Hey there, I'm Sporky!
I'm an artist and textiles maker from the UK. I started CTC 6 years ago in my childhood bedroom as a fun little hobby and it's since grown into a small studio and what you see today! If you want to learn more about me and what I get up to, consider joining my mail club for a monthly dose of positivity and silly drawings.
General FAQs
What is the best way to contact me
Currently the best way to contact me is through social media, Etsy or email containthecreatures@outlook.com
Something is out of stock
Sometimes because of popularity, items may be out of stock. Unless the product is a limited run or discontinuing, expect a restock within the month. You can keep up to date with restocks on my socials @containthecreatures. If there's a limited item that you'd really like back in stock, please email me!
Why Etsy is more expensive
I still run my Etsy store for those who wish to purchase from there however because of the high fees they charge, items over there may be more expensive.
Sustainability
I aim to keep CTCs impact on the environment low, and make every conscious effort to keep my working methods green. Here are some of the things I'm doing to make a difference:
Manufacturer- My manufacturer for stickers FSC certified, meaning all paper is sourced from sustainable forests. My keychain manufacturer recycles defective acrylic to prevent waste. They ship items using cardboard instead of plastic, and are transitioning to 100% recyclable packaging. All of my manufacturers are SMETA certified, ensuring safe working conditions and fair labour.
Materials- I source the majority of my cotton fabrics from small local businesses. The fur I use is 'ecoshag', which is produced with minimal waste and prioritizes recycled materials.
Packaging- I currently use paper based packaging like cardboard boxes and tissue paper for all large items. Smaller items do come in bubble mailers for protection, but I use paper based packaging and tape inside.
Charity donations- I currently donate 10% of profits from my sea lion collection to the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust's Seal Appeal. This money goes towards protecting Lincolnshire's seal pups and coastlines. If you'd like to learn more about this cause, feel free to visit their website.
If you have any questions or recommendations for how I could be doing better, don't hesitate to contact me!
Events
I regularly attend comic cons and craft markets, below you can see this year's events list. If you'd like to see me at any events next year, drop me a message or email and I'll try my hardest to attend!
Shipping and processing
What is the best way to contact me
Currently the best way to contact me is through social media, Etsy or email containthecreatures@outlook.com
How items are packaged
Depending on the size of your order, packages may arrive slightly differently. My packaging is very recognisable, so please contact me if you would prefer something more discrete. If you would like to include a gift note, please add your message to the order notes.
Small orders- expect a green bubble wrap mailer with pink and white checkered tape.
Large orders- expect a purple Contain The Creatures box with pink and white checkered tape
Shipping methods
I ship all over the world so everybody can access my products! These are the services you should expect your items to be shipped with.
UK- Royal Mail 48hr delivery or contact me to pick up at an event for free (see below for event timetable)
Europe and Asia- Royal Mail International standard
USA- Royal Mail International standard DDP. Shipping to the US is higher because it includes fees and customs.
If you'd like your item shipped with another service please contact me
My name or address is wrong
If you make a mistake with your order name or address, please contact me as soon as possible. Please note that if your order has already been shipped, I may not be able to make any changes.
Order tracking
My standard shipping does not include tracking to keep your costs low. If you would like tracking, please choose the shipping upgrade. If you have not received your parcel within the below timeframes, please contact me for support.
UK- 1 week
Elsewhere- 3 weeks
How often orders are shipped
Most items are shipped within 3 working days of purchase. If your item is custom or pre-order, please refer to the information in the listing to understand when your item will be shipped.
My order has arrived broken or missing parts
Accidents and mistakes can happen, If you have a problem with your order upon arrival please contact me right away with your full name, order number and photos. Don't worry, we'll get it sorted!
Returns and Exchanges
What is the best way to contact me
Currently the best way to contact me is through social media, Etsy or email containthecreatures@outlook.com
Cancelling an order
If you'd like to cancel your order before it is shipped, please contact me with your full name and order number and you will receive a full refund within 1o working days.
If you'd like to cancel your order after it has been shipped, you'll need to wait until your items arrive to send it back. Please read the below section on returns and exchanges.
Returns
Returns will be accepted for non-custom items within 10 days of an items delivery. The buyer will need to pay for return shipping, and a full refund will be processed within 10 working days of the item returning to me. I have the right to refuse returns if I receive items that have been broken due to improper packaging on the buyer's behalf. Please make sure to re-package items suitably before returning them.
If you would like to return a custom item, a partial refund or store credits may be offered but please contact me for more information on this.
Please be mindful that I am a very small 1 man business and I will try my best to resolve any issues.
Exchanges
I currently do not accept exchanges, if you are unhappy with your order please contact me for a refund with your full name and order number.
My order has arrived broken or missing parts
Accidents and mistakes can happen, If you have a problem with your order upon arrival please contact me right away with your full name, order number and photos. Don't worry, we'll get it sorted!