❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the FAQ Page
I know there’s a lot of information on this website—I wrote all of it! I prefer to add more rather than less information so that a visitor has the option of reading or not but that sometimes doesn't suit everyone. While everything is explained in detail throughout the various sections, sometimes you just want a quick answer without digging through pages. That’s exactly why I created this FAQ section.
Here you’ll find straightforward answers to the most common questions I’ve received over time. Think of it as a shortcut to the essentials—whether you're wondering about shipping, vouchers, tuition, or product details, it's all here in one handy spot. I have added handy links to bring you to relevant sections and I will be updating the questions and answers as I receive them.
Orders & Shipping Gift Vouchers Woodturning Experiences & Tuition Tourist Info - Rainy Day Activities Tools, Finishes & Supplies Craft Supplies General Enquiries More Pages to Explore
🛒 Orders, Shipping & Products
All detailed shipping information can be found on the Shipping & Delivery page. Here are a few common questions:
Q: Is everything really in stock?
A: I don’t dropship. Everything listed on the site is physically here in my office store and ready to go — no “phantom stock”. Stock levels update in real time, though I’ll admit the odd human error can happen!
Q: What’s the minimum order for shipping?
A: The minimum order value is now €10 (not including shipping). As a small business, I introduced this to cover rising packaging and business running costs — small, low-value orders were actually costing me money. This also helps me keep product prices fair without inflating individual item costs. Thanks for your understanding. All shipping info is located on the Shipping & Delivery page.
Q: How quickly do you ship?
A: I typically ship within 1 working day. If you order before 10am, I’ll do my best to ship the same day. You’ll receive an email confirmation once it’s dispatched.
Q: Do you ship outside of Ireland?
A: Yes, I do offer international shipping, but only to select countries. Shipping logistics can be tricky these days, so please check the Shipping & Delivery page for full and more accurate information specific to your location.
Q: Can I collect my order in person?
A: Yes! If you're near Tralee, just select the “Collection” option at checkout and I’ll be in touch to arrange a time.
Q: Why was my PayPal or card payment declined?
A: Most of the time it’s due to your bank or PayPal blocking the transaction for security reasons. If this happens, try another card or contact your bank/PayPal. Nothing is charged on my side unless the order fully completes.
Q: What if there’s a problem with my order?
A: If something isn’t right, just contact me and I’ll sort it as quickly as possible. I handle returns and replacements fairly and on a case-by-case basis, and I’ll always do my best to help. I go into greater detail on my Website Policies page.
Q: Do you take custom woodturning orders?
A: I occasionally take custom orders, depending on my workload and what you have in mind. Just send me the details and I’ll let you know if I can help or not and give an estimated timeline. I rarely have time these days however.
Q: Do you offer personalisation on your wooden products?
A: Sorry, I don’t offer personalisation such as engraving or burning. It’s just a personal preference for me, I like to leave the wood in its natural state because the grain is the main feature of each piece and I'd hate to spoil that. Keeping the surface untouched gives every item its own unique character.
Q: Can I add something to my order after checking out?
A: Yes, as long as I haven’t printed the shipping label yet, I can normally add extra items to your parcel.
Just place a new order and choose the Collection option at checkout so you’re not charged shipping twice.
Then send me a quick message via the Contact Page so I know there are two orders to combine.
If you simply forgot to add an item, the same process applies. TOP
💌 Gift Vouchers
Q: How do I buy a gift voucher?
A: On any Tuition or Experience listing page, use the dropdown menu to choose the relevant voucher option. Select “Collection” at checkout to avoid shipping charges, then send me the recipient’s details via the the Contact Page. I’ll post it for free via An Post or arrange collection. I have more specific details in my Gift Voucher information section regarding all terms and conditions.
Q: Do you offer digital vouchers?
A: At the moment, I only offer printed vouchers by post or collection. If you need something urgently, message me and I’ll see what I can do. You can add 'Gift Voucher' to the search bar to find my regular Gift Vouchers. If you need Tuition of Experience Vouchers, they are contained in each option listing.
Q: Can I pay in cash instead?
A: Yes, absolutely. You’re welcome to pay in cash and collect the gift voucher in person.
If you prefer to keep things a surprise, we can also arrange for you to leave payment in an envelope on the day of the class, without needing to purchase a voucher in advance.
Q: Do you have Gift Vouchers for the other products on your website?
A: Yes I do. These are generally found on each woodcraft product section like ''Bottlestoppers''. You can also type Gift Vouchers into the Search box and see them all together.
Q: Do Gift Vouchers expire?
A: Yes, but they are valid for 5 years from the date of sale as required under Irish law. Plenty of time! TOP
🎓Woodturning Experiences & Tuition
Q: Do I need any prior experience to take part?
