FAQs

Why are custom boots / shoes not continually available?

I have always specialised in making limited edition stock footwear, its what I do best. It keeps things varied for me as a maker as well as allowing a flood of inspiration and creative freedom that custom alone can never offer. Expect varied styles & sizes throughout the coming year (no requests please or it may as well be a custom order!). Apologies to anyone who feels frustrated at wanting custom footwear but finds themselves unable to purchase. I do my best.

Can I order custom bags / leathergoods?

I specialise in limited edition leathergoods and bags. Many are singles, twins or triplets. I am afraid they are not available as custom and I do not take stock requests. I am a prolific maker so do check back regularly, your dream bag may be real next time you visit.

I have returned my order because the size didn't feel right for me, will you send replacements?

Firstly, I am very sorry that your shoes, boots did not work out for you. Unfortunately I DO NOT offer any remakes or exchanges on stock orders so if you needed a larger / smaller size / etc, I will offer a refund if returned unworn, as new, as per terms on the 'Delivery / Returns' page. If you would still like to purchase then do please watch for stock updates for footwear in your size.

What size should I buy for Stock Footwear?

As a general rule purchase one size down from your usual commercial shoe size in boots, shoes & closed toe sandal styles / two sizes down for open toe styles. INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMERS, will be converting their size using the table shown on the 'Sizing' page, and then going down one size.

Why do some listings state the tannery name and why does this affect the cost?

In order to be as transparent as possible I will state the Tannery name if I know it. All the Tanneries I use are listed on the MATERIALS page where I wax lyrical about the joys and benefits of each leather. Costs vary for several reasons, most notably because certain leathers, especially the veg tanned ones, cost an arm and a leg to buy.

What does 'Limited Edition Colour' mean?

Many of my leathers are non repeatable, thus the footwear made with them are limited editions. A limited number of pairs of boots, shoes or bags will be made with the hide making each item rather unique. Other leathers come from stock lines which I can repurchase from my leather merchants, but being a natural material every single hide has variations in colour.

Why do you have two names?

I started as fairysteps.co.uk, then after many years decided to also adopt the alternative spelling too, faerysteps.com. Both are the same company, same product, same style, same maker, and both addresses will get you to the same place online, Me. I use both names and you will find that my product stationery uses both names. My brand logo, FS encompasses all of my online aliases, FairySteps / FaerySteps / FairyShoemaker.

Do you make Vegan friendly footwear?

Another popular question. Sadly I have never found a suitable substitute for the qualities that leather offers both in the making process and the wearing. However, the search continues and if I ever do find something you will be the first to know, I promise.