Product Care
Each Chiaroscuro piece begins with carefully chosen leather—primarily full grain, and where appropriate, top grain—selected for what best suits the form and function of the bag. We work with both vegetal and chrome-tanned finishes, allowing each piece to respond differently to time and use.
No two hides are the same. Subtle tonal shifts, markings, and small scars are part of the material’s story, and not imperfections.
Our leathers are finished with minimal intervention—often with oils and waxes—allowing them to respond to light, touch, and time. Some will deepen in colour, others will soften in feel. This quiet evolution is expected. At times, you may notice a slight release of natural oils or light surface scuffs; these can usually be eased away with a gentle rub or a soft, dry cloth.
Using Your Bag
A bag holds its shape best when used with care. Avoid overfilling, as this can strain the structure and handles over time.
When not in use, store your bag filled lightly with paper to help retain its form, and keep it in its dust bag. Let straps rest outside, and for longer storage, loosen buckles to avoid impressions.
Store your bag in a space with some ventilation, or allow it to air out every few months if not in regular use.
Cleaning & Conditioning
To maintain suppleness, use a leather conditioner every few months. For everyday care, a dedicated leather cleaning cream and a soft cloth can be used gently—never scrub. Baby wipes may also be used lightly for surface cleaning.
Always test any product on a small, unseen area first, and apply it to a cloth rather than directly onto the leather.
Oil, grease, and ink are difficult to remove, and best avoided.
Water & Weather
Leather is not waterproof. In heavy rain, it’s best to carry something else.
If your bag does get wet, blot gently with a dry cloth and allow it to dry naturally—away from direct heat or sunlight. Stuff lightly with paper to help it hold shape as it dries.
Colour & Contact
Light leathers may pick up colour from darker fabrics over time—particularly denim. This is a natural interaction and can be difficult to reverse.
Hardware may develop a patina with use and exposure. Like the leather, this is part of how the piece evolves.
Over Time
With use, your bag will change—softening, deepening in tone, gathering small marks along the way. This is not wear in the conventional sense, but a record of use.
Chiaroscuro pieces are made to be carried, lived with, and shaped by time. With care, they will not only last—they will become more your own.
For a more detailed guide across different leathers and styles, you may refer to our video:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cx-nTFLScWM/