A: Not at all. My sessions are designed specifically for beginners and hobbyists. Whether you're just curious or ready to learn a new craft, you’re in good hands.
Q: What's the difference between a Woodturning Experience and Tuition?
A: Woodturning Experiences are short, fun, and hands-on—perfect for visitors, tourists, or anyone wanting to try something different for a few hours. Tuition is more in-depth and structured for those looking to learn woodturning and grow their skills, and includes one-to-one guidance.
Q: Can I book for more than one person?
A: Yes. I offer both one-to-one and one-to-two sessions. I can also accommodate small groups of up to four people — just contact me to arrange it via the Contact Page.
Q: How do I pay for Woodturning Tuition?
A: You can pay through any Tuition listing (fees included), or you can pay cash in person on the day if you prefer.
Q: I want to pay cash through the website, but there's no cash option?
A: Cash payments can’t be made through the website checkout. If you’d like to pay in cash, please use the Contact Page to make arrangements with me directly. Cash can be paid in advance in person or on the day of the workshop. If the booking is a gift, you can place the cash in an envelope and give it to the recipient to pass to me on the day.
Q: How do I book my Tuition Class/Session?
A: Please use the Contact Page. I don’t currently use an online calendar booking system, as it previously led to mix-ups with customers selecting the wrong options. Booking directly ensures the session suits your level and availability.
Q: What do I need to bring or wear?
A: Just wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dusty! Closed, flat closed-top footwear is essential, no sandals or heels. I provide all the tools, materials, and safety gear.
Q: Do I get to keep what I make?
A: Yes! Any ornaments or basic turned pieces you create during the experience are yours to take home and proudly show off. Just note that beginner pieces can vary, some turn out great, others are more “first attempt” but that’s all part of the fun and learning.
Q: I have the flu—should I still attend my booked session?
A: Believe it or not, this has come up. Please don’t attend if you’re unwell. If you have the flu or any symptoms of illness, cancel your session and reschedule when you’re feeling better. I wouldn’t want to pass anything on to you, and I’d appreciate the same in return. Thanks for understanding!
Q: Is woodturning safe? Are there any age limits?
A: Woodturning is perfectly safe when supervised properly. My workshop is fully equipped with safety gear, and I guide you through everything step-by-step.
For insurance reasons, participants must be 14 or older, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
If you’re interested, I also have a blog post — What Is the Right Age for a Child to Start Woodturning? — which covers the common questions and concerns around children and woodturning.
Q: How far in advance can I book?
A: I prefer not to take bookings more than 2 months in advance, as the likelihood of cancellations increases significantly with longer lead times. Last-minute bookings are sometimes possible — just use the Contact Page to check. TOP
🌧 Tourist Info & Rainy Day Fun for Experiences & Tuition
Q: Is this something I can do on a rainy day in Kerry?
A: Absolutely! My workshop is a great indoor option when the Irish weather does its thing. Visitors often say it was the highlight of their trip.
Q: Can I book these Experiences or Tuition as a surprise or gift for someone visiting Kerry?
A: Definitely. You can book a session as a gift or purchase a Gift Voucher to let them choose the date. Further information on Gift Vouchers can be found here if you'd like to read more. Each listing also includes its own Gift Voucher option.
Q: These Woodturning Experiences and Tuition seem expensive?
A: The pricing reflects more than just the time spent during the session itself. Each experience requires preparation beforehand, cleanup afterward, and time spent resetting my workshop for production. So, a 3-hour session typically takes up around 5 hours or more of my working day. If you think about how your own work hours add up, I hope this gives some helpful context.
Q: How far in advance can/should I book?
A: I prefer not to take bookings more than 2 months in advance, as the likelihood of cancellations increases significantly with longer lead times. Last-minute bookings are sometimes possible — just use the Contact Page to check.
Q: Are woodturning Experiences safe? Are there any age limits for visitors?
A: Yes — Woodturning Experiences are perfectly safe when supervised, and all Experiences take place in a fully equipped workshop with proper safety gear.
For full details, please see the Safety & Age Limits question in the Woodturning Experiences & Tuition section above.
In short, participants must be 14 or older, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Q: Is the workshop accessible for people with limited mobility?
A: Unfortunately, my workshop is not suitable for visitors with limited mobility. The outdoor ground is uneven and stoney, which makes access difficult for wheels, crutches, or walkers. Inside, the workshop is narrow with machinery and equipment that leave very little manoeuvring space.
For both safety and insurance reasons, it would be extremely challenging to accommodate anyone with reduced mobility.
I want to be upfront about this to avoid wasted journeys or disappointment. TOP
🧰 Tools, Finishes & Supplies
Q: Are your tools/finishes/products suitable for beginners?
A: bsolutely. I always encourage beginners to start with good-quality tools rather than cheap rubbish — it makes learning safer, easier, and far more enjoyable.
