- Why did you change your name from Marigold and Mars? Over the years my work has grown, and I have too. My work is an extension of myself and my identity-not just a product or a brand-and I felt like I needed to reflect that in how I present it. The name "Marigold and Mars" is still significant to me, and I'll carry that in my heart forever! (Maybe I'll tell you the story sometime...) But I feel that using my name to represent my work allows me to keep growing as an artist and maker.
- Where is my order? Most of my products are made to order, so production won't begin on your item until your order is placed. Once your order has been stitched, I pack it up all pretty and ship it via USPS First Class. (Pet portraits ship via USPS Priority.) I always send tracking information to the email address you provided at checkout, so be sure to check your inbox!
- Do you ship internationally? Sometimes! International shipping options and pricing are listed at checkout. PLEASE NOTE: Customer assumes ALL RESPONSIBILITY for any duties, taxes, or fees imposed on international orders.
- What is your return policy? Because my pieces are made to order and/or custom, I do not offer refunds. I do want you to be totally thrilled with your purchase, though! If for some reason you're not, please let me know and we'll make it right.
- Do you accept custom orders? I do take custom orders, on occasion! When I have room in my schedule, or when I'm particularly inspired by a custom request, I'm happy to bring your ideas to life! And, as always, if you'd like a different thread or background color on an existing piece, just let me know!
- I live in Richmond. Do you offer local pickup? Unfortunately, I do not currently offer local pickup.
- I bought your book, but the iron-on transfer papers don't work! Help?! Please contact [email protected] or call (212)-206-7715 to obtain replacement papers. You might also want to try out an iron transfer pen, which you could use to trace the designs directly onto the paper, then iron on as directed.
- I'd like to learn embroidery! How did you get started, and do you have any tips for beginners? I learned some super basic stitches in a middle school art class (approximately one thousand years ago) and fell in love! If your art class days have passed, don't worry--there are T-O-N-S of resources out there to help you get started! Find my printable guide to my 10 favorite basic embroidery stitches here, complete with a video stitch library! My PDF guide, A Beginner's Guide to Modern Hand Embroidery, has all the info you need to get started PLUS an illustrated stitch guide to help you learn some basic stitches! If you're ready for more, or want a more in-depth resource, my book Hoop Dreams is full of projects perfect for new or experienced stitchers. The most important thing is just to practice, practice, practice! Go grab yourself a hoop, some fabric, a few bundles of floss and a pack of needles, and dive in! The more you stitch, the better you'll get. Start with some simple stitches, and once you're comfortable, add a few more...and don't be afraid to experiment. I'm still learning and pushing myself to get better, every single day. You're going to have so much fun! And please don't forget to respect all of the other artists out there! The thing that I love most about embroidery is that you just about can do ANYTHING. Scouring other people's work for inspiration is fine, but copying someone else's design is definitely not! I know you've got some amazing ideas inside that beautiful head of yours, so let's see 'em!
