Materials & Care

Shoe care brush and leather care tools

I. Shoes

Our handcrafted shoes are designed for comfort and elegance. Proper care will maintain their shape, protect the materials, and extend their life.

A. Leather Shoes

Leather (e.g., Full Grain, Calfskin, Pebble Grain) is a natural material that ages beautifully with care.

  • Cleaning:
    • Remove loose dirt and dust regularly with a soft brush or a slightly damp cloth.
    • For deeper cleaning, use a pH-neutral leather cleaner specifically designed for footwear. Apply a small amount to a clean cloth, gently rub the affected area in a circular motion, and then wipe away any excess with a clean, damp cloth.
    • Allow shoes to air dry completely at room temperature, away from direct heat sources like radiators or sunlight, which can cause the leather to dry out and crack.
  • Conditioning:
    • Leather needs moisture to stay supple. Condition your leather shoes every 1-2 months, or more frequently if they are exposed to harsh conditions.
    • Use a high-quality leather conditioner or cream that matches the leather type. Apply a small amount with a soft cloth, working it into the leather in circular motions.
    • Allow the conditioner to absorb for the recommended time (usually 15-30 minutes), then buff with a clean, soft cloth or a horsehair brush to a shine.
  • Polishing (for smooth leathers):
    • For an added layer of protection and shine, use a wax or cream polish that matches your shoe color.
    • Apply a thin, even layer with an applicator brush or cloth.
    • Let it dry, then buff vigorously with a horsehair brush, followed by a soft, lint-free cloth for a high shine.
  • Protection:
    • Consider using a water and stain repellent spray specifically designed for leather, especially for new shoes or after cleaning. Reapply as needed, typically every few months.
  • Storage:
    • Store leather shoes with wooden shoe trees inserted. Shoe trees help maintain the shoe's shape, absorb moisture and odor, and prevent creasing.
    • Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If storing for an extended period, use dust bags to protect them from dirt.
  • Wet Shoes:
    • If your leather shoes get wet, stuff them with newspaper or absorbent paper towels to draw out moisture. Replace the paper as it becomes saturated.
    • Allow them to air dry naturally at room temperature. Avoid using direct heat. Once dry, clean and condition them.

B. Suede & Velvet Shoes

Suede and Velvet are delicate materials with a unique finish that require special care.

  • Cleaning:
    • Use a specialized suede/velvet brush to gently brush away loose dirt and restore the nap. For suede, brush in one direction. For velvet, brush gently in the direction of the pile.
    • For stubborn marks or stains on suede, use a suede eraser or a dedicated suede cleaner. For velvet, consult a professional or use a velvet-specific cleaner, always testing on an inconspicuous area first.
    • Avoid using water directly on suede. For velvet, minimal moisture might be used with a soft cloth for light spots, but avoid saturation.
  • Protection:
    • Treat suede shoes regularly with a water and stain repellent spray specifically formulated for suede. For velvet, some protectors exist but test carefully as they can alter texture or sheen. Generally, keeping velvet dry is best.
  • Storage:
    • Store suede and velvet shoes in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
    • Use shoe trees to maintain shape and consider storing them in dust bags to protect from dust and crushing (especially for velvet).
  • Reviving the Nap/Pile:
    • If suede's nap becomes flattened, gently use a suede brush. You can also hold suede shoes over steam from a kettle (from a safe distance) for a few moments, then brush to lift the nap. Be very careful with steam.
    • For velvet, a very gentle steaming (from a distance) can sometimes help lift a crushed pile, or gently brushing with a soft velvet brush.

C. Textile/Canvas Shoes

  • Cleaning:
    • Remove loose dirt with a soft brush.
    • For spot cleaning, use a mild detergent diluted in cool water. Gently scrub the stained area with a soft cloth or toothbrush.
    • Avoid soaking the entire shoe unless the care label specifically allows.
    • Rinse thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
    • Stuff with paper towels to absorb excess moisture and help maintain shape.
    • Allow to air dry completely away from direct heat or sunlight.
  • Protection:
    • Consider using a fabric protector spray to guard against dirt and stains.
Cleaning a leather bag

II. Bags

Our handcrafted bags are made from various high-quality materials, each requiring specific attention.

A. Leather Bags

Care for your Full Grain, Calfskin, or Pebble Grain leather bags.

