Hampel's Woodland Products: Building cases to order for over 30 years right here in the USA.
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FAQ's

A few notes about our cases:

Wood is a natural material, therefore, there may be some natural defects (knots, hard or soft spots, etc.).  We do our very best to make a quality product from the raw material that we start with by avoiding knots or mixing hard and soft spots when we build each case.  Because wood is a natural material, there are some things we cannot avoid, even in the same board.  We strive to remove sanding marks and finish issues.  When we cut the decorative bead on an edge, or cut an off-set butt joint, even with sharp router bits, depending on the wood specie and if it is hard or soft, there may be some burn marks that we are unable to remove or even some chipping.  We do our best to remove these, but it is not always possible.

Cherry is a naturally light-colored wood, that if light sensitive, and therefore, will darken a bit over time.  We try to build each case out of the same board, in order to avoid uneven coloration before finishing.  Leaving cherry out in the light will start the process.  We do not stain any of the cases we will build, but use a clear finish that allows the natural color of the wood to show through.

 When will I receive my order?

All orders are custom built to your exact specifications.  Therefore, please expect that your order will be shipped between 10-14 working days (M-F) from receipt of your payment.  If possible, we will ship your order before that time.  Exceptionally large orders may require more time, but you will be advised of this shortly after placing your order.

Where do you ship?

We will gladly ship anywhere that the USPS, UPS or FedEx will deliver.  HOWEVER, our website is only currently set up to calculate the shipping price to the 48 contiguous United States.  For shipping outside of those 48 states, please contact us by phone or email with your order and we'll be happy to manually calculate the shipping for you.  We do not collect customs fees.  Any fees due will be payable by the recipient of the order.

How do I decide what size case I should order?

This is partly a matter of personal preference but after building cases for over 30 years, we can offer the following suggestions.

  • For collector's/award cases:

Award cases:  items up to 3/8" thick

Collectors' cases:  items up to 3/4" thick

  • Solid-top & glass-top cases
Allow a minimum of 3/8" to 1/2" around the item (e.g. if the item is 9" Long x 5 1/2" Wide, a case with inside dimensions of 10" L x 6 1/2" W would be appropriate).
  • For viewing cases
Allow 1-2" around the item (length and width) inside and 3" above the item (height) inside
  • For fitted cases
Please contact us to discuss your desired case.  Any fitted cases will require a tracing of the item(s) going into the case.  To make the tracing, use a standard #2 lead pencil, held straight up and down on plain paper.  Tilting the pencil under the item or using a ball point pen or marker will skew the tracing and affect the final outcome of the fitting.  Plain paper is best, as it is easier to cut and work with, than cardboard.

    How should I care for my case?

    Wood is suspectible to damage from excessive heat, humidity and light.  Therefore we recommend avoiding exposure to direct sunlight, very damp or very dry conditions. Don't be afraid to use your case, we aren't, but whenever possible treat your case like you would a piece of fine furniture.  A soft cloth should be sufficient for occasional dusting.

    My case is damaged.  What should I do?

    We do our very best to make sure that every case that leaves our shop is of the same quality that we would like to receive and is securely packed for transport.  Unfortunately, sometimes even the best packing jobs don't hold up to the rigors of shipping .Priority Mail includes insurance for all orders $50 and under.  Please let us know as soon as you notice the damage so we can help you.  In many cases, you can repair minor damage without having to return the case or wait for replacement.

    If your case is damaged due to improper storage or unfortunate accident, please call us and we'll see if the damage is repairable. In many instances, your case can be made to look as good as new.  Please don't return your case to us without contacting us first.  We'll be very happy to quote you a price on the repair.

     How do I make a return or exchange?

    Sometimes, a case needs to be exchanged for a different size or wood type.  If you need to return an item, call for return authorization.  Standard items may be returned for exchange or refund.  If you fail to call it may delay the process.  Add-ons, changes or modification to standard items are subject to a 20% return fee.  Custom cases are non-returnable and non-refundable.  In rare instances, we may accept custom item returns.

    Requests for a return or exchange should be made within 7 days of receipt of order.  Requests for a return or exchange after 30 days from receipt of your order will not be accepted.