How to keep your Moroccan craft products in perfect condition?

Moroccan handicraft products are famous for their beauty and quality, and with proper care, you can ensure that they stay in perfect condition for a long time. Therefore, at Decoration Alcazaba, we want to give you the best advice to keep your Moroccan craft products in perfect condition .

Clean Moroccan handicraft products

By following these tips, you will be able to keep your Moroccan handicraft products in perfect condition and enjoy their beauty for a long time. Remember that each piece is unique and requires individualized attention and care.

It is important to note that the materials used may vary, so it is advisable to consult the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer or craftsman. If you have questions about how to clean a particular Arabic product , it is advisable to contact the seller or seek professional advice to avoid damaging Moroccan craftsmanship .

Arabic pottery

Arabic pottery is a form of art and craft that has been appreciated for centuries for its beauty and exquisiteness. This form of ceramics has deep roots in the culture and history of Arab countries, and has influenced numerous ceramic traditions around the world.

One of the most recognizable styles of Arabic ceramics is the so-called "Islamic tile." These tiles are decorated with geometric and calligraphic patterns and are used to beautify mosques, palaces and other iconic buildings. Arabic pottery also includes plates, vases, cups, bowls and other utilitarian and decorative objects.

Each piece of Arabic pottery is unique and may require specific care depending on the type of clay, glaze and technique used. Our general tips for caring for and keeping Arabic ceramics in good condition are:

• Clean the ceramic with a soft cloth or soft sponge moistened with warm water. Avoid using abrasive chemicals or harsh cleaners that could damage the enamel or decorative details.
• Avoid placing the pieces in places exposed to extreme changes in heat or cold, such as near direct heat sources or outdoors where they may be exposed to frost.
• This is a delicate Moroccan handicraft product , when you are not using the ceramic, store it in a safe place where it is protected from knocks and falls. Wrap it in tissue paper or soft cloths to avoid scratches or scuffs.
• Handle it with care to avoid breakage. Hold it firmly but gently, especially if it has handles or fragile parts.
• Direct sunlight can cause the colors of Arabic pottery to fade over time. If you display your ceramic pieces, place them in areas where they are protected from direct sunlight or use curtains or blinds to filter out harsh light.

Leather and henna lamps

Leather and henna lamps are a beautiful and distinctive form of Arabic crafts . These lamps are made of leather or treated skin and decorated with intricate designs using henna, a natural dye obtained from the Lawsonia inermis plant. They are appreciated for their unique style and the soft lighting they offer when turned on.

They are unique and delicate pieces that require special care, to keep your leather and henna lamps in good condition . Below I provide you with some useful tips:

• Wipe the lamps with a soft, dry cloth to remove any accumulated dust and dirt. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the leather or henna paint.
• They are sensitive to water and humidity. Avoid getting them wet or exposing them to liquids, as they can damage both the leather and the henna. If liquid is accidentally spilled on the lamp, dry it immediately with a dry cloth.
• Place skin and henna lamps in areas where they are protected from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause colors to fade over time.
• Handle lamps with care to avoid damage. Hold them by the toughest parts and avoid applying excessive pressure to the henna-painted areas, as they may peel off or wear away over time.
• Perform regular checks to ensure that the skin and henna lamps are in good condition . Look for signs of wear, damage, or peeling of the henna paint. If you detect any problem, it is advisable to seek the help of a craftsman specialized in lamp repair.

Bags and backpacks

Arabic bags and backpacks are popular fashion items that reflect the unique style and craftsmanship of Arab culture . These accessories are made from a variety of materials, such as leather, fabric, traditional fabrics, and elaborate embroidery. To keep your Arab bags and backpacks in good condition , here are some tips:

• Wipe with a soft cloth or soft brush to clean the exterior surface and interior. If possible, consult the care instructions provided by the manufacturer or craftsman for specific cleaning guidance.
• Use a leather conditioner to maintain suppleness and prevent cracking. Apply the conditioner following the manufacturer's instructions and use a soft cloth to spread it evenly. Additionally, avoid exposing the leather to direct sunlight or excessive humidity to prevent damage.
• If you are going to use your Arabic bags or backpacks in wet conditions , consider applying a fabric or leather protective spray. This will help repel water and prevent stains. However, it is always important to test the product on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface.
• When you are not using your Arab bags and backpacks, store them in a suitable place to protect them. Avoid stacking them on top of each other to avoid deformations or wrinkles. If possible, store them in cloth bags to protect them from dust and light.
• If your leather accessories suffer any damage, such as torn seams or worn zippers, consider taking them to a leather repair specialist or trusted craftsman. They will be able to provide you with advice and repair services to keep your accessories in good condition.

Inlay

Inlay is an ancient craft technique used to create intricate patterns and designs on furniture, boxes, trays and other decorative objects. This technique is especially famous in Arab crafts and is characterized by the inlay of different types of wood and other materials on a surface.

Inlay is made by cutting thin sheets of different types of woods , such as walnut, ebony, rosewood, and maple, and then meticulously laying them in a desired pattern. Wooden sheets are glued to a base, usually plywood, using special adhesives. After the wood sheets are adhered, they are sanded and polished to create a smooth, uniform surface.

Inlay is a laborious process and requires skill and precision to create the detailed, symmetrical designs that it is known for. To keep inlay objects in good condition , the following care is recommended:

• Wipe the inlay objects with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and dirt. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners that may damage the surface.
• Direct sunlight can cause wood colors to fade over time. Place inlay objects in areas where they are protected from direct sunlight or use curtains or blinds to filter out harsh light.
• Avoid exposure to excessive humidity or sudden changes in temperature. Wood can expand or contract under extreme humidity conditions, which could affect the integrity of the inlay.
• Handle inlay objects with care to avoid bumps or falls that could damage the delicate pieces. Hold them firmly but gently.
• When you are not using the inlay, store them in a safe place protected from dust and humidity. Wrap them in tissue paper or soft cloths before storing them to protect the wood surfaces and inlay details.

Forge and copper lamps

Forging and copper lamps are examples of Arabic craftsmanship that stand out for their beauty and lasting quality. Forging involves shaping metal, usually copper, by hammering and striking to create decorative designs and shapes. Copper lamps are lighting objects that are manufactured using forging techniques and are beautifully adorned with intricate details.

We are going to give you a series of tips to keep these Moroccan craft products, forging and copper lamps in good condition :

• Clean forgings and copper lamps regularly to remove dust and dirt. Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the surface. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the metal or finish.
• Copper can oxidize when exposed to water for long periods. Avoid submerging forgings and copper pieces in water and dry them completely after cleaning to avoid stains or corrosion.
• To maintain the shine and luster of copper, you can use commercial copper polishes available in the market. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to apply the polish and gently polish the surface of the copper. This will help remove oxidation and restore the original shine.
• Copper can be sensitive to humidity and excessive humidity. Avoid placing forged pieces and copper lamps in humid areas or areas exposed to sudden changes in temperature. If you live in a particularly humid location, consider using dehumidifiers to control humidity levels in your home.

Remember that each piece of Moroccan craftsmanship will require specific care, and this will depend on the design and material used. It is very important that if you have questions, ask a store specialized in Arabic craft products to find out how to keep the stone in perfect condition.