FAQ's for MakIt Make-a-Plate Group and Classroom Kits

Following are answers to common questions we receive on the use, costs and production of MakIt Art Kits for plates, bowls, tumblers and mugs.

We've included detailed information about the processing costs for Group/Classroom Kits, along with answers to questions on artwork, turnaround time and care questions apply to both kit types. Please Note! Individual item/gift kits are NOT priced like the group kits -- the processing and return shipping of an individual kit item is prepaid in the kit price. The processing and shipping costs detailed below apply only to Makit Group/Classroom Kits.

Questions on Production, Processing Time and Costs - (more info. continued below the Shipping Charge Table):

Q: How do the Group/Classroom Kits Work?
A: Once your artwork is complete, you'll send the artwork -- along with payment for the production and return shipping of the finished plates, bowls or mugs -- directly to the MaKit factory using the order forms and shipping labels included in the kit. You pay only for the items you send artwork in to have produced. **Processing for the plates, bowls or cups is NOT prepaid with the Group Kits -- Payment for item processing and shipping charges is sent in with the artwork to be produced.

Q: What are the processing costs for the Group/Classroom Kit items?
(Pricing Updated 8/1/2007) Group/Classroom Kit Production charges are $5.95/plate, $4.95/bowl; $2.95/mug or $3.95/travel tumbler. Additional return shipping charges of finished items are based on the total processing fee for your order.

Q: What are the Group/Classroom Kit items shipping charges and times to have the finished plates arrive?
A: The following charges and return shipping options are available to have the finished items sent back. These charges are ADDED to the processing total for your order. The delivery times are IN ADDITION TO the processing time to create the items.

More on Production Time and Costs...

Q: What is the turnaround time for processed items?
A: From the time we receive the order it usually takes about 2 to 3 weeks to get the order back to you. NOTE: Christmas, Mother's Day and Easter are high-volume times, please allow an additional 2 weeks for processing and delivery during these holidays.

Q: When would orders need to be received in order to guarantee Christmas delivery?
A: Please allow at least a 4 week processing time from receipt of order during the holiday season, PLUS return delivery time (see table below). NO guarantees are made during the holiday season. Place holiday orders early to ensure holiday delivery.

Q: Is there any kind of discount for large quantities?
A: The Group and Classroom kits are priced for quantity orders, there is no minimum/maximum on these kits, either. Orders of over 500 plates processed together, or large quantities of duplicate image plates may qualify for addtional discounts.

Q: Do I need to include tax on my order?
A: Taxes are only charged to residents of the State of Texas.

Q. Are Canadian funds accepted?
A. No, everything needs to paid in US funds.

Questions on Order Forms and Return Envelopes:

Q: What is the address to send artwork in for processing?
A: Our address is Makit Products PO Box 769100 Dallas, TX 75376

Q: Is the return envelope for artwork prepaid?
A: No, due to the variation in weight for the artwork packets that customers ship in, the envelopes are not prepaid.

Q: How do I get a Duplicate Order Form?
A: Download and Print this: MakitOrderForm2007.pdf

Questions on Artwork, Type of Paper, Drawings, and Markers:

Q: Can other markers be used other than Makit markers?
A: The only markers we recommend other then Makit markers are Rose Art classic washable markers.

Q. What kind of ink pads can I use to make hand and feet prints?
A. Washable ink pads may be used, however ink pads are not recomended for best results. Tracing the hands or feet with the approved markers is a good option.

Q: Can any kind of paper be used to do the drawings or does it have to be your paper?
A: It must be our paper because it is a special heat treated paper that molds to the plates.

Q: Can multiple plates be processed from one drawing?
A: Yes, we scan the drawing into our computer so multiple plates can be processed using a printed image.

Q: Can the paper be cut down to the correct size, say that a plate kit was ordered and a bowl would rather be made?
A: Cutting the paper is not advised because the art paper is die cut to the correct size and it's possible that the processed item will not mold properly if not the exact size.

Q: Can bowls, hot plates, etc... be made using the plate paper?
A: If you are using the plate circle paper then only plates can be made. The bowl and hot plate paper is a different size.

Q. Will the holes that have been rubbed through the paper or rips affect the processing of the plates?
A. No, the holes will not affect the processing, it will show up in the plate as a white spot.

Q: Does writing have to be backwards on the paper for the words to come out right on the plate, bowl, hot plate, etc.
A: No, just write and draw like you normally would.

Q: What side of the paper do we draw on?
A: You can draw on either side of the paper but you can only draw on one side, anything on the opposite side will bleed through to the front.

Q: What will happen if both sides of the paper have something drawn on it.
A: Whatever is on the back side of the drawing will bleed through to the front.

Questions on Photo Plates:

Q: Can a collage of pictures be used on the PHOTO PLATE?
A: Yes, but you will need to cut out a paper template to the correct size and securely glue or tape your photos the way you would like them arranged. Makit will not assemble the collage for you.

Q: What size picture needs to be sent in for photo plates?
A: Any size will do, but we prefer 4 x 6 or larger. The smaller sizes (ie: wallet) have to be enlarged quite a bit to fit the plate & the more you enlarge the poorer the quality.

Questions About Finished Items and Product Care:

Q: Can the processed items (plates, bowls, hot plates, etc) be used in the dishwasher, microwave, or oven?
A: They can be used in the dishwasher only. Putting them in the microwave or oven could cause them to blister and burn.

Q: Why do I see white spots and/or creases on my finished processed items?
A: White spots and creases are inherent to the processing of melamine products.