FAQ

THE FUN STUFF

Let's get the obvious one out of the way....

Is Starbuck really your last name?  

Yes, well, technically it was and now it isn't, but yes.  I didn't just make it up.

How many people are "Michelle Starbuck Designs"?  

2- Michelle and Steve.

How long have you been making jewelry and how did you start?  

It's been 18 YEARS now!  I started in 2005 when I was working in a boutique on Southport Ave.  I had made some jewelry for myself to wear and then was given the opportunity to put some out for sale.  I did a few events and got a piece in Lucky Magazine and it's just been growing and evolving ever since.  

What did you go to school for?

I have a BA in Psychology and a BFA in Painting.  

What jobs did you have before you quit to run MSD full time?

I managed a boutique on Southport Ave for 3 years; then was lead sales at Blick Art Materials in the Loop for 2 years; and finally I spent 4 1/2 years at Lillstreet Art Center where I started as the Gallery Assistant, then was promoted to Customer Service Manager, and lastly the Administrative Director.

 

THE BORING STUFF

Can I return or exchange an item I purchased online?

Yes, always.  Email me within 30 days of purchase at hello@michellestarbuckdesigns.com to arrange for a return.

Do you charge for repairs?

Nope.  Contact me for my shipping info and send it my way!

I lost an earring, can you make a replacement?

Almost always.  Email me.  hello@michellestarbuckdesigns.com

Do you do custom orders?

Not at this time.  Since I make all of the jewelry myself, I stay very busy working on wholesale and retail orders for my designs that already exist.  I don't feel that I have the time that should be dedicated to creating a custom design.

When will my order ship?

All designs listed as in stock are ready to ship.  You can check the current shipping schedule here.  If you need it rushed, please contact me before placing your order to find out if it's possible to ship sooner.  If a design is marked as 'out of stock', you can sign up to receive an email notification when it is restocked.

I live in Chicago, can I pick up my order at your studio?  

Nope, not anymore.  I used to have a studio space where that was convenient, but my studio is now in my house.

Will the color of the metal change and how can you clean it?

I've tried to indicate in the descriptions of each pieces, whether or not the jewelry will require cleaning or not.  Some pieces have been sealed with a clear varnish (i.e. all stud earrings) and other pieces have all raw metal and will patina over time.  If you take care of your jewelry and don't shower with it on or leave it in the bathroom where the moisture will accelerate the patina process, you will only have to clean it occasionally.  

How to care for your MSD jewelry:

General Care

Lightly rub with a cleaning cloth periodically to remove dirt and oils.

To avoid accelerating the patina process, do not shower with your jewelry on or store it in the bathroom, as water and humidity will darken the metal.

Cleaning

To remove patina/discoloration from raw brass pieces, make a solution of ¼ cup white vinegar, 1 tsp. dish soap, and 1 cup warm water. 

Soak the jewelry until cleaned, about 3-5 minutes. 

Rinse and dry well.  

Full size sunshine cleaning cloths are available for purchase.