Accessories
Jewelry care
A short version of the studio guide. The full book is twenty-four pages: brass, glass beads, cloth, storage, and what to do when a piece fails.
Before you wear it
Perfume, lotion, and hairspray go on first. Let them dry, then put the piece on last. Take jewelry off for the shower, the pool, and sleep. Chlorine and soap film dull metal and cloud beads. Wipe the piece with a dry, soft cloth when you take it off.
Brass
Brass likes air, and air will darken it. A soft polishing cloth brings the colour back. For everyday dirt, wash with a drop of mild dish soap in lukewarm water, rinse until the water runs clear, and dry at once. Do not soak it, and do not use bleach or a rough pad. Store it dry, wrapped in cloth, away from the bathroom. A little tarnish is the metal living. If you want it bright, polish lightly. If you like the darker colour, leave it.
Glass beads
Glass can take a gentle wash. Dip the beads in lukewarm water with a little mild soap, rub with your fingers or a soft cloth, rinse, and pat dry. Do not use hot water. Heat can crack or fade some glass. Keep beads away from perfume and from being stacked against harder metal, which can chip them. If the cord looks tired, stop wearing the piece and write to the studio.
Cloth
A cotton belt or tie is spot-cleaned, not soaked. Dab a soft cloth in very diluted mild soap, press the mark, then press again with clean water. Do not wring it, and do not machine-wash it. Dry flat, out of the sun. Fold it once it is fully dry. Sun will fade the studio colour.
How to keep it
Each piece in its own soft bag or pouch, clasp closed, out of direct sun. Necklaces hang or lie still so they do not knot. Brass should not live in a damp room. A zip bag is enough when you travel. Put jewelry on last, and take it off before you swim.