PRODUCT CARE
Vegetable tanning preserves leather in its strongest and most natural state, maintaining the characteristics that make each hide unique. Surface markings remain visible: pores, scars and variations in colour are not disguised. The more the natural skin structure is visible, the less the leather has been industrially processed. These markings are simply signs of the quality of the material. The leather used to make our goods will develop a darker, richer patina that will reflect the wear and care it receives - making the item more personal with each and every use. Vegetable tanned leather should only be treated with natural products to maintain the breathability of the leather, and preserve the natural ageing process.
Brace Goods products are handcrafted. Remnants of this process will be noticeable, reminding us of the origin and production process of the finished item.
The colour of some leathers can bleed. Please take extra care with new leather items and avoid contact (especially excess rubbing) with light-coloured clothing or furniture.
EXPOSURE TO ELEMENTS
Water:
Vegetable-tanned leather is not stable in water. On lighter leathers, water will generally leave darker marks. Some appreciate the markings, seeing them as yet another contribution to a beautifully aged and personalized patina. If you are not one of these people, prevention is key. If your leather does get wet, simply use a clean, slightly damp cloth to wipe off any splattered mud or dirt, remove any items within and allow to dry naturally. Never use any form of heat to dry leather. If vegetable tanned leather is allowed to become thoroughly water soaked or it gets heavily rained on repeatedly, it will be a little less supple once it dries. Using a natural conditioning product can help. Instructions on conditioning below.
Sun:
Never leave leather items in direct sun for a prolonged period of time, as this can dry out and affect the colour of the leather.
CLEANING
The cleaning of heavily soiled or stained leather items is best left to a professional that specializes in cleaning vegetable tanned leather. In instances where all that’s needed is a light touch-up, we recommend using Chamberlain’s Leather Milk straight cleaner No.2.
A note on scrubbing:
Have the urge to scrub a spot out? Don’t. Vigorous rubbing can affect the surface texture of the leather.
CONDITIONING
The natural oils and fat liquors used in the tanning process help to keep the leather supple and well-protected. When used regularly, skin oils from normal handling will help to maintain the leather’s natural protective barriers. Even so, we recommend conditioning your leather with a leather conditioner (such as Chamberlain’s Leather Milk Leather Care Liniment No.1) according to use. Brace Goods should only be treated with natural products to preserve the natural ageing process and breathability of the leather. Always test new care products on an inconspicuous area of the bag to assure the color of the leather will not be altered in an undesired way.
STORAGE
We send out a dust bag with all of our goods. Go ahead, use it - preferably in a dry area, away from direct heat or sun. Never store leather in plastic. Leather, like us, needs access to fresh air.
