Leather Care and General Information

Leather is one of nature's most luxurious yet practical materials. One of the
first things people do after looking at a leather jacket is touch it. The way
leather feels to the touch is called the "hand-feel" or simply "the hand". As a
general rule, the softer the hand, the better the leather quality.

There are many influencing factors that effect the quality of leather. Every
hide has textural variations related to the animal's genetic makeup,
environment and food supply. The resulting markings and wrinkles on a
given hide should be considered part of the hides natural beauty and
uniqueness.

There are numerous types of leathers and leather treatment processes for
tanning and finishing leather. The leather used in the garment industry is a
by-product of farming and food production. In the production of leather,
each tannery has its own techniques and recipes for creating texture and
color variations.

After the hides are tanned, dyed and finished as desired, skilled craftsmen
carefully select hides that match in color and texture. Each hide is cut by
hand from patterns that represent the sleeves, collar, body and other
portions of the garment. These pieces are then sewn into a garment.


Cleaning and Maintenance

Professional Leather cleaning is recommended when needed for leather
garments. Never use traditional dry cleaning methods to clean leather
products as cleaning leather differs from fabric cleaning in several ways.
Unlike fabric, leather has natural oils that protect and preserve the
appearance and life of a garment. Removing these oils reduces the hide's
suppleness. The chemicals used to clean leather frequently remove the
natural oils as well as the undesired dirt. These oils must be restored by a
professional leather cleaner (see the Leather Apparel Association's list of
approved leather cleaners).

The proper care and attention to a leather garment can increase its life.
Tips to increase the longevity of your garment are as follows:

   *  Store garment on a broad hanger, not wire, to maintain its shape.

   *  Wipe away dust and dirt with a soft, water dampened sponge or cloth.

   * Leather needs to breathe. Never store your leather under a plastic         
       bag or in an overly heated area as this may dry the skins.

   * If you garment becomes wet, let it dry naturally. Avoid excessive              
      exposure to heat and humidity.

   * Wrinkles usually will work themselves out during hanging but if ironing     
       is necessary,  cover the garment with heavy paper, (a paper grocery      
       bag will do),  set your iron on it's lowest setting without steam and iron.   
       Be sure that your garment is dry before  ironing and that the iron is        
       continually moved across the surface of the garment when pressing.

   *  For alterations, it is recommended that you consult a leather care          
       expert.

    *  Avoid spraying hairspray or perfumes while wearing garment and          
        never apply pins or adhesive materials to the garment as this will           
        damage the hide's finish.

    * There are several water and stain repellents available for the                 
        treatment and preservation of your garment. Application of these           
        treatments is recommended after purchase. If the garment has been     
       pre-treated, consult the manufacturer's recommended care                    
       instructions.