Frequently Asked Questions
1) WHAT EXACTLY ARE THE ROSES MADE OF?
Each rose and bud comes to life from unbaked polymer clay. This is the same type of clay used in creating the animated claymation figures of TV and movie fame. You have the choice of customizing a rose with a special rose center charm made from either metal or resin, or a semi-precious crystal stone. The stems, leaves, charms and stones are the only pre-made components.
2) ARE THE COLORS PAINTED ON THE CLAY?
The colors are actually embedded in the clay itself, so there is no paint or glaze to chip off. We use a special blending process to achieve just about any color shade imaginable, including ones that Mother Nature has yet to produce in the natural world! If you don't see the color you want, just ask--if you can describe it (or provide a swatch), we can blend it!
Marbled roses, with their dramatic swirls and shadings, are achieved through a very labor-intensive process. Just as in nature, no two roses we create will ever be alike.
3) ARE THE ROSES FRAGILE?
Most people think so, but after baking they become quite durable and nearly as hard as, well, stone! The petals, however, do retain a degree of flexibility. Rarely does a rose crack or break, but if during the shipping process one arrives in less than perfect condition, we'll gladly replace it. The leaves are more fragile due to their wire and fabric construction (see #7).
4) WHY DOES A ROSE APPEAR TO "SPARKLE"?
Certain clay colors contain a pearlescent compound which produces a unique sparkly appearance, especially in bright light.
5) IS THERE A WAY TO MAKE THEM SMELL AS REAL AS THEY LOOK?
A few drops of rose essential oil dabbed in the rose center should scent it nicely, if so desired. We no longer sell this oil, but it's available in most health food stores and where aromatherapy products are sold.
6) HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO MAKE A ROSE?
Well, that depends! There are numerous production stages before the actual sculpting begins, and sculpting time also depends on the complexity of the rose. The rosemakers do not rush the process, so actual sculpting time could take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour or more. When your order is placed, we give a realistic time frame for shipping. Many popular items are in stock, but the more unusual or custom pieces will take longer. We'll do our best to get your rose order to you if you need it within a certain timeframe.
7) DOES A ROSE NEED ANY SPECIAL CARE?
Aside from dusting and occasionally wiping with a damp cloth, your rose should last a long time with no other care required. If you decide to display a rose outdoors, it will require more regular cleaning to keep it looking nice. Dawn dish detergent works well at removing any stains. Leaves are bendable, but do so gently!