BrieKalan2 Posted January 5, 2017 Share Posted January 5, 2017 This is a post I wrote for the Ladies of the Legion group this morning, but it applies to us just as much as it does other groups. So, some helpful tips for when you're shopping for that dream costume: Feel free to add info! Tips n Tricks for buying armor and costume parts—Buyer Beware! FIRST: We’ve all had bad experiences—this post is about how to prevent it, not bash on the people who caused the problems. So you want to make a costume, and need parts that you can’t make yourself? Common problem—we all have that. Not everyone can sew, sculpt, cast, etc. You’ve found a seller who makes exactly what you need…now what? Here’s a quick guide. 1) Check with your fellow ladies, or club members. See if anyone knows the seller and his/her work, and responsiveness. Look for quality, fit, timeliness, how fast they respond to email, and overall customer service. 2) Check within your respective costume clubs membership officers/groups as well, they may have heard of the seller and or vendor and can provide feedback. 3) Compare prices/quality with other vendors. Not always easy for one of a kind parts, but at least try to research before you buy! 4) USE PAYPAL! Paypal protects the buyer more than your average credit card company. Be SURE to pay with “Goods and Services” –since this gives you the option to file a dispute if you haven’t received the the item in less than 180 days. DO NOT PAY FRIENDS AND FAMILY—this removes your dispute option. 5) Require a tracking number at shipment-and if it costs more to get tracking, do it. 6) Make sure the package has insurance—and pay for it if you have to! 7) Try to buy from runs that are small and have firm deadlines. Large open runs with waiting lists can run YEARS and these are where you lose money. 8) For INTERNATIONAL transactions—some extra items to think of—get your shipping quotes UP FRONT, international shipping is extremely expensive, and the potential for extra cost is high. Be aware there are always customs and duties taxes/fees which are also very large, AND outside of the sellers control. Some shipping companies charge more for customs fees than others and will be on top of what you pay for shipping! Over all—buyer beware! Keep good notes, keep all receipts and emails, and watch your timelines! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
djrue Posted January 5, 2017 Share Posted January 5, 2017 Excellent points. Big ones are points 1 and 2. Ask first. I'd also like to add - Check the CRL first. Make sure the pieces you're eyeing are accurate to the costume you're building. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
PunkRocketScience Posted January 5, 2017 Share Posted January 5, 2017 If it seems like the deal is too good to be true, it might be! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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