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Frequently Asked Questions

 

iPad2 Case

How long until my iPad2 case ships?

If you are uncomfortable with a long wait for a handmade high quality product with the possibility of delays, we recommend looking elsewhere. Orders placed today will ship in 6-8 weeks (+2 for custom orders). Note: your pre-order deposit is fully refundable at any time.

Can I expedite my order by getting a plain cover or maybe paying extra?

Sorry everyone. Getting a non engraved option will not expedite your order processing and neither will attempting to bribe us. Wouldn't be fair! ;)

Will there be a camera hole for the iPad 2 case and iPad skins?

Yes, there will be full functionality of both cameras with the case/skins on.

Can I use 3rd party headphones/docks with your case?

In general probably not. Our headphone hole diameter is approximately .3 inches and will easily fit the apple headphones. If you would like to use larger headphones we recommend searching "ipod headphone adapter" on amazon.com for cheap adapters. Most docks probably will not work with any hard case by any brand including Grove.

Can I get the bamboo engraved instead of the leather?

Nope. Sorry we only offer engraving on the leather cover.

Will your case utilize iPad 2 magnets?

Our leather cover will wake and put your iPad to sleep similar to the Apple Smart Cover.

Is the Grove iPad2 case compatible with the Apple Smart Cover?

No it is not. We believe our cover is an improvement over Apple's offering and it is engineered to work with and without the case. If you insist on the Apple Smart Cover our Bamboo Skins are fully compatible.

Is the Grove iPad2 case compatible with the Wi-fi and 3G versions?

Yes it is. The bamboo shell will not interfere with the reception for wifi or 3G. There is no special version for 3G.

What are the dimensions and weight of the case?

We tried to make the thinnest case possible. Approximately 7.85" x 9.90" x .56" thick with a weight around 7oz.

Will the iPad lock in securely and how is it protected from scratches?

Yes, our unique pressure fit design will hold your iPad2 very securely. You can vigorously shake the iPad in our case and it will not fall out. Both the inside of the bamboo shell and the inside of the cover are covered in plush black ultra-suede to protect your iPad.

How sturdy is the typing/standing position of your iPad 2 case?

The amount of deflection in our iPad2 case will be comparable to the Apple Smart Cover.

Does the leather flap fold all the way back flat?

Yes, it folds all the way back if you dont want your iPad angled or want to simply hold it in your hand.

How can I maintain/shine up the leather cover?

We recommend Montana Pitch Blend for conditioning the leather - www.mtpitchblend.com

Please keep in mind that this will alter the color of your leather and engraving.

Are you offering a case for the original iPad?

Nope. Sorry about that!

Can I use a screen protector with my iPad case?

Yes, thin screen protectors will work no problem on our case.

Is it drop proof?

The case may not survive an impact. It will protect your iPad from normal wear and tear but is not guaranteed against drops of any kind. However, we do offer our Grove Case Replacement Program where we will give you 50% off a new case if you break yours for any reason at any time. To redeem please send us an email hello@grovemade.com with a photograph of your break and a brief description of what happened.

If you are prone to dropping your iPad or running into things with it we suggest cases made of silicone or rubber such as Otterbox.

Although we cannot guarantee it, there have been numerous incidents where iPads have been saved by our case. In fact, we do not know of a single incident where an iPad has broken in our case.

Think of it as a helmet. : )

What is the Grove Case Replacement Program?

If you break your case for any reason at any time we will offer you a 50% discount on a new one! The Grove case is not guaranteed against drops of any kind but if you drop and break one we have your back and will give you the replacement discount. To redeem please send us an email hello@grovemade.com with a photograph of your break and a brief description of what happened. We take care of our supporters! (limited to identical product)

Bamboo iPad 2 Skins

How long until my Bamboo iPad skin ships?

2-3weeks.

Are the Bamboo iPad Skins compatible with Apple’s Smart cover?

Absolutely! They complement the Apple Smart Cover beautifully.

Are the skins available for iPad 1 and 2?

The Bamboo iPad skins are only available for iPad2. Sorry!

