Advice: Teen artist - how should I go about taking commissions?

[dixiedyboski.livejournal.com]

Hello A_B!
Errrr, first ever LJ post here, correct me if I'm doing it wrong :3



Basically, I want to start taking commissions :3 But, lots of the posts here are about 'minors' buying/selling their art, and everything ending in tears and whatnot. Is it ok to take commissions at 15? Or should I wait 'til I'm older?
I know that research is important, and everyone says about having a ToS that you both agree to before you start sending money or anything, so if there's any problem on either side, you can throw it at the commissioner and run :3
Also, I know my art is not terrible. Its not wonderful either, but I know I'm improving and yes, I have done life drawing since I started GCSE Art. I could improve a lot on anatomy though, very very definitely. (curse you, silly anime phase.)
Also, would sending the money through my parents (they use paypal a lot for their bubble business) be a good idea?
And postage too. I would rather not send actual pictures in the post, but I'm sure badges would be ok.

So, any advice you have would be very very very much apreiciated <3

Comments

[teacup-werewolf.livejournal.com]

I think everyone said what is important but to add two cents on this. I think it's important to note that doing business at any age takes a sizable amount of integrity, professionalism and responsibility. I personally think that you should wait until you're a bit older and ready for the responsibility of managing a business like selling art. Also it's important to be confident in your art. If you don't think it's good. People won't buy it.

[taasla.livejournal.com]

You said it way better than I could articulate. I don't think a teenager is ready to start what boils down to a business.

I honestly feel doing trades with other people is a good way to start and to understand how to handle the obligation of doing a service for payment.

[teacup-werewolf.livejournal.com]

And build the proper skills to manage resources and time. I think it basically boils down how mature a person is to deal with business transactions. Skills that I am still honing myself as an adult.

[dixiedyboski.livejournal.com]

Thanks for your advice, and I will stick with trades and gifts until I'm older (and hopefully, a little wiser). I wish I could rewrite that post now. Hnng. Lesson for me.