Customer Care, Warranty & Product Care Policy

Alex’s Artisanal Workshop
Last updated: 24 October 2025

At Alex’s Artisanal Workshop, we take pride in crafting quality handmade timber products designed to be enjoyed for years. This policy explains how to care for your item, the warranty provided, and how we support you after purchase.

1. Our Commitment to Quality

Each item is individually handcrafted using quality materials and finishes. Natural variations in timber are expected and celebrated. These may include:

  • Differences in wood grain and colour

  • Natural knots, textures, or markings

  • Slight size or shape variations

These natural elements are not considered defects but part of the product’s unique character.

2. Warranty

We comply with the Australian Consumer Law (ACL).

Your purchase includes a warranty covering:

  • Faults in workmanship

  • Structural defects when used as intended

Warranty Period:
90 days from date of purchase
(If you’d prefer a 6- or 12-month warranty, I can update this.)

Under ACL, if a product has a major defect, you may be entitled to a repair, replacement, or refund.

3. What the Warranty Does Not Cover

This warranty does not cover:

  • Change of mind

  • Natural timber variations in grain, colour, shape, or finish

  • Damage from improper care or misuse

  • Water exposure, mould, sun or heat damage

  • Wear and tear from normal use

  • Damage resulting from not following care instructions

4. General Product Care Instructions

To extend the life of your handmade piece:

For Timber Products

  • Wipe with a soft, dry or lightly damp cloth

  • Do not soak or submerge in water

  • Avoid direct sunlight & heating sources

  • Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners

  • For indoor decor use only unless stated as suitable for outdoor use

For Finished Surfaces

  • Use coasters and protective pads under hot items

  • Avoid dragging sharp or heavy objects across surfaces

  • Dust regularly with a soft cloth to preserve finish

ADD-ON A: Outdoor Timber Product Care

(For garden decor, planter boxes, outdoor trays, signage, furniture, etc.)

Outdoor timber products are exposed to weather, which naturally affects the timber.

To maintain outdoor items:

  • Place in a sheltered or partially covered outdoor area where possible

  • Avoid prolonged direct weather exposure (rain, full sun, frost)

  • Re-coat with exterior-grade oil, varnish, or sealant every 6–12 months

  • Bring indoors during severe weather or winter to prolong life

  • Expect natural weathering, ageing, and colour changes over time

Outdoor products will weather as timber responds to the environment — this is normal and not considered a defect.

ADD-ON B: Food-Safe Timber Care

(For chopping boards, serving boards, cheese boards, utensil items, etc.)

Food-use timber items require ongoing care.

To keep your board hygienic and long-lasting:

Cleaning

  • Hand wash only with mild soap and warm water

  • Never soak or place in dishwasher

  • Dry immediately after washing

Maintenance

  • Re-oil with a food-safe oil (e.g., mineral oil, grapeseed, tung oil) every 2–3 months or when timber looks dry

  • Apply oil with a soft cloth, allow to absorb, then wipe excess

  • Occasionally sanitise with lemon + salt scrub or white vinegar wipe

Avoid

  • Leaving wet food or moisture on the board for long periods

  • Using bleach or harsh chemicals

ADD-ON C: Candle & Incense Safety Care

(For candle holders, tealight stands, incense burners, etc.)

Safety is essential when using heat-based products.

Usage & Safety Guidelines

  • Never leave burning candles or incense unattended

  • Place on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from flammable materials

  • Keep out of reach of children and pets

  • Use only with appropriate sized candles/incense for the product

  • Allow product to cool after use before handling

Cleaning & Care

  • Do not soak in water

  • Wipe gently with dry or slightly damp cloth once fully cooled

  • Avoid oiling areas that will be in direct contact with flame or ash

Any burn marks or residue that develop through normal use are not considered defects.

5. Environmental Conditions

Timber is a living, natural material and reacts to temperature and humidity changes.

To minimise movement such as minor warping or cracking:

  • Keep products in stable indoor conditions

  • Avoid placing near heaters, air conditioning vents, or direct sunlight

  • Maintain moderate humidity where possible

6. If You Have a Concern With Your Item

If you believe there is an issue:

Please contact us within 7 days of noticing the problem with:

  • Name and order number

  • Description of the issue

  • Clear photos or short video showing area of concern

We will assess and recommend next steps based on ACL guidelines.

7. Repair & After-Care Service

We prioritise repair over replacement to reduce waste.

If outside warranty or for non-warranty repairs, a small repair fee may apply depending on materials and labour.

8. Contact Us

For product care advice, warranty queries, or after-care support, contact:

Alex’s Artisanal Workshop
Email: alexsartisanalworkshop@gmail.com
Location: Central Coast, NSW, Australia