5 Steps to a Secure Bespoke Tailoring Sale on Folksy

Your 5-Step Guide to Secure Bespoke Tailoring Sales on Folksy

Selling bespoke tailoring on Folksy requires attention to detail and proactive security measures. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and secure peer-to-peer transaction for both you and your buyer.

Step 1: Verify Buyer Intent and Details

Before accepting an order, thoroughly review the buyer's profile, read any available reviews, and check their communication history. Be wary of buyers who are overly eager, provide vague details about their needs, or push for off-platform communication immediately. For high-value bespoke tailoring orders (typically over $500), we strongly recommend using Safe Trade Services' Premium Plan for enhanced identity verification of both parties.

Step 2: Clear Communication and Customization

Maintain clear and detailed communication regarding measurements, fabric choices, design specifications, and expected delivery times. Document all agreed-upon details in writing, ideally within Folksy's messaging system. This documentation is crucial for resolving any potential disputes and helps mitigate the risk of 'Resell of Mass-Produced Goods' scams where a buyer might later claim the item isn't as described or was misrepresented.

Step 3: Secure Payment and Avoid Off-Platform Deals

Always use Folksy's integrated payment system. Scammers often try to lure sellers into using less secure methods like direct bank transfers or invoicing off-platform (e.g., 'Off-Platform PayPal Invoicing'). This not only bypasses Folksy's buyer and seller protection but also opens the door to payment-related fraud. Be extremely cautious of 'Overpayment Check Fraud,' where a buyer sends a fake check for more than the agreed amount and asks for a partial refund.

Step 4: Guard Against Image and Certification Scams

Protect your original designs and craftsmanship. Be vigilant against 'Stolen Artisan Photography,' where buyers might use images of your work without permission for their own listings, or vice versa. Similarly, be wary of requests for 'Fake Handmade Certification' or claims of unique artisanal processes that seem unsubstantiated. Focus on showcasing your genuine work and process.

Step 5: Secure Shipping and Verification

Use a reputable shipping service with tracking and insurance, especially for valuable bespoke tailoring pieces. For lower-value items, the Safe Trade Services Basic Plan can offer an added layer of verification. If you receive suspicious SMS messages, such as 'Account Verification SMS' prompts that ask for codes, do not share them. These are often phishing attempts to gain access to your accounts.

• ✓ Verify buyer legitimacy through their profile and reviews.
• ✓ Maintain clear, documented communication about all custom details.
• ✓ Utilize Folksy's secure payment system; avoid off-platform transactions.
• ✓ Protect your original work from image theft and misrepresentation.
• ✓ Use tracked and insured shipping, and never share verification codes via SMS.