Question 1

How does purchasing a piece work?

Accepted Answer

Each piece is made by hand, link by link, to your exact measurements. After you buy a piece your order is put into the queue, and, depending on the size of the piece and length of the queue, it takes approximately 1-6 weeks to complete (I always aim for sooner rather than later, but I am one person and pay special attention to each order).

Question 2

What materials do you use?

Accepted Answer

All of our products are made with 100% stainless steel (which is nickel-free, hypoallergenic, and cannot rust). If any other materials are used (such as freshwater pearls), they are noted on the individual product listing. Other metals (such as sterling silver or gold) are available upon request for an adjusted price.

Question 3

Do you ship internationally?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We ship USPS priority mail. However, please note that any customs fees, duties, tariffs, or taxes (if applicable) are the responsibility of the buyer. Please contact your local post office or customs office if you have further questions.

Question 4

Do you take custom orders?

Accepted Answer

Yes! If you have a specific type of piece you want made, e-mail affectmetals@gmail.com, and we can talk through your idea, let you know our take on it, and send you a quote.

Question 5

What if I need my chain by a certain date?

Accepted Answer

If you have a specific deadline, let me know via email at affectmetals@gmail.com. We can discuss if your due date is possible!

Question 6

I have questions about measuring!

Accepted Answer

Chains do not have much give, so while every piece is made to be adjustable, each piece is made exactly to the measurements you provide (so your measurements are important!). If you are feeling overwhelmed or otherwise uncertain about what or how to measure, email affectmetals@gmail.com, and we will try to talk you through it.

Question 7

How do I care for my chain?

Accepted Answer

All Affect Metals chains are made from 100% stainless steel, which cannot rust (so all chains are water-safe!). However, stainless steel can be scratched, so it is important to store your pieces with care. Chains are best stored either hanging up or laying flat, and any contact with other metals should be avoided. For larger pieces (such as chainmail tops and lingerie), it is best to store them laying flat in a protective bag (such as the canvas bags they are sent in).   There are a few options for how to clean or shine your chain! The easiest and most accessible option is to wash your chain(s) by hand using warm water and a gentle soap. To do this, place your chain in a bowl of warm water and, using either your hands or a clean, gentle cloth, run along the edge of the chain with gentle soap, wash it off, and then dry it with a clean towel. You can also wash your chains in a dishwasher. To do this, set your dishwasher to gentle, use a small amount of a gentle soap, and place your chains on the top rack. Please note, that the dishwasher method only works for larger chainmail pieces (such as tops), and should not be used for smaller pieces (such as earrings). Finally, if you have access, the best way to clean and shine your chainmail is with a tumbler. Using stainless steel shot, place your chain in a tumbler with brandishing liquid and a small amouont of filtered water, and let the tumbler run for 20 minutes.

Please note that pearls, beads, or other fragile, non-stainless steel materials should not be run through the dishwasher or tumbler!

Question 8

What if my package was stolen?

Accepted Answer

Because Affect Metals is a very small makers project in which all pieces are custom made to order, we cannot afford to replace stolen packages. All packages are sent out via USPS. If the package was listed as having been successfully delivered, we suggest making a claim via the USPS in order to investigate further courses of action.