What is Bronzing?
Bronzing is a process in which an item is encased in a layer of copper metal. The copper is then oxidized to the desired finish and polished. Genuine bronze non-metallic electroplating creates a "skin" of copper around the object.

What can be bronzed?
Almost anything can be electroplated. Some of the more unusual items we have bronzed include a partially smoked cigarette with the ash still on it, Styrofoam bricks, bras and gloves that are body formed, and 15 year old cookies!  Some materials need special handling. Generally, the more solid and hard the object the easier it is to bronze. The more porous, rough or soft an item it the more difficult it is to bronze. We love a challenge – so ask us for a quote!

How do I pay and is your site secure?
We are proud to provide PayPal service for all transactions on our site. With PayPal you have an online account that makes it easy to send money from a variety of sources (like your credit card or bank account) without sharing your financial information. If you do not have a PayPal account you can simply use your credit card over the PayPal site and be sure of the same security.  You do not pay any extra charges for using this service.

What is the choice of finishes?
Bright bronze is the initial bright copper colour. With an oxidizing process (not painting) a genuine antique bronze finish is achieved. A brass finish results from adjusting the electroplating chemicals to produce a bright brass colour.

What about silver and gold?
Once an item is bronzed it can then be put through a separate metallic-electroplating process to plate it in either real silver or gold. Silver can be oxidized to produce an antiqued effect that is likened to pewter. We currently do no offer finishes other than antique bronze.

Are all bronzing processes the same?
Alternative treatments include painting, dipping or coating the item with substances to produce a bronze colour. These processes can damage some articles rather than preserve them. When the term ‘electroplating’ is used you know you are getting genuine metal plating.

Why do some items need a custom price quote?
There are different ranges of difficulty when it comes to bronzing. In addition to size considerations the condition and material the item is made of all contribute to the requirements during the bronzing process. Some articles need more preparation than others before going into the bronzing tank. Some items require constant observation during the electroplating process to ensure a good outcome. And finally, your finished piece may require special shipping arrangements.

What happens if my item is damaged during bronzing?
If for any reason we believe the bronzing process would damage your property we will fully explain the risks to you. If you decide to proceed it is at your own risk.  

How do I take care of a bronzed item?
All our bronzed items are clear coated to preserve the beautiful finish and prevent tarnishing. Simply wipe with a clean cloth. Always pick up mounted items by the base.

How do I ship my articles to you?
Pack your shoes or other keepsake in a box with one copy of your Order Form and mail it to our plant at True North Bronzing Co. 671-C Montreal St., Kingston, Ontario Canada K7K 3J3. Be sure to pack fragile items carefully to prevent damage in shipping.

How long will I wait to receive my finished order?
Most orders take 6-8 weeks. We will advise you if your order will require more time than that.

Do you accept international orders?
We welcome international orders. All prices quoted are in Canadian dollars. International orders will require a price adjustment for shipping. For you convenience a currency converter link is located in the Baby Shoe store or click here to go there now.

How do I place an order for baby shoes?

After you have chosen your style and added it to your shopping cart then go to Check Out. There you will be asked to complete your name and address information. When you proceed to Payment you will be taken to the PayPal site to complete your transaction.  True North Bronzing will email you an order confirmation. Please print and include one copy of this confirmation with your baby shoes and ship them to our plant at True North Bronzing Co. 671-C Montreal St., Kingston, Ontario Canada K7K 3J3.

How do I place a custom order (for anything other than baby shoes)?
Our custom order form is located on both the Keepsakes and Trophies pages. Complete the on line form and describe the article, its condition and dimensions. (We love to hear the stories behind the items we work on, so any detail you wish to share will be enjoyed at our end.) We provide a place for you to upload a digital picture of your item. Once you submit this form we will contact you by phone or email with any other questions we may have and then we will send you a written price quotation. If you decide to proceed you can then complete payment over the website and send us your article. Click here to go to an Order Form now.

What is your guarantee?
Baby shoes and other objects bronzed by True North Bronzing Co. are fully guaranteed against faulty materials and workmanship.  This guarantee does not cover damage due to carelessness (such as placing near extreme heat or by dropping). Clean your treasure only with a damp cloth.  Lift mounted orders only by the base, never by the shoes or plated object. Should damage occur in the above manner, call or write for an estimate on repairs.