Frequently Asked Questions
Every piece I create is handmade and often personalized on the spot, which means you may have a few questions before ordering or booking. This page covers the most common ones — from shipping timelines to what materials can be engraved or foiled. If you don’t see your answer here, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help guide you toward the best option for your event or gift.
General Questions
Refunds/
Exchanges
Do you offer refunds or exchanges?
Because all pieces are handcrafted and made-to-order, I do not accept refunds or exchanges. If a mistake is made on my end as the artist, I will gladly correct or replace the item at no additional cost. Please contact me within 7 days of receiving your order if you notice an issue.
Turnaround Time
How long does it take to receive my order?
Most personalized gifts ship within 7–10 business days. Custom signage and larger projects may take 2–4 weeks depending on complexity and current booking volume. If you need something sooner, reach out before ordering — I’ll let you know if a rush option is available.
Shipping- INTL
Do you ship internationally?
Currently, shipping is limited to the U.S. For international requests, please reach out via the contact form before placing an order.
Item Options
Can I bring my own item to be engraved or lettered?
Yes! Many clients bring their own items (like glassware, leather goods, or notebooks) for personalization. Just fill out the Custom Gift Request Form, and we’ll discuss whether your item is suitable for engraving or lettering.
Exploring
What if I don’t know what I want yet?
That’s okay! Part of my process is collaborating with you to choose the right item, style, and lettering approach. Share a little about your event, theme, or recipient, and I’ll help guide you toward beautiful options.
Engraving Vs. Calligraphy
What’s the difference between engraving and calligraphy?
Calligraphy involves hand-lettering with pen, paint, or foil on surfaces like paper, acrylic, fabric, or leather. Engraving involves etching directly into materials like glass, metal, or leather for a permanent finish.
Live Event Questions
How's it work?
How does live event personalization work?
For live engraving or calligraphy, I arrive on-site with all tools and supplies needed. Guests bring their item (or are gifted one you’ve provided), and I personalize it in real time. Depending on the item, each piece takes 3–7 minutes to complete.
Types of Events
What kinds of events do you book for live services?
I work with weddings, brand activations, corporate gatherings, trade shows, conferences, sporting events, and private parties. If you’re planning something outside of the box, I’d love to hear about it!
Timeline
How far in advance should I book live event services?
I recommend booking at least 2–3 months in advance to secure your date, especially during wedding and holiday seasons. For last-minute inquiries, reach out and I’ll let you know if I’m available.
Travel
Do you travel for events?
Yes! I’m based in Portland, OR, but available to travel. Travel fees may apply depending on the location.
Hot Foil Questions
Hot Foil
What is hot foiling / foiled calligraphy?
Hot foiling uses heat and an adhesive method (often via a foiling tool) to imprint metallic or pigmented foil onto a surface, creating a shiny, raised, or pressed metallic look. The effect is elegant and eye-catching.
Materials
What materials / items are suitable for foiling?
Best on smooth, flat surfaces like leather, thick paper or cardstock, smooth acrylic, certain woods with fine grain, treated leather luggage tags, etc. Surfaces that absorb foil or that are textured may give less clean or consistent results.
What materials or items don’t work well for foiling?
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Deeply textured, rough, or heavily grained surfaces
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Soft or porous fabrics (suede, sponge-like material)
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Very thin materials that might burn or warp under heat
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Surfaces with curves or complex shapes where foil won't adhere evenly
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Items with coatings that can melt or interact poorly under foil heat
Combining services
Can I combine engraving + foiling on the same piece?
Yes, in many cases it’s possible, depending on the material and design. For example, engraving for permanent etched detail paired with foiled lettering or accents can be very striking. We’ll assess each project to make sure the methods will work well together.
Engraving Questions
Engraving
What is engraving?
Engraving is a process where a design is carved, etched or cut into a surface using a tool. It creates clean, precise, and permanent marks — you can see and feel the engraved area. It’s great for glass, metal, wood, acrylic, and other hard surfaces.
Materials
What materials / items can be engraved?
Smooth, rigid items do best. Common examples include glass bottles or flutes, metal items (tumblers, tools), acrylic or mirror surfaces, wooden boards, leather (if it’s firm), and select stone or ceramic pieces.
Are there items or materials you cannot engrave?
Yes. Some limitations include:
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Pressurized containers (e.g. champagne/soda bottles)—engraving may weaken them or risk them exploding/breaking.
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Very thin or fragile objects that might crack or warp.
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Items with deeply textured or uneven surfaces.
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Materials with coatings or finishes that don’t respond well to engraving (may flake, peel, or smudge).
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Curved or awkward shapes that the tool cannot reach or that may distort the design.
Items to engrave
Do I need to supply the item to be engraved?
Often yes. If you already have a special item you want personalized, you can provide it. If not, I can help source items from trusted suppliers so the material and finish work well with engraving.
Engraving Designs
What kind of designs can be engraved?
Names, initials, dates, short phrases are very common. Simple logos or clean line drawings can work, depending on the size and material. Highly detailed graphics (tiny lines, shading) may lose clarity depending on the surface. We’ll always review your design together to ensure it sings.
Combining services
Can I combine engraving + foiling on the same piece?
Yes, in many cases it’s possible, depending on the material and design. For example, engraving for permanent etched detail paired with foiled lettering or accents can be very striking. We’ll assess each project to make sure the methods will work well together.