FAQ

Shipping

We offer free pickup in north Winnipeg, as well as tracked and untracked shipping across Canada.

Unfortunately, we do not ship internationally at this time.

 

Changing Hardware/Findings

Do you see an item you love for sale, but prefer kidney hooks over fish hooks for example? Or do you need clip-ons?

Do you require a specific metal due to an allergy?

Send us a message and we will try our best to accommodate you! We can switch most earring findings (the hooks or studs), and will work with you to discuss the best options to get you a piece you will love to wear.

 

Jewelry Care

Beaded artwork is delicate, but with proper handling and care they can last generations.

Beadwork care:

  • beaded earrings should be stored hanging or in a protective bag/case. Beaded earrings can be gently wiped with a damp cloth.
  • the metal parts of earrings can be sanitized with rubbing alcohol on a swab. Be careful not to get any on beadwork and especially leather, fur or feathers. A swab with rubbing alcohol can also 'refresh' matte beads, but be careful not to wipe any non-matte beads, as wear may occur.
  • leather/suede: well used leather will often develop a discolouration. This is natural. Using a leather protector before use can help, or using a specialized leather cleaning kit immediately after staining.
  • fur: brush fur gently with a comb to freshen and sit as desired.

Hat care:

  • a lint brush will take off most surface lint, pet hair, dust, etc.

For any deep or stubborn stains or tarnishing, please refer to specialized cleaning for the specific material.

 

Repairs

If you require a repair for your Waabishki Miigwan Creations, please reach out to me via email waabishki.miigwan@gmail.com or the Contact page.

Some repairs are simple and can be done relatively quickly, but some are more involved and may require replacement of your piece. If beadwork/threads are coming undone, collect as many loose beads as possible and store them with the piece in a sealed bag.

 

Why support Indigenous?

By supporting Indigenous businesses, you are:

  • often also supporting, small, local, and women-owned businesses
  • combating appropriation of Indigenous designs and artwork. The purchase of cheap, imitation "native-inspired" art hurts our communities and often perpetuates stereotypes. Please only buy Indigenous art from Indigenous artists (e.g., dreamcatchers, moccasins, ribbon skirts/shirts/pants, specific styles from different Nations such as Pacific Northwest Nations' formline art, Anishinaabe woodland art, Métis floral and dot art, etc.)
  • economic reconciliation, and combating barriers created by colonization. For example, it was historically against the 'law' and/or there were significant barriers for First Nations people to leave the reserve (pass system), gain employment or a post-secondary education (would lose 'Status' through 'enfranchisement'), or become entrepreneurs (farming as one example). Consider the impacts of this on generations, and why we should be supporting Indigenous businesses now.
  • being an ally against racism and anti-Indigenous stereotypes. For example, some people actually believe Indigenous businesses/people are "dirty" (direct quote heard in 2022 when someone was offered packaged potato chips by an Indigenous company), "mismanage finances", "untrustworthy", etc. Consider how these unwarranted and generalizing beliefs could mean someone refuses to give their business to an Indigenous-owned business.