Maintenance /Treatment
Storage:
A leather belt is a two-layer belt, a so-called lining (the inside) made of cow or calf. The outer side is an exotic leather such as crocodile, ostrich, etc. A quality belt is often a little stiffer at first before you start wearing it; this is due to the thickness of the lining. The belt should either hang like a tie, lie in a pouch 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:
There is little to do with glossy belts - they have become glossy due to friction and use of an agate stone - a so-called Glazing Jack machine. I have a spray that can restore some of the shine. This is often dress belts that show little wear.
Matte leather belts are easier to deal with. Use a regular Kiwi tin, black, brown or neutral - it is silicone-free. 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 to 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 the oxidized look. PS.
When you visit me - bring a belt that needs care, and I will take a look at it.
Professional tools and courses in leathercraft
If you want to take care one step further, or if you work with leather yourself, 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, punch tools, 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 you if you take leathercraft seriously.