Do you take custom orders?

I do not have custom orders open at this time, although I do occasionally include custom spots or pre-orders in scheduled sales. My custom order availability is always updated on Instagram and through shop listings here on the site.

When will my order get here?

After your purchase, there is a 2-7 day shipping time that allows me to package your order and get it to the post office.

Some additional factors that way delay your order (and are unfortunately out of my control) include:

• Our village post office is not open on weekends, and occasionally closes due to a lack of workers. If this happens I will contact you to keep you updated.

• The weather. If our rural Alaska weather is too windy/stormy to allow planes to land (the only way our mail comes in or out of the village), your items will not make it out of the village. If this happens for longer than a day or two, I will contact you to keep you informed.

What if my package is lost or stolen?

Unfortunately once I have shipped your order, it is out of my hands. I cannot offer refunds for lost or stolen items, however you will have access to a shipping/tracking number via email, which can be used for filing a claim with USPS if you choose. Because of this, I recommend you provide a secure mailing address.

Are the earring wires okay for sensitive ears?

I currently use silver-plated and gold-plated metal earring wires that are sensitive-ear friendly. These work great for most people. I do also offer the option for surgical steel hooks if your ears are especially sensitive. At checkout, be sure to specify if you’d like the surgical steel wires swapped to your earrings in the ‘Additional Information’ box. If you forget, send me an email with your order number and I will do my best to make adjustments or swaps before your order goes out.

How do I care for my earrings?

All AJ Folklore Designs items are made to last, however to improve the longevity and condition of your handmade earrings, please follow these care instructions:

• Store your earrings away from direct sunlight as this can cause the bead colors to fade, as well as the thread to become brittle over time.

• Avoid exposing your earrings to liquids or extreme temperatures.

• For best looking fringe, keep your earrings stored hanging or laying flat. The thread has a memory and will retain the shape it’s stored in for lengthy periods of time. If this does happen and the fringe is wrinkled or curly, gently use your fingers to massage the fringe out.

• Although it is tempting to play with your beaded creations and touch them frequently, try to avoid twisting the fringe and rubbing the beads between your fingers as this can bind the thread and wear down the beads.

Do you take returns or issue refunds if I’m not happy with my purchase?

At this time I cannot accept returns or issue refunds. If you are very unhappy with your purchase please reach out to me and we can problem solve on a case-by-case basis.

Do you offer classes or tutorials to learn how to bead?

Beading is an art that should be available to all to learn, however I do not offer classes or teach how to create with beads at this time. If you are looking for resources to learn, there are many other artists that do offer classes and beginner kits as part of their paid services. I am happy to recommend them to you through email or instagram if that is something you are interested in. As with any art form, please be aware of the cultural boundaries of bead weaving and beadwork, and be sure to educate yourself on what is appropriate for you to create.