Faulty item - seller ignoring my return requests

[ruby1234]

I bought some Levi jeans and they have arrived damaged (sewing puckered around knees).
I opened a return request for 'item not as described' which was automatically (Ebay) accepted.
The message said that the seller was unable to send a return label, but was responsible for return postage costs.
I advised the seller that Royal Mail signed for would cost £4.10 and would they confirm they would pay. They refused because it is too expensive and said I must return via Hermes.
I see Hermes costs £2.90 - I asked the seller to confirm they would refund this amount and they said they would contact Ebay to ask.
Several days and messages from me later they will not confirm the refund for the return postage.
If I go to 'Ask Ebay to step in' it just takes me to the return page and there is no option to contact Ebay directly. It just states I must return the item by 7 July.
Do I just send it back signed for by whatever method I choose and hope the seller will refund me?

Can you open a case or is that what you've already done? Failing that I'd ring the eBay helpline. I wouldn't just send it, chances are they'll deny receiving it or fail to refund your postage.

The seller is under no obligation to refund you if you pay out of your own pocket. I don’t understand why they can’t provide a label, all they do is click a button, eBay provide it and then add the cost onto their seller fees.

Message them and ask them to pay you in advance for shipping. If they don’t respond then call or message eBay and let them know what’s going on. They should refund you.