An introduction to the materials of Cuff Studio's furniture and lighting, and guidance for their long-term care
General Care
Wood
Oak & Walnut
As a natural material, grain, density, and tone vary, even within the same finish, and no two finished pieces will appear exactly alike. Wood may respond to its surroundings, continuing to expand and contract slightly with seasonal changes after it arrives in its final location. Finishes may darken or soften gradually under light, air, and everyday use. This gradual change is characteristic of wood and is not considered a flaw.
Care
- Wipe spills promptly with a dry, soft cloth; standing moisture poses the greatest risk to a wood surface.
- Maintain relatively consistent indoor humidity, as significant fluctuations may cause warping or cracking.
- Rotate decorative objects on wood surfaces periodically so that any color change from light exposure develops evenly.
- Avoid silicone-based sprays, furniture polish, and all-purpose household cleaners.
Wood
Burl Wood
Burl is a wood veneer characterized by a dense, swirled grain that is more irregular and pronounced than standard wood graining. Because every growth is unique, no two burl veneers are identical. Each carries the particular history of the tree from which it was cut. Variation in color and pattern between pieces is standard for the material and contributes to the individual character of each piece.
Care
- Wipe spills promptly with a dry, soft cloth; standing moisture poses the greatest risk to a wood surface.
- Maintain relatively consistent indoor humidity, as significant fluctuations may cause warping or cracking.
- Rotate decorative objects on wood surfaces periodically so that any color change from light exposure develops evenly.
- Avoid silicone-based sprays, furniture polish, and all-purpose household cleaners.
Wood
Teak
When noted on a specific product page, teak is a material Cuff Studio designates for pieces intended for outdoor use. Cuff Studio teak is bleached and oiled as part of its finishing process, preserving the natural oils that allow teak to withstand sun, rain, and changing temperatures without rotting or warping. Continued outdoor exposure will affect the wood over time. Without regular oiling, the surface will gradually develop the silver-gray patina characteristic of teak left outdoors. This change does not affect the integrity of the material.
Care
- Clean periodically with mild soap, water, and a soft-bristle brush, working with the grain; rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely.
- Apply teak oil every few months, or as needed, to maintain the bleached tone and replenish the wood's natural oils; regular oiling slows, but does not eliminate, the gradual shift toward a silver-gray patina.
- Remove mold or mildew with a diluted bleach solution of one part bleach to ten parts water, then rinse thoroughly to prevent damage to the wood.
- Cover during prolonged exposure to rain, direct sun, or extreme weather conditions.
Lacquer
Lacquer is a smooth, reflective finish. In accordance with California's strict air-quality regulations governing furniture coatings, Cuff Studio uses low-VOC and water-based lacquer formulations rather than traditional high-VOC alternatives. High gloss is, by nature, a less forgiving surface than matte or satin. High gloss will show fingerprints, dust, and fine scratches more readily.
Care
- Dust with a clean, soft microfiber cloth. A lightly damp cloth of filtered water may be used for light cleaning and should be followed immediately by a dry cloth.
- Avoid abrasive cloths, paper towels, and any cleaner not formulated specifically for lacquer, as these will dull or scratch the surface.
- Wipe away fingerprints and dust promptly, as high gloss shows both more readily than a matte finish.
- For deeper scratches or chips, lacquer repair is best handled by a professional.
Metal
Lacquered Metal
Lacquered metal finishes, brass or bronze sealed with a clear protective topcoat, retain their appearance with minimal maintenance. The coating prevents the tarnishing and patina that develop on unlacquered metal, allowing the finish to remain bright and consistent over time. This option suits those who prefer the appearance of brass, bronze, nickel, etc., without the gradual color change associated with a living finish.
Care
- Dust with a soft, dry cloth. An occasional lightly damp cloth of filtered water may be used and should be dried immediately.
- Avoid metal polishes, brass cleaners, and abrasive materials, which will scratch or strip the lacquer topcoat rather than clean it.
- Keep away from excess moisture and humidity, which may cause the protective coating to lift or cloud over time.
Metal
Unlacquered Metal — A Living Finish
Unlacquered metal finishes are left without a protective topcoat. These are referred to as living finishes: surfaces that continue to respond to air, light, temperature, and moisture, as well as to regular handling. Over time, this response develops into a patina, a softened and slightly darkened surface unique to each piece. The finish observed at delivery will not be the finish observed a year later. This gradual change is characteristic of the material rather than a defect. For a finish that retains its original appearance, lacquered metal is recommended.
Care
- Left untouched, the metal will tarnish and patina according to its own timeline, while wiping it periodically with a soft, dry cloth will slow the process and keep the finish brighter for longer.