  • Cleaning:
    • Wipe your bag regularly with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust.
    • For minor spills, gently wipe with a slightly damp cloth.
    • For more thorough cleaning, use a pH-neutral leather cleaner. Apply a small amount to a cloth, test on an inconspicuous area first, then gently clean the bag. Wipe off any residue with a clean, damp cloth and allow to air dry.
  • Conditioning:
    • Condition your leather bag every 2-3 months, or as needed, to keep the leather soft and prevent cracking. Use a quality leather conditioner suitable for bags.
    • Apply a small amount with a soft cloth, rub it in gently using circular motions, and let it absorb. Buff with a clean, dry cloth.
  • Protection:
    • Use a water and stain repellent spray designed for leather bags to protect against unexpected spills and light rain.
  • Storage:
    • When not in use, stuff your leather bag with soft, acid-free paper or a dust bag to help it maintain its shape.
    • Store it in its original dust bag or a breathable fabric bag.
    • Avoid hanging leather bags for long periods, as this can distort the handles. Store upright or lying flat.
    • Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
  • Ink Marks & Stubborn Stains:
    • For ink marks or tough stains, consult a professional leather cleaning specialist. Do not try harsh chemicals, as they can damage the leather.
  • Hardware Care:
    • Clean metal hardware with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using polishes on hardware unless specifically stated they are safe for plated metals, as this can cause discoloration.

B. Suede & Velvet Bags

Suede and Velvet bags require gentle handling to maintain their distinct textures.

  • Cleaning:
    • Use a suede/velvet brush to gently remove dirt and dust and to refresh the nap/pile.
    • For stains on suede, use a suede eraser or a specialized suede cleaner. Always test in a hidden spot first. For velvet, consult a professional or specific velvet cleaner.
    • Avoid water, especially on suede. If the bag gets wet, blot gently with a clean, dry cloth and allow it to air dry naturally.
  • Protection:
    • Treat suede with a suede protector spray to repel water and stains. Reapply periodically. For velvet, be cautious with sprays; keeping it dry is paramount.
  • Storage:
    • Store in a dust bag in a cool, dry place. Stuff the bag to maintain its shape. Keep away from oils and heavily dyed fabrics that could transfer color. Ensure velvet is not compressed.
Cleaning a leather wallet

III. Accessories

From essential wallets and belts to practical shoe horns and comfortable socks, proper care will ensure these smaller treasures remain a stylish and functional part of your everyday life.

A. Wallets & Small Leather Goods

Includes cardholders, key fobs, etc.

  • Cleaning:
    • Wipe regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
    • For light cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth and allow to air dry.
    • For deeper cleaning, use a small amount of leather cleaner suitable for the specific leather type, applying with a soft cloth and wiping away excess.
  • Conditioning:
    • Small leather goods benefit from occasional conditioning (every 3-6 months) to keep the leather supple. Use a minimal amount of leather conditioner.
  • Protection:
    • A leather protectant spray can help shield against minor spills and stains.
  • Storage:
    • Store in a cool, dry place. If storing for a long time, a small dust bag is ideal.
    • Avoid overstuffing wallets, as this can stretch the leather permanently.
  • General Tips:
    • Be mindful of dye transfer from dark denim or other fabrics, especially on lighter-colored leather.
    • Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and moisture.

B. Belts

  • Leather Belts:
    • Follow the same care instructions as for leather shoes and bags (cleaning, conditioning, protection).
    • When storing, either hang them by the buckle or roll them loosely. Avoid folding them tightly, which can create permanent creases or cracks.
  • Suede/Velvet Belts:
    • Follow the same care instructions as for suede/velvet shoes and bags. Brush gently. Store rolled or hanging to prevent creasing or crushing the pile.
  • Hardware (Buckles):
    • Wipe buckle with a soft, dry cloth to remove fingerprints and smudges.

C. Socks

Our socks are crafted for comfort and durability.

  • Washing:
    • Most of our socks can be machine washed in cool or warm water. Refer to the specific care label on the sock packaging or product page.
    • Turn socks inside out before washing to reduce pilling and fading.
    • Use a mild detergent. Avoid bleach unless the socks are all white and the label permits.
    • Wash with similar colors.
  • Drying:
    • Tumble dry on a low heat setting, or for best results and to extend their life, air dry them flat.
    • High heat can shrink fibers and damage elasticity.
  • Storage:
    • Store flat or loosely rolled. Avoid tightly balling them up, which can stretch the elastic.

D. Shoe Horns

Our shoe horns make slipping into footwear effortless and protect your shoes.

  • Materials (Commonly Wood, Metal, or Plastic):
    • Wood: Wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Avoid soaking. If the wood appears dry, a light application of wood polish or mineral oil can be used sparingly.
    • Metal: Wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Can be polished with a suitable metal polish if it becomes tarnished (ensure it's solid metal and not plated before using abrasive polishes).
    • Plastic: Wipe with a damp cloth. Mild soap can be used if necessary.
  • Storage:
    • Store in a convenient place, either hanging by its strap (if applicable) or lying flat in a drawer.
  • Usage:
    • Always use the shoe horn by placing it against the inside back of your shoe. Slide your foot along the horn into the shoe. This prevents crushing the shoe's heel counter, maintaining its shape and integrity.