FAQs

How long is the lead time?

Hatchet Studio will endeavour to fulfil your order ASAP but please keep in mind it’s a one person studio and items are hand made. If an item is in stock we will ship within 1 week of receiving your order. Due to turn over, pieces are very often made to order. If it needs to be fabricated, allow 4 weeks, however, due to unforeseeable circumstances in fabrication delays may occasionally occur. In this instance Hatchet Studio will keep you abreast of timeline. Custom pieces usually require a little longer.

Once shipped, deliveries generally take 1-5 business days depending on your location within Australia. Please refer to shipping for more info & for information about other locations.

Can I collect from Camperdown?

By arrangement this is possible but please email hello@hatchetstudio.com.au before placing the order.

What if I’m on a timeline?

Please contact hello@hatchetstudio.com.au to discuss before placing your order to see if expectations can be met. Hatchet Studio will try to get the job done ASAP.

Will letterboxes patina?

Yes they will! The materials have been chosen for their unique ability to develop a beautiful patina through exposure to the elements and our recommendation is to let nature take its course so that each letterbox reflects its unique surrounds and history. Some cleaners will remove patina so unless that’s the desired outcome, cleaning is not recommended.

Why has my zinc letterbox developed white chalky patches?

Zinc goes through a few different phases when developing patina and will initially develop chalky white zinc oxide but over time will turn an ash grey. This process does not happen evenly but will eventually become a uniform, corrosive resistant surface. Please note: zinc needs to be able to dry out which is why it is not available as an in-wall option.

What are the benefits of patina?

Patina is a natural finish that is not only beautiful but practical. It will develop over time and is UV resistant, corrosion resistant & self-healing. Brass will patina to a mottled yellow/green/bronze, copper to a burnished ox blood/brown(eventually verdigris green) & zinc to white then an ashy grey. Copper & zinc have been traditionally used as an enduring roofing material and brass is commonly used in a marine context so these materials are suited to harsh environments.

Do copper, brass & zinc adversely react to some materials and in some situations?

In short, the answer to this is yes they may. Some metals and other materials must not be used together e.g. copper and aluminium are susceptible to galvanic corrosion. Over time they may cause an adverse reaction particularly when water is added. Another example is that zinc needs air flow to dry out after rain etc so is not suitable for in-wall applications.

Hatchet Studio will not be held responsible for incorrect specification so please reach out at hello@hatchetstudio.com.au or seek expert advice before specifying.

Can I preserve the lustre?

When you first receive your product they will usually have a bright lustre. Hatchet Studio recommends allowing the patina to develop naturally. However, if your preference is to maintain lustre, you can use Scotch Brite to buff before sealing with wax or similar. We recommend ‘Renaissance Wax’ RENAISSANCE™ WAX – PICREATOR ENTERPRISES LTD for a clear protective coating or a similar product that is suitable for outdoor use. Reapplication will be required.

The exception to this is zinc. Allowing the natural patina process is recommended.

Are customised pieces possible?

Potentially. For example we can accommodate a request for a longer post or other customisation. Additional costs for design & fabrication will apply. Hatchet Studio will get your job done as soon as is practicable but generally, allow 4-6 weeks lead time. Hatchet Studio requires 50% deposit for custom pieces. Contact us by email to discuss hello@hatchetstudio.com.au

What is the silver on my product?

Hatchet Studio uses solder during the fabrication process and as each piece is hand-made, you will see remnants of solder. As your piece develops patina, it will blend in.

Is every piece the same?

Hatchet Studio hand makes every product using customised components. Slight variations reflect the hand-made nature of each unique piece.

What if something goes wrong with my product?

Please be mindful of application and ensure the product will suit. Before installation, refer to specification sheet provided with product. Correct installation by a skilled trades person is advised.

Hatchet Studio offers a 1 year warranty on all stocked products.

All products are made with care and attention and Hatchet Studio has confidence in materials used but occasionally as is the nature of hand-made products something may go wrong. We will endeavour to rectify an issue if practicable and within a reasonable time frame.