Regarding the discussion of billing customers for "unforeseen
circumstances" -- If I decided to get into the restoration business
(not at this point, I promise you!) I think what I would do is draw up
a contractual agreement whereby I would accept an up-front payment to
cover supplies typically needed for the work agreed to, and then bill
the customer on a monthly basis, only for the work done during that
month.

This would accomplish several things: It would insure a regular revenue
stream, would assure and inform the customer of the progress on their
instrument, and, since the customer is expecting a monthly bill for
work done, something "unexpected" shouldn't be a major issue.  Of
course, one would have to keep close track of billable shop-hours, and
provide detailed invoices to the customer.

I've not heard of player techs billing in this way before, but I have
heard of others doing this, particularly automobile restorers.

Bryan Cather
St Louis, Missouri