Lamp FAQs
Every lamp at Far Fetched Designs is a one-of-a-kind piece that is truly unique. This is because we handmade each lampshade in store, using a wide variety of fabrics. Our bases are upcycled & repurposed pieces; so usually there's only one!
HOW TO BUY A FAR FETCHED DESIGNS LAMP
We always have 40+ unique lamp and shade combos made up available in store and online. These are all available for immediate pick up or post.
CHANGE THE BASE - If you like the shade but would like a different base, you can either chose a base from one of the other combos made up (you'll find them here); or choose one from our bases only range. Our bases are all ready for immediate pick up or post.
CHANGE THE SHADE - If you like the base but the shade is just not quite right, that's fine too! Again, you can choose a shade from one of the other combos (being mindful that not all shades fit on all bases - but we can help with that) or have a shade custom made from our huge variety of fabrics shown here. If a custom shade is chosen, please allow 2-3 weeks for it to be ready to collect or post.
ABOUT OUR SHADES
OUR SELECTION OF 200+ FABRICS - All our shades are handmade by us at Far Fetched Designs. We have a wide variety of fabrics available to choose from and these are a combination of new, vintage and salavaged fabrics. Unfortunately we are unable to send out swatches for our fabrics, but all are in store for viewing if you'd like to see them in person.
USING YOUR OWN FABRIC - If you have your own fabric that you'd like your shade made in or would like to source your own, we can make up a shade for you. The saving for supplying fabric is $10 off the shade cost. Once you know what size shade you'd like made, we can confirm the amount of fabric required (or you can refer to the guide at the bottom of this page). Please note - we are unable to source fabric for customers, but you are welcome to order and have fabric sent directly to us for use. We will return any remaining fabric you provide with your completed shade. The best fabrics are cottons, linens and most non-stretch fabrics. As we line each shade, most fabrics will work but we would not recommend anything too thick or bulky (if in doubt, just ask!)
SHADE SIZING FOR DRUMS - We have over 8 different widths of drum shades (that's round with straight up and down sides ) frames that we can custom make in a fabric of your choice. The widths are decided by the frames, however the heights can be adjusted to make a shade shorter or taller if preferred.
CONICAL / EMPIRE TAPERED SHADES - If you would like a tapered or empire shade (a shade that's wider at the bottom and looks like a cone), we do have a collection of secondhand cone shades that we can stripe and re-use the frames for a new shade. Sizing depends on what stock we currently have available, but if you let us know what you'd like - we'll let you know if we can do that for you.
RECOVERING YOU SHADE - If you already have a shade that is a size that works for you, but you don't like the fabric on it; we can often stripe and re-cover that for you. Pricing is the same as our drum shades, working the price out based on the widest part of the shade.
The shades we make in store are straight sided (either in a drum, cone or similar) and we use a vinyl lining that is anti-static, UV-stabilized, and fire-resistant, ensuring durability and safety.
Unfortunately we are unable to assist with soft shades (stretched and sewn over frames with vertical bars) scalloped shades or pleated fabric shades.
ABOUT OUR LAMP BASES
Our bases are re-claimed & up-cycled using a mix of vintage, retro and new. Most of our lamps do show signs of age and use, but we think that adds to their charm. Pricing does vary and is based on the age and rarity of the base.
Each of our bases has been cleaned, repaired and then tested and tagged by a certified appliance tester, to ensure they are compliant with Australian Standards.
USING YOUR OWN BASE - If you have your own base and would like a shade, we're happy to help. You'll need to decide what size shade you'd like and what kind of fitting is on the top of your lamp. We welcome you to bring your base in, if you can, and we can help work out which size shade works best and go through fabric options with you. If you are unable to visit us, we can do this via email, text message or phone.
SHIPPING OUR LAMPS
As each lamp and shade varies in size & weight, there is not a one-size-fits-all freight for lamps. Lampshades are light weight but can be quite large and very fragile. To ensure your order reaches you in perfect condition, we ensure all our boxes are extra durable and/or double walled when required.
All our lamps* and shades are currently listed online with a default freight cost of AU$75. For small lamps and shades or metro deliveries, this can be more than the final shipping cost; in these cases we will refund any excess shipping paid.
For larger lamps or regional delivery addresses, there may be additional shipping due. In these instances, we will invoice you for the additional cost.
At anytime prior to your lamp being sent, you are welcome to cancel the order for a full refund if preferred.
Our preferred courier is Sendle, but we can send via Australia Post or other if required.
We are located in, and post from, Seddon in Melbourne Victoria Australia.
*we currently do not offer delivery on floor lamps. If you'd like a floor lamp sent, please get in touch with your delivery address and we will quote on shipping to you.
DAMAGE AND REPAIRS
We offer a 3 month warranty on any lamp base purchased from us if there is an electrical malfunction, but we do not cover accidental damage (for example, if the lamp is knocked over or the cord is damaged in your home). All lamps and shades (excluding any custom made shades) are exchangable if we are notified within 7 days. We do not offer refunds, but can issue store credit.
We are unable to repair any lamp bases in store. By Australian Law, only a qualified Electrican is able to make electrical repairs to appliances. If you have a lamp base that requires repair, we recommend contacting Leon, who offers table and floor lamp re-wiring, cord, plug and switch replacement; as well as international conversions. You can contact Leon on 0423 829 155 or at lben@optusnet.com.au
If your shade is damaged, due to broken spikes or any metal component - unfortunately it is not repairable. If your lampshade sides have been creased or the lining is cracking and falling away, we can usually strip and re-cover the frame for you. In most cases, we are unable to salvage fabric already attached to your shade to use again. As this does vary case-by-case we welcome you to show us your shade and the damage and we can let you know if it is fixable. Either pop in store or contact us via text, email or phone.
