I recently had someone ask me about one of my specific techniques. (The one I'm the most secretive about!) This person also makes and sells felt toys so a little red flag instantly went up in my mind. Unsure how to handle the question, I politely explained that I couldn't elaborate. Today I got a miffed reply saying that they weren't looking for my "trade secrets" and rephrased their question. I felt bad so I gave them a nudge in the right direction without specifically telling them how I do it.
The internet is an extremely hard place to be sincere. Most interactions we have with people is text on a screen. It's impossible to gauge the intentions of the people you talk to. I've had my fair share of miscommunications and some scares regarding this. For instance, a few years back I had an interaction with someone online who lied about their identity and caused me a lot of grief. It turned out to be someone I know (and dislike) who was trying to trick me into doing something for them. Fortunately, I'm no chump. I figured out who it was and put an end to it.
When it comes to my work, I'm extremely guarded. It's very hard to be unique these days. Especially when there are so many people out there making products similar to mine. I've found that if I give people an inch, they take the whole yard which is why I never discuss my techniques with anyone anymore. I'm not trying to be unkind, I'm just trying to protect the techniques I've spent years perfecting. Besides, it's fun to be a little mysterious. ;-)
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3 comments:
People have no right in asking you your techniques, especially if they make similar products! Like you said, you worked hard to perfect it. They should do the same.
I love your work! You have a right to guard it! :)
Sorry you had to deal with that. Your work is sooo cute!
how do you do that? lol we've all heard it---you handled it well.
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