FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General
What is SOW/SEW Studio?
SOW/SEW STUDIO ("so-so studio") is a small business specializing in upcycled fashion, transforming thrifted and unwanted clothing into unique, stylish pieces. We believe in sustainability, creativity, and giving garments a new life.
Are your items all one of a kind?
Yes! Because many pieces are made from vintage, thrifted, or limited materials, most items cannot be replicated exactly. If you request a similar design, I will do my best to recreate the overall look and feel, but exact duplication is not guaranteed.
Do you sell ready-made items too?
Yes! Ready-to-wear items are occasionally released through website drops, markets, and Instagram. These are sold as-is and are first come, first served.
Custom Orders
How do I start a custom order?
You can submit a custom inquiry through the website contact form or by messaging on Instagram. You’ll be asked questions about team, colors, size, fit, design details, and timeline. Once details are confirmed, you’ll receive a quote and invoice for the deposit.
How does the custom process work?
- Inquiry submitted
- Design details discussed
- Quote sent
- Deposit paid to secure your spot
- Mockups sent over to confirm design details
- Remaining balance paid
- Materials sourced and production begins
- Garment created
- Final photos sent for approval
- Item shipped or delivered
Do you provide design mockups?
Simple digital or concept mockups may be provided depending on the project. Mockups are for visual reference only and may not perfectly represent the final handmade product.
Can I send my own garment to be upcycled?
ABSOLUTELY! Customer-provided garments must be clean and in good condition. SOW/SEW Studio is not responsible for damage that occurs due to pre-existing wear, fabric fragility, or structural issues in supplied garments.
Timeline & Turnaround
How long does a custom piece take?
Typical turnaround time is 2–5 weeks after the deposit and remaining balance are paid and materials are in hand. Some designs may take longer depending on complexity, order volume, or material sourcing.
Can I request a rush order?
Rush orders may be available for an additional fee depending on current workload and timeline. Approval is not guaranteed.
Will I receive updates during production?
Yes. You will typically receive at least one progress update and final photos before shipment.
Pricing & Payments
Why do you require a deposit?
A non-refundable deposit secures your production slot, covers design time, and allows materials planning to begin.
Are deposits refundable?
No. All deposits are non-refundable. Once work begins or materials planning starts, the deposit cannot be returned under any circumstances.
When is the remaining balance due?
The remaining balance is due before materials are purchased and before production begins. Work on your garment will not start until the full balance has been paid.
Do you offer payment plans?
Payment plans are available only through Shop Pay Installments, powered by Affirm. When you check out through the website, Shop Pay Installments may be available at checkout for eligible purchases. This option will appear during checkout if your order qualifies and can be selected there. All payment plans must be completed before materials are purchased and production begins.
Refunds, Exchanges, & Cancellations
Do you offer refunds?
Due to the custom and handmade nature of each item, all sales are final. Refunds are not offered once a deposit is paid or once production has begun.
Can I cancel my order?
If you cancel before production begins, your deposit will still be forfeited. If production has already started, the order cannot be canceled and the remaining balance may still be required depending on progress and materials purchased.
What if something doesn’t fit?
Customers are responsible for providing accurate sizing. Alterations may be offered on a case-by-case basis for an additional fee. Shipping for alterations is the customer’s responsibility.
What if my item arrives damaged?
You must contact SOW/SEW Studio within 3 days of delivery with photos of the damage. If damage occurred during shipping or due to craftsmanship error, a repair solution will be offered when possible. Normal wear, misuse, or improper care are not covered.
Design, Logos & Copyright
Can you use professional team logos or branded materials?
SOW/SEW Studio creates original, artistic reinterpretations and upcycled designs. Customers are responsible for ensuring they have permission to use any logos, names, or imagery they request. By submitting a custom order, you confirm you have the right to use any requested graphics or materials.
Will my design be exclusive to me?
All SOW/SEW Studio pieces are handmade and one of a kind. While exact replicas of custom garments are not created, SOW/SEW Studio reserves the right to revisit general design concepts, silhouettes, color stories, or techniques in future pieces.
Any future versions will include differences in materials, construction, lining, placement, or details and will not be identical to the original custom piece.
If you are commissioning a design that you would like to remain fully exclusive (no similar remakes or concept reuse), please request an Exclusivity Agreement prior to production. Exclusivity may require an additional fee and must be agreed upon in writing before work begins.
Who owns the design?
SOW/SEW Studio retains the right to photograph, document, and share all completed work for portfolio, social media, marketing, and promotional use unless otherwise agreed upon in writing.
Liability & Care
Are these garments durable?
All pieces are constructed with care and reinforced where possible. However, because many materials are vintage or upcycled, natural wear and variation should be expected.
How should I care for my garment?
Most pieces should be washed cold and air dried. Specific care instructions will be provided when necessary. SOW/SEW Studio is not responsible for damage caused by improper washing, drying, or handling.
Is SOW/SEW Studio responsible for allergic reactions or sensitivities?
Some garments may contain secondhand materials, dyes, or trims. Customers with sensitivities should inquire before ordering. SOW/SEW Studio is not liable for allergic reactions.
Legal
By placing an order, you agree to all policies listed in this FAQ. SOW/SEW Studio is not liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages related to the use or wear of any product. All disputes will be handled in accordance with applicable local laws.
Contact
For all questions about custom orders, timelines, or policies, please use the contact form on the website, send an email to SOWSEWSTUDIO@GMAIL.COM or send a direct message on Instagram.