From the first conversation with a maker to the day the finished object arrives, commissioning a handmade piece follows a clear sequence. This page walks through each stage, what you can expect to provide, and where the process tends to slow down.
How we work with makers and clients
Every commission and studio feature follows a clear sequence. You know what happens at each step, how long it usually takes, and where you have room to make changes. No surprises, no vague promises.
We start with a phone call or email to understand what you need: a custom ceramic set, a timber dining table, a leather bag, or a studio profile for our magazine. You tell us about the piece, the budget range you have in mind, and the timeline you are working with. We confirm whether the project fits our makers' current capacity and suggest a realistic starting point.
Within five working days we introduce you to two or three makers whose techniques match your request. Each maker receives a written brief covering materials, dimensions, finish preferences and any reference images you have shared. You are free to adjust the brief before any work begins, and we make sure both sides agree on the details in writing.
Makers return with a fixed quote and a production schedule. The quote includes materials, labour, finishing and delivery within Australia. We review the numbers with you, explain what drives the cost, and flag any trade-offs between price, quality and lead time. Nothing is charged until you approve the quote.
During production you receive progress updates at agreed checkpoints: material selection, shaping or joinery, finishing, and before dispatch. For larger pieces we arrange a video call so you can see the work in progress. If a problem comes up, we tell you immediately and propose options rather than waiting until the end.
Once the piece is finished and inspected, we arrange insured delivery to your address. You receive care instructions specific to the material, whether that is ceramic glaze maintenance, leather conditioning or timber oiling. If anything arrives damaged or does not match the agreed brief, we coordinate a repair or replacement with the maker.
After delivery we send a short summary of the project, including the maker's contact details and any warranty terms. For studio features, we schedule a follow-up visit within six months to document how the work has aged. We also ask for your honest feedback, which helps us refine how we brief makers in the future.
What working with us actually involves
You start with a short brief: the object, the timber or clay you prefer, the size, and the date you need it by. Within three working days you receive a fixed quote and a realistic timeline, so there are no surprises later.
Your maker sends progress photos at each stage, from the first cut or throw to the final finish. You see the piece taking shape and can request small adjustments before the last coat of oil or glaze is applied.
Every commission includes a care sheet written for that specific material. You learn how to clean, condition, and store the object so it holds up through years of daily use, not just the first season.
If a piece arrives damaged or does not match the agreed dimensions, we remake it or refund the deposit. The process is documented in writing before you commit, and the warranty period is stated on the invoice.
You receive the maker's contact details and can ask follow-up questions about repairs or refinishing even months later. Most studios offer a re-oiling or re-waxing service for timber and leather goods at a set rate.
Every custom piece follows the same disciplined path. You describe what you need, we match you with a maker whose methods suit the work, and the studio keeps you informed at each checkpoint. No surprises, no vague timelines, no guesswork about what happens next.
Step 01
Tell us what you want made, the dimensions, the timber or clay or leather you have in mind, and how you plan to use the piece. Photos of a similar object help the maker understand your reference points.
Step 02
We review your brief against our directory of studios and suggest two or three makers whose techniques fit the job. You see their past work and their workshop notes before anyone starts cutting or throwing.
Step 03
The chosen maker prepares a fixed quote with a realistic completion date. Material costs, finishing time and delivery are itemised so you know exactly what you are paying for and when to expect it.
Step 04
You receive progress notes at agreed milestones, usually after the material is prepared, after the main construction and before the final finish. If a problem appears, you hear about it early, not on delivery day.
Step 05
Once the piece is finished, you get a chance to review it in person or by video call. Small adjustments to fit, finish or hardware are made before the object is packed and sent to you.
Step 06
The finished object arrives with a care card written by the maker, covering cleaning, storage and any maintenance the material will need over the years. You also get the maker's contact for future repairs.
Most commissions take between four and ten weeks depending on the material and the studio's current workload. If you need a piece for a specific date, mention it in the brief and we will only suggest makers who can meet it. For a closer look at what each studio produces, browse the offerings page or return to the homepage to read the latest maker profiles.