Are the skins compatible with the Grove Bamboo iPad 2 case?

The Bamboo iPad skins will unfortunately not work with the iPad 2 case. Sorry!

How do the skins work?

The Bamboo iPad skins adhere to your iPad via a 3M adhesive back similar to double sided tape. The adhesive leaves no residue or damage to your iPad if you choose to remove. However, the skins are designed to stay securely on your iPad and thus will not withstand removal without damage to the veneer itself.

How do I apply the skin?

To apply, carefully align the camera cut-out with the iPad's camera, making sure that the outer edges of the skin line up with the edges of the iPad. Starting from the upper left corner, gently press down while working your way outwards from the camera.

iPhone 3 Cases

We have permanently discontinued the iPhone3 case. Sorry to disappoint you!

iPhone 4 Cases

What is the Grove Case Replacement Program?

If you break your case for any reason at any time we will offer you a 50% discount on a new one! The Grove case is not guaranteed against drops of any kind but if you drop and break one we have your back and will give you the replacement discount. To redeem please send us an email hello@grovemade.com with a photograph of your break and a brief description of what happened. We take care of our supporters! (limited to identical product)

When is my order shipping?

Please consult this link for shipping times rather than emailing us.

Will Grove cases work with the Verizon iPhone?

Yesss!!! Our case works on both the Verizon and ATT iPhone. =)

Will Grove cases work with the white iPhone?

Yes, our case works with the white iPhone!

Is it drop proof?

The case may not survive an impact. It will protect your phone from normal wear and tear but is not guaranteed against drops of any kind. However, we do offer our Grove Case Replacement Program where we will give you 50% off a new case if you break yours for any reason at any time. To redeem please send us an email hello@grovemade.com with a photograph of your break and a brief description of what happened.

If you are prone to dropping your phone we suggest cases made of silicone or rubber such as Otterbox.

Although we cannot guarantee it, there have been numerous incidents where iPhones have been saved by our case. In fact, we do not know of a single incident where an iPhone has broken in our case.

Think of it as a helmet. : )

Can I use a screen protector?

The honest answer is "probably" on the front although some people have had breakage issues and/or damaged their screen protectors.

Definitely not on the back.

DO NOT use a screen protector on the back- it will break the case!

We will not be issuing refunds for those who break their case by using a screen protector! Please do so at your own risk please.

How light is the bamboo case?

Our case weighs only .6 oz and barely adds weight to your phone.

Our customers are always surprised at how light the case is.

Remember, if you don't like it, return it!

Does it fix the iPhone 4 antennae problem?

We are not antennae experts and have not designed/engineered specifically for the iPhone4 antennae problems. However, because bamboo is a non conductive material we believe it will keep your hand from impairing the iPhone4 signal.

What are the dimensions of the case?

*sizes are approximate due to hand sanding*

Length=4.814"
Width=2.584"
Height=.535"

Weight is .6oz

Back is .075" thick.

Sides add .135" thickness.

Headphone jack is .3" diameter hole.

Camera hole is .365" x .615"

Charger hole is 1.057" x .25"

Can I use 3rd party headphones with your case?

In general probably not. Our headphone hole diameter is approximately .3 inches and will easily fit the apple headphones. If you would like to use larger headphones we recommend searching "ipod headphone adapter" on amazon.com for cheap adapters.

Can I use 3rd party chargers or a dock?

The Grove case supports the charging cable that is supplied by Apple for the iPhone 4 only.

The bottom hole for the charger is as large as possible without compromising the structural integrity of the case.

**WARNING** Forcing a non-iPhone4 charger into the case will break it. Please be careful! Many chargers look nearly identical.

The iPhone4 charger and iPhone3GS chargers fit with plenty of room to spare.

Older iPhone/iPod chargers may not fit.

We are not able to verify for all 3rd party connectors. If they are significantly larger than the i4/3GS chargers they may not fit.

You can remove the bottom half of the case if you need to use those accessories. Many docks will also not fit (this is true for almost all cases by any company). You may have to remove the bottom half to use a dock. Charger hole dimensions are 1.057" x .25" **Older chargers look nearly identical to newer ones and are often confused. **
Does the LED Flash work with the case on?

