Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

About Karuna Badges FAQ

What Was the Origin of Karuna Badges?
Karuna Badges was founded by Scout Leader Leonardo to support his "Karuna expedition" in Thailand. The name Karuna means "compassion in a positive way" or "helping someone happily" in Sanskrit. The company has grown to support various Scout and Guide causes worldwide, including responses to natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic​ (World Scout Foundation)​.

How Does Karuna Badges Contribute to Global Scouting Efforts?
Karuna Badges contributes to global Scouting efforts by raising funds through badge sales. Proceeds have supported various causes, including disaster relief efforts and the Scout Emergency Response Fund during the COVID-19 pandemic. Donations are channeled via the World Scout Foundation to ensure proper distribution and impact​ (World Scout Foundation)​​​.

What is the World Scout Foundation?
The World Scout Foundation is an organization that provides financial support to the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM). It aims to strengthen and expand Scouting worldwide by funding various projects and initiatives that benefit young people and communities​ (World Scout Foundation)​​.

How Does the World Scout Foundation Ensure the Proper Use of Donations?
The World Scout Foundation ensures the proper use of donations by working closely with the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) and its member organizations. It oversees the allocation and utilization of funds, ensuring they are used effectively to support Scouting programs, disaster relief efforts, and other initiatives that benefit young people worldwide​ (World Scout Foundation)​.

What Was the Impact of the Fundraising for the Scouts Australia Bushfire Appeal?
The fundraising effort by Karuna Badges for the Scouts Australia Bushfire Appeal had a significant impact, raising USD 28,000. The funds helped support Scouts and communities affected by the devastating bushfires, providing necessary resources and assistance during recovery efforts​ (World Scout Foundation)​.

How Has Karuna Badges Contributed During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Karuna Badges has actively supported various initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, our badge sales have contributed to the Scout Emergency Response Fund, helping to raise over USD 15,000  for relief efforts and support for Scouts worldwide during the crisis​ (World Scout Foundation)​​.

How is Karuna Badges affiliated with WOSM or Any NSO?

Karuna Badges is a scout-run project dedicated to serving all scouts and guides, regardless of their association or country. We are not officially affiliated with or endorsed by the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) or any National Scout Organization (NSO), unless explicitly stated in the badge description.
However, we collaborate closely with various scouting organizations through the World Scout Foundation. For example, our fundraising efforts have significantly supported initiatives like the Scouts Australia Bushfire Appeal, and the Scout Emergency Response Fund during the COVID-19 pandemic, (World Scout Foundation)​​.
We prefer to remain independent to offer a wider range of products and services, ensuring that we can support diverse scouting and guiding causes worldwide without being limited to specific associations. This independence allows us to respond flexibly and effectively to the needs of scouts and guides globally.

General Questions FAQ

Do You Accept Apple Pay?
Yes, we accept Apple Pay, which adds an extra layer of security as we have been verified by Apple.

Can I Add Anything to My Order Once I Have Placed It?
Unfortunately, no. Our system is designed to be secure, and we cannot make manual changes to orders once they are placed.

Is There a Minimum Order to Get Tracked Shipping?
Yes, orders over £50 require tracked shipping to ensure your badges are not lost in transit. This policy safeguards your money and our stock.

How Long Will My Order Take to Arrive?
Shipping is done from the Netherlands. We process postal runs every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, or at least twice a week. You will receive an automatic email once your order has been shipped. Delivery times are approximately:
- **Within Europe**: 5-10 days
- **Africa**: 10-15 days
- **North America**: 10-15 days
- **China, Hong Kong, and most of Asia**: 10-15 days
- **Australia and New Zealand**: 15-30 days
- **South America**: 15-30 days

My Order Has Not Arrived!
If your order has not arrived, please contact us via email. We will check its status. If it has been shipped and it has been more than 21 days but less than 45 days since the shipping confirmation email, it might be stuck in Customs or lost.

Please note that we offer tracked and non-tracked shipping options. If you chose non-tracked shipping, it is difficult to determine the package's location. If your order is lost and we are not notified within 45 days of dispatch, we will not issue a refund or send a replacement, and the order will be considered complete with no further action or discussion possible.

For any other issues, contact us. Your satisfaction is our priority.

Do You Deliver Worldwide?
Yes, we deliver worldwide. Please note that import taxes and duties may apply upon receipt of your goods, depending on your local laws. These fees are not included in our prices, and you are responsible for their payment.

