customer letter

[SVanderkolff]

I am now finally starting to sell some of my knives, Thanks to all who contributed to the pricing and style discussions, and have come across a problem I did not even think of before. What do you say to the customer in the letter that you send with your knives? I got as far as Thank You, do not put in dishwasher and please call again but I am sure there is a whole bunch of other things I should be saying. I would very much appreciate any help you would be willing to give, after all it is your fault my knives have improved to the point where people are willing to buy them.
Thanks
Steve

[Bob Warner]

Give some care and feeding instructions.

Also, tell them that knives are dangerous and they they can be cut.

This sounds funny but I know of a blacksmith that was asked to make a branding iron. He made the branding iron and sold it to the guy that asked for it. The guy was preparing to brand some cattle and burned himself. He sued the blacksmith because the blacksmith did not tell him that he could be injured using it.

[Jason Cutter]

Nothing like that "selling now" feeling ! Good stuff. The letter's a tricky one. If you've seen any of my other posts, you'll realise I can't sit still or shut up for one second, my posts are typically no less than 1/2 page ! I'll tell you what comes with each knife I make.

1 page - description of the knife, (steel, methods, features etc.)
1 page - my "ad" material (profile, techniques etc.)
1 page - Certificate of Authenticity
1/2page - Sharpening and maintenance advice (I make carbon steel knives mainly)

I generally say the stuff everyone else does - Thanks for purchasing ... by ... etc.

Interestingly, when I used to collect, many makers didn't have any letter or literature, some woudln't even give any info - eg.- steel, handle material, forged, etc. unless specifically asked.

Your approach will evolve, I'm sure. If you don't have a website or catalogue or common place customers can check out your details, (like myself) I think it pays to include more info with each knife. Its worked for me so far - several new customers have contacted me for orders purely because they saw their friend's knife and read my somewhat excessive literature.

Good luck, whatever you choose. Cheers.

[CPKnives]

Tell them how pleased you are that they chose one of your knives forpurchase and that you will be available to further serve their knife buying needs.

It will come, takes a bit. Always ad a business card if you have one.