Pricing TMI and A Request for Your Opinion

"Life in the Eau C" designed by Susan $175

*First, this is Susan, speaking for Susan alone. These are my thoughts.
Readying for this week's sale, I am once again in Pricing Hell...
 Pricing art and craft work is never an easy task. For me, the traditional retail model of calculating ones cost and marking up a certain percent breaks down right away. Objects used in my reconstructed jewelry have been gathered over many years at auctions, markets, eBay, thrift stores, and relatives. Same with the fabrics, ribbons, old sheet music, vintage books, antique tinsel, etc used in constructing my scarves and paper art. Additionally, for every canvas or collage that I think "good enough" to offer for sale, there are usually three or four sacrificed along the way, waiting to be painted over. Costs for rent, income taxes, advertising, website, and other expenditures for being in business should come into play as well. And yet, when I come up with a price after taking these factors into account, sales are few and far between.

Pottery Barn Sign $199 Imported from Asia

America and Its Low Price Love Affair
As a culture, we can't help but be influenced by the sea of low cost bargain goods coming in from China. A "Simply Vera" Vera Wang necklace (designed, no doubt, by some underlings managing her brand with Vera herself probably exerting creative control with a thumbs up) at Kohls marked $54 is never actually on sale for $54 because everything at Kohls is discounted right away. The consumer usually gets it for $20 or so and feels clever to have gotten such a deal. I get it. I know this because I am a consumer and experience this myself! HOWEVER, I never feel great about the purchase. The necklace was made in China where working conditions can be abysmal. It's cute, but even now I can tell it won't hold up past a few wearings. It feels a little generic, cold, and, quite frankly, fake.

So Now What? I'm not sure. Will you help me figure this out?

I am committed to using thread, leather, jewelry components, and materials that are recycled, vintage, or made in America whenever possible. If unavailable, I'll look for supplies made in countries that have made a commitment to human rights. Made in China is a last resort because of quality concerns and personal philosophical differences.  
I will make art and design things no matter what, but can I stay in business operating this way?

Even if consumers in the Chippewa Valley want to support local artists and American businesses, can they afford to do so?
I think what I make is original, worth sharing, and meets a need in the marketplace.

My prices must reflect the cost (estimated - see above) of materials and a working wage for myself of at least $8 to $10/hour.

With children in college, a mortgage, taxes, and a 9 yr old car, I can relate to the financial pressures facing many of my customers.

I Promise and a Request
I promise to price fairly and to the best of my ability, offer excellent value.

I promise to support and encourage local businesses and retailers whenever possible.

I promise to listen and respond to feedback, questions, and concerns regarding my work and the words written in this blog.

Will you please tell me your opinion? Use the comments section or email me: info@themarketeauclaire.com

Thanks for reading this far. I'd really appreciate any thoughts you have on this topic.

xo Susan