I dabble in cakes. I'm told I'm very good, but I have no intentions of starting a business. I just do it here and there for friends, but lately I'm getting more and more requests from friends.

I use to just say "eh, how's $50?" but now that I've gotten into some more advanced stuff, I have no idea what to charge. If I do it by slice, it doesn't seem like enough. If I do it by ingredients and time, it seems like too much (maybe I'm just really slow - but making icing and molding fondant takes some serious time!).

Here is an example of a cake I've done recently. What on earth would be a normal price for this? One is MMF, 6", 8", 10" - all edible. It took me btwn 24-30 hours for making all those ladybugs, the baby, etc. Am I just slow? [/img]

each area and market are different. If you are in New York, the pricing market is different than if you are in a different area of town. Look at what your competitors charge and start there. I don't necessarily mean charge the same, but that will give you an idea of what your area will or might support.

As far as pricing I usually charge a flat rate per serving. But, I charge extra for the characters/flowers and such I make if there are a lot to make. If it is fresh flowers they provide and I place no charge. It is very difficult to price handmade items. I usually charge three times what it cost to make them, if they are very time consuming I add a little more. That doesn't sound like much but I feel it is fair for what I do.

As far as a discount don't do it, you give them now it will never end. I have learned the hard way.

I only bake for friends/family/coworkers. My flat starting rate is $65 for a 8" round or 9x13 sheet cake and $12 dozen for cupcakes. That's just for a super simple decorating job, buttercream only.

If they want fondant or anything extra I have them pay for the supplies only. If they want something really complicated or a tiered cake then I figure how much of my time it's gonna take and charge $8 per hour.

Needless to say people don't ask to buy cakes from me anymore, and I'm totally fine with it

Cute cake! The baby is adorable!