Question 1

Do I need any experience or special skills?

Accepted Answer

None at all. Every FORMED experience is designed from the ground up for complete beginners. The instructions walk you through every step, from first cut to final impression. Most customers are surprised by how natural it feels once they start.

Question 2

What can I create with FORMED?

Accepted Answer

With a wax experience you can sculpt rings, pendants, earrings and sculptural keepsakes entirely by hand. With an impression experience you can preserve fingerprints, paw prints, hoof prints, nose prints, handwriting or any raised texture in precious metal.

Question 3

What metals are available?

Accepted Answer

We offer 925 sterling silver, 18k yellow gold, 18k rose gold, 22k gold and 24k gold. Platinum and white gold are available on request. All metals are solid, with no plating.

Question 4

How does the full process work?

Accepted Answer

You book an experience, create your design at home (wax sculpting or impression), and return it using the included prepaid packaging. We assess your piece, send you a casting quote with the exact price, and once you approve, we cast it. Your finished piece is then delivered directly to your door.

Question 5

Will I be charged before I see the casting cost?

Accepted Answer

No. The experience price covers the experience itself and the return postage. The casting cost is quoted separately, after we receive your piece. Nothing is cast until you approve the price.

Question 6

Is FORMED suitable as a gift?

Accepted Answer

Yes, experiences make a genuinely meaningful gift. They are popular for anniversaries, weddings, hen parties, milestone birthdays, new babies, pet lovers and anyone who would value making something by hand. Gift packaging is included.

Question 7

What tools and materials are included in a wax experience?

Accepted Answer

Each experience contains jewellery-grade wax blanks (ring or pendant), a sculpting file, needle file, sanding sticks, wax shaper, a ring mandrel for sizing, tweezers, step-by-step instructions and prepaid return packaging. Everything you need to start and return your piece.

Question 8

How difficult is it to sculpt the wax?

Accepted Answer

Jewellery wax sculpts easily with the tools provided; it behaves a little like a firm candle. Most people find their rhythm within 10–15 minutes. You do not need to be artistic; simple shapes, textures and organic forms all cast beautifully.

Question 9

Can I make a specific ring size?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The experience includes a ring mandrel with size markings. You shape your wax around it as you sculpt to hit your target size. We recommend sizing slightly generous, as casting can reduce the inner diameter by a fraction, which we note in the instructions.

Question 10

What if I make a mistake or break my wax piece?

Accepted Answer

Wax is very forgiving. Small mistakes can be smoothed with a finger, filled using melted wax drips, or filed away. If a piece breaks cleanly it can often be rejoined with a warm tool. For major issues, replacement wax blanks are available to order separately.

Question 11

Can I do very detailed or intricate sculpting?

Accepted Answer

Yes, fine detail holds extremely well in the casting process. Thin lines, textures and delicate forms are possible. We do recommend keeping structural elements at least 1–1.5mm thick for durability in the finished metal piece.

Question 12

Can I sculpt both a ring and a pendant from one experience?

Accepted Answer

Each experience is designed for one specific piece type (ring or pendant). If you want to make both, you would order one of each. However some customers sculpt their wax blank into a pendant shape even from a ring blank, since the wax is the same material, just a different starting shape.

Question 13

Are there any designs I cannot make with wax?

Accepted Answer

Very large or very hollow forms may require structural support during casting. If your design is unusually ambitious, let us know when you return your piece and we will advise before casting. In most cases we can make it work, sometimes with minor technical adjustments.

Question 14

What kinds of prints can I capture?

Accepted Answer

The impression putty can capture fingerprints, full handprints, footprints, paw prints, hoof prints, nose prints and even handwriting or small objects pressed into the surface. If it has texture, it can be captured.

Question 15

How do I take the impression?

Accepted Answer

Mix the two-part putty until it is a uniform colour, press the subject firmly into the centre, hold still for around 60–90 seconds, then remove carefully. The instructions include step-by-step photos. Most people get a great result on their first attempt.

Question 16

What if my first impression does not turn out well?

Accepted Answer

Each experience includes multiple putty portions so you can try again. The putty sets firm, so unused portions should be stored sealed. If you run out before getting a result you are happy with, additional putty packs are available to order.

Question 17

Can I capture a baby or young child's print?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The putty is non-toxic and skin-safe. For very young children, we suggest having a second person hold the hand or foot in position while another presses the putty. Doing this while the child is calm or asleep makes it much easier.

Question 18

Is it safe to use on animals?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The putty is pet-safe and widely used for paw prints. It sets quickly, within about 90 seconds, so even wriggly animals rarely have a problem. Having a treat ready to keep them still for that moment helps a lot.

Question 19

How large can the final piece be?

Accepted Answer

The putty area in our standard experience captures prints up to approximately 4cm across, which suits most fingerprints, paw prints and small handprints comfortably. For larger prints (full adult handprint, hoof) please contact us before ordering and we will advise.

Question 20

Will the fine lines and detail show in the final metal piece?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is one of the most striking things about lost-wax casting. Fingerprint ridges, skin texture and the finest details of a paw pad all show clearly in the finished piece. The detail is often sharper than people expect.

Question 21

How long does casting take?

