How to Care for Handmade & Hand‑Crafted Jewelry

Keep your slow‑made treasures looking beautiful for years to come

Handmade jewelry is special.

It’s created one piece at a time, shaped by real hands, and crafted with intention — not mass‑produced by machines. Because of that, it deserves a little extra love and care. Whether you’re wearing Stubborn Sloths earrings, a wire‑wrapped ring, or a resin keepsake, this guide will help you keep your pieces looking their best.

🌿 Why Handmade Jewelry Needs Different Care

Hand‑crafted jewelry uses materials like wire, beads, crystals, resin, and natural elements that behave differently than factory‑made metals. These materials are beautiful, lightweight, and full of personality — but they can be sensitive to chemicals, water, and rough handling.

A little care goes a long way.

General Care Tips for All Handmade Jewelry

1. Keep it dry when you can

A splash won’t ruin most pieces, but:

  • Water can weaken adhesives

  • Moisture can dull metal finishes

  • Resin can become cloudy

  • Ink or paint accents may run

Remove jewelry before:

  • Showering

  • Swimming

  • Sleeping

  • Exercising

2. Avoid chemicals

Perfume, hairspray, lotions, sunscreen, and cleaning products can damage finishes or discolor beads and metals.

Put jewelry on after getting ready.

3. Store it safely

The best way to store handmade jewelry:

  • In a dry place

  • Away from direct sunlight

  • In a soft pouch or jewelry box

  • Laying flat (especially resin pieces)

This prevents scratches, fading, and warping.

4. Handle with care

Handmade pieces are sturdy, but not indestructible.
Avoid:

  • Tossing them into bags

  • Dropping them

  • Bending wire components

  • Pulling on dangles or charms

Treat them like the tiny works of art they are.

🎁 Why Caring for Handmade Jewelry Matters

When you care for handmade jewelry, you’re not just protecting a piece — you’re honoring the time, creativity, and intention that went into making it. Handmade pieces are meant to last, and with a little love, they absolutely will.

🧼 How to Clean Handmade Jewelry

For metal components

Use a soft, dry cloth.
Avoid jewelry cleaners unless the piece is solid metal (not plated).

For beads & crystals

Wipe gently with a microfiber cloth.
Avoid soaking.

For resin

Use a damp cloth with mild soap.
Dry immediately.

For wire‑wrapped pieces

Use a dry cloth only — moisture can loosen wraps over time.

🛍️ Looking for Your Next Handmade Treasure?

Explore our collections:

Every piece is slow‑crafted in Las Cruces, NM and made to bring a little joy to your day.

🦥 Want More Tips Like This?

Join the Sloth Squad Newsletter for:

• care guides

• behind‑the‑scenes studio updates

• new product drops

• exclusive discounts

• sloth tracking updates from our FAHLO bracelet

Slow‑made art deserves slow‑made care — and now you know exactly how to give it.

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