Frequently Asked Questions
What is your inspiration?
Nature, trips we’ve taken, suggestions from friends and family or custom requests from customers. Sometimes, we’ve also had a what if idea and tried it to see what would happen.
What materials do you use?
We are continually expanding and refreshing the materials that we use. We currently enjoy working with Birch, Oak, Maple, and Walnut plywoods. We also incorporate various veneers into some of our designs ( White Oak, Maple, Mahogany, Walnut, Popular, Alder, and Cherry). Other specialty designs include Mahogany frames or bases. We also dabble with other exotic woods for special projects. The natural colors and grain patterns of the various wood species ensure each piece of art is a one of a kind.
All of the cardstock paper that we use is acid and lignin free. Our jewelry is made with stainless steel hardware, leatherette, leather, acrylic or woods.
Please review each product description for the particulars for that product.
What's the difference between wood inlay art and layered paper art?
Wood inlay art involves cutting different types of wood into shapes that fit together to form a design. Layered paper art involves stacking multiple layers of cut paper to create a three-dimensional effect.
What is the process of creating a piece of wood inlay or layered paper art?
The creation process begins with design. Each design is then laser-cut from different types of wood or colored paper. For wood inlay art, the pieces are carefully assembled like a jigsaw puzzle, glued onto a solid wood base, then finished with a frame and hanging hardware. For layered paper art, the cut paper pieces are layered to create a multi-dimensional effect using multiple thicknesses of foam spacers between each layer.
How are the colors chosen for each artwork?
The colors are carefully chosen by us to best represent the design and to create a harmonious balance. We use a variety of natural wood colors as well as hand-selected paper shades.
Are the colors in the images on your website accurate?
We strive to ensure that the colors shown in our website images are as close to the actual artwork as possible. However, it's important to note that there may be slight differences in color due to monitor calibration and lighting conditions. Also, as natural materials, each piece of wood and batch of paper may present unique color variations and react differently to stains and clear coats. So while we aim for accuracy, slight variations are a part of the charm and individuality of each piece.
Does your art come ready to hang? How heavy are they?
Yes! Our large nature scenes, flags and quilts have sawtooth hangers built into or attached to the backs of the pieces to allow wall placement. Our paper art has a single hanger that can be bent out to allow hanging on a wall.
The pieces for wall hanging average a couple pounds for the paper art to 10lbs for the larger quilt designs.
How can I best take care of my art?
For our paper and wood art, protect them from moisture and heat fluctuations along with keeping them out of direct sunlight. The moisture and heat changes can cause the thin boards and paper to warp and distort (especially if placed in a bathroom or around a sink).
How should I store the art if I'm not planning to display it immediately?
Store your artwork in a dry, temperate place away from direct sunlight. If possible, keep it in the packaging it arrived in to prevent damage.
How do I clean my art?
A duster or pressurized air (keyboard cleaner) can be used. Avoid spraying any soaps, water or other cleaners onto the surface of the art. Some of the art pieces are very fragile, be very careful when cleaning around these pieces.
Are there any precautions I should take while handling the art?
Handle the art with clean, dry hands. Avoid areas with high humidity or extreme temperatures. If your art is made of wood or paper, keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Do you cut out your wood, paper, and other items by hand?
We currently use a laser to perform most of our cutting for our various mediums. We also use multiple other tools including saws, sanders, chisels, and scalpels to create each of our at pieces. This allows us to create very sophisticated and consistent designs at a price point that allows for many more people to enjoy our creations. It also allows us to create products of a very high level of quality.
Is the art made in the USA?
The wood and paper based products featured on our website are made in our Minnesota based workshop with raw materials produced in the United States and abroad.
We currently do not make the Felted Wool products.
Where are you located?
We make our art and ship it from Faribault, Minnesota. A small town located about an hour south of the twin cities.
Do you allow visitors to your studio?
Not currently, having a small workshop makes this not feasible at the moment and not really the best place to see the artwork.
A great option to see our art is at one of the upcoming fine craft & art shows that we’ll be participating in. Please keep an eye on our Events page for upcoming shows.
Do you do custom work or commissions?
Please feel free to reach out about your ideas for custom work or for future products. We’ll review your submission to see if it fits within our expertise and current workload.
Is it possible to get my order customized?
