Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our handcrafted furniture, wooden rings, chopping boards, and custom pieces. If you can't find what you're looking for, please contact us.
Shipping & Delivery
Where do you ship?
We ship throughout the United Kingdom and internationally. Shipping costs and delivery times vary depending on your location and the size of the item. We'll provide specific shipping information when you place your order or enquire about a product.
How long does delivery take?
All our pieces are handcrafted made-to-order, which means we create each item specifically for you after you place your order. Delivery times vary depending on the type of piece:
- Wooden rings: 1-2 weeks from order
- Chopping boards: 2-3 weeks from order
- Furniture pieces (coffee tables, side tables): 3-5 weeks from order
- Custom/bespoke pieces: 4-8 weeks depending on complexity
These timeframes include both crafting time and delivery. We'll provide a specific estimated delivery date when you place your order.
Why does everything take a few weeks?
Because all our pieces are handcrafted to order, we don't keep stock sitting on shelves. Each item is made specifically for you by our skilled artisans, which takes time but ensures you receive a freshly crafted, high-quality piece. This also means your furniture or ring is made with care and attention just for you.
How are items packaged?
All our handcrafted pieces are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive in perfect condition. Furniture is wrapped in protective materials and securely boxed. Smaller items like rings and chopping boards are packaged in protective boxes suitable for gifting.
Do you offer international shipping?
Yes, we ship internationally. International shipping costs and delivery times vary by destination. Please contact us for a shipping quote to your location.
Can I track my order?
Yes, once your order is dispatched, you'll receive a tracking number via email so you can monitor your delivery.
Returns & Exchanges
What is your return policy?
We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. If you're not happy with your item, please contact us within 14 days of receiving it. Items must be returned in their original condition, unused and in original packaging.
Please note: Custom and bespoke pieces made to your specifications cannot be returned unless there is a defect or error on our part.
How do I return an item?
To initiate a return:
- Contact us via our Contact page within 14 days of receiving your item
- Provide your order number and reason for return
- We'll provide return instructions and address
- Package the item securely in its original packaging
- Ship the item back to us (return shipping costs are the customer's responsibility unless the item is defective)
When will I receive my refund?
Once we receive and inspect your returned item, we'll process your refund within 5-7 business days. Refunds will be issued to your original payment method.
Can I exchange an item?
Yes, exchanges are possible for items of equal or greater value. Please contact us to arrange an exchange.
What if my item arrives damaged?
While we take great care in packaging, damage can occasionally occur during shipping. If your item arrives damaged, please contact us immediately with photos of the damage and packaging. We'll arrange a replacement or full refund at no cost to you.
Custom & Bespoke Orders
Do you accept custom orders?
Yes! We love creating custom pieces tailored to your exact specifications. Whether you want a coffee table in specific dimensions, a bath caddy designed to fit your tub, or a wooden ring incorporating meaningful wood, we work closely with you to bring your vision to life.
How does the custom order process work?
- Initial consultation - Contact us with your ideas and requirements
- Design discussion - We'll discuss wood options, dimensions, finishes, and design details
- Quote - We'll provide a detailed quote and estimated timeline
- Deposit - A 50% deposit is required to begin work
- Creation - We'll handcraft your piece and provide progress updates
- Final payment & delivery - Once complete, we'll arrange delivery upon final payment
How long do custom orders take?
Custom pieces typically take 4-8 weeks depending on complexity and our current workload. We'll provide a specific timeline when we discuss your project.
Can I choose my own wood type?
Absolutely! We work with Red Oak, Sapele, Walnut, Spalted Beech, Ebony, and other premium hardwoods. We can also work with wood you provide if it has special meaning (for example, wood from a family property or meaningful location).
Can custom orders be returned?
Custom and bespoke pieces made to your specifications cannot be returned unless there is a defect or error on our part. We'll work closely with you throughout the process to ensure you're happy with the design before we begin crafting.
Product Care & Maintenance
How do I care for my wooden furniture?
To maintain the beauty of your handcrafted furniture:
- Wipe with a soft, dry cloth regularly
- Avoid harsh chemicals and excessive moisture
- Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
- Use coasters and placemats to protect surfaces
- With proper care, your furniture will develop a beautiful patina over time
How do I care for my wooden ring?
To preserve your wooden ring:
- Remove before swimming, showering, or heavy physical activity
- Clean gently with a soft, dry cloth
- Avoid harsh chemicals, perfumes, and hand sanitizers
- Avoid prolonged exposure to water
- Store in a dry place when not wearing
How do I care for my chopping board?
To maintain your handcrafted chopping board:
- Hand wash with mild soap and warm water
- Dry immediately after washing
- Never put in the dishwasher
- Treat periodically with food-safe mineral oil to prevent cracking
- Stand upright to dry and store
Can wooden furniture be refinished?
Yes! One of the benefits of solid wood furniture is that it can be refinished if needed. If your piece develops scratches or wear over time, contact us about refinishing services.
Products & Materials
What wood types do you use?
We work exclusively with premium hardwoods including:
- Red Oak - Classic, durable with warm tones
- Sapele - Rich, reddish-brown with ribbon grain
- Walnut - Deep chocolate tones with natural variation
- Spalted Beech - Dramatic natural patterns
- Ebony - Dense, dark wood for sophistication
Are your products made in the UK?
Yes! All our pieces are handcrafted in our workshop in Great Britain. We're proud to support British craftsmanship and maintain the highest quality standards.
Why does each piece look slightly different?
Natural wood grain varies from piece to piece, which means no two items are ever identical. This is one of the beautiful characteristics of working with natural materials—each piece is truly one-of-a-kind.
Are your finishes food-safe?
Yes, all our chopping boards and kitchen items are finished with food-safe, non-toxic coatings that are safe for food preparation.
Do you use sustainable wood?
We're committed to responsible sourcing and respect the materials we work with. We select our hardwoods carefully and use every piece efficiently to minimize waste.
Ordering & Payment
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit and debit cards, as well as other payment methods available through Shopify's secure checkout.
Is my payment information secure?
Yes, all transactions are processed through Shopify's secure payment system. We never store your payment information.
Can I cancel my order?
Because all our items are made to order specifically for you, cancellations are only possible within 24 hours of placing your order, before we begin crafting your piece. Once work has begun, cancellation is not possible. For custom orders, cancellation is possible before the deposit is paid.
Do you offer gift wrapping?
Our smaller items (rings, chopping boards) come in packaging suitable for gifting. For special gift wrapping requests, please contact us.
Ring Sizing & Fit
How do I know my ring size?
We offer sizes 6-13 as standard, with custom sizes available upon request. If you're unsure of your size, we recommend visiting a local jeweller to be professionally sized, or you can purchase an inexpensive ring sizer online.
What if my ring doesn't fit?
If your ring doesn't fit properly, contact us within 14 days. We may be able to resize it or exchange it for a different size (additional charges may apply for resizing).
Can wooden rings be resized?
Unlike metal rings, wooden rings cannot easily be resized after they're made. It's important to ensure you have the correct size before ordering.
Still Have Questions?
If you can't find the answer to your question here, we're happy to help! Please visit our Contact page to get in touch, and we'll respond as soon as possible.
Thank you for choosing XM Fine Woodworking!
