Forgive me but I feel the need to let off steam.
I am always delighted when a customer contacts me with a request for a custom order. I may be naive and too trusting but I usually undertake the job without asking for a deposit. I assume that if the order backfires I will always be able to sell it anyway through my shop.
However, when I make something to match a previous order and that person fails to communicate, I think I have every right to be annoyed.
I am trying not to let this affect how I choose to accept any custom orders because the vast majority of craft buyers realise the effort and indeed the cost involved.
I would love to hear your stories, thoughts and advice on this.