FAQ
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At Blue Bird Leather Co., we use full grain or top grain natural leathers including bovine (cowhide), kangaroo, goat, sheep and occasionally exotic leathers such as ethically sourced cane toad leather.
We primarily work with vegetable-tanned (veg-tan) leather, a traditional leather that is tanned using plant-based tannins (like oak bark or acacia). Because of the word “vegetable,” veg-tan leather is sometimes mistaken for a vegan or plant-based product. Veg-tanned leather is not vegan, it is an animal based, biodegradable material.
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Stitching
All stitching on our products is covered by a lifetime guarantee. If the stitching frays or deteriorates through normal everyday use, you can return the item to us (at your own cost), and we will remove the old thread and restitch the piece free of charge.
Hardware
We offer a limited guarantee on all hardware:
3 years for zippers
2 years for snaps and closures
If any hardware malfunctions within the applicable period, return the item to us (at your own cost), and we will replace the faulty component free of charge.
Fabric Lining
If your item includes fabric lining, it is covered for 2 years against faults in materials or workmanship. If the lining fails under normal use during this period, return the item to us (at your own cost), and we’ll repair or replace the lining free of charge.
Please note: These guarantees cover functional faults only. They do not apply to cosmetic wear and tear, accidental damage, or faults caused by misuse, improper care, or unauthorised repairs.
Consumer Guarantee
Under Australian Consumer Law, you have the right to a replacement or refund if a product has a major failure. Examples of a major failure include:
Structural integrity compromise: e.g.: bag handles or straps detaching due to poor craftsmanship
Severe leather defects: e.g.: deep, irreparable cracks or tears beyond normal wear expectations
If the issue is minor, such as loose stitching or small hardware issues, you're entitled to have the item repaired or replace, not refunded, as per Australia Consumer Law. Examples of minor failures include loose stitching or minor hardware issues.
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Change of Mind
As our items are handmade to order, we do not accept returns or exchanges if you simply change your mind.
Natural Marks and Variations
Returns are not accepted for natural marks, variations, scarring, brand marks, or tannery manufacturing marks. These are inherent characteristics of genuine veg-tanned leather and are not considered faults.
Faulty Products
If your item is faulty or not as described, you are entitled to a repair, replacement, or refund in accordance with the Australian Consumer Law. This includes faults arising from craftsmanship or materials, but does not include natural leather markings as outlined above.
If you believe your item is faulty or if you are making a claim under our stitching guarantee:
First, email us at bluebirdleathercoau@gmail.com with your order number or proof of purchase, description of the issue, and clear photos of the item.
We will assess the issue and let you know the next steps, including whether the item needs to be returned for inspection.
If it is confirmed that the fault is covered by our guarantee, we will provide instructions on how to return the item to us at no cost to you.
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We believe in making things that last and helping you make them last even longer.
If your Blue Bird Leather Co. item needs care beyond our guarantees, we offer a repair service for general wear and tear, accidental damage, or ageing materials.
Common repairs include:
Replacing worn or broken stitching
Patching scuffed or damaged leather
Re-lining interiors
Replacing worn-out hardware (outside the guarantee period)
Conditioning and restoring dried-out leather
All repairs are assessed on a case-by-case basis. We will always be upfront about what's possible and any costs involved. You will be responsible for covering the cost of shipping the item to us, but we will guide you through the process and provide a quote before any work begins.
Not sure if your item can be repaired? Get in touch, we are always happy to help.
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commissions
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<This is where you let people know if your store rents furniture for photo and film shoots.> It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
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To begin a custom piece, please complete the [Custom Order Enquiry Form] on our website. This helps us understand what you're after — including style, materials, colours, and any personal touches you’d like included.
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Depending on the complexity of your concept, we may invite you to a quick Google Meet video call to discuss your ideas in more detail. This ensures we’re on the same page before any work begins.
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Yes!
A non-refundable 50% deposit is required to confirm and lock in your order. This allows us to begin sourcing materials and starting working on your piece.
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The remaining 50% balance is due before the item is shipped. Once the final payment is received, we’ll package and send your item with tracking.
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Minor tweaks may be possible very early in the process, but once materials are cut or purchased, changes may not be possible. We would recommend finalising all aspects of the design during the initial enquiry stage.
Changes to the design or materials used after work has commenced may be possible, for an additional cost.
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Turnaround time varies depending on the complexity of your design and our current queue, but generally falls between 2–6 weeks. We will give you an estimate when confirming your order and keep you updated throughout.
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Because custom pieces are made specifically for you, we cannot offer refunds for change of mind. The deposit is non-refundable, and the remaining balance is still required if the work has been completed.
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Absolutely! Let us know if it’s a gift — we can include a handwritten note, package it thoughtfully, or keep it a surprise if needed. Just make sure the final design is confirmed before we start crafting.
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Yes! Design chats via email or Google Meet are part of the process for more complex projects. These help us co-create something meaningful and tailored to your needs.
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We love working with you to bring your ideas to life, but there are a few boundaries we stick to when taking on commissions:
No Copying Other Artists' Work
We do not replicate or closely imitate the work of other makers, designers, or brands. If you have a reference piece you like, feel free to share it for inspiration — but all Blue Bird Leather Co. creations are original and designed with our unique style and methods.
No Trademarked or Copyrighted Designs
We cannot reproduce copyrighted images, logos (e.g. sports teams, luxury brands), or characters unless you have the legal right to use them. This protects both of us from potential legal issues.
We Reserve the Right to Decline Projects
If a proposed custom piece does not align with our values, ethics, aesthetic, or practical capabilities, including (but not limited to) requests for harmful language, violent themes, or materials we do not work with, we reserve the right to respectfully decline the commission.
Ethical Material Use
We only work with materials that align with our sourcing standards. We do not accept requests to use exotic or restricted leathers outside our current material list (e.g.: bovine, kangaroo, sheep, goat, cane toad). If you have specific material requests, we are happy to explore options that meet our ethical guidelines.