Please reach out with any customizations you would like before placing your order. We’ll review your submission to see if it fits within our expertise and current workload.
Can you make different sizes than what’s currently for sale in your shop?
Generally, yes. Some items can only be made a little smaller due to the level of detail in the picture. By making some of the pieces smaller some of the details become too fragile without a lot of additional modification to support these areas.
Other items are at the maximum size our tools can handle without incorporating seams or other enlargement tricks. Reach out and we can discuss your project and how we could produce it.
Do you offer digital files of your designs for use with my own laser cutter?
While we don't offer digital copies of all our designs, we do provide a unique range of laser-ready design files available for purchase. These files are tailored specifically for users with laser cutters and allow you to create your own wooden artworks from our designs. Each of these files comes complete with instructions and assembly guides, ensuring you have everything you need to bring your artwork to life. You can find these offerings in the dedicated section of our website.
What are your terms for your laser-ready files?
No physical items are included with the digital file [laser ready files] listings. They are digital files only. No returns permitted on digital files.
Feel free to cut the files for personal use or for reselling the physical items you make with them.
None of the files, alterations of files, and/or the pictures in the listings can be shared, resold, or redistributed in any form including before or after purchase.
Do you offer gift wrapping or special packaging?
Absolutely, we're more than happy to assist with special packaging or gift wrapping requests. If you have such a need, do get in touch with us. We can then discuss the variety of options we offer and their associated costs for the specific items you're interested in.
Where do you ship?
We can ship anywhere in the USA. We are currently unable to ship internationally. Please see our Terms of Service page for additional details.
How soon will my order ship? How is the art shipped / packaged?
Most items are able to ship within a week (sometimes much sooner). Some items may take longer if customizations or other changes are needed (depending on the complexity). However, if you're looking to have it by a certain day, just be sure to shoot us an email.
All of the artwork is currently shipped UPS, USPS or FedEx.
Each piece is wrapped in foam with strategic placements of cardboard and other filler materials to protect the art during shipping.
Please see our Terms of Service page for additional details.
Can I return my order?
Yes, we accept returns within 7 days of receiving the item. We do not accept returns on some customized items, discount items or digital files.
Please see our Terms of Service page for additional details.
What happens if I receive my item and it is broken?
We are happy to say that this rarely happens, but if it does, please contact us, and we would be happy to repair or remake your item at no extra cost.
Please see our Terms of Service page for additional details.
Are the props included with the item?
No, The props are used to help visualize the item within your home and are not included with the purchase. However, some items may include a stand or other complimentary items. When items are included they are mentioned in the writeup for that item.
The layers in my 3d paper art seem to be slightly misaligned, how can I fix it?
Each layer in our 3D paper art floats independently of the others, meaning they're not attached to the adjacent layers. If they appear misaligned, possibly due to shipping or transport, they can be readjusted with a few simple steps. Begin by loosening the eight black metal tabs at the back of the frame. Then, hold the frame so that one of the lower corners is angled downwards, positioning the frame like a diamond. Gently tap the sides of the frame to guide the paper layers to realign based on the lower corner. If necessary, the back of the frame can be removed, allowing you to individually adjust each layer. Once everything is properly aligned, retighten the metal tabs to secure the layers in place.
Do you offer discounts for bulk orders?
We do offer discounts for bulk orders. Please contact us directly to discuss the specifics of your order.
I have a large paint party event coming up, do you offer discounts for purchasing multiple DIY kits?
We would be thrilled to assist with your upcoming paint party or a group crafting event! Our Wood Inlay Art DIY Kits or Felted Wool Garland Kits (embellishments are also available) are a wonderful way to engage and connect with friends, family, or colleagues. If you're interested in purchasing multiple kits, please contact us directly for pricing options tailored to your specific needs. Make your next event a colorful celebration of creativity and camaraderie with our DIY kits. We look forward to helping you craft an unforgettable artistic experience!
Would you consider wholesale?
Yes, to discuss wholesale information, just shoot me an email.
Can I suggest a design or theme for your future artworks?
Absolutely! We love hearing ideas from our customers. While we can't guarantee we'll create every suggested design, we greatly appreciate the inspiration and consider all ideas.
How can I contact you for any specific queries or customer service issues?
You can reach us via email at Jbowser@thehandsthatshape.com, or through the contact form on our website. We strive to respond to all inquiries within 24 hours.