“In my experience most paint and body guys are clowns(Just like most construction guys.).”
Clowns?
I think I resemble that remark!
I think you’re approaching it correctly, but communication is a BIG sign of things to come when dealing with a service, in my opinion. I’ve contacted three radiator shops about building the radiator for my 507. The one that responded first with pleasant replies and no smart remarks, no matter how lame the question, got the job from me and I couldn’t have been happier. I can say by having approached a few jobs with “I’m on no time frame” results in “In other words, I’ll continue to do everyone else’s stuff but yours” and nothing ever gets done on my things. As much as we all hate schedules and deadlines, most shops need these for a little pressure to get things done.
A hobby painter is a great resource, but has its limitations with regular life getting in the way. Take it to a paint shop and you’re stuck behind insurance claims where the money is. What about trying to paint it yourself? What’s the worst that can happen? Sand it down and paint it again!
No matter if you use this guy or not, your thinking correctly. He needs to reach out and return calls more so than hers done with you. It’s not called “Paint Shop Purgatory” for nothing since your enjoyment in the hobby can take a turn for the worse dealing with an individual you’re relying on to provide a service you simply can’t do.
Best of luck! It’s not cheap no matter what anyone says.
Cheers,
Dave