I agree, what you describe makes it easier and knowledgeable people take away the hard part. The "schooling" as they already have something sold or in mind. Having done it before or at least an idea of what works is golden.i also have some business connections that would solely use me if i was designing. that's really the way to do it well is just design for shops or individuals that do whole systems. those type of people will really work with you and you can actually get **** done and make it badass
For me I'll stick to simple boxes. A shop would expect any mods if they request certain measurements. I got time on my hands too but I told people I'm done so I'll stick to advice only.
I love working with certain people but they seem to be the ones hardest to pin down for payment too. They're always seemingly too busy to meet up. I never intended designing to turn into the business it was becoming anyways.
I just got ideas and like to help... lol