03/07/2026
A bit of a long post but I wanted to inform people.
Buyer beware – my experience with Robert RL Design.
In October 2025, I commissioned two custom leatherworking tools from Robert RL Design on Instagram for €230 (just under $400 AUD including shipping). We discussed the specifications in detail, including a custom awl with a 3cm handle due to multiple hand surgeries, and a roughing tool with a knurled head. He quoted 4–6 weeks, I approved the sketch, and paid in full.
After that, the delays began. I repeatedly followed up over the next six months and was given various reasons, including needing larger timber for the awl handle and ongoing medical issues. I completely understood and even offered to cancel the order so he could focus on his health, but he insisted he would finish them.
When the tools finally arrived after more than six months, neither matched what we had agreed. The awl handle was around half the agreed size, and the roughing tool had straight grooves instead of knurling, meaning it only worked in one direction.
He did send a hammer, which I assume was a thank you for my patience. I didn’t order it and had no use for it, but appreciated the gesture at the time.
When I politely raised these issues, I was met with anger, blamed for the mistakes, and called a liar despite having screenshots of our agreement.
He eventually agreed to refund me if I paid for the return shipping. Although I didn’t believe I should have to, I paid and returned the tools. The parcel was then refused on delivery in Croatia and eventually returned to Australia before returning to Croatia for another delivery attempt.
After over a month of chasing updates, I finally received another angry response blaming me again. I have still received no refund and have since been blocked on Instagram.
I’m sharing my experience so others can make an informed decision before ordering. I’m now over $400 AUD out of pocket, including return postage, and I hope this helps someone avoid the same experience.
