faq

the name, "lab arts" - started when we were looking for a fun way to combine our names. we're a married couple living and working in los angeles: "Leia And Braden", well, that made "LAB". Then the deeper layers became very compelling as we looked at it more:

• we aren't business people - we're artists - so we had to remind ourselves this is all just an experiment. we will learn by trying new things and learning from what works and what doesn't. by putting that "working in the lab" mentality at the center of our focus, it reminds us to approach our creations with a spirited sense of curiosity and play.
• the making of a candle, or a piece of clay, or a painting is such a wonderful blend of art & science - so that adds another layer to the meaning of "the lab".
• we work in a multitude of mediums - from paint, to paper, to clay, to wax, to still photography and moving images. we continue to explore new adventures - so we decided "arts" best captures us - as we are not defined by one specific artistic pursuit.
• we also have a tremendous network of talented friends who we plan to collaborate with. that's where the "group" came in. we built this business with the intention to build community as much as art.

put this all together and that's us:

lab arts group!

in this day and age of AI generated art and machines manufacturing, packaging, and shipping everything we consume, we deeply value the simplicity and wonder of a handmade object. when you can go online and buy something everyone else has and it arrives on your doorstep in less than 24 hours, while convenient, it is by no means unique or personal. while the internet has connected us all, it has also begun to homogenize us. at lab arts group, we intend to do things differently. each handmade piece from us is a product of thousands of hours of work: a lifetime spent learning new skills, trying new ideas, researching new techniques and learning the business side of things to make the work better for each of you. our pieces are made with love and time and effort, and each piece you bring into your home is a one-of-one item. because we're intentionally small batch creators, there is no mold that churns out the work with exact precision. every curve, every brush stroke, every candle is handmade from rigorous hours of work and attention to detail. watch some of the videos on the site of leia at work and you'll see just how much heart goes into it. and we do it so we can send some love and joy to your home that can touch and move you in a way no mass produced item can.

• we use recycled, repurposed, or recyclable materials when packing orders while also doing our best to make sure the package reaches you with no breakage.
• all orders are insured with the carrier before they ship.
• we do our best to keep shipping costs down, but please understand we are not amazon.
• in our tiny attempt to compete with amazon, we do offer free shipping for pottery and candle orders over $95 and free local pick-up options for the los angeles area... we appreciate your understanding and hope this helps a bit. shipping is a painfully expensive process and if you have any ideas to help reduce the bill, we're more than happy to hear about them!

• if you are in the los angeles area, we offer a free local pick-up option at checkout.
• we are located in glassell park on the east side of los angeles.
• when your order is fulfilled, you will receive an email regarding arranging a pick-up time.
• after you receive the e-mail, please arrange a pick-up time promptly or email to let us know if you cannot pick up your order within 7 days from the fulfillment notice.

• at lab arts group, your happiness is our top priority. if you're not completely thrilled with your purchase, please reach out to us within 7 days of receiving your order. in the unfortunate event that a product arrived damaged, just send us a picture of the damage, including the packaging, and we'll take care of it from there. we'll either refund the cost of the item and shipping or make you a new piece, whichever you prefer.
• please keep in mind that all our pottery is handmade and singularly crafted, so there may be variations and marks that show the unique handcrafted process. if you want to return an item for any other reason, just send us an email through our "connect" page and we'll be happy to work with you to find a solution. the customer is responsible for any return shipping costs.
• before you make your purchase, be sure to read the item description carefully, including dimensions and other details. if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us.
• and, sorry, but custom and made-to-order items are non-refundable and non-returnable. thank you for your understanding.
  

as artists - we are in constant awareness of our connection with the earth. it is important that our materials and products be created, processed, and transported as sustainably and ethically as possible, and that we minimize waste.

as we all know, analyzing our individual impact on the environment is an important and complex subject. we are not environmentally perfect - as individuals or as a business - but we do our best to minimize negative impact and are constantly educating ourselves and researching ways we can improve.

for example, we are currently working on a local "recycling" program for our empty candle vessels. we hope to have the details ironed out soon.

should anything come to your attention that is having a negative impact or if you see ways we can improve, please don't hesitate to reach out.

it takes a village, and we want to be responsible and thoughtful members of that village.

we are always happy to discuss custom orders and collaborations.

feel free to reach out via our "connect" page to inquire about the process and pricing for your next project.