Sketchbook Etiquette: an Addendum

boojum@netcom.com (Jeffrey J. Mancebo)
Mon, 12 Dec 1994 09:39:45 GMT

boojum nods, "All good points.. but I have a few more to offer.."

Collectors:

1. Watch for the Artists with signs saying how much they charge. This is one of the easiest ways to tell who is willing to draw sketches for money. Wait PATIENTLY. Don't hover, dance about, make noises or interupt their conversation with another customer. If you don't get them the first time around, you can always stop by later.
2. If an Artist looks like they are overwhelmed, don't drop another book on them. Find another artist first and try to get that artist another time. I remember one poor artist sitting at ConFurence with TWO stacks of sketchbooks on the table that were stacked until they reached over his head. And STILL people were trying to give him more. Be patient, there are always other chances.
3. Be polite. If they don't want to draw a particular picture, or draw at all, accept that as a no. Don't even say one 'But'. That's there decision, respect it.
4. If an Artist is kind enough to draw in your Sketchbook at a Furry party for free, track them down at another time and offer to buy them lunch (or something). Many artists also apreciate Chocolate, flowers, diamonds, and lots of other things. Use your imagination. (I still have to track down Bill Fitts. He drew a bunny in my bunny book when I wasn't watching *giggle*)

Artists:

1. Don't pounce on a newbie and tell them how Sketchbooks have ruined Furry fandom for artists. I got my first sketchbook after learning a bit about Sketchbook Ettiquit. I was all ready to hunt down willing artists and pay them to sketch in mine. As I was sitting in the Hallway talking to an artist he began to tell me how Black Sketchbooks were evil and were destroying Furry Fandom. He went on and on along this vein, and there I was ready to slit my throat for owning one. AS a result the Sketchbook went unused for 2 years.

   You have a right to your opinion, but please don't ruin another newbies fun by attacking them.

2. If you are feeling overloaded, PLEASE say no to another Sketchbook.

boojum the brown bunny