Every project that leaves my bench carries two things: the craft itself, and the story you’ll add to it. Care is what allows both to last. This isn’t a list of rules. it’s stewardship.
Stewardship: Leather & Steal
Knife Care: Keeping the Edge Alive
Sharpening & Stropping - Regular stropping keeps your edge sharp longer. When stropping doesn’t bring it back, it’s time for a full sharpening.
Cleaning - Wash by hand with warm water and mild soap. Never put knives in the dishwasher - the heat, detergent, and banging around will ruin both blade and handle. Dry immediately with a towel.
Oiling - Apply a whisper-thin coat of food-safe mineral oil (or Alpha Balm for carbon steel) after cleaning to prevent rust.
Cutting Boards - Use end-grain wooden boards (maple, walnut, cherry). They’re self-healing and the most forgiving on edges. Avoid glass, granite, ceramic, plastic, and bamboo -they’ll chew up your edge faster than you think.
Storage - Keep knives in a sheath, roll, or on a magnetic strip. Loose drawers dull blades and invite accidents.
Respect the Edge - A knife isn’t a screwdriver, pry bar, or hammer. And for the pocketknife folks: yes, I know it’s tempting to use it as a can opener, paint scraper, or chisel. It’ll work A few times… but you’ll regret it every time after.
Knives are built to work, but they’ll only work as well as you treat them.
Leather Care: Working With a Living Material
Conditioning - Apply Alpha Balm or another neutral conditioner two to three times a year. Rub in lightly with a soft cloth, let it absorb, and buff. Don’t overdo it. too much conditioner can clog the pores.
Cleaning - Wipe with a dry cloth or soft brush. If something spills, blot gently with a damp cloth. Skip harsh soaps and chemicals.
Moisture & Heat - If leather gets wet, pat it dry and let it air-dry slowly. Avoid heaters, dryers, or car dashboards.
Storage - Store in breathable spaces. Canvas or cotton bags are perfect; plastic suffocates leather.
Patina - Every mark, scratch, and scuff adds to its story. Handling it daily lets the oils from your skin build a patina unique to you.
Leather breathes, shifts, and builds character over time. That’s part of its magic.
Restoration & Preservation: When Time Is the Story
Display - Cases, shadowboxes, and stands keep dust and sunlight at bay. UV light and constant handling speed up wear.
Handling - If possible, handle with clean, dry hands - or - cotton gloves. Oils from skin stain and corrode vintage materials.
User vs. Relic - If I’ve told you a sheath or knife is better left untouched, it’s not because it isn’t functional. it’s because using it would erase history.