Caring for Engraved Wood or a Cutting Board?
Caring for Wood Engraved Items:
If it's decorative (a sign, plaque, or display board)
Just dust it with a dry or barely damp cloth, and give it a light coat of oil or furniture wax now and then to keep the color rich. Keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
For a serving or cutting board
Try to cut on the unengraved side so you don't gouge the design.
Cleaning
Hand wash only, with warm water and a little mild dish soap. Never use the dishwasher. The heat and long soak can warp or crack it and fade the engraving.
Don't let it soak or sit in water.
For the engraved lines, use a soft toothbrush or soft-bristle brush to lift out food or dust, then rinse briefly.
Dry it right away with a towel, then let it air-dry standing upright so both sides get airflow.
Oiling
Rub in food-safe mineral oil, or a board butter (mineral oil plus beeswax), about once a month. Do it more often if the wood looks pale, dull, or feels dry.
Apply a thin coat, work it into the engraving with a cloth or brush, let it soak in for a few hours or overnight, then buff off the excess.
Avoid olive, vegetable, or other cooking oils. They can go rancid and get sticky, especially in the grooves.
Deodorizing and stains
Sprinkle coarse salt or baking soda on the board, scrub with half a lemon, rinse, dry, and re-oil.
Things to avoid
Harsh chemicals, bleach, and abrasive scrubbers, which dull the finish and can wear down fine engraving detail.
Direct heat, prolonged sun, or storing it damp, all of which cause cracking or warping.
Caring for a Felt Hat?
Handling
Pick it up by the brim, not by pinching the crown. Repeated pinching cracks and weakens the felt, especially at the front pinch.
Hands carry oils, so handle it with clean, dry hands.
Storage
Store it upside down on its crown, or on a hat rack or hook sized to the head opening, so the brim doesn't flatten or curl.
A hat box is best for long-term storage. Stuff the crown lightly with tissue paper to hold its shape.
Keep it away from heat, direct sun (which fades color), and damp areas.
Hot cars are a common hat killer. Heat can shrink the sweatband and warp the shape.
Brushing
Use a soft horsehair or hat brush and brush counterclockwise around the hat, following the nap. Do this regularly to remove dust before it settles in.
Spot cleaning
Lint and pet hair: a lint roller or a strip of tape.
Light marks: a dry cleaning sponge (sold as a soot or makeup sponge) or a clean art gum eraser works on light-colored felt.
Fresh spills: blot, don't rub. Let the stain dry, then brush.
Don't soak it or put it in the washing machine. Water and agitation will shrink and distort it.
If it gets wet
Shake off the water, then turn down the sweatband so it can dry.
Set it on its crown or on a form at room temperature, away from heaters or hair dryers.
Let it dry fully before wearing or storing it.
Reshaping
Hold it over steam from a kettle for a few seconds to soften the felt.
Gently reshape the brim or crown with your hands, then let it cool and set.
Keep your hands clear of the steam.
My Approach
What began as a passion project has evolved into something more. We’re proud of where we’ve been and even more excited for what’s ahead. What sets us apart isn’t just our process—it’s the intention behind it. We take time to understand, explore, and create with purpose at every turn.
Simple ideas
Through every step, we've focused on staying true to our values and making space for thoughtful, lasting work.
Lasting impact
We build with clarity, act with integrity, and always stay curious.