Frequently Asked Questions
There are a number of questions we frequently get asked. Here they are with corresponding answers...
Q. Do you make your own mannequins?
A. No, we buy mannequins made by reputable companies such as Rootstein, Hindsgaul, etc. and customise those.
Q. How do you work out the prices for your mannequins?
A. We usually start with a good quality used mannequin, much as you'd find in a good clothing store. We choose the ones that will make the best makeovers, based on pose, quality, sculpt, etc. The customisation process takes several days, and and the makeover fee reflects this. On top of this cost are the materials (glass eyes, eyelashes, paint, etc.). Because the price we pay for mannequins varies considerably, this is what ultimately determines the final price of our mannequins.
Q. Can you do a makeover as per my instructions?
A. Yes. As the commissioning customer, you get to specify the pose, colour of eyes, lips, makeup, even skin colour. The only restrictions are on the mannequins that are available at any given time.
Q. Can I send my mannequin(s) to you for a makeover?
A. Yes, but please send us photos first, as not all mannequins are suitable for customisation.
Q. I have a mannequin that needs repairing. Can you do this for me?
A.Yes, but only as part of the full customisation process. We do not offer a repair-only service.
Q. Can you customise a mannequin to look like a celebrity?
A. Only if the mannequin looks something like the celebrity before customisation. While we can make minor changes to nose shape, eye shape etc. we do not currently undertake major facial remodelling.
Q. How can I take care of my Mannequin Makeovers mannequin?
A. Obviously it's important that you handle her with care, just like any mannequin. Mannequins are made from fibreglass, which is strong but can crack under pressure or if knocked, and the paint, although hard-wearing, can chip or get scratched. If she gets dirty or dusty, she can be wiped clean with a damp cloth and patted dry with an absorbent tissue or towel.
Q. What if my mannequin gets damaged?
A. This depends on the damage. We provide a small pot of touch-up paint in case the mannequin's body gets scuffed or scratched. Anything beyond this will require proper repair. We can carry this out, but there will be a charge.
Q. Do you customise male mannequins, or only female?
A. So far we have only done females, as we think they are better for customising, but if you want us to do a male mannequin, please feel free to ask.
Q. Why do you photograph your mannequins dressed and with wigs, but sell them naked without a wig?
A. We photograph our mannequins in clothes and wigs to give a good idea of how they will look when displayed. We also show photos of them naked, to show their pose and sculpt, as well as the work that goes into their bodies. Buyers usually have wigs and something to dress them in, but if not, visit our links page for our preferred suppliers.
Q. How much is the shipping?
A. This depends on where you are, and on the volumetric weight of the package. On average, a mannequin with stand in a heavy-duty carton weighs 17-18kg (about 40lbs), and the dimensions are about 105cm x 45cm x 40cm (41" x 18" x 16"). Within the UK, the cost is about £25 fully insured. For the EU and USA, we use an international courier (usually DHL or UPS), which cost around £35-45 and £95-115 respectively. We regularly scour the Internet looking for the cheapest shipping solutions, and we are also happy for our customers to arrange their own collection.
Our mannequins are packed as carefully as possible, with heavy-duty bubble-wrap for protection, and facial protection to protect the eyes and eyelashes. However, we strongly recommend taking out shipping insurance, as damage can happen.