I stock reliable brands like Hamlet, Hampshire Sheen, and Chestnut Products that are trusted by both beginners and experienced turners.
Q: Why should I buy tools from you instead of a big shop?
A: Unlike most big retailers, I actually use (or have used) most of the tools I sell and can offer genuine advice based on experience. I also sharpen all standard tools before dispatch — something you won’t get from a typical shop. Just check with me first to confirm if the tool you want qualifies as standard.
Q: Do you use these products yourself?
A: Everything I stock is something I use myself or have personally tested at some point. If I wouldn’t use it in my own workshop, I wouldn’t sell it. That said, I do offer a few tools and finishes from trusted brands that I haven’t used personally — simply to give my customers more choice. If I trust the brand and their reputation, I’m confident offering their products as part of a wider range.
Q: Do you sell wood blanks and pen blanks?
A: Yes! I carry a good selection hardwood spindle blanks & bowl blanks. I also carry quantities of Irish hardwood pen blanks, and a lovely assortment of acrylic pen blanks from Chestnut Products. TOP
🎨 Craft Supplies: Ribbons, Bows, Gift Bags & More
Q: Are all your craft supplies in stock and ready to ship?
A: Yes—everything you see on the website is physically in stock and ready to go! I don’t use dropshipping, and I’m firmly against listing items that aren’t actually on the shelf. Occasionally I make a stock-keeping slip, but it’s rare and I’ll always let you know if there’s an issue. I can backorder too if you would like.
Q: Do you sell to hobby crafters as well as businesses?
A: Absolutely. Whether you’re crafting for fun, making gifts, or running a small business, you're very welcome here. No minimum order quantities (except the €10 cart minimum), and everyone gets the same care and attention.
Q: What if I’m not sure which ribbon/bag/finish is best for my project?
A: No problem! Just send me a message through the contact form and I’ll do my best to help you figure out the best match. I use many of these products myself, so I can usually offer practical advice.
Q: Why are some of your packaging items also featured on your handmade products pages?
A: Good question! I originally sourced these items to package my own work and thought other crafters might find them useful too. It’s a bit unusual, but both sides of the business complement each other nicely.
Q: Can I mix colours or sizes in the same order?
A: Yes, of course. You can order any mix of colours, sizes, or styles you like — there are no restrictions. Everything is individually stocked, so you’re free to build your order exactly how you want it.
Q: Do you restock out-of-stock items?
A: Yes. I regularly restock most craft supplies, including popular ribbons, bows and bags. If something is out of stock, feel free to message me — I can often give an estimated restock date or arrange a backorder for you.
Q: Do you offer bulk discounts?
A: I occasionally offer small discounts for larger bulk orders, but only on a case-by-case basis. As a small retailer, I need to maintain fair margins, so discounts generally apply only to significant quantities (usually €300+).
If you think your order qualifies, feel free to contact me with your cart total and item list and I’ll let you know if a bulk rate is possible. Please just keep in mind — I’m a small business, so expectations need to be realistic. TOP
💬 General Enquiries
Q: Why can’t I call you? Why do I have to use the Contact page?
A: I’m usually very busy in the workshop and can’t always answer the phone. Using the Contact page helps me manage enquiries more efficiently—this way, I can reply when I have the time and focus your message deserves, and I won’t accidentally forget about you. Thanks for understanding!
Q: Can I visit your workshop to view products before buying?
A: Yes, visits are possible but strictly by appointment only. I don't have a permanent shop setup, and I often have people calling unannounced expecting to walk into a retail store.
If you’d like to view items in person, just send me your list and I’ll set everything up for you.
If I need to prepare a larger selection of products for viewing, I do ask that you plan to spend around €50 or more, simply to cover the time it takes to set everything out.
Q: Why do I need to make an appointment?
A: I run a small business with a lot happening day-to-day. I could be in production mode, teaching a student, or busy with other parts of the workshop or business.
Making an appointment ensures I can set aside the time for you, avoid interruptions to my work, and give you the attention you deserve when you arrive. TOP
As You Are Here, More Pages to Explore
● Wooden Salad Bowls – Browse hand-turned Irish hardwood salad bowls made for everyday use.
● Household Openers – Explore my range of Irish wood bottle openers for home and gifting.
● Serving Boards – View beautifully crafted serving boards showcasing local Irish hardwood.
● Household & Homeware – Discover useful Irish wood gifts designed for daily living.
● Crafter’s Haven – Visit my craft-supplies section for ribbon, bags, bows and more.
● Christmas Ribbons – Shop festive ribbon options to add colour and charm to your gifts.
● Woodturning Tuition – Learn woodturning with private, beginner-friendly sessions in Tralee.
Thank you for visiting, and please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like any guidance in choosing the perfect gift or piece for your home!