FAQs

How long does it take for me to receive my gift?
I carefully hand craft all of my gifts. Please allow 1-3 weeks for me to create your personalized or custom gift. Please note that shipping times are not included in that timeframe. During busy peak holiday times – Christmas, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day etc. – my production time might be extended.

Shipping methods and such
I ship from my studio the Los Angeles, CA area. Transit time for standard First Class USPS is approximately 2-7 days. You can choose upgraded shipping options when you check out. Expedited shipping does not rush my production time it just shaves a day or two off the transit time of your gift. 

Can you RUSH my order?
Orders are completed in the order I receive them. However, if you know you need your gift for a birthday or special occasion please do reach out. If I can slip your order up in my queue, without effecting the timeliness of other orders I have in place, I am happy to do so. For big events, holiday gifts or large orders, I suggest ordering early so I can get your gifts to you in plenty of time.

Please note that during peak seasons rush options may not be available.
 
My item has shipped but it hasn’t arrived or the tracking hasn’t updated or it’s past the delivery due date on the USPS website. What should I do?
Once a package has left my studio and is in the hands of USPS, sadly, I have no control over their handling of your gift. First class mail does not have a guaranteed delivery date. The same is true of USPS Priority. The delivery dates they give are estimates only based on their guidelines. Please let me know if a package is 14 days past the last scan. At that point, I can file a lost item report with USPS. Refunds are not available on lost or delayed shipments but I will gladly remake/replace your gift.

The tracking on my gift says it was delivered but I don’t have it. What should I do?
Usually, in this situation the post carrier either scanned as delivered ahead of schedule or they possibly misdelivered it. Please check with your postal carrier and/or your USPS office.

Do you ship Internationally?
Currently, I do not ship internationally. Due to lengthy transit times, unreliable tracking, heavy dues and import fees, I have found it to be cost prohibitive to ship Internationally. That said, if you would like something I am happy to accommodate you as long as you understand I have no control over customs issues and shipping fees. I’m game if you’re game to give it a go.

How should I expect my hand stamped gift to look?
I carefully create my gifts completely by hand with individual steel stamps and a hammer. The letters may not line up perfectly as if they were made by a machine; because they are not. I always say those tiny imperfections are what make hand stamped gifts so special. No two pieces will be exactly alike. No one piece will look exactly like the sample photo. Because hand stamping displaces metal to make the impressions (unlike engraving which takes metal away) the back of your piece may have tiny scratches and marks. That too just adds to the charm and unique quality of your special gift.

Can I have the back of my gift stamped?
This question, in essence, is answered by the question above. Because of the nature of hand stamping there will be slight marks on the back of your gift. That said, if I am using a thick gauge metal I may be able stamp on both sides. That will than just add to the rustic look of your item. I won’t stamp on the back of thinner gauge metals or on gifts where double-sided stamping will have the multi sided text compete with each other. Depending on the gift there may be an additional charge for stamping on the back side.

Do you make all of your gifts?
Currently, I am a one-person shop. I do all the stamping by hand in my studio as well as all the assembly and packaging.

Can I see a proof before you make my gift?
No. Because all my work is done by hand with individual steel stamps and a hammer, without any machines or computers, I cannot provide a proof.

Can I change or cancel my order once it’s placed?
Because of the custom nature of my gifts, once you check out, changes usually cannot be made. Normally, I start working on a gift within 24 hours of receiving the order. Depending on where I am in the process I might be able to accommodate your request.

Will you stamp anything on my gift?
I have been asked to stamp many things. I have yet to be asked to stamp something I won’t stamp. However, in the event that I feel I cannot complete your order I will contact you to discuss. I do reserve the right to cancel an order.

What if I need more characters stamped?
Please feel free to contact me as it’s possible I have a different set of stamps that may work for your needs. Many of my gifts can be adjusted and personalized just for you.

Font choices
I have font choices. Everything from a tiny type writer font to a large double-lined cursive font and a handful in between.

Do you have other design stamps?
I do! I used to have a bazillion stamps. Now, I have fewer. But I do have an eclectic collection of stamps. What if you want a tiny dolphin stamped? I have that. What if you want a wedge of Swiss cheese? I have that. What if you want a cloud? I have that. What if you want a half of avocado? Yes, I do. What if you want a corgi butt? Yup, I have that too. You get it. Even after the fire, I have collected a lot of new and interesting stamps. And, I am HAPPY to help create the perfect gift for you or someone you love.

What metals do you use for your gifts? 
I use only the highest quality metals – high grade aluminum, lead free pewter, sterling silver, bronze, brass, copper and stainless steel.  

Can I buy additional charms in the future?
I do offer a selection of personalized charms and add on discs and tags as well as stainless steel charms and crystal birthstones.

Can I buy additional chains?
Yes, I am happy to sell additional stainless steel chains

Do you provide gift notes?
I am happy to include a note with your gift. Just let me know what you would like it to say. Also, if it’s a short note, I may just write it out, by hand, on card stock or I may print it out.

Do you offer quantity discounts or wholesale options?
I do. I’m happy to discuss different quantity pricing options.

 

Do you still sell on Etsy?
Currently, my Etsy shop is on vacation. I started selling on Etsy in 2011. I am very grateful for the opportunity i had to sell my gifts there. Because I lost all of my stamps and metal and findings I can't make those exact gifts. I have had to make all new things.

 

Can I exchange my chain for a different size?
Yes, please let us know if you ordered a chain that is not the right size. I will be happy to help you. Depending on the length of chain or type of chain, there may be an additional charge. After we have spoken, I will ask that you return the original chain to me. Once I receive it I will ship the new chain to you.

Do you accept returns?
No, I do not accept returns. Because all of my gifts are made to order and many of them are personalized. If there is a problem with your order that is my fault – a misspelled name, an incorrect date, a broken chain, etc. – please let me know so I can correct the issue right away. I’d love to say I never make mistakes but I do. I’m human after all.  Please also know I want you to be as happy as possible with your gift!! If there is an issue, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at heartandsoldesigns@gmail.com