The Secret to Keeping Your Cherished Handmade Pieces Treasured Forever

It’s a common joke in movies, web series, or TV shows when actors dramatically throw an artifact vase and rush to glue it together with superglue. It’s funny, isn’t it? But in reality, there’s nothing amusing about seeing a cherished piece, something you’ve carefully picked or maybe received as a gift, damaged. Accidents happen. We can’t freeze time to save that vase or intricately embroidered cushion cover from falling. But we can learn how to care for these beautiful treasures so they remain as captivating as the day we brought them home.

For me, handcrafted items are not just decor they’re pieces of someone’s soul, a connection to culture, and a legacy of artistry. Over time, I’ve realized that preserving these items is not just about keeping them clean or undamaged; it’s about honoring the love and effort behind them. Let me share some tips I’ve picked up, both as a lover of handmade items and through the work we do at Srjana.

1. Gentle Cleaning: Love Your Pieces

When you hold a handcrafted item, you’re holding a piece of someone’s soul. So, when cleaning, treat it like a cherished companion.

For Fabrics and Embroideries: Spot clean with mild soap and lukewarm water, avoiding wringing out delicate pieces.

For Pottery and Ceramics: Use a soft brush or cloth. Harsh scrubbing can erode the craftsmanship over time.

Wooden and Metal Pieces: Dust gently, and a little polish goes a long way.

2. Safe Storage: Keeping the Magic Safe

Your handcrafted items need a safe haven to stay vibrant.

Away From Direct Sunlight: Sunlight can cause colors to fade and weaken delicate materials.

Cool, Dry Places: Humidity can warp wood and leather, while heat may crack pottery. Store them in a cool, dry place.

Using Protective Covers: If you can’t display everything, use dust covers.

3. Preventing Accidents: The Little Things Matter

Accidents are inevitable, but we can minimize the risk.

Display with Care: Place items in secure spots where they won’t be knocked over.

Handling with Love: Treat every piece as fragile. Handle them carefully like you would a precious memory.

4. Mending: Pain and Relief

There’s nothing more heartbreaking than seeing a beloved handcrafted piece damaged. But just like every painful moment, there’s relief in the recovery.

Use Proper Adhesives: For pottery, use ceramic adhesives. For fabrics, visit a professional restorer.

Professional Repair: Sometimes, seeking professional help is the best relief. Restorers can breathe new life into damaged items.

5. Celebrate the Craft: Embrace the Imperfection

A small tear in embroidery or a slight crack in pottery adds to its charm. At Srjana, we believe every imperfection tells a story of artistry and time spent creating something by hand.

.Why This Matters

Preserving handcrafted items is not just about extending their life; it’s about valuing the artisans, their stories, and the cultural heritage they represent. Each time we care for these treasures, we honor their makers and ensure their legacy continues.

For me, every handcrafted piece I own is a symbol of connection between the artisan and me, between tradition and the modern world. I hope this inspires you to cherish your handmade treasures with the same love and attention. Because when we nurture what we love, it lasts.

What do you think? Let me know your thoughts!