Here are a few of our frequently asked questions, if you are unable to find the answers you need, please contact our design team at enquiries enquiries@olivinelife.com or alternatively telephone us on +44 203 409 0600.
GENERAL
Q: What are ‘Lookbooks’?
A: We have designed the lookbooks to follow six different moods and styles. In each, we have created schemes using a few of the many fabrics, wallpapers and trims on the site and suggested furniture and accessories that complement the designs. We have done the work of colour matching the fabrics and trims with the wallpapers and paints, making suggestions you may not have considered and ensuring that the schemes are balanced.
Q: What are ‘My Boards’?
A: This allows you to create different boards for different rooms, for example ‘Bedroom’ and add items as you browse through the lookbooks or products page. You can order straight off your boards at any stage or wait until you have created an entire scheme of your own that you love. Create as many boards as you wish and they will be saved under your profile you can access them at any time by logging in.
Q: How do the ‘Our Favourite Boards’ differ to the ‘Lookbooks’?
A: We understand that browsing through the Lookbooks, or searching the product pages still leaves you with many different design options. If you don’t have the time to browse or simply need a little more help, our pre-made boards have done the work for you and offer entire room schemes with a mix of different fabrics, trims and wallpapers or paints. They are constantly added and updated to so keep checking for new and exciting designs.
Q: How big are the samples you send?
A: The samples we send differ in size depending on the supplier . If there is a large pattern repeat we suggest contacting Olivine Life for a returnable sample.
Q: What is a Returnable Sample?
A: This is a larger piece of the fabric and gives you the chance to see more of the pattern, texture and colour. Please contact us at enquiries@olivinelife.com to arrange delivery. We ask for a £15 deposit which will be refunded on return of the sample within 14 days. If you do not return this within 14 days, we will be unable to refund you and may need to charge you more depending on the suppliers conditions.
Q: How long will my samples take to arrive?
A: We hope to get them to you within 3 to 5 days.
Q: How many cuttings can I order at one time?
A: We can send up to 3 cuttings at one time.
Q: What is a Martindale Rub Test?
A: A Martindale Rub Test is used to check the durability of fabric for domestic and contract furniture use.
Occasional domestic 6,000 rubs or more
Light domestic 15,000 rubs or more
General domestic 20,000 rubs or more
Heavy domestic 25,000 or more
Severe domestic/general contract 30,000 rubs or more
Severe contract 40,000 rubs or more
Q: How do I know where to start?
A: Take a look at our Design Notebook to find out more on what to consider when starting a new design project. You will also be able to find out more about different window treatments, what to ask your curtain maker and upholsterer, as well as tips on wall finishes and ideas on colour.
PAYMENT
Q: Can I return my order?
A: All orders of fabric or trims under 5 metres that have been cut for you cannot be returned. We strongly recommend getting a cutting of the fabric before ordering. If an order arrives damaged or faulty, please get in touch with us as soon as possible, we may ask you to photograph the damage or fault. All orders of more than 5 metres or 5 rolls of wallpaper can be returned and will be refunded less a 25% handling charge. All part orders of wallpaper are not returnable.
All furniture made up to your specification and with your chosen fabric is non returnable or refundable due to the bespoke nature of the pieces. This includes all upholstery, sofas, chairs and headboards. All accessories, including cushions, are returnable within 14 days unless the product is damaged or faulty. Return postage is at your expense.
Please take a look at our Delivery/Returns page for further information.
Q: Can I change my order once it has been paid for?
A: We aim to deal with all orders as soon as possible. Please contact us within 2 hours of placing your order and we can make any amendments you would like.
FABRIC AND WALLPAPER
Q: How do I know what fabrics are suitable for upholstery?
A: All our fabric details include information on the usage. This will include whether it is suitable for general upholstery or occasional/light domestic upholstery (for example bedroom chairs which may not get as much wear as your sitting room furniture). Fabrics which are listed as suitable for curtaining is not suitable for upholstery due to the strength or nature of the fabric and we therefore do not recommend using it as such.
Q: What is a pattern repeat?
A: Patterned fabric will repeat its design over its length. A pattern repeat is where the full design begins again and is repeated. This information will be listed on the product details. Your curtain maker or upholsterer will need these details in order to work out the quantity of fabric or wallpaper required. Don’t forget to also include the fabric width and material type.
Q: What Fire Regulations do I need to comply with?
A: The UK has Furniture and Furnishings (Fire)(Safety) Regulations which set levels of fire resistance for domestic upholstered furniture and furnishings. These must be adhered to when covering all upholstered furniture, and includes loose and stretch covers, headboards and nursery furniture. Each fabric includes the fire rating under details and will stipulate if it has not been rated (and will therefore need to be treated), needs a Schedule 3 Barrier cloth (which includes fabrics made up of 75% natural fibres and has been ‘cigarette tested’) or has been tested (Crib 5 test) and does not need to be treated any further.
For more details please get in touch with us at enquiries@olivinelife.com
Q: How soon will my fabrics and wallpapers be delivered?
A: We aim to deliver within 3 to 5 days. There are some circumstances where your order may not be in stock with our supplier, in which case we will be in touch with you on whether you would like to wait or we can arrange a refund.
FURNITURE AND STYLING
Q: What is the delivery time on your sofas?
A: All our delivery times are listed on each product and may vary depending on the size and availability. All furniture being made up to your specification or with your chosen fabric will be delivered between 8 to 10 weeks. We will be in touch with you after your order to confirm the details and give you an approximate delivery date. Closer to the time, we will be in touch to confirm and make sure you are home for the delivery.
Q: Can I return an upholstery item?
A: As this will be made up in your fabric, we cannot accept returns unless it arrives damaged or faulty. In which case, please get in touch with us as soon as possible. We may ask you to photograph the damage or fault.
Q: How do I know how much fabric is required?
A: Each item will have listed how much fabric is required this will vary depending on the pattern repeat of the fabric. The quantities given are estimated and we may be in touch if more or less fabric is required than estimated.
Q: Can I use my own fabric for one of your furniture pieces?
A: You can use any fabric as long as it is suitable for upholstery. Please get in touch with us with all details and we can confirm a fabric quantity and discuss any further questions you have.