How to Care for Your Handmade Items: Tips from the Experts at Locally Handmade Salem NH

At Locally Handmade Salem NH, we celebrate craftsmanship, creativity, and the artisans who bring their visions to life. Whether you've just purchased a unique handmade piece or you're considering investing in one, knowing how to care for your items is essential to ensure they last for years to come. Handmade items often require a bit more attention and care than mass-produced goods, but with the right tips, you can maintain their beauty and functionality for generations.

To help you get the most out of your handmade purchases, we've gathered some expert tips on how to care for a variety of handmade goods, from pottery to textiles and everything in between. Read on to learn how to keep your treasures in tip-top shape!

1. Handmade Pottery & Ceramics: Care and Cleaning

Handmade pottery and ceramics are one-of-a-kind pieces that bring warmth and personality to any home. Whether you’ve bought a delicate mug or a statement vase, caring for these items is important to ensure their longevity.

Expert Tips:

• Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes: Sudden shifts in temperature can cause cracking. Don't place your pottery in direct heat, like an oven or microwave (unless it's specifically labeled microwave-safe).

• Hand Wash When Possible: While some handmade ceramics are dishwasher safe, it's always safest to hand wash them to preserve their finish and prevent chipping.

• Store Carefully: When stacking items like mugs, be sure to separate them with soft cloths or felt to avoid scratches.

2. Handmade Jewelry: How to Keep It Shining

Jewelry is often one of the most treasured handmade items, from delicate necklaces to bold statement rings. Proper care will keep your jewelry shining and in top condition, no matter how often you wear it.

Expert Tips:

• Keep Jewelry Dry: Water, lotions, and perfumes can damage or tarnish your pieces. Take your jewelry off before showering or swimming to protect its integrity.

• Clean Gently: Use a soft cloth to wipe your pieces after wearing them, and store them in a jewelry box or pouch to avoid scratches.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Clean your jewelry with mild soap and water or a specialized jewelry cleaner, avoiding harsh chemicals that can strip away finishes or damage stones.

3. Handmade Textiles (Blankets, Pillows, & Apparel): How to Wash and Maintain

Handmade textiles, including quilts, blankets, pillows, and garments, are meant to be loved and used regularly. But unlike mass-produced textiles, handmade fabrics can be delicate and require specific care.

Expert Tips:

• Read Care Instructions: If your item has a label or care instructions, be sure to follow them. Many handmade textiles, like wool or hand-dyed fabrics, may require special cleaning methods.

• Gentle Washing: For most textiles, hand washing or using a gentle cycle in the washing machine with cold water is ideal. Always turn items inside out to prevent wear on the outer fabric.

• Air Dry: Avoid using a dryer, which can cause shrinking or fading. Instead, air-dry your handmade textiles flat or hang them to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.

• Spot Clean When Needed: For smaller stains, consider spot cleaning with a gentle detergent or mild soap.

4. Handmade Leather Goods: Keeping Leather Soft and Durable

Handmade leather products, such as wallets, belts, and bags, are timeless investments that only get better with age if treated properly. To maintain their look and durability, follow these expert tips.

Expert Tips:

• Condition Regularly: Leather can dry out and crack over time, so applying a leather conditioner every few months will help keep it supple and moisturized.

• Avoid Excessive Moisture: Leather is sensitive to water, so if it gets wet, let it air dry naturally, away from direct heat. Never use a blow dryer or heater to speed up the process.

• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keep your leather goods in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and drying out.

• Clean with Care: Gently wipe your leather items with a damp cloth to remove dirt. Use a specialized leather cleaner if necessary, but always test it in a small, inconspicuous area first.

5. Handmade Wooden Items: Protecting the Craftsmanship

Wooden items, from cutting boards to decorative furniture, are some of the most enduring handmade pieces you can own. With proper care, they can last a lifetime.

Expert Tips:

• Oil Regularly: To maintain the wood's natural beauty and prevent drying, use a food-safe mineral oil or beeswax wood conditioner for items like cutting boards. For furniture, a good furniture wax can enhance the wood's grain.

• Avoid Excessive Moisture: Wood can warp or crack if exposed to too much moisture. Always dry wooden items promptly and avoid submerging them in water for long periods.

• Protect from Scratches: Use felt pads under items like coasters or vases to protect the wood surface from scratches or dents.

6. Handmade Candles: Making the Most of Your Scented Ambiance

Candles made by artisans often feature high-quality waxes, fragrances, and wicks. To enjoy the full experience and extend the life of your candle, follow these tips.

Expert Tips:

• Trim the Wick: Always trim the wick to about 1/4 inch before lighting to ensure a cleaner burn and to prevent soot build-up on the candle container.

• Burn Evenly: Allow your candle to burn for 2-4 hours at a time to achieve an even melt pool and prevent tunneling (where the center burns faster than the edges).

• Store Properly: Keep your candles in a cool, dry place to preserve the fragrance and prevent the wax from melting prematurely.

Final Thoughts

Handmade items are unique, personal, and often more durable than mass-produced goods, but they do require a little extra care. By following these tips from the experts at Locally Handmade Salem NH, you can ensure that your handmade treasures continue to bring joy to your life for many years. Whether you're caring for pottery, textiles, leather, or any other handmade item, a little attention and love will go a long way in preserving its beauty and function.

Next time you visit Locally Handmade Salem NH, don't hesitate to ask our artisans for specific care advice for your purchase. We're here to help you get the most out of your one-of-a-kind items!

Happy caring! 🌟