About Dardinie Designs

What is Dardinie Designs? Dardinie Designs is a small handmade business run by me, from my home studio in Canberra, Australia. I make things that bring a little joy — original paintings, wearable pieces, and whatever else sparks that feeling of this would make someone smile. Everything is made with care, and a portion of every sale goes to a cancer charity.

Where are your products made? Almost everything is made by hand in my home studio in Canberra. The only exception is my print on demand pieces — art prints and canvas prints — which are produced by a trusted supplier using my original artwork.

Do your products change over time? Yes, and intentionally so. The range has evolved over the years and will keep growing as I explore new ideas and mediums. If something brings joy and I can make it well, I'll find a way to make it.

 

Products & Materials

What do you currently make? Right now the range includes original abstract acrylic paintings, art prints (produced from my original work), and embroidered earrings. I've previously made 3D printed items including polymer clay cutters and may bring those back alongside new things as the studio grows.

What materials do you use? It depends on the piece. Current materials include acrylic paint on canvas or board, high quality embroidery thread, and upholstery vinyl for earrings. Where possible I source materials from Australian businesses.

Are your earrings hypoallergenic? Yes. All earrings use hypoallergenic findings — I have sensitive ears myself and wouldn't make anything I wouldn't wear. They're also ultra-lightweight, with even the largest pairs coming in under 4g, so they're comfortable for all day wear.

How should I care for my items?

Paintings — keep out of direct sunlight to protect the colours and varnish over time. Avoid hanging in high humidity areas like bathrooms.

Earrings — store away from direct sunlight and moisture. Give the findings a gentle clean before wearing if they've been stored for a while.

Art prints — if unframed, store flat in a dry place away from sunlight. Framing behind UV-protective glass will extend the life of the print significantly.

3D printed items (when available) — hand wash only with warm soapy water and a soft brush for detailed areas. Keep away from heat, dishwashers, and direct sunlight to maintain their shape.

Do you offer custom or personalised orders? Sometimes, it depends on what's on my plate at the time. The best thing to do is get in touch and ask. I genuinely love bringing custom ideas to life when I can make it work.

 

Original Paintings

Are your paintings one of a kind? Yes, always. Every original painting is made using an acrylic pour technique where paint and air do most of the deciding — I guide the process, but no two pieces ever turn out the same. Once it's sold, that exact painting is gone.

Do the paintings come varnished? Yes. All original paintings are professionally varnished before they're sent out, which protects the surface and gives the colours real depth.

What comes with an original painting? Each painting is signed and comes with a small card sharing a little about the piece, its name and a note from me. I want it to feel like something received, not just something ordered.

Are your art prints the same as your original paintings? No. Prints are reproductions of original works, produced by a trusted print on demand supplier. They're a more accessible way to own a piece of my work. The originals are one of a kind.

 

Orders & Postage

How long does it take to process and post my order? Handmade and original items are dispatched within 1–3 business days. Print on demand items are produced on order and typically take a little longer and dependent on the third party printer.

Custom orders vary depending on complexity and are usually 1–3 weeks.

Commissioned artworks take 6-8 weeks due to drying times

Do you ship internationally? Not at this stage. Australia Post's international rates make it difficult to offer this affordably, but it's something I'd like to revisit as the business grows.

How much does postage cost? A flat rate of $11 across Australia. Larger original paintings may carry an additional postage cost due to size and packaging requirements, this will be clearly noted in the listing.

Can I track my order? Yes, everything is sent with tracking so you can follow it on its way to you.

What if my order is delayed or lost? Contact Australia Post directly with your tracking number for the most up to date information. If you're stuck or worried, reach out to me at dardiniedesigns@gmail.com and I'll help however I can.

What packaging do you use? I take care with how everything is packed. Original paintings especially are packaged to arrive safely. I'm also mindful of keeping packaging as considered as the products inside.

 

Returns & Exchanges

What is your return and exchange policy? Please refer to the Returns and Refunds policy linked in the footer. If something isn't right, always reach out first — I'd rather find a solution than have anyone unhappy with something I made.

What if my item arrives damaged? Please email dardiniedesigns@gmail.com with your order number and a photo of the damage as soon as possible. I'll do everything I can to make it right.

Can I cancel or change my order after placing it? If your order hasn't been dispatched yet, contact me at dardiniedesigns@gmail.com as soon as you can and I'll do my best to help. Once something has been sent I'm unable to make changes, but I'm always happy to talk through options.

 

Giving Back

Do you donate to charity? Yes, a portion of every sale goes to Love Your Sister, an Australian cancer charity.

 

Getting in Touch

How do I contact you? Email is the best way. dardiniedesigns@gmail.com. I'm a one-person studio with two little kids, so I may not reply instantly, but I will always get back to you.

Where can I follow along? On Instagram at @dardiniedesigns for the shop, and a @dardiniepours for behind the scenes studio life. Links are in the footer.

Do you sell at markets? Not right now. With young children and the studio keeping me busy, markets aren't on the cards at the moment. Never say never though