Ask the Experts Teaching Q&A

How do I charge for teaching how to make jewelry? I'll be carrying the products myself (beads, etc.). There isn't anyone here who teaches at all in my area. I know in Houston they do, but it's 2 hrs away.

- Dale

The decision to teach involves more than just what to charge. You want to make sure that you have the skills to instruct effectively, are fully aware of all the safety precautions and equipment required and are prepared to create a memorable learning experience for your students.

Instructors generally charge per person, per class, and materials can be included in that cost, or you can ask students to buy a packet of materials at the time of the instruction. How much to charge can vary based on your level of experience, the experience level you require of your students and any supporting materials (worksheets, written diagrams, etc.) that you plan to distribute. 

To get a sense of what others are charging, do a search online for bead or jewelry shows where classes are offered and investigate the range of prices. 

Keep in mind that when an instructor is presenting a class at a commercial show, the show promoter/sponsor is taking a cut of the class fee, so you'll need to adjust your own class fees downward accordingly, perhaps as much as 50-75%.

- Dr. David Weiman