FAQ

Materials, production and care

Where are Dedal products made?

In Portugal, with a little help from talented hands, clever minds and a healthy dose of imagination.

We believe in making things close to home, working with local makers and celebrating the skills and traditions that make every piece special.

Where do your materials come from?

We source our materials in Portugal whenever possible. Some specialised components, such as those used in our lighting products, come from other European countries.

What matters to us is knowing what goes into our products, where it comes from and who makes them.

Are your products handmade?

Some are handmade, others combine traditional craftsmanship with modern production techniques. Machines can be brilliant, but we believe there's something rather wonderful about the human touch.

Made with hands, heart and imagination. That's our kind of making.

How should I care for my Dedal products?

Every material has its little quirks. Here are a few tips to keep your Dedal pieces looking lovely:

Ceramics: We recommend handwashing with warm, soapy water and allowing the pieces to air dry. Dishwasher use is not recommended, as it may affect the glaze over time.

Cork: Simply wipe with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking or using harsh cleaning products.

For specific instructions, please check the product description or contact us.

Can Dedal products be customised?

We love a creative challenge! Depending on the product and quantities involved, we may be able to explore custom colours, finishes or special editions.

Tell us what you have in mind. We love hearing new ideas.

Our story, our name and our values

What does Dedal mean?

Dedal stands for Developing Design and Local Activities. It also means "thimble" in Portuguese. Small object, big meaning.

Quite fitting for a brand that believes extraordinary things can come from the simplest ideas.

What makes Dedal different?

We're serious about making, playful about everything else.

We bring together designers, makers and ideas to create objects with personality, purpose and a story worth telling.

We believe in creativity, human connections and the beauty of things made with care. Because good design shouldn't just look good. It should mean something.

Why Portugal?

Because it's home. And because we believe in the talent, creativity and know-how of the people who make things here.

Working locally allows us to build closer relationships with makers, support local economies and stay connected to the production process.

Local roots, international imagination.

Why do your products have such unusual names?

Because ordinary names would be terribly boring, wouldn't they?

Many of our product names are inspired by Esperanto, a language created to bring people together. Others come from Portuguese or Latin.

We like words with stories. Just like objects.

Delivery, returns and orders

Do you ship internationally?

We're happy to welcome customers from different corners of the world. Available delivery destinations and shipping costs are displayed during checkout.

If your country isn't listed, get in touch and we'll see what we can do.

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping costs depend on your destination and the products in your order. You'll see the applicable shipping charges before completing your purchase.

How long will my order take to arrive?

Delivery times depend on your location and the shipping service selected. We'll provide the relevant information during the ordering process or in your order confirmation.

Can I return a product?

Of course. If something isn't quite right, please contact us so we can help.

For information about returns, refunds and your rights as a customer, please check our Returns Policy.

What if my order arrives damaged?

Oh no! That's definitely not how we want your Dedal experience to begin.

Please contact us as soon as possible, with your order number and photographs of the damaged item and packaging. We'll help you find a solution.

Creativity and collaboration

Do you collaborate with independent designers?

Absolutely. Collaboration is part of our DNA.

We believe great ideas can come from unexpected places, and we're always interested in meeting creative minds who share our passion for thoughtful, original design.

Can I submit a design proposal?

We'd love to hear from you! Before sending your proposal, please get in touch and tell us a little about yourself and your work.

We'll let you know about our current collaboration opportunities and submission guidelines.

How do collaborations work?

Every project is different. Depending on the collaboration, we may work with designers on product development, production, licensing or royalty-based agreements.

We believe good partnerships start with good conversations.

Working together

Can I become a Dedal retailer?

We'd love that!

We're always happy to connect with shops, galleries and concept stores that share our love for original design and objects with character.

Visit our Become our Retailer page or contact us to start a conversation.

Do you work with distributors and commercial agents?

Yes, we're open to exploring partnerships with distributors and agents who share our vision and enthusiasm for design.

Tell us about your market, your business and how you imagine working together.

Do you offer exclusive collections or customised editions?

Possibly! We love exploring creative collaborations, from exclusive colourways to special editions.

Availability depends on the product, quantities and production requirements. Get in touch and let's explore the possibilities.

Can I request exclusivity for my market?

We believe every shop has its own personality, audience and story. That's why we consider partnerships individually rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.

If exclusivity is important to your business, let's talk about it.