Care for Leather Belts and Exotic Skins. Storage and Maintenance Guide.
Dec 30, 2024
Storage
A leather belt is a two-layer belt, with a so-called lining (the inside) made of cow or calf. The outer side is an exotic leather such as crocodile, ostrich, or similar. A quality belt is often a little stiffer at first before you start using it, due to the thickness of the lining. The belt should either hang like a tie, lie in a bag with a circumference of 18-20 cm, or be stored in a belt drawer. You always roll a belt from the back end. Belts from BREDAL come with a blue velvet pouch.
Care
Glossy belts require very little maintenance - they have become glossy due to friction and the use of an agate stone - a so-called Glazing Jack machine. I have a spray that can restore some of the shine. These are often dress belts with little wear.
Matte leather belts are easier to deal with. Use regular Kiwi polish, black, brown or neutral - it contains no silicone. Use your thumb to press in many places on your belt - then use a SOFT brush, for example with horsehair. The friction provides both lubrication/nourishment for the belt and patina. Should be done twice a year. If you have a silver buckle, it should also be polished twice a year if you do not want an oxidized look. PS.
When you visit me - bring a belt that needs care, and I'll take a look at it.
Professional tools and courses in leather craft
For those who want to take belt care a step further, or who work with leather themselves, I recommend Skinnlåven Smith og Bull. They have a wide selection of professional leather tools — much of it imported from the USA — including edge burners, punches, discs, and polishing equipment. In addition, they have solid specialist knowledge of traditional leather types such as cow, goat, sheep, and ox.
Want to learn how to make leather products yourself? Skinnlåven also offers courses where you can make your own belts, wallets, and other leather products from scratch — under expert guidance. A natural stop for anyone who takes leather craft seriously.
