Little Boat Publishing - FAQ, T&Cs & Privacy

Frequently Asked Questions

Ordering

HOW LONG WILL MY ORDER TAKE?

Most orders are prepared and posted as quickly as possible, but because everything is made or finished by hand, timings can vary slightly. If your items are in stock, your order will usually be packed and dispatched within a few days. If an item is handmade‑to‑order or currently out of stock, it may take up to 14 working days for us to make or restock it before it’s ready to send. This ensures every piece is printed, cut, assembled, or finished with the care it deserves. Once your parcel has been posted, you’ll receive a dispatch confirmation email to let you know it’s officially on its way. If you ever need an update, just get in touch we’re always happy to help.

Are All Your Products Handmade?

Yes. Everything in the shop is handmade in our studio. Nothing is mass‑produced or outsourced. Even “in stock” items were handmade ahead of time in small batches.

Can I change or cancel my order?

Yes. As long as your order hasn’t entered production or been dispatched. Once we begin making your handmade‑to‑order items, cancellations are no longer possible unless the item is faulty.

Handmade‑to‑Order Items

What does “handmade‑to‑order” mean?

It means we make the item after you place your order, usually when stock sells out or during busy periods.

How long does production take?

Printed items: 7–14 working days
Hand‑assembled items: 3–10 working days

Can I return a handmade‑to‑order item?

Handmade‑to‑order items cannot be returned for change of mind once production has begun or once they’ve been dispatched.

Faulty items are always covered.

Backorders

What is a backorder?

A backorder means the item is temporarily out of stock, but we are already making the next batch.

How long do backorders take?

Usually 7–14 working days, depending on the item.

Can I cancel a backorder?

Yes. Before production begins or before dispatch.

What if I order an in‑stock item and a backorder item together?

Your order will be packed and shipped together once everything is ready. If you need something sooner, please place separate orders.

Cardstock & Paper Quality

What cardstock do you use?

We use three types of premium cardstock:

160gsm (colouring/swatch books)
160gsm (stationery items, a different type)
250gsm (premium items)

160gsm for colouring books - Silver Edition

Smooth, silky, alcohol‑marker‑friendly. Perfect for blending, layering, and vibrant colour.

160gsm for stationery items

A different type of 160gsm. Chosen because it feels lovely to write on. Smooth, clean, and resistant to feathering.

250gsm for premium colouring books - Gold Edition

Thick, sturdy, smooth art card. Ideal for bookmarks, postcards, and deluxe swatch books.

Why different types?

Each one shines in its own way:

Colouring → smooth blends
Stationery → perfect writing surface
Premium Colouring → sturdy, keepsake‑quality

Shipping

Who do you ship with?

All orders are shipped with Royal Mail.

Are the shipping prices accurate?

Yes. Prices come directly from Royal Mail’s live rates via their official plugin.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. Worldwide.

How long does shipping take?

After dispatch:

UK: 2–5 working days
Europe: 1–3 weeks
USA/Canada: 2–5 weeks
Australia/New Zealand: 2–6 weeks
Rest of World: 2–6 weeks

Mixed orders (in‑stock + handmade/backorder)

Your order ships together once everything is ready.

Customs & Tariffs

USA Customs & Tariffs

Royal Mail handles the UK side; USPS handles customs and delivery. Most small parcels enter without extra charges, but any import fees are the customer’s responsibility.

Europe Customs, VAT & Handling Fees

Since the UK is no longer in the EU, European countries may charge import VAT, small duties, or handling fees. Local postal services manage customs and will contact customers if payment is required. Any fees are the customer’s responsibility.

Delivery Issues

My parcel hasn’t arrived

Please allow:

UK: 10 working days
International: 6 weeks

Then email us and we will help investigate.

Returned to sender

If the address was incorrect or incomplete:

We can resend it once postage is paid again
Or refund the product price (shipping is non‑refundable)

Returns & Refunds

Do you accept returns?

Yes. Within 14 days for unused items (UK customers).

Who pays return postage?

The customer, unless the item is faulty.

Faulty or damaged items

If your item arrives damaged or faulty, please email us within 14 days of delivery with photos of the issue and the packaging. We’ll be happy to help with a replacement.

Please note: this policy applies to items damaged in transit or during production, not damage that occurs after delivery.

Gift Orders

Do you offer gift wrapping?

Not at the moment, but packaging is always neat and lovely to open.

Can I send an order directly to someone else?

Yes. Just enter their address at checkout.