Here you will find answers to the questions I am most often asked about ordering, commissions, shipping and how to care for your wooden pieces from The Bute Woodspoiler.
Everything I make is turned by hand in small batches, so it is completely normal to have a few practical questions before you place an order. I hope this page helps, but if you are ever unsure, please do get in touch and I will be happy to help.
You can browse the questions by section below. If you cannot find what you are looking for, scroll to the bottom of the page for more ways to contact me.
How do I place an order?
You can order directly through the online shop by adding items to your basket and completing checkout, or by emailing me if you have a special request or need several pieces together.
What payment methods do you accept?
I accept major debit and credit cards via secure checkout. For commissions or trade orders I can also accept bank transfer by arrangement.
Is it safe to pay on your website?
Yes. Payments are processed securely by trusted providers, and I never see or store your full card details.
Will I receive an order confirmation?
Yes, you will receive an email confirmation shortly after placing your order. If it has not arrived within a few minutes, please check your spam folder or contact me.
Can I change or cancel my order after placing it?
If you need to change your delivery address, add a note, or cancel, please contact me as soon as possible. If I have not yet packed or shipped your order I will do my best to help. Custom or personalised pieces may not be cancellable once work has started.
Where do you ship to?
I currently ship within the United Kingdom. If you are based elsewhere and are interested in a particular piece, please contact me to discuss options.
How long will my order take to arrive?
For in-stock items, I usually dispatch within 3–5 working days. Delivery times then depend on the carrier but are typically a few days within the UK. During busy periods this may take a little longer, but I will always keep you informed.
How much does shipping cost?
Shipping costs are shown at checkout and depend on the size, weight and value of your order. I aim to keep postage fair and use reliable services that look after handmade work.
Will my order be tracked?
Most parcels are sent on a service with tracking or delivery confirmation. I will include tracking details in your dispatch email where available.
What if my parcel is delayed, lost or arrives damaged?
If your parcel seems delayed, please check the tracking first, then contact me if you are still concerned. If anything arrives damaged, please email me as soon as possible with photographs of the item and packaging so I can help put things right.
How do I request a bespoke commission?
The best place to start is the Commissions page, which explains what I can make and how the process works. From there you can send me an enquiry with your ideas.
What kind of things can I commission?
Common requests include special bowls and platters, presentation pieces, trophy bases, club awards, personalised whisky stands and one-off gifts. If it can reasonably be turned on a lathe, I am happy to discuss it.
What information should I include in my enquiry?
It helps if you can share roughly what you would like, approximate size, preferred wood species (if any), whether the piece is for food use, your budget, and any important dates such as a birthday or presentation.
How long do custom commissions take?
Lead times vary depending on the complexity of the piece and my current workload. As a guide, simple commissions may take a few weeks, while more involved or seasonal projects can take longer. I will always confirm an estimated timescale before you commit.
Can you add engraving or personalisation?
Yes. I offer laser engraving for names, dates, logos and short messages on many pieces. Not every design is suitable for every surface, but I will advise what is possible and show layout ideas before going ahead.
How are bespoke commissions priced?
Pricing depends on the size, timber, complexity and level of detail. For larger or more involved work I may ask for a deposit before starting. I will always provide a clear quote so you can decide before any commitment is made.
What woods do you use?
I mainly work with sustainable Scottish hardwoods such as oak, ash, elm and sycamore, with some carefully chosen European timbers and recycled wood where possible. Each piece of timber is selected for character and suitability.
Will my wooden piece move or change over time?
Wood is a natural material and may move slightly with changes in temperature and humidity. Small changes or hairline surface checks are normal and part of the life of the piece. I season timber carefully and design forms to minimise movement, but it cannot be removed entirely.
What finishes do you use?
For kitchenware and food-contact items I use food-safe oil or hardwax finishes. Decorative or sculptural pieces may use different oils, waxes or lacquers chosen to suit the form and timber.
Is it safe to use for food?
Anything intended for food use will be clearly described as such in the product listing and finished with a suitable food-safe finish. Please always follow the care guidance that comes with your piece.
How should I care for my wooden bowls and boards?
As a rule, avoid soaking, dishwashers and harsh detergents. Wipe with a damp cloth, dry promptly, and refresh occasionally with a suitable food-safe oil. For more detailed advice, please see my blog post How to Care for Your Wooden Kitchenware.
Can you repair damaged pieces?
It depends on the type and extent of the damage. Small knocks, surface marks or finish wear can often be improved or refreshed. Cracks, breaks or heavy damage may not be repairable, but I am always happy to take a look.
Do you only repair items you have made?
My priority is to look after pieces I have made myself, but I may sometimes be able to help with other turned items. Please contact me with photos and I will let you know honestly what is realistic.
How do I request a repair or refinishing?
Please email me with clear photographs of the piece and a short description of what has happened. I can then advise on options, likely costs and whether the item would need to be returned to the workshop.
How much will a repair cost?
Costs vary depending on the time and materials required, as well as return shipping if needed. I will always provide an estimate for you to approve before going ahead with any work.
Do you offer wholesale or trade pricing?
Yes, I am open to working with selected shops, galleries, clubs and organisations where my work is a good fit. As everything is handmade, I do not hold large quantities of stock, but I can often plan small batches or regular orders.
Can you make awards or presentation pieces for our club or event?
Yes. I regularly create trophy bases, awards and presentation pieces, with options for engraving and logos. Please allow good time before your event so we can discuss designs and timescales.
How should I get in touch about becoming a stockist?
Please send an email introducing your shop or organisation, including where you are based, the sort of work you usually stock, and any ideas you have for items or price ranges. I will get back to you to discuss possibilities.
Can you hold or reserve pieces for events or galleries?
In some cases I can reserve specific pieces for upcoming exhibitions or events by agreement. This is usually handled on a case-by-case basis, so please contact me to chat about what you have in mind.
If your question is not covered above, or if you would simply prefer to talk things through, I am always happy to help.
You can find a broader overview of policies and practical information on the Customer care page, including shipping, returns and care summaries.
For specific questions about an order, a commission idea or a particular piece, please use the Contact page to send a message, or email me directly at tim@thebutewoodspoiler.uk. I will get back to you as soon as I can.