Sorry you feel that way. I did the same thing with my last book and got to work with an awesome designer. I know this project isn't for everyone. There are plenty of higher paying projects available.

Dear Project Owner - This price is simply a rip off of any poor desperate soul looking for extra work as well as destroying the design industry! Last year you offered nearly the double in price for less pages...

There is a saying of 'Honest pay for Honest work' and there is also exploitation. I don't know how you would feel if you were asked to do your work for a 5th of what it was worth. You will reap the benefits from poor soul who undertakes this. Yes it's their choice, but that choice shouldn't be on offer.

Hey! I did offer more last year. That was after originally offering the same amount and increasing the budget after I got a couple submissions. I wanted to make sure there were some I liked before increasing it so as to not lose money. I have received 3 designs so far 2 of which I really like so I just increased the budget.

Isn't that the basis for a free market?

I guaranteed the payment

Yes feee market but not for slavery wages, that‘s exactly what destroys the market! Hope you feel happy and content when sucking out poor souls who do 14 illustrations for that price!

Well done with increasing budget. Too many project owners offer peanuts then complain about the quality of work or lack of submissions. Ps: the concept of 'free market' isn't a free card to rip people off. To winning designer...you can thank me later :-)

You do understand I'm not making anyone do this right?

Thanks. I wanted to make sure I got a couple designs I liked before increasing budget so I wouldn't be out money. Thanks for the dialogue