Answers to common questions about our handwoven straw and natural fibre goods. If your question is not here, write to us through our Contact page.
What are StrawCrafters products made from?
Our pieces are woven from natural plant fibres: cattail grass, water hyacinth, raffia, rattan, bulrush, willow, corn husk, dandelion root and paper rope. A few items use other materials, such as one crossbody bag woven from nylon rope; the exact material is listed on every product page.
Is everything handmade?
Yes. Every piece is made by hand, and most are handwoven from natural fibres. Because of this, colour, pattern and measurements vary slightly from piece to piece and from the photos.
How do I choose the right slipper or hat size?
For slippers, measure your bare foot from heel to toe. Most of our slippers are sized by inside length, and each size fits a foot about 0.5 to 1 cm shorter; some styles use US sizes with the foot length listed. If you wear socks, choose the next size up. For hats and visors, check the head circumference where it is listed on the product page; several styles fit about 57 cm and many have an elastic or adjustable strap. Wall baskets are sized by diameter.
How long does shipping take?
Each item is handmade or finished to order. Processing time depends on the item; if you need an order by a certain date, message us before you buy. Most orders arrive within 5 to 14 business days after dispatch; orders to the United States can take longer because of recent changes in US customs handling. Every order ships with tracking, and the tracking number is emailed once your order ships. Buyers are responsible for any customs or import fees in their country. Full details are in our Shipping Policy.
Can I return or exchange an item?
Yes, within 7 days of delivery. For a change of mind or a wrong size or colour, message us within 7 days of delivery; the buyer covers return shipping, and we issue a full refund once the item is back with us in its original condition. If an item arrives damaged or wrong, do not send it back: message us with photos within 7 days of delivery and we will send a replacement or a refund. Personalized and custom-made items cannot be returned unless they arrive damaged or incorrect. See our Refund Policy.
How do I care for and clean natural straw?
Wipe straw, cattail and water hyacinth gently with a dry cloth. Do not machine wash or soak them. Keep them dry and in a ventilated place, away from long exposure to direct sunlight. Store hats flat or on a stand and fill bags with tissue paper so they keep their shape. Product pages list any care notes specific to that item.
Does woven straw shed?
Natural fibre can show slight fraying or a few loose fibres, especially when the piece is new; this is normal for handwoven plant material. Some pieces have a light earthy scent when first unpacked, which fades in a dry, ventilated place.
Can I wear straw slippers outside or in the rain?
No. Our straw slippers are made for indoor use as house shoes, spa slippers and sauna slippers. Keep them away from water and rain, and let them dry in a ventilated place if they get damp. Some closed-toe tassel styles fit snugly and are not recommended for feet with bunions or hammertoes; this is noted on those product pages.
Can I order a custom size, colour or design?
Many listings already offer choices of size, style, colour or set size; pick them from the options on the product page. For any other request, contact us through our Contact page before you order and we will tell you whether we can make it.