Our woodturning and textile pieces benefit from gentle care. Follow the instructions supplied with your individual item first. If you are unsure about its material, finish or intended use, contact huw.shields@huwshields.com before cleaning or treating it. This guide does not limit your statutory rights.
Wooden bowls boxes and decorative pieces
Dust with a soft, dry cloth. Where the item’s finish permits, wipe gently with a slightly damp cloth and dry promptly. Do not soak, put in a dishwasher, microwave or oven, or leave against direct heat. Avoid abrasive cleaners and strong chemicals.
Keep wood away from radiators, prolonged direct sunlight and sudden changes in temperature or humidity. Wood can change colour and move naturally over time. Do not force a close-fitting wooden lid if humidity has changed its fit; contact us for advice.
Natural-edge pieces and bark inclusions can be delicate. Support the body when lifting rather than holding an edge or bark section. Avoid dropping pieces or placing heavy loads on thin rims.
Food use and finishes
Only use a piece for food where its product listing or supplied instructions expressly confirm the intended food use. A decorative bowl or box should not be assumed suitable for serving food, holding liquids or storing unpackaged food.
For an item specifically sold for food use, follow its washing and maintenance instructions. Do not apply a new oil, wax or polish until you know it is compatible with the existing finish and intended use. Ask us for the finish details if these are not supplied.
Wooden vases
Unless the listing expressly says otherwise, use wooden vases for dry decorative arrangements only. Do not pour water directly into wood. Where a removable waterproof insert is supplied for fresh flowers, follow its instructions and dry the outside before replacing it.
Handspun yarn wool knitting and crochet
Check the fibre composition and care label first. If an item is labelled hand wash, use a small amount of suitable wool detergent in cool or lukewarm water at a steady temperature. Move it gently, rinse carefully and avoid rubbing, wringing or sudden hot-to-cold changes.
Support wet garments, press out water gently in a towel and reshape to dry flat away from direct heat and strong sunlight. Do not tumble dry or machine wash unless the item’s own care instructions allow it. A blend or non-wool fibre may need different treatment.
Wash hand-dyed items separately at first as a precaution. If you notice unexpected or excessive colour loss, stop and contact us. Do not use bleach unless the item’s specific care instructions permit it.
Storage and everyday wear
Store clean, fully dry wool items folded in a dry place. Protect them from moths and check stored items periodically. Avoid hanging heavy knitwear, which can stretch. Gentle surface pilling can occur with wear; remove loose pills carefully using a method suitable for the fibre.