Preserving Your Handicraft Treasures
Caring for wooden handicrafts
Regular dusting with a soft, dry cloth is essential. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could damage the wood's surface. Monthly application of wood polish or wax helps clean and protect the finish. Natural oils like linseed or coconut, or quality commercial wood polishes, are suitable for our products.
Maintaining marble or stone handicrafts
Gently remove dirt and debris with a soft, dry cloth or mop. Use a mild stone cleaner spray, wiping off with a soft, dry cloth. In the absence of a commercial stone cleaner, a few drops of mild dish soap on a damp cloth can be used for cleaning, followed by thorough drying.
Preserving paper mache creations
Store these delicate items in dry conditions, away from direct sunlight. Ideally, paper mache should only be dusted gently to avoid disturbing the paint. Never use water for cleaning, especially on black or red pieces, as this can cause discoloration. For dirt removal, use cotton wool slightly dampened with soapy water. Once dry, apply microcrystalline wax for protection and a lustrous finish. After each use, wipe with a dry cloth. Avoid rinsing or immersing paper mache items in water.
Caring for metal products (brass, copper, white metal)
Regular dusting with a dry cloth is crucial. To combat oxidation-induced blackening, create a simple cleaner by mixing lemon juice with baking soda. Apply this mixture to the surface, buffing in circular motions with a soft, clean cloth. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Commercial metal cleaners like Brasso and Dara are also effective options.
Maintaining natural buffalo horn products
Clean horn items with a dry cloth, avoiding prolonged exposure to water or other liquids to prevent damage. For deeper cleaning, hand wash with mild dish soap and water, drying immediately with a towel. Avoid abrasives and dishwashers. Promptly remove food residues after serving, as acidic or salty foods can cause discoloration if left for extended periods.
Preserving terracotta creations
Begin by removing loose dirt from the product. Use a pot brush to gently clean off as much dirt as possible. For unglazed terracotta, submerge in a mixture of water and mild dish soap, scrubbing gently. Rinse thoroughly in clean water. For decorative or colored pieces, regular dry cloth cleaning suffices, with damp cloth cleaning reserved for stubborn dirt.
Caring for glass artworks
Handle glass pieces with care, using both hands and gripping from the base. Ensure clean hands but avoid gloves, which may be slippery. Loosen dust with a soft brush or lint-free microfiber cloth. For thorough cleaning, use a damp, lint-free cloth after dry dusting. Thicker items can be gently washed in lukewarm water with neutral soap. Avoid ammonia, cream cleaners, or harsh chemicals, which can damage the surface. After washing, dry thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent water spot formation.
Maintaining bamboo / cane products
In addition to regular dry dusting, perform a monthly deep clean using a soft-bristled scrub brush with warm, soapy water. Gently scrub the products, then rinse with a damp sponge. Be cautious not to oversaturate the pieces, as this can cause swelling in bamboo or cane.
Preserving Dhokra artifacts
To maintain the luster of Dhokra handicrafts, dust regularly with a soft, dry cotton cloth or a soft-bristled brush to clean the intricate surface details. This practice helps preserve the antique appearance while maintaining a subtle sheen.
For removing dullness or discoloration, first ensure all dust is removed from the product. Apply a brass polish to a soft, dry cloth and gently rub it onto the artifact. Follow up by cleaning with another soft, dry cloth to restore the authentic sheen of Dhokra. Brasso is a reliable brass polish option, readily available in the market. Ensure thorough dust removal before applying polish to prevent accidental corrosion of the product.