- Avoid polishes, brass cleaners, and abrasive cloths unless the intention is to remove the patina entirely, in which case it will begin developing again from the original surface.
- Keep dry, as moisture accelerates tarnishing, particularly in humid climates or bathrooms.
- Handle with clean, dry hands where possible, as natural oils from skin contact affect how the patina develops over time.
Metal
Patinated Metal
Cuff Studio patinas are hand-applied with pigments to both brass and copper and lightly sealed with a VOC-compliant matte finish, setting its tone at the time of finishing. Patinas will continue to respond to air, light, and handling over time. Because each piece is hand-finished, variation between pieces is expected and is part of the artisan process.
Care
- Dust with a soft, dry cloth, and wipe up spills immediately.
- Avoid acidic cleaners (such as those containing vinegar), alkaline cleaners (such as those containing bleach), and abrasive products or tools, all of which can damage the lacquer sealing a patina finish.
- Keep away from acidic substances, including vinegar, citrus juice, and certain sauces and oils, which can damage a patina's protective seal if left in contact with the surface.
- Keep away from direct heat; use coasters, trivets, or mats under hot items.
- Hand-applied patina finishes such as Verdigris Patina are considered living finishes: repeated handling and everyday exposure will continue to shape their color and character over time, and variation between pieces is normal.
Metal
Powder Coated Metal
Powder coat is a durable, baked-on finish that holds up better against chipping, fading, and corrosion than standard paint. Powder coat is not inherently weather-resistant, and a powder-coated piece is suitable for outdoor use only when the product page specifically designates it as such.
Care
- Clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water; rinse with a clean, damp cloth and dry fully.
- Avoid abrasive pads, solvents, and high-pressure washing, which may wear down the coating over time.
Parchment
Cuff Studio parchment is a vegan material that conveys the warmth, translucency, and quiet texture of traditional parchment without the use of goat or calf skin. It is hand-applied with pigmentation and finished with a clear, satin resin coating; seams are visible by design, a natural result of this hand-applied process. As with any natural-presenting material, some variation in tone, texture, and pigment absorption between pieces should be expected, and this irregularity is inherent to the material rather than a flaw in it.
Care
- Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth or soft brush. Avoid water and liquid cleaners, which may warp or stain the material.
- Keep away from direct sunlight and excess humidity, both of which may affect the surface and coloration over time.
- Avoid placing parchment pieces in high-traffic areas where they may be bumped or scratched.
- Avoid solvents and harsh chemical cleaners, which may affect the resin finish.
Glass
Mouth-Blown Glass
Mouth-blown glass is shaped entirely by the breath and skill of the glassmaker, without molds or mechanical constraints to determine its final form. Each shade or panel is blown by hand, and then hand-finished. Slight variation in wall thickness, surface character, and overall form is inherent to each piece. Small air bubbles and subtle tool marks are a natural result of the hand process — evidence of the making rather than imperfections. Colors may shift with light and the angle of view.
Care
- Dust with a soft, dry cloth. When cleaning is needed, wipe with a soft, damp cloth; never spray cleaner directly onto the glass or adjacent finishes.
- Handle shades and panels with care and gloves when removing them for cleaning.
- Avoid solvents and abrasive cloths.
Glass
Cast Glass
Cast glass is formed by heating glass to a molten state and allowing it to flow or be pressed into a form, then cooling it slowly in a kiln. The resulting material is dense and substantial, with a translucency and depth distinct from blown or flat glass. The surface may carry the natural texture of the casting process, or it may be etched or hand-polished to a smooth finish. Because each cast glass top is formed individually, variation in tone, texture, and transparency between pieces should be expected and is part of the material's character.
Care
- Dust with a dry or damp lint-free microfiber cloth.
- For cleaning, dilute a small amount of mild dish soap in water, apply with a microfiber cloth, and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth afterward; apply cleaner to the cloth rather than directly to the glass surface.
- Avoid solvents, abrasive cloths, and cleaners not formulated for glass.
- Use coasters and felt pads under objects placed on cast glass tops; although cast glass is dense and durable, the surface can scratch.
- Avoid sharp impacts, which can chip or crack even thick glass.
Stoneware
Cuff Studio's ceramic elements, including individually formed bricks and tile, are handmade stoneware — each piece shaped and glazed by hand, then fired at high temperatures to produce a dense, durable body. As with any handmade ceramic, variation in glaze tone, color, and surface texture between pieces is expected and inherent to the hand process; no two pieces will be exactly alike. This individuality is part of what gives Cuff Studio ceramic elements their character.
Care
- Wipe with a damp cloth and clean water for routine cleaning. For more thorough cleaning, apply a small amount of mild, pH-neutral soap diluted in water with a soft cloth, then rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.