LED flash distortion has been a well documented issue with all hardcases from any brand.

The problem is caused by the flash firing at a wide angle and reflecting off the inside of the case, causing interference.

We tackled the problem best we can by widening the camera hole and painting the camera hole black to absorb light as much as possible and minimize reflection.

Result is acceptable at close range/normal pictures of people if it is not pitch black.

Performance will vary greatly depending on distance from subject and ambient light.

If you would like to take flash photography of faraway subjects in pitch black (not sure why you would, looks terrible even without a case) you will experience distortion with the case on.

**this is a basic issue of physics with any hardcase**

Can I get my case with a metal bezel or bamboo bezel?

Sorry! We have permanently discontinued the metal bezel and bamboo bezel option. We only offer the black wood bezel option.

iPhone 5 Cases

Will you be making an iPhone 5 case?

Yes!
We're developing prototypes based on initial rumors, and will be working on a case as soon as the product is announced.

General Questions

How and where are grove products made?

All grove products are made in Portland, Oregon in Grove facilities by us.

We use high tech machinery combined with a lot of old fashioned hand work.

See About page for more info.

What laser engraves well?

Photos and complex artwork do not translate well when laser engraved on the bamboo.

Art must be 100% black - no grey.

If you'd like full-coverage, art should extend 1/8" over edges and camera hole.

What can I not get custom laser engraved?

We cannot laser engrave anything that violates trademark or copyright law.

This means no company logos (unless it is your own company), sports teams, college logos, and other people's art to name a few.

Your artwork must be your own or by written permission from the original artist.

We will assume no liability for any trademark or copyright infringement disputes.

Will you be making bamboo cases for other cellphones and devices?

I'm sorry, but we have no plans of developing cases for other phones at this time.

please follow us on twitter @grovemade or facebook for updates.

What kind of bamboo do you use?

100% solid Moso bamboo.

Dont worry, this is not the bamboo that pandas eat.

How can I clean the case and maintain it?

Simply use a damp rag to rub clean, then dry.

For more rigorous cleansing use a diluted solution of water and mild dish soap on a rag and wipe dry.

This is not necessary but if you would like to re-oil the case later you can use boiled linseed oil.

The natural finish will patina with age and look better than ever!

What is the finish you use on the cases?

We hand rub 4 coats of our custom natural oil/wax blend with 8 hours between coats. This brings out the luster of the grain and also enables you to feel the natural material for what it is. It is extremely labor intensive but believe me you will feel the difference!

How will my case wear over time?

You can expect the case to wear gracefully like fine, hand-oiled furniture.

The oils from your hand will polish your case as a result of the natural oil and wax finish.

If you want your bamboo to be completely sealed we recommend purchasing from other manufacturers who clearcoat their products with a layer of plastic (industry standard).

Do you offer a screen protector?

We do not include a screen protector because we don’t believe in them. Apple will no longer carry them in their stores and neither will we.

How can I customize my case?

Please follow the instructions on the customize page.

Vector illustrations typically look better than photographs.

See design guide for details on the custom page

Instructions
PDF Template

What if I'm not good with computers?

You can find some stock vector illustrations for purchase at istockphoto.com or do a google image search with the word “vector” and your word.

Make sure you don’t violate copyright laws!

Do you offer gift certificates?
What other products will you come up with?

We are constantly developing new products.

After the iPhone 4 and iPad we have a few in mind that will be accessible to anyone.

Please join our facebook fanpage for updates.

Shipping & Orders

What’s your return policy?

Grove Case Replacement Program

If you break your case for any reason at any time we will give you a 50% discount on a replacement. =) To redeem please send us an email hello@grovemade.com with a photograph of your break and a brief description of what happened.

Read our Happiness Policy here.

Warranty

We guarantee our product for a six month period from the day it ships.

Please be aware that the bamboo being a natural material and finished with natural oil/wax will distress/change over time. You can expect your case to wear similar to fine, hand-oiled furniture.

