FAQ
Q: What is considered normal turn-around?
A: You can expect delivery of Antique Bronze baby shoe products in approximately 10-12 weeks; pewter and porcelain orders are normally between 11-13 weeks. Special items such as bats, gloves, boots, pacifiers, etc, normally require about 13 weeks.
Q: Can orders be turned around more quickly?
A: Yes, to some degree. A 25% surcharge will be added to a baby shoe bronzing order if a 5-8 week delivery is required and a 50% surcharge will be added if less than a 5-week shipment is required (if possible). Beware competitor claims that they can shorten the process down to a week or two. Dangerous chemical dips are part of the electroplating process, and drying time is required between steps. We sympathize with wanting to rush things to meet an important date such as a birthday or anniversary; however, you don't want chemicals slowly leaching out over the years and turning your keepsake green like a penny left out in the rain. All of our work is warranted for 25 years.
Q: Will bronzing withstand the outdoor elements?
A: No. Electroplating is not appropriate for outdoor memorials or applications.
Q: Can bronzed items be worn as jewelry?
A: No. Skin oils and moisture will eventually corrupt the electroplating. This applies to plating over existing jewelry, watchbands, etc. Only solid precious metals can be used as jewelry.
Q: Why do you charge more than some competitors?
A: This is the best quality available. Bases are made of all metal, walnut or walnut-finished and marble, mounted with screws, and multiple layers of real-metal plating is applied to your keepsake. All work is hand-crafted through 22 steps and no automation is involved. All workmanship is covered by a full 25-Year Warranty. Paying less for genuine electroplating in a similar style necessarily equals less metal plating; lower quality bases and-or workmanship, and probably a money-back guarantee in lieu of an extended, time-proven warranty.
Q: Can you bronze shoes that aren't leather or plastic?
A: We cannot process felt, velvet or fur shoes. And we prefer not to process knitted, crocheted, lace-trimmed or terry shoes/slippers and will only do so at the customer's "own risk" when possible. (Consequently, we cannot guarantee the workmanship on these shoes.) These loose or soft materials don't hold their shape well during plating and tend to become stretched or misshapen. Use leather, vinyl, canvas, satin or rubber footwear if they are available.
Q: What about sneakers or tennis shoes?
A: Sneakers comprise a large portion of our business and they look terrific. The antique bronze finish looks and processes best on these shoes.
Q: Can you bronze shoes that have already been done by another company?
A: Yes. We can make the finish look beautiful but we cannot reshape them. Use the same pricing as for a new pair of shoes and add $15.
Q: Can you bronze anything other than baby shoes?
A: We can bronze almost anything in antique bronze, bright bronze, or "pewter". However, the antique bronze finish usually gives the best appearance. First, check out our Specialty Items list, and if you don't see your keepsake listed, send us an e-mail including a description and dimensions of the item. We'll respond with an answer as to whether or not the item can be successfully electroplated, and also with a price quote. If we can't electroplate it, then it probably cannot be electroplated.
Q: Can you leave the laces untied?
A: Sorry but we must tie the laces or they will break off during processing. All shoes are tied the same way; where the bows lay to the sides.
Q: What if the shoes are longer than 6 inches?
A: These are considered oversized shoes and will not fit on our standard bases so they are only available as an unmounted style 51 or 52. Oversized items also can be beautifully mounted on walnut bases after plating. To price shoes between 6 - 8" long, please send us an e-mail with a description and height, and whether you desire to have them mounted. We'll respond with a quote.
Q: How do you care for bronzed shoes?
A: Just wipe with a soft dry cloth occasionally. Never use a polish or cleaner as they will cut through the protective lacquer coating that preserves the finish.
Q: Can shoe laces or buttons be added?
A: Yes, but at a nominal cost and only by specific request.
Q: Can shoes be bronzed "as is?"
A: No. All shoes must be shaped as if they are being worn or they cannot be finished satisfactorily.