Congratulations to Isaac Knuuttila of All Seasons Upholstery in Houghton, Michigan. He takes home this week’s prize for “Comment of the Week” — a convertible top courtesy of Electron Top!
Trimmers from all over the world left fantastic comments on The Hog Ring this week. While many were awesome and deserving of a prize, we chose Isaac for his comment on a forum thread titled: “Shot in the foot!”
As community members know, the thread is about suppliers that encourage DIY-ers. Here’s an excerpt from Isaac’s comment:
I wouldn’t get too worked up over it. Most of the DIY customers they steal are not your customers anyway. They are just looking for any way to save a buck on that particular project (they just might be relieving you of some headaches.) Let them save some money where they can then when they come across a project they are serious about they will be willing to spend the money to get it done right. Just always let customers know you are not the cheap work around option that they are looking for.
Any customers questioning material cost I let them know I have to make what I have to make on any given job I do regardless of where it shows the money is coming from. It costs lots of time, money, effort and storage space, having samples to show customers and knowing the proper material for a particular job.
We appreciate Isaac’s comment because it provides solid perspective on the DIY market, as well as some great tips on how to handle customers who question our material costs.
Thank you Isaac for sharing your professional experience and insight with our community. That’s what The Hog Ring is all about!
We’d also like to give special thanks to Electron Top for sponsoring this week’s contest. Family owned and operated since 1960, Electron Top is recognized throughout the auto upholstery industry as a leading manufacturer of quality convertible tops — as well as a champion of independent trim shops.
Whatever you need, you’ll find it at Electron Top. Their pattern list dates back to the early 1900s and includes nearly every domestic and import convertible top manufactured. Best of all, their staff is knowledgeable, experienced and always available to answer installation questions.
To learn more about Electron Top or to set up a business account, call (800) 221-4476 or visit ElectronTop.com.
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