Hello Cynthia,
I just returned from the Stitches and Stately Homes tour in England that surpassed all expectations. Part of the tour included a private showing at the Royal School of Needlework and 2 days of stitching with graduates from the RSN. The tutors, Jennie Adin-Christie (yes, she worked on “the dress”) and Clare Clensy have both started their own businesses. They shared some good information that may help you. At the school, they were taught to work one hand above and one hand below their work. All threads were cut the length of approximately elbow to fingers. This was meant for speed to avoid the extra motion of pulling thread. That seemed awfully short with extra effort needed to stop and start but clearly they had mastered it as their fingers flew. No wasted motion and flawless stitching.
Of course, we did not discuss money other than to be told the RSN charged £35.00 per hour for restoration when the women attended but the stitchers did not receive that kind of pay. The school, located at Hampton Court, originally paid no rent but now must and is feeling it. We did not learn this from the school directly as they were very tight-lipped about most things.
Both women were fun, professional and extremely encouraging. They offered a variety of their own kits and supplies for sale and our group (13) did our share of buying. It was significant. The kits were simple to very complex and you can see what I mean if you visit their respective web sites--
http://www.jennyadin-christieembroidery.co.uk/Home.html
http://www.vine-embroidery.co.uk/
On a personal note - I, like my tour mates, got caught up in the moment and spent more than I normally would have had been shopping in a store or online. I am not sorry.
I realize your question dealt with pricing and I shared more than that. I hope it helps. Good luck to you.