What is bronzing?
Bronzing is a process in which an item is encased in a layer of pure copper. The copper is first oxidized and then polished to achieve a lustrous shine thus creating a lasting and memorable keepsake. Items that are pewter, silver and gold plated are first bronzed and then the requested finish plated on top.
Are you the actual manufacturer or a middle man?
We are the actual manufacturer. All shoes are processed at our factory located in San Dimas, California and shipped directly back to the customer. Most of the companies you see advertising on the Internet are middlemen that forward the shoes to one of only 3 or 4 manufactures in the United States.
How do I know that what I’m ordering is genuine metal?
Many companies promote “bronzing” when in fact are doing little more than painting shoes. These companies add trace amounts of copper (or any other color) pigment to a lacquer or resin base and essentially dip or paint the shoe a “bronze” color. To ensure that your shoes are being plated with solid metal, look for the word “electroplated.” This is the only word that means genuine metal plated. We use an electroplating process and guarantee our finishes for life.
What can be bronzed?
We are able to plate almost anything that can fit into our tanks; however, in our experience, the following items don’t tend to plate well:
Stuffed animals (unless we can remove the stuffing)
Certain food item
Certain plant items
Certain paper or cardboard products
Items that are extremely buoyant
Can the shoelaces hang loosely?
Unfortunately, shoes laces that are not adhered to the body of the shoe in some fashion tend to be too fragile. We are able to leave laces untied and loosely affixed to the sides of the shoes upon request.
What if the shoes have no laces?
We can either bronze them without laces, or we can add them at no additional charge when the order is received.
How do I go about customizing my order?
Though we’ve made every attempt at simplicity in ordering, it’s impossible to cover every item and option. If you have a unique item, it is generally best to call us and we can help you over the phone to determine cost, time frame and give options as to what’s possible.
Can I incorporate a logo into my engraving?
Yes! We have a laser engraver and are able to engrave logos- even those with great detail. We request camera-ready artwork but can work with just about any file format. Obviously, the cleaner the original artwork, the better it engraves. Typically, the artwork you would send to a printer works best.
How fast can you create a custom award or keepsake?
We have been known to turn things around in a week! Really, it depends upon the item being plated, the finish, the complexity of the mounting and how fast you can get us engraving info. Each request is unique, so it is best to call our office and discuss what you want to achieve, your budget and date needed. We can typically tell you over the phone if what you want is possible. We hate to say no, so give us a call and let us help you create an award or keepsake that will be cherished!
What is your warranty?
We guarantee our work for life. If you are ever in any way dissatisfied with the workmanship, return it to us and we will fix the defect.
If I need an order in a rush, do you guarantee I’ll get my order on the date required?
In a world of promises with little substance, we understand why customers are skeptical about our rush service. Rest assured, WE MEET DUE DATES. We pride ourselves on our delivery schedule and will let you know up front, before you place the order, if we can’t meet it.