Frequently Asked Questions
All the greatest hits, compiled over years of helping happy customers. See what others have asked below, and if you need more help or have a question specific to your order, send us a note at hello@incommonwith.com.
Products
What techniques do you use?
Hand-blown glass: Melting and forming clear glass then adding in color.
Metal Spinning: Also known as spin forming, this is a metal forming process that spins metals at high speeds to create new shapes and angles.
Finishing: Coating and finishing our metalwork in a variety of options.
Slip-Cast Ceramic: A method for producing larger amounts of ceramic pottery. We use this process for more efficient and consistent ceramic materials.
Hand-built and Wheel-thrown Ceramic: This technique molds and forms ceramic pieces without the use of a pottery wheel.
Mold-blown glass: Made by blowing hot glass into a mold of clay, metal, or wood.
Assembly: Screwed, tightened, wired, cleaned, all by hand one-at-a-time by us in our studio.
Is there any variation in the materials?
When objects are handmade, slight variation in shape and color and size can happen. Each product is quite literally one-of-a-kind, and we do not accept returns because of material variance.
Where are your products made?
We search and search for the best, safest, most trustworthy partners, and that’s who we work with, even if they are halfway around the world. Everything passes through our Brooklyn studio before it’s sent to you.
Why do you use LED bulbs?
First, they require less energy. Second, they last about 25,000 hours — much longer than incandescent light bulbs. They’re a gentler and more affordable choice for everyone.
Do you do custom orders?
Yes, we love them. Read more about the process and submit an inquiry here.
Ordering
What payment methods do you accept?
Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, Discover, Apple Pay, and PayPal.
All transactions are secured and encrypted. Payment is charged at the time of purchase.
Can I see pieces in person before I buy one?
We do host studio visits at our Brooklyn studio. You can schedule a time with us here.
Can I cancel an order after it’s placed?
We must receive your request within 24 hours via email.
Who do I contact for a project quote?
You may request a project quote by emailing quotes@incommonwith.com. Our team will get back to you within 2 business days. Please include anything that can help us help you faster.
Shipping
How long will it take to receive my order?
Production times vary per product and are noted on the product page. If you have questions about your order status or would like to inquire about expedited production, please contact sales@incommonwith.com.
What shipping methods do you use?
Within the US: FedEx Ground from Brooklyn, NY. (Note that FedEx doesn’t ship to P.O. Boxes, APO or FPO addresses.)
International: we’ll determine the best method together, but we often use DHL or FedEx International.
Can I request expedited shipping?
Yes. Email us.
How much are taxes or duties?
We are required to collect sales tax on orders shipped to New York state. Taxes will be calculated and shown at checkout.
International orders outside the US: Each country has its own percentage rate for taxes and duties, and customers are responsible for tariffs when orders arrive in the destination country.
Once an order is shipped and with the carrier, delays are out of our hands.
When will I get a tracking number?
When your order is shipped, you will receive a confirmation email that will include tracking information. You may also login to your account or email sales@incommonwith.com to request an update.
What if my order gets refused?
Refused orders incur a 15% restocking fee.
Returns
What’s your return policy?
We accept returns for store credit only, minus a 15% restocking fee. This request must be made within 10 days of receiving your order.
We do not accept returns on pieces from the Handmade, Disc, or Terra series.
Custom and Rush orders are final sale. Returns, exchanges, or refunds are not accepted.
How do I send something back to you?
You must use the prepaid shipping label we provide. The customer is responsible for the cost of return shipping, which will be deducted from store credit issued. Use original packaging and packing materials to avoid invalidating your return or claim.
Items must be returned to us in original condition accompanied by the return information label.
Make sure all products are exactly as you received them, with tag(s) and seal(s) still attached.
All products that come in their own box, including but not limited to light bulbs and accessories, must be returned in their original, undamaged box as this is considered part of the product.
We reserve the right to reject any returned items that do not meet the above requirements. If your return is rejected you will be notified via email.
What if my product arrived damaged?
For products damaged by shipping: email us within 48 hours of confirmed delivery so we can help, and be sure to include photos. (Claims processes tend to be clunky and take time, so it’s important that we get all the details as fast as possible.)
In Common With is not responsible for lost or stolen packages.
Please contact Fed Ex to resolve these matters.
Claims
Buyer must inspect shipment upon receipt. All claims must be made within 3 business days of receipt of goods. Merchandise stored for future use must be checked upon receipt. Failure to make a claim within 3 business day constitutes acceptance of the goods as is.
For claims, save original carton(s) and contents for possible inspection; take photographs; call the carrier to report the damages and receive claim instructions. For all shipments, notify us via email immediately of any damages, and supply photographs.
Use & Care
What are safe ways to clean my fixture?
Please never use abrasive cleaning products, scouring pads, or steel wool. If it comes from a store in a bottle, it’s bad for your ICW objects.
Use a very soft cloth that’s either dry or damp depending on the material. We recommend these - they’re gentler than paper towels, reusable, and safe for cleaning basically everything. Magic Erasers are not to be underestimated.
Metal: Dust with a dry cloth like these or wipe down with a damp cloth. Our brass is un-lacquered and will patina over time.
Glass: For clear and colored glass, wipe with a damp cloth. Removable glass shades can be washed carefully in warm to hot water in a sink with minimal, clear cleaning solution. For frosted or etched glass, wipe down with a dry cloth.
Ceramic: Wipe with a damp cloth. Please avoid submerging anything in water, though.
How do I replace my light bulb?
All of our lights come with all the light bulbs they need already in the box. If you need to replace it, you can order one here or email us for other vendor recommendations. We’re happy to help.
Accounts
Do you offer trade discounts?
Yes. Our program is open to interior designers, architects, home stagers, or licensed general contractors, working on commercial and/or residential projects. To learn more about the qualified benefits we offer and enroll, sign up here.
Miscellaneous
Where does the name In Common With come from?
We wanted to build a company that celebrates collaboration. Our name comes from a sentiment we care about: creating things together with people whose values align with our own.
Do you only design and manufacture lighting?
We definitely have a soft spot for light. Light is foundational to building a well-lived home, productive workspace, and pleasing environments. Though our products focus solely on lighting, we plan to offer a variety of items in our upcoming collections.