Fursuit Commissions & Children

[Kobuk]

I've posted this topic elsewhere and have gotten some very interesting and usefull feedback. But I'm curious to post it here because I want to hear what opinions the members of Furtopia have about the issue. So.........

I'm a bit curious to ask the following. For those that make fursuits, How do you handle commissions where the client is a child or young adult (Perhaps 16 or under?). Would someone of a really young age need parental permission before commissioning you? What would be the legal ramifications (If any) in dealing with younger clients?

[489109]

Only the form of payment would be the issue. If they use the parents Credit Card or check book then yes, they need parental permission. If they find cash and pay for it that way, then all the power to 'em. I'd start the project upon receipt of the down payment. However, I'm a hobbyist and not a pro-level advertised fursuit maker. So it would just be an agreement between friends. Not a business transaction. A Pro-level maker, like Bettlecat and others I'm sure would have to seek permission from the guardian/parent before starting. It's their business and why jeopardize your primary income just to give some kid a fursuit?

So there are a lot of variables in your situation. I don't see how one answer would fit all the bills.

[Avan]

Yes, its all about payment method.

[SPark]

The problem with putting some special measure in place for teens is that most under age customers never mention their age.  It's not my responsibility to require all my customers to send me scans of their driver's licenses.

So far I haven't been aware of any underage customers buying full fursuits.  I have made tails and other small projects, but underage teens do have a right to spend the money they earn, so I've never treated them any differently.

The only legal issue I can think of is that you can't sue a teen if they scam you, but I don't want to have to sue anybody, so I take preventative measures with all my commissions.  Every serious artist should work with possible non-payment in mind!

[Twizler the skunk]

Iv made one fursuit for a 7 yo...  it was destroyed in a week. http://www.furaffinity.net/view/4695623/    nuff said

[onai]

I made  a fullsuit for a 14 year old- that her mother paid for entirely, pretty much just made it a few inches too big in places so she could "grow" into it as her mom wanted her to.