Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How much does a new lion cost?
That’s really up to the buyer. Variables that affect cost include the size of the lion, the type of materials used to make it, the level of craftsmanship desired, the rarity, etc. Experienced lion buyers remember the adage, “You get what you pay for.”

Some buyers insist on paying more for the best. Other buyers settle for a little less to reduce costs. We cheerfully serve both types, but our goal is be your source for hard-to-find items and for customized lions.

What about custom orders?
We welcome custom orders! Unfortunately, we don’t stock custom made items. Custom orders are initiated by email or telephone on a piece-by-piece basis. All custom orders require individual attention and close communication with our clients.

I can buy my lions from some other places cheaper. Why should I buy from you?
If price is the main consideration in your lion purchase, you can definitely buy cheap lions from other places. We can still help you order an inexpensive lion, you just might not see it on the site. Cutting costs usually means limiting choices and cutting corners in materials and workmanship. That’s not what we do. Cheap is not the same as good value. We’d rather sell fewer items than compromise the quality of our work.

If you buy from us, you’ll be supporting the work of artists and fellow performers who have a passion for seeing the art flourish. Also, we will nurture your creativity by providing necessary items to turn your vision into a masterpiece.

How do I know which size lion to buy?
A lot depends on personal preferences, but in general, teens and smaller adults prefer size 3 lions. Children ages 9–12 do nicely in sizes 3 and 4. Kids ages 6–9 fit comfortably in sizes 5 or 6. Size 7 or 8 lions are appropriate for children ages 3–6.

Adult males like the roominess of size 2 lions; size 1 lions are the choice of larger, taller people or those with broad shoulders.

I don’t have an artistic bone in my body,
so designing a cool lion myself is out of the
question. Besides a custom lion, can you help
me design a team look and logo?

Yes. We can design a total team identity that includes custom lions with coordinating accessories like flags, banners, props, clothing, etc. Consult with us for details.

I’m visiting San Francisco. Can I come by and visit your store?
What store? Of Course Lion Source is an online store that you can visit from the comfort of your own computer—any time that’s convenient for you. That’s the beauty of it! It would be our honor and pleasure to meet you personally, but you’ll be disappointed if you make the trip hoping to see a store full of lion dance equipment!

 

How do I purchase my items?
Contact us by email, phone, fax or regular mail with your order information. We accept cashier’s checks, money orders, bank transfers and personal checks from
regular clients.

When will I receive my order?
Ready-to-go items usually ship the next business day after payment is processed. Items are shipped via UPS and United States Postal Service. Prices vary by weight, volume, distance and required time of arrival. Clients can contact us to confirm shipping costs and times.

Our clients are interested in quality. They know fine craftsmanship is in high demand, and can’t be rushed. Our patrons who order custom items are patient. They plan ahead for their needs, and are willing to pay a premium for the extra attention their work deserves.

Custom orders require sufficient time to complete. Depending on the complexity of your order and order backlog, an intricate design could require weeks or months to produce during the busy seasons of the year. Please keep this in mind when planning your purchase. Your patience and understanding are much appreciated.

Can I make returns or exchanges?
Due to the nature of custom work, plus the cost and time associated with producing such items, all sales are final.

Why can’t I buy a custom lion in a store?
Custom lions are lions designed with your specifications in mind. With so many variables to choose from, what store could possibly carry the exact lion you want without being able to read your mind before you started shopping? With a lot of luck, sometimes you might find a lion in a store with everything just the way you want it—but who has the time to go looking for the proverbial needle in the haystack?

Honestly, how can I get the cheapest lion possible?
Three ways:

1) Make friends with a lion manufacturer—good friends. Establish a long-term relationship. How? Learn the language and buy a lot of his products over time or do him some tremendous favor. Have the manufacturer ship you the cheapest lion they have in stock. Explain that your priority is not in appearance or quality—price is the main concern. Cross your fingers. Expect to pay extra charges for the packing (if the lion comes in a crate), shipping, dock fees, forklift charges, duties, possible transportation charges, time off work to pick up the lion, etc. Total savings could be a few hundred dollars.

2) Buy the lion directly from a manufacturer overseas. Bring it home with you. Total savings will be even more. However, don’t forget to factor in the cost of your time, your plane ticket, your visa, associated travel fees, your food and lodging if you plan to stay overseas longer than a few hours, possible oversize baggage charges and other transportation costs, duties, etc.

3) Surprisingly, if cost is the only consideration, sometimes it’s cheaper and a lot less work to buy a lion from a domestic supplier or store. Save time, travel, transportation headaches, etc. Chances are, you won’t have to deal with language barriers and trust issues.


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