FAQs - ask Sylvie
What is Barkcloth?
Barkcloth was manufactured in America from 1930s through the 1950s and is well-known for its application in mid-century home design used mostly for curtains and upholstery. With is nubby, “barklike” texture and often exuberant designs, it has become an iconic fabric sought after by collectors, designers and interior decorators alike. Barkcloth is 100% cotton and very durable. When stored properly, the fabric is as strong as fabric purchased off the bolt today.
How/where do you find your fabrics?
I source my fabrics from a variety of places ranging from estate sales and auctions to antique textile shows and vintage fabric vendors. I have long-standing relationships with some vendors who know me so well, they contact me when they have something they know I love! Over the years I have been able to build a beautiful collection of mid century textiles that enables me to accommodate most requests for that special custom piece.
How durable is Barkcloth?
Very! Before putting any fabric into production, it undergoes a rigorous process to test for quality and durability. I inspect the material for any flaws, soak it in the washing machine overnight and then machine dry it. This way I ensure the fabric is not only clean, but the fibers have been tested for strength as well. The majority of textiles I work with are from the 1930s -1960s; they has already lasted 60 to 80 years! Mid-Century textiles are extremely durable.
How do you recommend I clean my pillow/bag/potholder etc?
In the interest of taking the best care of your pillow or handbag, I do recommend dry cleaning. While the fabric is washable, some of the trims are dry-clean only (such as the velvet trim on the pillows or the cording/beading on the handbags). Given the hand-made, vintage, and one-of-a-kind nature of each piece, gentle dry cleaning is the way to go.
Potholders, Market Bags and Up Island Bags, however, are constructed to be 100% machine washable and dryer friendly.
What is your return/exchange policy?
In the event that you would like to return or exchange an item, please reach out within 14 days of receipt to sylviebags@gmail.com. Merchandise must be unworn, unused and in original condition. Please note that any associated shipping costs are not subject to refund.
I recommend shipping merchandise via insured parcel post for tracking purposes. I also recommend the customer requests adequate insurance to cover the purchase price of the shipment. I will not assume responsibility for reimbursement, or compensation in the event that return packages are lost, stolen, or mishandled. I reserve the right to refuse the return or exchange of any merchandise that does not meet the above return requirements according to our sole discretion.
Refunds will be issued to the original form of payment. Your refund will be processed when the item is received and determined to be unworn and unaltered in any way. Please note that after processing, refunds may take 2-5 business days to be credited to your original form of payment.
Please note that custom orders are ineligible for refunds and exchanges.
What shipping method do you use?
USPS. As soon as your package is handed off to the carrier, I will update you with tracking information. Transit time varies between 3-10 days depending on your location. Order processing time can range between 48 to 72 hours.