What’s the Difference Between Embroidered and Woven Badges?
Embroidered badges have designs stitched onto a backing fabric, creating a raised feel. Woven badges, similar to how a tie is made, are woven from multiple threads simultaneously, resulting in a flat feel and enabling higher detail.

I Want to Become a Distributor
We are looking to expand. Karuna Badges started as a hobby to support our scout group and has grown into a well-known company. If you are interested in partnering with us to distribute our badges locally, please reach out to us for a chat.

 Do You Provide Discounts for Bulk and Wholesale Orders?
Yes, we do. Contact us for special pricing. If you are using the badges for fundraising, let us know and we will do our best to help you maximize your fundraiser.

Can I Pay by Cheque, Bank Transfer, or PayPal?
- **Bank Transfers:** Yes, we accept bank transfers, although our preferred method is Stripe. Please note that any transfer fees are your responsibility. Contact us to place an order with bank transfer payment.
- **Cheques:** We no longer accept cheques.
- **PayPal:** We do not accept PayPal.

Can I Return Badges if I’ve Over Ordered?
Yes, as long as they are in new condition, we will exchange them for store credit.

How Can I Track My Order?
Once your order has been shipped, you will receive a dispatch confirmation email with tracking information if you chose tracked shipping. You can use this information to track your order.

What Should I Do If My Order Is Undeliverable?
If your order is returned due to an incorrect address or not being collected, any further dispatches will incur additional postage charges. Please ensure your address details are accurate and that you are available to receive your order.

How Can I Contact Customer Support?
For any questions or concerns, you can reach out to us through our CONTACT page or email us at [email protected]. We are here to help and ensure your satisfaction.

What Happens If My Order Is Lost?
If your order is lost in transit and we are not notified within 45 days of dispatch, we will not issue a refund or replacement. Please ensure you choose tracked shipping for more secure delivery.

What Payment Methods Do You Accept?
We accept payments via Apple Pay, Stripe, and bank transfers. We do not accept cheques or PayPal.

Can I Change My Shipping Address After Placing an Order?
Unfortunately, once an order is placed, we cannot make manual changes to it, including changes to the shipping address. Please double-check your details before confirming your order.

What Should I Do If I Receive a Defective Product?
If you receive a defective product, please contact us within 14 days of delivery. We will arrange for a replacement or a refund, including the return delivery charge, if the defect is confirmed.

If you have any additional questions, please send us a message through the CONTACT page. Thank you for choosing Karuna Badges!

Custom Badges FAQ

Do You Make Custom Badges?
Yes, we do. As a non-profit small company, our goal is to offer the lowest price in the market. We do not profit from making your badge, aiming for your savings to contribute to a greater cause. Turnaround for custom orders is typically around 3-4 weeks, though this may be longer due to external factors.

What Are the Initial Design Requirements?
Customers must provide a design, quantity, and size for their badge. We can assist with size selection based on your budget or the badge’s purpose.

What is the Design Deposit?
A non-refundable £50 deposit is required for non-digitized designs. This covers the cost of a physical demo and is applied to the final balance.

How Does the Approval and Payment Process Work?
Upon receiving or approving a digitized design, a detailed production document will be sent for your signature. Production begins after full payment and signed approval. Production typically takes 20 days but may vary. Finished badges will be shipped via your chosen method. Customs fees are your responsibility.

Do You Offer Price Comparisons?
Yes, send quotes from other suppliers to [email protected]. We aim to beat prices by at least 10%. If we cannot, you will receive a free badge.

What is Your Cancellation Policy for Custom Orders?
If you cancel after requesting a design, a £350 fee per design applies. Each section of multi-part designs incurs its own fee. This fee is separate from the non-refundable deposit.

Can I Make Changes to My Custom Order After Approval?
Unfortunately, once a custom order is approved and payment is made, no changes can be made to the design or order details. Please review all information carefully before approval.

What Happens If There Is a Delay in Production?
We strive to complete production within 20 days, but delays can occur due to various factors. We will notify you promptly if there are any expected delays.

 How Do I Provide My Design?
You can provide your design in a digital format, or if it is not digitized, we can assist in creating a digital version for you. Please contact us for specific requirements and assistance.

 What Backing Options Are Available for Custom Badges?
We offer various backing options for custom badges, including sew-on, iron-on, and Velcro. Please specify your preferred backing option when placing your order.

Can I Request a Sample Before Full Production?
Yes, you can request a sample before full production. A non-refundable deposit of £100 is required for creating the sample, which will be applied to the final balance.

For any questions or support regarding custom badges, please contact us at [email protected]. Thank you for choosing Karuna Badges!