We do not cover damage from abuse, exposure to moisture, extreme temperatures, cracking from screen protector use, improper installation, and impacts (such as dropping your phone).

The case MAY NOT SURVIVE AN IMPACT FROM DROPPING THE PHONE.

The case is designed to protect your phone from normal wear and tear. We do have a Case Replacement Program- please see details.


Custom Cases

We cannot refund custom orders for reasons other than manufacturer’s defect.


Color

Due to variations in monitor/screen settings and bamboo and leather being natural materials with random variation, we cannot guarantee a color match with images on the website.

Laser engraving on bamboo and leather is an unpredictable process and engraved darkness/contrast may differ from images. Color discrepancy does not warrant a valid return.

Exchanges/Replacements

All exchanges will be made only with the identical product ordered.

Original Purchaser

Warranty is only valid with the original purchaser with a valid order# and matching email address. For example: if you buy from a 3rd party on eBay or from a reseller all warranties are void.

Collaborations/Special Editions

Warranty is only valid for one month due to experimental nature of projects. Refunds only- no replacements. If you are unhappy with this warranty please contact us before the month is up and we will fully refund you.

Do you charge us when we order or when the product is shipped?

The full amount is charged when you place your order even if your product is not shipping for a long while. Unfortunately we do not have the ability to place a deposit. If you are at all uncomfortable with this situation we recommend that you look at other products. We certainly understand. Sorry about that!

Can you combine discount codes or use them on introductory prices or pre-orders?

Sorry, we cannot honor combined discounts.

Do you ship worldwide?

Yes we do!

I live in Portland. Can I just come by and pick up my purchase and avoid the shipping charge?

We love local but we are purely an internet business and have no retail presence, nor do we have the infrastructure or staff to handle local pickups. Very sorry! If you would like to see our facilites please join our mailing list or Facebook page for announcements on open houses.

How much does shipping cost?

For iPhone 4: Domestic (USA) shipping/handling is $10. Standard international shipping/handling is $20. Express international is $35.

There are discounts for volume orders!

What are my shipping options?

Priority Mail is only offered for P.O., A.P.O., and F.P.O. boxes and non-contiguous U.S. states and territories. This service has limited tracking.

iPhone 4:

USPS Priority Mail (3-7 business days)

USPS International Priority Mail (6-12 business days)

USPS International Express Mail (5-10 business days) This service has limited tracking.

iPad Skins:

USPS First Class (7-10 business days)

USPS Priority Mail (3-7 business days) This service has limited tracking.

USPS First Class International (varies by country)

USPS Priority International (7-10 business days) This service has limited tracking.

iPad 2 Case:

USPS Priority Mail (3-7 business days)

USPS First Class International (varies by country)

USPS Priority International (7-10 business days) This service has limited tracking.

Wall Art:

USPS First Class (7-10 business days)

USPS Priority Mail (3-7 business days) This service has limited tracking.

USPS First Class International (varies by country)

USPS Priority International (7-10 business days) This service has limited tracking.

Gift Card:

USPS First Class (7-10 business days)

USPS First Class International (varies by country)

PLEASE NOTE: THE CUSTOMER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY CUSTOMS FEES, IMPORT DUTIES, OR TAXES THAT MAY BE IMPOSED BY YOUR COUNTRY’S CUSTOMS DEPARTMENT.

Is there tracking information?

Domestic shipping includes tracking.

Standard international shipping does not include tracking.

Express international does include tracking.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards

Can I make changes to my order after it has already been placed?

Once an order is submitted through our website, it is usually not possible to make changes to the order.

We do our best to engrave and ship orders as quickly as possible which makes these types of changes very difficult.

You can always contact us to request a change to your order, and we will see if we can catch it before it ships.

How can I find out the status of my order?

If you have not received your order within 10 working days then please contact your local post office with your Postal Reference No. as they may be holding your order after an unsuccessful delivery attempt.

There is a small chance that your order is going through customs which would cause a delivery delay.

Can I pay extra to have my product shipped sooner via FedEx or UPS?

Sorry! Our order processing system does not allow for special exceptions for shipping, even if our customers are willing to pay for it.