thing at the end of the day. Thanks again for sharing Richard.

 

[Sean Hellman]

Thanks for that, very interesting reading. As someone who is self taught and never worked for anyone else it is always interesting to see how others charge and how long processes take.