If I'm understanding this correctly, he is currently in possession of the suit? If he took it to Anthrocon, he's had it since July, correct? That's really not ok. It was very nice of you to allow him to wear the suit for the event he wanted it for, but unless he pays for it, he shouldn't get to keep it.
If he's not able to pay for it, or come up with a payment plan that is acceptable to you both, I'd recommend telling him that you're going to need the suit back until he meets the owed balance. You can tell him that you'll hold it for him for a certain amount of time, or that you won't resell it at all. (Given the amount of time that it's been in his possession, allowing for wear/tear/odors ect., it might not be re-sellable anyway.)
It really sucks that you have to worry about taking a reputation hit for his bad behavior. If anything ever does come out that reflect negatively on you, I think a firm, concise and professional response is the best way to go. Don't over-explain, don't bring in personal feelings, and just be calm about the whole thing. "XYZ hadn't paid for the suit I made for him. I let him wear it to the event he wanted it for, but I still need to be paid for it."
Edit: I really feel like he's taken major advantage of you. I don't think you should do a beware just yet, since you are local and want to resolve this as smoothly as possible. However, if he keeps ignoring your notes and dodging payment, you really should consider making one.
no subject
If he's not able to pay for it, or come up with a payment plan that is acceptable to you both, I'd recommend telling him that you're going to need the suit back until he meets the owed balance. You can tell him that you'll hold it for him for a certain amount of time, or that you won't resell it at all. (Given the amount of time that it's been in his possession, allowing for wear/tear/odors ect., it might not be re-sellable anyway.)
It really sucks that you have to worry about taking a reputation hit for his bad behavior. If anything ever does come out that reflect negatively on you, I think a firm, concise and professional response is the best way to go. Don't over-explain, don't bring in personal feelings, and just be calm about the whole thing. "XYZ hadn't paid for the suit I made for him. I let him wear it to the event he wanted it for, but I still need to be paid for it."
Edit: I really feel like he's taken major advantage of you. I don't think you should do a beware just yet, since you are local and want to resolve this as smoothly as possible. However, if he keeps ignoring your notes and dodging payment, you really should consider making one.