Distinctive Sewing Supplies

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1.  I like what I see in on your website but I'm not comfortable shopping online.

Many sewing enthusiasts recognize the benefits of viewing and selecting products in the comfort of their own home, and at their own convenience.  For some however, shopping online can be an intimidating experience.

Here's some tips for shopping online to help you address your concerns:

1. Reputable online vendors will provide you with an e-mail address, mailing address and telephone number where you can contact them.  Before you consider buying, speak to the vendor about any of your concerns.

2. Reputable vendors have their privacy and return policies online so you can review them in detail.

3. Ask if the vendor can provide you with samples.  Samples are sometimes provided at a minimal cost, and that cost is usually refunded on your first order.  Distinctive Sewing Supplies will provide you with up to three free fabric samples on request.

4. Find out payment terms and methods.  Reputable vendors will use payment methods that protect your information.  At Distinctive Sewing Supplies, we have a merchant's account that allows us to accept VISA or Mastercard.  To protect your privacy we have a secure online Order Form.  Your information is protected by 128 bit encryption secure socket layer.  We send you an email verifying exact amounts charged to your credit card.  That way there are no surprises.  You may also pay by Money Order or Personal Cheque.  Once an order is processed we destroy your credit card or cheque information.

5. Plan to visit the Distinctive Sewing Supplies booth at one of the several events we support like the Creativ Festival (formerly the Creative Sewing & Needlework Festival) in Toronto, or the Inspirations Needlecraft Show in Ottawa and get to know us.

2.  Why don't you have a shopping cart like other some other websites?

Distinctive Sewing Supplies is a small Canadian-based business and we will plan to add new services such as a shopping cart as our business grows.  For now our customers are happy to use the secure online order form or just e-mail us with their requirements.  You can also buy from us at trade shows such as the Creative Sewing and Needlework Show in Toronto.  Look under "Events" for upcoming trade shows.

3.  How are your products stored?

All our patterns, fabrics and other products are stored in protective coverings in a dry, smoke-free environment, until they are ready to be shipped.  All products are carefully handled, packaged and sealed for shipment to you so that they arrive in pristine condition.

4.  What currency are your products priced in?

All prices are in Canadian dollars.  For American customers, your credit card company will process the currency exchange for you.  Payments by money order or personal cheques must be in Canadian dollars.

5.  What shipping methods do you use?

We ship our products by Canada Post.  Small items such as one or two patterns are sent by regular mail.  Packages are shipped by Expedited Parcel.  When you submit your order we calculate the actual shipping and we do not add additional amounts for handling and packaging as some vendor might.  Shipping expense varies with size and weight of the package as well as the distance to the destination. Any order of $100.00 or more, before taxes and shipping, entitles you to free shipping.

Have a Question?  Please e-mail us at info@distinctivesewing.com.