Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before you Bam, Crak & Dot!

Whether you're brand new to American Mahjong or already completely hooked, we've put together a few answers to help you shop, play and enjoy your Bam Bar goodies.

Our Mahjong Tiles

1. Are The Bam Bar tiles for American Mahjong?
Yes! Our tile sets are designed for American Mahjong and include all the tiles you need to play, including Jokers.

2. What comes in a Mahjong tile set?
Each set includes 166 American Mahjong tiles, as well as a set of dice and a scoring guide — everything beautifully packaged and ready to bring a little extra fun to your Mahjong table.

3. What size are your Mahjong tiles?
The exact dimensions are listed on each product page, as sizes may vary slightly between collections.

4. Do your sets include Jokers?
Yes. Our American Mahjong sets include Jokers.

5. Are all your tile collections the same?
No — and that's part of the fun! Each Bam Bar collection has its own colours, artwork and personality. Some of our tiles may also differ in finish, layering or construction, so be sure to check the individual product description.

6. What is the difference between melamine and acrylic Mahjong tiles?
Both melamine and acrylic tiles are durable and enjoyable to play with, but they have a different look and feel.

Melamine tiles are strong, practical and lightweight, making them a great everyday option.

Acrylic tiles have a more premium look and feel. They tend to have a beautiful weight, a smooth finish and greater depth and clarity, allowing for more vibrant colours and detailed designs. If you're looking for tiles that feel a little more special and luxurious on the table, acrylic is our top choice.

For an even more elevated look, our marble and pearl finishes take acrylic tiles to the next level. Marble finishes have beautiful variations and depth that give each set a sophisticated, high-end feel, while pearl finishes have a soft, luminous sheen that catches the light beautifully.

Whichever finish you choose, it's all about finding the set that makes your Mahjong table feel uniquely yours.

7. Will the colours look exactly the same as they do online?
We do our best to photograph our products as accurately as possible. Colours can look slightly different depending on lighting and your phone or computer screen.

Mats, Racks & Accessories

8. Can I mix and match tiles, mats and racks?
Absolutely! We love a good mix-and-match Mahjong table. Choose pieces that complement each other or go bold and create your own combination.

9. Can I buy tiles, mats, racks and bags separately?
Yes. Our products can be purchased separately, so you can build your Mahjong collection your way.

10. How should I care for my Bam Bar products?
Treat your Mahjong goodies with a little love. Wipe tiles and acrylic racks gently with a soft, damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Store everything carefully when not in use to help prevent scratches or damage.

11. What is the difference between plastic, wood and acrylic Mahjong racks?
All three do the same important job — keeping your tiles beautifully organised and ready to play — but each has its own look and feel.

Plastic racks are a great entry-level choice. They're lightweight, practical, easy to use and an affordable way to get your Mahjong table set up with everything you need.

Wooden racks bring a warm, classic and natural feel to the table. They're a beautiful choice if you prefer something timeless and understated, and they pair especially well with a more traditional or sophisticated table setting.

Acrylic racks offer a more modern, polished look. They can add colour, personality and a contemporary feel to your Mahjong setup, making them as much a part of the table styling as the tiles themselves.

When choosing between wood and acrylic, there really isn't a right or wrong answer — it comes down to personal preference and the overall look and feel you want for your Mahjong table. Wood is warm and classic, while acrylic is modern and fun. Choose the one that feels most like you!

New to Mahjong?

12. I'm a beginner. What do I need to get started?
Welcome to your new obsession!

To get started with American Mahjong, you'll need:

• A set of American Mahjong tiles
• A current American Mahjong card
• Four players
• Racks are recommended
• A Mahjong mat is optional — but highly recommended for a great playing surface
• An optional score pad to keep track of everyone's scores

Then all you need are some good friends, a little patience and plenty of practice.

13. How many people play American Mahjong?
American Mahjong is traditionally played with four players, but it can also be adapted and enjoyed with two or three players.

14. What is the difference between American Mahjong and other forms of Mahjong?
There are several different styles of Mahjong. American Mahjong has its own rules and uses Jokers, the Charleston and an annual card of winning hands.

15. Do I need a Mahjong card?
If you are playing according to standard American Mahjong rules, you will need the current card showing the hands and combinations for that year.

Orders & Delivery

16. Where do you deliver?
We deliver anywhere in South Africa.

17. How much is delivery?
Delivery anywhere in South Africa is a flat rate of R150.
Spend R4,000 or more and delivery is FREE!

18. How long will my order take to arrive?
Orders are usually dispatched within 2 business days and delivery generally takes 3–5 business days, depending on your location.

We know waiting for new Mahjong goodies is hard — we'll get them on their way to you as quickly as we can!

19. How can I track my order?
Once your order has been dispatched, you'll receive tracking information so you can follow its journey to you.

20. Can I collect my order?
No. At this stage, we do not offer collection. All orders are delivered directly to you.

21. Can I change or cancel my order?
If you need to make a change, please contact us as soon as possible. If your order hasn't yet been packed or dispatched, we'll do our best to help.

Returns, Exchanges & Problems

22. Can I return or exchange an item?
We want you to love your Bam Bar goodies. Returns and exchanges are accepted within 10 days, provided the items are unused and in their original packaging.

23. What if my order arrives damaged?
Please contact us as soon as possible and send us photographs of the damaged item and packaging. We'll help sort it out for you.

24. What if I receive the wrong item or something is missing?
Oops! Please get in touch with us and we'll make it right.

Gifts

25. Can I send a Bam Bar order as a gift?
Of course! Mahjong goodies make a fabulous gift.

26. Can I include a gift message?
Yes! You can include a personal gift message with your order.

27. What should I buy for someone who loves Mahjong?
You really can't go wrong with a beautiful tile set, mat, racks or Mahjong bag. And if they already have the essentials, a new accessory is always a fun way to refresh their Mahjong table.

Still have a question?

We'd love to help!
Get in touch with The Bam Bar and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

Good friends. Good tiles. Good times.