The Artwork & Craftsmanship
Is your artwork laser-engraved or burned by hand?
Every single piece is 100% hand-burned by Cheri using heated wire pyrography tools. We never use computerized lasers, CNC machines, or digital prints. Each piece represents hours of dedicated freehand shading and detail.
What types of wood do you use?
We primarily work on natural live-edge timber slices (such as basswood, birch, and pine) that feature natural bark intact around the perimeter.
Why does my wood slice look slightly different from the website photo?
Because we work with natural timber, no two cuts are identical. Natural growth rings, grain patterns, bark contours, and subtle tonal shifts in the wood are organic traits of authentic artisan pyrography, making your piece completely one-of-a-kind.
Is the wood burning sealed?
Yes. Each finished piece is treated with a protective, UV-resistant clear coat that shields the wood from ambient dust and preserves the rich contrast of the burn lines for years to come.
Care & Display
How should I care for my wood burning?
Keep your artwork indoors and avoid displaying it in areas with direct, intense sunlight or excessive moisture (like damp bathrooms). Dust gently with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid chemical sprays, liquid cleaners, or abrasive pads.
Does the artwork come ready to hang or display?
Yes. Wall plaques and wood slices arrive with pre-installed hanging hardware (such as a sawtooth hanger) attached to the back. Tabletop discs and coaster sets are ready for flat display or small easels.
Can I use the wood-burned coasters for hot drinks?
Yes. Our coaster sets are sealed with heat- and moisture-resistant protective coats designed to handle both hot mugs and iced drink condensation.
Shipping & Packaging
How much is shipping?
Shipping rates are calculated dynamically at checkout directly through the United States Postal Service (USPS). Pricing depends on your delivery address, package weight, and chosen speed (USPS Ground Advantage, Priority Mail, or Priority Mail Express).
How long will it take for my order to ship?
Ready-to-ship originals are carefully packaged and handed over to USPS within 1 to 3 business days. As soon as your label is generated, an automated dispatch email with your USPS tracking link will be sent to you.
How do you protect the wood and bark during shipment?
Each piece is wrapped in protective cushioning and secured in rigid cardboard shipping boxes with packing fill to ensure the delicate live-edge bark arrives intact.
Returns & Customer Support
What is your return policy?
We offer a 30-day return window on ready-to-ship artwork in its original, undamaged condition. Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the buyer. Custom commissioned pieces are final sale.
What should I do if my package arrives damaged?
In the rare event an item is damaged during transit, please take clear photos of the damaged piece as well as the outer shipping box. Email us at cheri@socalartworks.com within 48 hours of delivery so we can resolve the issue promptly.