Accepted Answer

Once we receive your piece and you approve the casting quote, most pieces are completed and dispatched within 2–3 weeks. More complex pieces or special metal requests may take a little longer. We will always give you an honest timeline upfront.

Question 22

What is included in the casting quote?

Accepted Answer

The quote covers the full casting, all labour, finishing (removing sprues, basic surface preparation), and return delivery. Any optional extras such as gemstone setting, engraving or special finishes are quoted separately and added only with your approval.

Question 23

Can I change my metal choice after submitting my piece?

Accepted Answer

Yes, provided casting has not started. Once we receive your piece we will contact you to confirm your metal choice and finish preferences before quoting. You have full flexibility up until you approve the casting quote.

Question 24

What finishes are available?

Accepted Answer

We offer polished (high shine), satin (soft matte), brushed and oxidised (darkened recesses). Not all finishes are available on all metals, so we will walk you through what suits your design when we are in touch before casting.

Question 25

Can I have my piece hallmarked?

Accepted Answer

Hallmarking is available on request for gold pieces. Please mention this when you are contacted about your casting quote and we will include it.

Question 26

Will my design look exactly the same in metal?

Accepted Answer

Very close. The lost-wax casting process preserves your design faithfully in metal. Minor shrinkage (around 5–7%) occurs uniformly during casting, and this is accounted for in sizing. The character and texture of your original piece is exactly what you get back.

Question 27

Can I request minor adjustments before casting?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When we assess your piece we may suggest small technical adjustments to improve durability and will always ask your permission before making any changes. We never alter the aesthetic of your design without your approval.

Question 28

What is casting credit?

Accepted Answer

Casting credit is pre-paid credit that you apply towards the casting cost of your finished piece. Choose from the amounts currently available on the Casting Credit page. Purchasing it in advance means you already have credit waiting when your piece is ready to cast.

Question 29

Does casting credit expire?

Accepted Answer

No. Once purchased, your casting credit is held against your account with no expiry date. Take as long as you need to complete your piece.

Question 30

Can I use casting credit for any metal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Casting credit can be applied towards the casting cost of any metal we offer. The credit simply reduces the amount you owe when your casting quote is issued.

Question 31

What if the casting costs more than my credit?

Accepted Answer

The difference would be billed at the time you approve your casting quote. If the casting costs less, any remaining credit stays on your account for future use.

Question 32

Can casting credit be given as a gift?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It makes an excellent gift for someone who already has an experience booked or is planning to make a piece. Just let us know at purchase and we can arrange for it to be applied to a recipient's account.

Question 33

How do I purchase casting credit?

Accepted Answer

Choose an available amount on the Casting Credit page and add it to your cart. The credit will be ready to apply when you return your piece.

Question 34

How do I add a stone to my piece?

Accepted Answer

When we receive your piece and contact you about the casting quote, simply let us know you would like to add a stone. We will discuss your design, suggest suitable options from our library, and include stone sourcing and setting in your quote.

Question 35

When is gemstone pricing confirmed?

Accepted Answer

Stone pricing is confirmed after we assess your piece and understand the setting requirements. The ranges shown in our Gemstone Library are guides only. Final pricing is provided in writing before any work begins.

Question 36

Can I request a stone not listed in the library?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you have a specific stone in mind, such as a particular colour, cut or family, let us know and we will do our best to source it. Speak to us before ordering if you have something very specific in mind.

Question 37

What setting styles are available?

Accepted Answer

We offer rub-over (bezel) settings and claw settings as standard. Flush settings and pavé are possible depending on your design. We will recommend the most appropriate setting for your piece and confirm before casting.

Question 38

Can I see the stone before it is set?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For higher-value stones we can share photos of the specific stone before it is set, so you can approve it. Just request this when we are in touch about your quote.

Question 39

Are your stones ethically sourced?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All diamonds are sourced in compliance with the Kimberley Process. Coloured stones are selected from reputable suppliers with transparency on origin. We are happy to discuss sourcing in more detail if this is important to you.

Question 40

How does collection of my piece work?

Accepted Answer

Once your piece is ready to return, submit your details via the form in your experience. We arrange a courier collection at a time and location that suits you: home, office, wherever is easiest. The return packaging is included in your experience.

Question 41

What if my wax piece is damaged in transit?

Accepted Answer

All collections are insured. If your piece arrives damaged through no fault of your own, contact us immediately with photos and we will arrange a resolution: either a replacement wax blank or, where possible, a repair before casting.

Question 42

How is my completed piece delivered?

Accepted Answer

Your finished piece is delivered via an insured, tracked courier service. It arrives in our signature gift-ready packaging, ready to wear, give or keep.

Question 43

Do you offer international shipping?

Accepted Answer

We currently serve the UAE for standard collections and deliveries. For international customers, please contact us directly before ordering and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Question 44

How much does shipping cost?

Accepted Answer

Inbound return packaging is included in every experience. Outbound delivery of your finished piece is charged at a flat rate, confirmed at checkout or when arranging your return. We will always confirm costs before proceeding.

Question 45

How are wax pieces protected during transport?

Accepted Answer

Wax pieces are packed securely with protective cushioning chosen for temperature sensitivity. We arrange collection in insulated conditions where possible and avoid transit during extreme heat periods.

Everything You Need To Know

General

Secure return

Worldwide shipping

Expert finishing

Personal service

Sustainable practice