FAQ

Q: I am located outside the US. Can I place an order? 

A: Absolutely! Simply fill out our International order form here to receive a quote or invoice! (please scroll down to review our International terms & conditions section)

Q: What are the backdrops and floordrops made of?

A: Ink and Elm backdrops are printed on strong, matte, durable vinyl using the longest lasting inks and state of the art technology. The vinyl is constructed of fabric between a thin layer of vinyl and is tear resistant as well as water resistant! Our material works great for cake smash session because they simply wipe clean with a damp cloth!

Q: Are the backdrops portable? Absolutely! Simply store in the tube while traveling! When you’re done with your photoshoot, simply roll up the backdrop for simple and easy storage! 

Q: How do I clean my backdrop?

A: Our backdrops are great for babies and cake smashing sessions because of the ease of cleaning! Simply wipe with a damp cloth and let dry! Some cake frosting may have dyes in it that can stain if left on the backdrop too long. Make sure to clean immediately after use if dyes are used in the frosting. 

Q: Is vinyl stain proof?  

A: Unfortunately, no, vinyl is not stain proof. However, the majority of foods will not stain vinyl material if wiped immediately after making contact with the surface. We advise against juices (particularly red and purple juices) as well as oils and red acidic sauces from making contact with the surface, particularly on the lighter colored backdrops. If these items do make contact, wipe immediately before it absorbs into the material. 

Q: Can the backdrops be used as floor drops and vice versa? Yes, all of our backdrops can be used as both backdrops and floor drops!

Q: Will the color of my backdrop match the color I see on my screen? Please keep in mind that each computer monitor is calibrated differently. Our monitors are calibrated to our printers, but your monitors are not. As result, colors may slightly vary. 

Q: Can I sample the backdrop vinyl material before I purchase?

A: Unfortunately, we do not offer samples of the material, but we do conveniently offer a small 2x2 size for purchase! 

Q: How are the backdrops and floordrops printed?

A: Our backdrops and floordrops are printed on state-of-the-art wide format printers. We use the longest lasting inks to create a beautiful and realistic backdrop that will last you years and years to come!

Q: Are all measurements exact?

 A: We try to keep the measurements of your backdrop exactly as listed, however, all listings are nominal and may be 1-2 inches longer or shorter than what is stated in the listing. 

Q: If I purchase two of the same backdrop, will they be exactly the same?

A: If a customer purchases more than one of the same backdrop, they are only guaranteed to be a match if purchased 1) in the same size and 2) in the same purchase. If a customer purchases a specific backdrop and then purchases the same backdrop in a separate order, we cannot guarantee the exact same results due to different white points in different material rolls (material comes in lots and lots are rarely ever the exact same) as well as different printers being used on each backdrop. 

 Q: What is a "floordrop"?

A: A floordrop is simply a backdrop used as the floor in your photo! 

Q: How do you hang the backdrops?

A: Most photographers use a backdrop stand to hang their backdrops. Other photographers have made their own backdrops out of PVC piping that you can purchase at Lowes or Home Depot. Simply hang the backdrops from the stand with clamps (that you can also purchase at Lowes or Home Depot). 

Other solutions for using backdrops without a backdrop stand can include a large flat wall to hang your backdrop with 3M Command  picture hanging strips. This will not damage your wall and if used correctly, works as a reusable hanging solution! You can also use velcro and painter's tape.

Q: Can I use a backdrop or floordrop on carpet?

A: Backdrops and floordrops work best on hard, flat, and smooth surfaces.  Using a backdrop/floordrop on a soft or bumpy surface such as carpet can cause wear and tear on the backdrop when stepped on along with a bumpy backdrop in photos. 

Q: Do you do custom designs?  

A: Yes, we can do some custom designs.  Please contact us with your request!

Q: Can I have my design or photo made into a backdrop or floor drop? 

A: Yes!!  Contact us with the size of the backdrop or floor drop you would like and we will give you the size requirements for your photo.  Your design will be added to the site with our other listings.  If you want an exclusive design there is a  design fee. Please contact us and we will give you a custom quote.

Q: How do I store my backdrop or floordrop?

A: To avoid creases, we recommend rolling and storing in the tube we ship it in. You can also keep it hanging if your studio allows.  To remove any visible creases or bumps in your backdrops, simply expose to heat (a blowdryer) or lay flat/hang straight or simply roll taut and stick back into the tube overnight.

Q: How long does it take for my backdrop to arrive on my doorstep after I order?

A: Typical processing time (this does not include shipping time) for your order is 1-3 business days. Once your order is printed and packaged, we ship using Priority Mail or Fed Ex. The total average time from submitting your order to the moment it reaches your doorstep is typically under 10 days depending on where you are located. 

Q: Is there a way to speed up my order? 

To speed up processing/production time (the time it takes to print and package your order) simply select the "Rush Production" option. This does NOT speed shipping time, only order processing time. With the purchase of "Rush Production", your order will be processed and out for shipment next day after ordering. Shipping will still take appx. 2-5 days after processing time. 

If you would like to speed up shipping AND processing time, please click HERE

Q: Can I share my photos with you for a discount?

A: Absolutely! If you send a photo to us using an Ink and Elm backdrop from a previous purchase, you will receive a 20% discount on your next order! Keep in mind that any customer photos sent to us may be shared on social media or used for marketing purposes. 

Q: What are Ink and Elm's hours?

A: To keep orders processing within our promised deadline, printers run 24-7! Emails are typically answered within the hours of 9:00 am - 10:00 pm MT. 

Q: Can I return or exchange my backdrop?

A: Each order is custom printed to the selection at checkout and, as a result, we cannot accept returns or exchanges.   If you have an issue with a damaged product, please contact us within 3 business days of receiving your order and we will work with you to resolve the issue.  If you contact us after the first 3 business days of receiving your order, we will no longer replace your item so please be sure to contact us within 3 business days! 

Q: Can I cancel an order after it has been placed? 

A: If a cancelation is requested within 3 hours of placing the order, we can process a full refund minus a small 5% transaction fee. This transaction fee is the fee Ink and Elm was charged through the payment processor for processing the order. Unfortunately, this fee is non-refundable through the processor. If a cancelation is requested after the 3 hour grace period, a 25% restocking fee will be deducted from the canceled order as all orders immediately go into printing within that timeframe. 

Q: My drop does not look exactly like the image I purchased online. 

A: Please remember that each computer monitor is calibrated differently. Colors may be slightly different in person. Printers print in CMYK and computer monitors display images in RGB colors.  By purchasing from Ink and Elm, you are agreeing to these conditions.

Q: I'm a vendor, blogger, or run a social media page and would like to know if Ink and Elm would like to participate in my Facebook, Instagram, or social media giveaway or possibly collaborate with our business. 

A: Absolutely! Please contact us through the contact form!

For any questions not answered in the FAQ, please use the contact form!!

Get with the newest photography craze and indulge in these fabulously durable, economical, and stylishly versatile backdrops!!

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International Terms & Conditions (for orders placed outside the US)

International orders do not include any import duties, customs fees, or taxes. International buyers may be subject to import fees, duties, and taxes (if applicable in your country) and Ink and Elm cannot be held responsible for any fees/charges incurred with your country. 

Ink and Elm cannot be held responsible for any International shipment delays or items held at customs. You can contact your local customs office for more information. If any package is refused or unclaimed, all packages will be returned to Ink and Elm. Re-shipping will be at the customers expense.

International transit time is typically 3-14 days, however, we do not guarantee your item will be delivered in that timeframe. Ink and Elm is not responsible for shipping delays caused by the carrier or customs.