FAQ
The pencil
The lead is a standard product with a 2 mm diameter. It's available in all degrees of hardness, every stationery store sells it and sometimes you can also find the colored ones.
There are two main ways to sharpen Sostanza. The traditional method is to rub the lead on glass paper to choose the tip angle according to your needs. If you prefer a perfect conic tip, there are specific 2mm lead sharpeners in every stationery shop. Watch the demonstration videos and choose the best one for you!
When the lead gets too short, you can remove it by sliding the ring toward the tail of the pencil: it will slip off on its own. To reload, you'll need to insert a new one and move the ring toward the tip of Sostanza until it locks in place. Simple, right? We also made this video to help you out.
The basic version is in cherry wood. We never use colored or gloss paintings because we want to preserve the natural feeling of wood. The special editions are made of amaranth and flamed cherry; these essences are more valuable and come at a different price due to the rarity of the wood or the complex handmade finishing. Wood selections may vary based on availability.
Our lead holders always maintain the wood's natural aspect. Sometimes the color shade could appear a little different from the picture: that isn't an error but just a natural fact. Each Sostanza is hand-finished and coated only with a transparent, matte impregnating agent, which helps protect the pencil.
The ring locks on the pencil body and it is not easy to lose it by accident. Anything, however, can happen: in this case contact us and we will try to help you.
the pen
To remove the refill, slide the front end outward: with a little effort, the cap will separate from the pen body. The unloaded refill can now be pulled out and replaced with a new one of the same type.
The refill type is called Cross. It can be purchased directly here on our website. It is also available in all stationery stores, but depending on the manufacturer, the length of the cartridge may vary by a few millimeters. If you buy the refill in your local store, bring your pen and the old refill with you to check the fitting befor purchase.
If necessary, wipe the barrel with a soft cloth and a alcohol-based spray cleaner. Eventually add a drop of silicone oil to improve the sliding.
Shipping
We ship non-customized products in about 1-2 business days, with a standard courier (find the detailed timings on the shipping page). Customized products require a few more days; it can take 4-5 working days, but at some times of the year, it can be up to 10.
The tracking code is sent by email as soon as the courier has taken charge of the package. In case you do not receive any notification, we suggest to check your SPAM folder or, alternatively, to contact us a info@studiosostanza.it.
Returns
If you received a defective product, please send us some photos or videos of the problem. We'll replace your item at no additional cost. If the package is damaged, we recommend that you report it immediately to the courier and contact us with photos/video of the box for the refund procedure.
The return is allowed within 14 working days but only for non-customized items in their intact original packaging. The refund is equal to the amount paid, excluding shipping costs, and it’s carried out once we receive the product back. The shipment is charged to the customer. Customized products can't be refunded.
Business purchases
The space available is limited, but if you're thinking of a Sostanza product for your corporate gifts, and want to engrave a specific logo, send your file to info@studiosostanza.it: We will perform a feasibility check and offer you a free consultation.
Sostanza is an eco-friendly, durable and meaningful product - a perfect gift to make your company stand out or sponsor your event. Contact us to receive a custom quote when purchasing more than five pieces.