FAQS
Who makes the products?
Dulcie May products are all designed and made by Ren, one unique item at a time. Working from my woodland studio with a cup of tea at my elbow and birdsong to cheer me along I have been sewing for decades. I still love every minute, work & play every day, pinch me. I'm 55 and having a wonderful time, long may it continue.
Were you called Fairysteps / Faerysteps?
Soon after I began trading in 2002 my business was called Dulcie May. In 2005 I moved to making fairytale themed footwear and rebranded to Fairysteps / Faerysteps. Now after nearly 20 years I've gone full circle and have reverted to my original brand name. Dulcie and May are names belonging to two of my most special creations, my daughters (my Boys rather special too) x
Why do you make leathergoods and bags when imports are so cheap?
There's a question! I'm guessing that you are here because it matters to you knowing who made the products you buy. It's a rare and wonderful thing to be able to look at an item you use everyday and say to yourself, I know not just who made this purse, bag, etc, but I know where and when and how. I know that I bought direct from the maker and not only that, I helped keep that craft alive and local. I bought something made to love and to last. Full accountability.
What leathers do you use?
Recently I am embracing the pared back simplicity of a limited swatch using basic woodland shades only. In our modern 'overload' age keeping to a basic palette of blacks, browns and a select few muted tones offers us good neutral colours to compliment any past, present or indeed future wardrobe addition. Sustainable, economical sense all round. Stock items may appear in other colours if I have some on my shelves.
All products are made with premium leather hides from gold rated Italian tanneries sourced from reputable British merchants. Created using age old techniques, these materials are a canvas of their origin. Natural markings are worked into each item embracing the hides individuality to create a unique product.
I use a lighter weight oak bark tanned leather for decoration, corresponding to their colour tone match.
How do I order custom items?
Being a lone worker my output is limited to how much I can physically make each month. Because of this I often switch to exclusively making ready made stock and leathergoods for extended periods. Occasionally I open custom listings, if so they will be available in their relevant category. If the made to order category isn't showing in the shop then Ive sold out and mto is unavailable till further notice. Thank you for your patience and support in my rather unorthodox way of working.
What inspires you?
Inspiration from the Woodlands surrounding my home constantly finds it's way into my work, but I also look to the past. I was a 70s child in a magical time pre technology overload where it was literally another universe. The world was orange, brown, saddle tan and covered in ditsy flower cottons. If any one of my leathergoods or garments helps you to travel to a happy place my mission is complete.
Do you post Worldwide?
Available destinations include England, Scotland, Wales, USA, Canada, Australia & New Zealand. Shipping rates are shown at checkout. International customers are responsible for any custom fees incurred on arrival. Sadly I am no unable to post to European countries.
*USA customers only - No need to worry about the newly imposed tariff charges. I will post via the Royal Mail PDDP scheme which enables your parcel to quickly reach you. Usual customs charges may apply as before.
How long before delivery?
Your order should arrive within 3 to 5 working days. If you ordered Made-to-order leathergoods expect a 4 to 6 week turnaround time. Tracking details are sent at the time of posting. In the unlikely event that your parcel arrives damaged DO NOT throw away the packaging, instead photograph the parcel before unpacking as proof. Without proof you will not be able to submit a claim to the post office. Likewise, if your parcel does not arrive do contact the postal service quoting the tracking number given at the time of dispatch.
I have changed my mind, can I return my order?
Ready Made / Stock items can be returned, unused, unopened & in their original packaging within 14 days, as per UK distance selling laws. Refunds are subject to condition of the returned product and will include a 10% deduction for handling / restocking / & fees that I will have had to pay for the sale.
All custom / made to order sales are final and are non refundable. Incredibly expensive materials alongside hours of painstaking work have gone into completing your order.