faq

Frequently asked questions

IS YOUR WOOL ETHICALLY SOURCED?

We buy our wool from Ashford located in New Zealand. Ashford Corriedale sliver is a 100% New Zealand product with wool from pasture-fed sheep. Ashford knows many of the farmers – some of whom have farmed the land for generations. They take great pride in the quality of their wool and the high standard of animal husbandry. The sheep are well cared for and are not mulesed. After the sheep are shorn, on the farm, the wool is carefully skirted and checked. Only wool that is sound, clean with good fibre length, bulk and colour is selected. It is sent to a boutique New Zealand mill to be dyed, carded and combed.
It is scoured (washed) using an environmentally-friendly, biodegradable detergent. The wool is then dried and dyed. The dyes comply with the strict EU regulations and garments made from the sliver can be certified under the Oeko-Tex Standard 100. This standard is the most widely known standard for certification of ecologically-safe clothing. (Detailed information can be found at www.oekotex.com). The fibre is then gently opened and conditioned. Carding machines align the fibres and remove any foreign matter. It is then gilled and combed.



HOW DO I CARE FOR MY PRODUCT?

Washing: Wiping with a wet cloth will remove most stains. If the item needs to be thoroughly cleaned, hand wash it in lukewarm water with a plain soap, then wring it out and leave to dry. Avoid placing felt items in the washer or dryer -- felt is very delicate and can be easily damaged by the agitation of the washing machine or the tumbling and heat of a dryer. Care; Keep the bag away from direct heat and avoid leaving the bag in a hot place such as a car in the sun. Heat can cause the bag to shrink.



DO YOU DO CUSTOM ORDERS?

Yes, if you would like to do a custom bag please email hippopotamissus@gmail.com with the subject CUSTOM ORDER. In the email please indicate what colours, design, and shape you would like. You will receive an email with a confirmation. Please note that custom orders can take up to two weeks to complete and ship.



WHERE ARE THE PRODUCTS MADE?

All products are handmade locally in Vancouver, BC.



CAN I GET TWO OF THE SAME ITEM?

Yes, please send in a custom order request with the name of the product you are wishing to order. Please note that due to each bag being handmade they will not look identical.



I’D PREFER TO SHOP IN-STORE, WHERE ARE YOUR PRODUCTS AVAILABLE?

We currently don't sell in stores but we do attend markets and craft fairs, please subscribe to our mailing list or follow us on instagram for more information.