Frequently Asked Questions
Click the categories below to learn more and explore our FAQ's.
Frequently asked questions
General FAQ's
I live in Chicago. Can I pick up my order instead?
Yes! For local customers, you can arrange a pick up (at zip code 60613) and save $5.95.
Once your order is ready to pickup, you will receive an email confirmation, so just reply to that email to arrange a time for pickup. Pickups are by APPOINTMENT only.
What if I don't like the reeds I receive?
If for any reason you don't like the reeds you receive, contact us within 5 business days of receipt and we'll work with you to make it right. Once we receive the reed(s), we will issue a replacement or refund. Please note that reeds that have been scraped on or manipulated in any way is not eligible to send back.
I need a reed ASAP.
Our reeds are handmade & made-to-order so they require a few days to finish. If you need a reed ASAP, please purchase our Expedited Oboe Reed and your reed will be shipped next day.
How long will it take for my order to get to me?
All our reeds are made-to-order and it takes about 3-5 business days on average for a reed to be made. Orders with 3 or more reeds may take longer, please be patient- making a good, balanced, handmade reed takes time. English horn reeds take a little longer (5-7 business days) and if you have both in your order, they will be shipped together. After that, your reed will be mailed on the next business day with either First Class USPS (2-5 business days) or Priority Mail (1-3 business days). Please order ahead & allow at least 5-10 days for delivery. Upgrading shipping only upgrades the shipping time and not the reed finishing time. If you need an expedited reed service, please contact us and we can try to accomodate.
Where do you ship?
We ship for a flat fee of $5.95 within the US with the option to upgrade to $10.95 for USPS Priority shipping.
I have a special code from my order. Where do I enter it?
Have a special code from an order? Enter it on this page (www.oboeduck.com/code).
Every order* over $25 (pre-shipping costs & after any discounts/promos) will come with a unique code. Submit 10 unique codes for a gift card delivered to your email!
Please use the same email you used for your order, or your code may not credit to your account!
Reed Adjustments (without a knife)
General Reed Tips READ ME FIRST!
Which side is the overlap?
The side of the blade with the thread overlap should be facing towards you when putting it in the oboe. See the picture below for the overlap.
Reed is too SHARP.
If you have some 600-grit sandpaper, you can run the reed gently from the heart to the tip (focusing mainly on the heart area).
Reed is too FLAT.
Clip a tiny, tiny amount with a GEM Razorblade.
Reed is too CLOSED.
Dip the reed in water again and let it sit out an additional 1-2 minutes. You can also try to gently squeeze the opening to open it up.
Reed is too OPEN.
Close it down by gently pressing on the blades with your finger & thumb for about 30 seconds. This is particularly true with brand new reeds!
Reed is too EASY/VIBRANT.
Reed is too HARD/RESISTANT.
Close it down with your finger & thumb for about 30 seconds or you can run the reed gently from the heart to the tip with 600-grit sandpaper, focusing mainly on the sides of the reed.
Thread Colors
Can I see what the thread colors look like?
Please go to this page to see our thread color examples. Please keep in mind different computer screens & resolutions may not represent exact thread color. Variegated colors may also differ slightly depending on the wrap.