SKIPPER DESIGN COMPANY

Designers and manufacturers of quality counted needlework kits

Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page. We have tried to answer the most common questions visitors to this our web site may have. If you find that your question is not answered on this page, please e-mail your question to: - info@skipperdesign.co.uk.

QUESTIONS ABOUT STITCHING THE KITS

Q1. Is a charted needlework kit easy to work?

Answer: Yes, each kit contains clear instructions on how to follow a chart, taking you through the various stages of working the pattern. Following the chart slowly and carefully makes it quite simple to build up the stitches quickly and thus complete the kit.

Q2. How easy is it to read the yarn colour codes on the chart?

Answer: We hand draw the charts ourselves to ensure that they are easy to read, and a large scale of grid is used for the charts so that it is easy to see. We also choose letters such as, "Y" to represent "Yellow" and "W" to represent "White" yarn stitches, so that the area of pattern is easy to follow.

Q3. How can I identify the fabric count/hole size?

Answer: The count or hole size of the fabric is determined by counting the number of holes along a 1" (2.54 cm) length of fabric. The smallest hole count we use is 18 holes to the inch. 

Q4. Why do I need to do overstitching?

Answer: Overstitching is used to create additional detail and a more realistic finished image. It is used for example, to enhance the detail on windows, sails and fences.

Q5. How long do the kits take to work?

Answer: It depends on the amount of time you spend working the kit, the speed at which you stitch, and the complexity of the pattern. It takes an average needle worker approximately 8 hours of continuous work to complete a simple Norfolk in Needlepoint kit.

Q6. Do I need to use a canvas stretcher or frame?

Answer:  A stretcher or frame can assist in keeping the needlework taught whilst working the pattern. It also helps to create a uniform and smooth finish. A canvas stretcher also prevents the canvas from loosing it's shape if your tension is too tight. Many of our kit instructions suggest a suitable size of stretcher for the design.    

Q7. Do you sell any kits for an experienced needle worker who is looking for a challenge?

Answer: Yes, under each image we suggest a skill level. Kits which are designated "skill level 4", are more complex. These designs are likely to include colour mixing, overstitching and a more challenging pattern.

Q8. Are there any kits suitable for a complete beginner/novice?

Answer: Yes, our range of "Learn A  Stitch" cross stitch kits are designed with the novice in mind. The kits will introduce you to the techniques of cross stitch in an easy to follow way. If you would prefer to begin on a tapestry image, we recommend you try a small project first e.g. our range of tapestry "Rare Breed Animals" which have a large scale canvas. Alternatively, in our "Norfolk in Needlepoint" range, Horsey Mill or Caley Mill is fairly simple to work.

Q9. I like to stitch images of animals, do you have any designs?

Answer: We produce images of rare breed farm animals in both tapestry and cross stitch. During 2006 we are planning to introduce some more designs with an animal theme. These cushions will show animals in a garden environment. Visit our web site for the latest news.

Q10. I want to increase the outside dimensions of the pattern. Can I purchase additional yarn?

Answer: Yes, extra yarn is available. If you have an idea of the quantities you need contact us and we will let you know the cost. If you do not have a quantity in mind then we can help you with the calculations. Please contact us at the address below.

Q11. Do you offer a finishing and framing service?

Answer: At the present we are unable to offer this service. Your nearest local professional picture framer should be able to offer advice, and help you choose a suitable frame for your work. 

Q12. Do you offer a cushion making service?

Answer: We are unable to offer this service because it is dependent on personal tastes. All our cushion kits contain instructions on how to make the design into a cushion with a list of materials required for a variety of cushion styles.

Q13. Do you undertake commission work?

Answer: We are professional designers who have over 20 years experience in a wide range of artistic disciplines. In common with other types of design work, the time spent designing a new pattern represents the largest portion of the overall cost. In this respect, it is usually uneconomic for small designs to be undertaken as a commission. Please contact us with your ideas and we will advise you whether it is feasible.

Q14. Can I purchase just the chart?

Answer: We only sell our designs as packaged kits with all the materials included. All the designs are copyrighted and wholly owned by the Skipper Design Company. It is therefore not permissible to reproduce any or part of the designs without our permission in writing.

QUESTIONS ABOUT ORDERS AND GUARANTEE

Q1. Do you accept credit or debit cards?

Answer: At present we do not accept card payments. Payments can be made by cheque (sterling account). Cheques should be made out to: - "Skipper Design Company." Please do not send cash through the post.

Q2. How long does it take to deliver my order?

Answer: We hold the most popular products in stock. Other kits are made to order, so please allow up to 28 days for delivery. Goods are dispatched by first class post or equivalent means. We will contact you if there are any delays.

Q3. Do you provide a guarantee?

Answer: Yes, all our kits are guaranteed. If there is a fault in the kit e.g. something missing, please return it to us advising us of the problem and where you purchased the kit from. We will rectify or replace the kit and refund your postage costs.  

Q4. Can I buy your kits locally?

Answer: Our "Stockists" page provides information about a number of places where you can purchase our kits. If you think that your local needlework shop would be interested in stocking our kits, please mention our name to them. We are interested in expanding our number of retail outlets.

Q5. Do you offer discounts?

Answer: Our "Special Offers" web page shows details of our latest discounts and this is frequently updated.

Q6. My kit has something missing, what do I do?

Answer: We apologise if this has happened and can assure you that this is very rare. Please make a note of the title of the kit, where you purchased it and the missing item(s). Contact us as soon as possible at the address below and we will rectify the problem immediately.

Q7. I received my kit as a present; can I exchange it for another design?

Answer: If your kit is in perfect condition, unopened and unused and originally purchased directly from us, we can exchange it for one of the same value. Alternatively a replacement kit of a greater value can be purchased. The cost of the original kit will be offset against the price of the replacement kit. We cannot exchange a kit for one of less value. You will however need to pay postage on the returned item at the rate stated on the "Order Form" page.

Q8. I want to send a kit to somebody else as a present. Can you help?

Answer: Certainly! We can gift wrap your chosen items in either blue or pink paper with a matching bow at the cost of £2.00 per item. We can send your goods to a different address. Please provide information in a covering letter attached to the order form and remember to add the correct carriage charges for the delivery address.

Q9. Do you supply your kits wholesale?

Answer: We welcome interest from businesses who are considering stocking our range of products. Please contact us to discuss a tailor made package for your specific needs. 

Q10. Do you pass customer information to other parties?

Answer: Skipper Design Company is the sole owner of the information collected on this web site. We only gather information we need to serve you better and will not - without your consent, - sell, share, or rent this information to others in ways different from what is disclosed in this statement except in cases where in good faith we believe that the law requires us to do so, it is necessary to protect Skipper Design Company's rights and/or property, or if circumstances necessitate acting to protect the personal safety of staff or of the public.

Midsummer House, The Street, Caston, Norfolk NR17 1DD England  
 Web: www.skipperdesign.co.uk   E-mail: info@skipperdesign.co.uk 
 Copyright © Skipper Design Company 2005 - 2007. No part of this site may be copied without permission.