- Avoid cleaners containing harsh acids, alkalis, or solvents, which can damage the glaze surface.
- Clean spills promptly; although fired stoneware is dense, prompt cleaning prevents staining or buildup in any unglazed areas.
- Use felt pads under objects placed on ceramic tile tops to prevent scratching of the glazed surface.
- Avoid sharp impacts; stoneware, while durable, can chip or crack if struck.
Cording
Cotton, Jute & Linen Blend Cord
Select pieces incorporate natural fiber trims and cording, including cotton, jute, and a cotton-and-linen blend cord. As with any natural fiber, slight variation in color, texture, and weave should be expected from piece to piece and from dye lot to dye lot. These trims are intended for indoor use.
Care
- Dust or vacuum gently using a brush attachment on low suction; avoid pulling or tugging on cord and trim.
- Spot clean with a dry cloth only; avoid water and liquid cleaners, which may cause shrinkage, staining, or discoloration.
- Keep away from direct sunlight, which can fade natural fibers over time.
- For soiling or damage, professional furniture cleaning is recommended rather than attempting to clean the trim directly.
Wallpaper
Smooth Matte Wallpaper
Our most durable wallcovering. This non-woven, PVC-free, Type II, Class A rated material has a smooth matte finish and is breathable, making it an excellent choice for high-humidity spaces such as bathrooms. The design is digitally printed.
Care
- In most cases cleaning of the murals can be done by simply wiping down the mural with a soft, clean, dry cloth.
- In instances where your mural may need more care, use a soft, clean sponge with warm water and mild liquid dish soap to gently wipe at the surface of the mural. Clean from the bottom upward so you do not leave streaks. Go slow and gentle to lift any debris and pat dry with a towel.
- Never scrub the surface as it can damage the printed surface.
- Never use chemical or abrasive cleaners.
- Do not use a protective coating or laminate without first checking with our licensing partner, Black Crow Studios, to request information about compatible laminates.
Wallpaper
Fibrous Wallpaper
A PVC-free wallcovering with a beautiful texture reminiscent of handmade paper. It adds depth and refinement without overpowering the design, and installs easily with panels that seam together beautifully. This is not recommended for high-humidity spaces such as bathrooms.
Care
- Regular dusting prevents buildup of grime, maintaining the vibrancy of the wallcovering. Dust using a microfiber duster or a vacuum with a soft brush attachment, working top to bottom.
- For fingerprints or smudges, gently rub with an art gum eraser, avoiding excessive pressure to preserve surface integrity.
- A dry sponge can lift dirt and dust effectively.
- Avoid using water or wet cleaning agents that could saturate the material.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners, water-based spot removers, or harsh chemicals on this non-coated material.
Expedited Upholstery
Expedited Upholstery
Shearling
Shearling is a natural sheepskin material, with a soft wool pile on one side and a supple leather backing on the other. As a natural material, variation in pile density, curl, and tone should be expected from hide to hide. Shearling is sensitive to moisture and friction, and the pile will compress with regular use; light fluffing restores most of its original loft.
Care
- Brush gently in the direction of the pile with a soft brush to maintain loft and remove surface dust.
- Avoid water, liquid cleaners, and direct sunlight, all of which can affect the pile and the leather backing.
- For soiling or staining, professional furniture cleaning is recommended.
Expedited Upholstery
Sherpa Boucle
Cuff Studio Sherpa Boucle is a durable, looped fabric that brings depth and texture to upholstered pieces, soft to the touch and engineered to hold up to frequent use. Because its texture comes from the looped construction itself, slight variation in loop size and density should be expected, and occasional pilling or loose loops are normal with use and do not indicate a flaw in the fabric.
Care
- Vacuum regularly with a low-suction brush attachment to remove surface dust without pulling at the loops.
- Avoid snagging the fabric on rings, buttons, or pet claws, which can pull and loosen individual loops.
- Blot spills immediately with a dry cloth; avoid rubbing, which can drive moisture deeper into the weave.
- Keep out of direct sunlight and avoid bleach-based cleaners or high-heat drying methods, which may damage the fibers.
- For soiling or stains, professional furniture cleaning is recommended.
Expedited Upholstery
Mohair
Cuff Studio mohair features a dense, plush pile. Its surface is soft to the touch with a subtle, elegant sheen, and its substantial weight ensures exceptional durability and crush resistance. This fabric brings lasting richness to even high-traffic pieces in both commercial and residential interiors.
Care
- Vacuum gently and brush the pile periodically in a single direction to maintain its texture.
- Keep away from direct heat and prolonged sun exposure, which can dry out or flatten the fibers.
- Avoid friction from sharp or rough objects, which can cause matting or pulling.
- For crushing, soiling, or stains, light steaming or cleaning by a professional is recommended.