Bee Natural Boutique F.A.Qs
How long does it take to ship?
All orders are processed and shipped within 2 business days from our studio in Michigan. This does not include the time the order is in transport, which does vary according to destination and the shipping method selected.
Do you offer “International Shipping?”
Unfortunately, I do not offer International Shipping at this time.
Is your jewelry hypoallergenic?
Yes! I take great care to ensure that the metals used in my jewelry are the highest quality. Most hardware is titanium or gold filled; all materials are hypoallergenic. Each listing will specify the exact materials used for each individual design, which varies.
How do I care for my hand painted and wooden items?
Due to the handmade nature of our items, store in a safe, dry location. Avoid direct, prolonged exposure to sunlight, water, and rough handling. If an item does become dirty, simply gently with a microfiber cloth.
Do you offer custom work, or pieces that I am able to paint myself?
Absolutely! Simply message me at Melissa@BeeNaturalBoutique.com with details as to what you would like created!
Natural Dye and Paint F.A.Qs
What are earth based pigments?
Earth based pigments are sourced from natural sources such as stone, mica, ochre, flowers, and even insects. Our materials are locally sourced or hand harvested to create our own custom blends of pigments and paints.
How do you create paints with your pigments?
Our paints are created through a process called “mulling.” Mulling is the traditional process of creating paint by hand using a glass muller (similar to a pestle) on a stone or glass palette. The pigment is first mixed with a binder (such as walnut oil) into a paste on the palette. The muller is then used to gently roll and grind the paste until each particle of pigment has been coated in the binder. While only a few ounces can usually be made in a day, the resulting paint is more customizable, eco friendly, and a higher quality than store bought paints. To learn more or watch the process, check out my Instagram page @Bee.Natural.Boutique
From where do you source materials?
As I do not like to detract from the food sources of healthy eco-systems, I mostly harvest along commonly used roadsides, heavily populated areas, or from my own garden. It is not uncommon to see me deadheading my neighbors’ plants as I walk my dogs (dried out flowers sometimes yield the best colors), or running down city roads gathering fallen walnuts between traffic.
While many materials are harvested in Michigan, some are not naturally available here. These products must be sourced from elsewhere. For these sourced products, I make sure to purchase from reputable sellers to provide top quality, natural products.
Why use natural dyes and paints?
The fashion industry has become one of the largest polluters on our planet– second only to “big oil” companies. A huge part of this pollution comes from our synthetic dyes and paints. Natural dyes and paints are an eco-friendly alternative to this, containing none of the harsh chemicals or pollutants found in their modern counterparts. In addition to being better for our planet, natural dyes are also better for our health; the synthetic dyes used on most clothing can impact our health over time as tiny fiber particles are brought in contact with sensitive skin or inhaled. Using natural paints prevents the pollution and waste involved in the modern creation of acrylic paints.
How permanent are natural dyes?
The permanence of natural dyes depends on the process in which they are applied; a careful dyer will achieve better results than an impatient one. To properly ensure that the colors are set, the fabric must be scoured and mordanted before it has been introduced to the dye bath. The materials used as dye must be adequately prepared as well, requiring a different process for each material. After dyeing, it is best to allow the fabric to cure or rest for several days or weeks, before it is finally washed. There is a reason natural dyes are referred to as “slow fashion.” The general rule is that colors applied quickly will fade quickly.
If all the necessary steps are followed, natural dyes age better than synthetic dyes. While synthetic dyes fade, natural dyes simply mature, developing new hues and subtle variations throughout the piece that make it more beautiful and visually intriguing over time.