The leather

Hymness studio's leather items are made with chrome-free vegetable-tanned leathers sourced from LWG certified tanneries. The method of vegetable tanning dates back to ancient times and produces beautifully aged leather that is soft, smooth, and durable. Renowned as one of the most environmental-friendly tanning methods, vegetable tanning is free of harsh chemicals, like chromium and acids. Instead, the vegetable tannins come from organic materials such as chestnut, oak and tree bark, producing its natural color and distinct finish that gets better with age. 

 

Vegetable-tanned vs vegan

While the names may sound similar, vegetable-tanned leather is not to be confused with vegan leather, which is not a natural leather product, but an artificially produced product.

 

Take care of your leather styles.
Everyday occurrences such as ageing, sunlight, humidity and general wear can change your leather products.

Keep your leather items from getting wet. Water will dry out the leather and leave your product with visible water lines that are difficult to remove.

Much like your own skin, leather needs to be moisturized and cared for to prevent it from drying out or cracking. Proper care will help prevent this from happening and protect your leather products for many years forward.

  

How to clean and treat the leather
Even with proper care, your leather items will get dirty with regular use. Cleaning and conditioning your bag can prevent permanent damage.

1/ Clean: Do a quick cleaning to absorb dust, grease and unwanted moisture by using a soft dry cloth. Make sure the leather is 100% dry before applying the leather balm.

2/ If needed, use a soft, slightly damp cloth to remove dirt that is not easily removed. (Do not use too much water – leather takes time to dry).

3/ Apply leather balm in circular movements. Leave it for a short while to absorb the leather before using it.

 

Cleaning the cotton lining
Pull out the lining and use a wet cloth to remove dirt and spots. If necessary, use a small drop of soap. The fabric must NOT be soaked wet. Ensure the cotton lining is 100% dry before putting it back into the leather bag.

How often should I treat my leather product?
"If you use the bag every day, we recommend you clean and treat it once every month. If it is more of a weekend bag or when you are heading out for special occasions every six months will be enough to keep your item protected."

Storage
To keep the shape of your leather bag, we recommend you stuff it with newspaper, tissue paper, or similar.

Make sure the stuffing is firm but does not stretch the bag's seams. Store it in our breathable cotton dust bag. 

Avoid storing your leather item in a plastic bag or box since these materials can trap damaging moisture in the leather. 

Storing a wet leather bag can cause mildew and other severe damage. If your bag is damp from cleaning or use, wait to keep it until it's completely dry. If your bag has metal buckles, tags, or chains, be sure to wrap those pieces in tissue paper before you store the bag. This step will keep the metal from pressing against the leather and leaving a mark.

Avoid heat & water
Moisture can quickly damage your leather handbag, leading to swelling and loss of shape. If possible, avoid using your leather bag on rainy or snowy days. If you get caught in the rain or accidentally splash water on your bag in the ladies' room, you can blot it dry with towels. Allow it to air dry the rest of the way on its own; do not use a hairdryer or clothes dryer.

Scratches
Scratches are unavoidable daily. To treat scratches, rub the scratched gently with a small amount of the leather balm on a clean, dry cloth and leave to dry naturally, out of direct sunlight. 

Marks and Stains
First, wipe down your leather item with a clean, dry soft cloth to remove dust, stains, or dirt. Next, apply the leather balm in circular movements. Make sure to treat all surfaces on the item.

Leather balm / Leather conditioner 
Our leather conditioner is made to nourish, preserve and protect your leather products. Much like your own skin, leather needs to be moisturized and cared for to prevent it from drying out or cracking. Proper care will help prevent this from happening and protect your leather products for many years forward.

Sun
Be aware that your leather styles will darken in the sunlight. Too much sunlight can dry out the leather and weaken it over time.