Got me a blank canvas.

It's a vicious circle. It's hard for sure. Few people are self-made these days. It's hard to compete with the bottle fed competition who think they hit a home run when in all reality they hit a stand-up double. I wont blow smoke up your *** Cope. Good luck.
I too have earned a living welding, I think what you are facing is a never ending issue in our trade regardless of venue. Whether it is putting a roll cage in stretching a semi or a Harley. We see that kind of stuff and you just can't look away. But at some point the harsh reality of economics swats you. You try and explain the safety aspect and some folks think you are just trying to gouge them. Documentation is your best friend. I think you are being smart keeping a photo log. Once the guy sees your car he may very well turn you loose.