Alexander And James Leather Care

LEATHER CARE FULL OF NATURAL CHARACTER Leather is a natural product with all that this implies, shade, grain variations and natural markings add to its charm. Each hide has its own characteristics. These are emphasised and encouraged. Features such as origin breed, age and sex of animal all help. Growth marks and bruises are commonplace on leather furniture and it is this ‘vital’ something which distinguishes leather from the substitutes that attempt to copy. We stress these markings are features, not faults in leather. NATURAL MARKINGS The marks which we consider are natural to leather, are the following: Warble Fly Marks Although most of our hides are of European origin, cattle are still attacked by insects that can leave marks of their bite. These occur as tiny marks on the surface. Scars These are caused in many ways, often because of barbed wire fences. As with humans the scars heal but often leave fine lines. The healed scars are not to be confused with open scars that are automatically rejected during manufacturing. Creases These normally appear in neck areas of the hide. They can, because of their heavy grain, look attractive in prominent positions on furniture, although in general, unless we intend to make a specific feature of them, we either discard the area or place it where it will not distract. None of the characteristics have a weakening effect on the hide. They are purely surface variations. LEATHER CARE www.alexanderandjamessofas.com IN THE EVENT OF SPILLS! Detergents, spirit cleaners and furniture polish should never be used nor should products formulated for hide products be used on suede. Avoid exposing your furniture to prolonged sunlight as even the strongest colours may fade under that condition. In a dry climate or in an environment where a fireplace is frequently used, give more attention to your hide furniture. Your hide furniture is best maintained following these instructions. If spillage occurs, mop up quickly with an absorbent pad, then carry on with your normal hide treatment, which is as follows: 1) Using warm water, and very mild soap flakes, work up clean suds on a soft, clean, damp cloth, free from fluff and wipe down the leather surface. 2) Using a clean, damp cloth and fresh water only, repeat the operation. 3) Wipe the leather dry. 4) Allow to dry and polish with a soft, clean, dry cloth. FILLINGS Fillings for cushions and arms are also much softer and luxurious, departing from the older hard packed materials. The combination of these two factors means that during the first few weeks of use, creases and wrinkles will form naturally in the leather. These are quite normal and should cause no concern. They are designed into the furniture to give it that soft inviting look which is an inherent quality of the best modern leather upholstery. If cushions are detachable plump them up every week or so to keep the fillings in their fullest shape. www.alexanderandjamessofas.com FABRIC CARE KEEPING CLEAN 1) Fabrics, because of their texture, tend to harbour dust especially in the horizontal surfaces. Brushing lightly each week can prevent this. 2) Spilt liquid should be absorbed immediately with a tissue. A slightly damp cloth may be used to revive the texture of the fabric. Use of a cleaning fluid or detergent, however mild, can cause colour loss and should only be used sparingly. Always test the mixture on an unexposed area of fabric first, but preferably, consult a professional dry cleaning specialist such as Service Master for all cleaning of upholstery. CARE Avoid exposure to direct or prolonged sunlight, as even the lightest of colours may fade under extreme conditions. All removable seat and back cushions should be regularly plumped up, and if covered on both sides, turned regularly to even wear and maintain their shape. Feather / fibre filled cushions should be shaken / plumped every day to maintain their shape. The use of zips on cushions cases is primarily to give a neat and tidy finish to the cushion case. They are not there for the purpose of removing the cases for washing unless specifically stated on attached swing ticket. All cushion interiors are designed to give a soft and comfortable sit and therefore, during the first few weeks of use, natural creases and wrinkles will form. These should not be seen as defects but merely as natural characteristics of your new furniture. Wooden bases, plinths, facings, feet and trimmings require careful handling and cleaning. And like other natural products, there may be variations in colour, texture, grain and surface details. TOP TIPS www.alexanderandjamessofas.com Your furniture has been designed to sit on in comfort, so use it correctly for that purpose. Sitting on the edge of your cushions or on the arms may cause distortion or permanent wear. Sharp objects such as toys, jewellery, buckles and heels can cause unsightly damage. Especially do not allow domestic animals to claw or climb on the upholstery. Also discourage your children from using your furniture to demonstrate their gymnastic abilities! Nothing lasts forever, even your upholstery will wear out in time but we hope you will find this information helpful. If you follow the advice we have given in this leaflet then your furniture should be a continued source of pride to you. If in doubt about any of the above then please seek professional advice. We regret we will not be liable for defects caused though non-compliance with the recommendations contained in this leaflet. LEATHER TYPES Corrected Grain As many hides have a high percentage of natural occurrences like scars, tears, and other defects, this makes them unsuitable for full and semi aniline tanning. To remove the imperfections, firstly the hides are buffed or sanded, then embossed to restore a natural looking grain pattern, and finally a protective topcoat is applied. Ideal for everyday living, corrected grain leathers are the most economical grade of leather. Semi Aniline From the initial tanning process, the natural top grain leather is left intact. Natural marks, scars and colour variations are a feature of these leathers. Leathers are firstly drum dyed in penetrating aniline dyes, then a thin matching top coat is applied to even out the colour. This top coat also protects against fading and staining, yet still displays the leathers natural characteristics. A typical selection for high-energy family use. Full Aniline This is the most natural way to have leather. Only premium hides with the best colour and texture are selected for this process. Soft and velvety they are a pleasure to touch, no natural features have been removed, and all distinctive markings stand out. As these hides have a light transparent final topcoat or finish, the result is a luxurious look and feel, however it will make the hides more susceptible to staining and fading, more care is required.