Product Care & Maintenance

 

Signature Picks products are typically fabricated and finished by hand. Minor variations in the shape, dimensions, or finish are to be expected in a handcrafted product. Steel plate inherently has variations in surface texture and tone and some products may have tooling marks or other artifacts of the fabrication process which are part of the character of the piece. Other natural materials utilized such as wood may also have variations in appearance.

 

Blackened Steel

Blackened steel products are sealed with oil and wax to help protect the finish, but which require periodic maintenance. These are “living” finishes that allow the metals to age naturally and develop patina through time and use. Blackened steel pieces exposed to moisture, especially in marine environments, will rust. Condensation from hot and cold drinks will leave rings on blackened steel surfaces, thus we recommend protecting the finish by using coasters or placemats.

For light cleaning, Blackened Steel items can be wiped with a slightly damp rag, then buffed immediately with a dry cloth. A very mild cleanser such as diluted Dawn dishwashing liquid can be used, but never use aggressive household cleaners including bleach or ammonia. To refresh the original luster, a light application of a carnauba paste wax such as Trewax can be applied approximately every six months, frequency depending on environment and level of use. To repair minor corrosion or surface rust, we recommend rubbing the affected area lightly with very fine Scotch Brite, and resealing with a lightly buffed coating of carnauba paste wax. Use caution, as Scotch Brite or other abrasives may scratch or remove some of the blackened patina under the wax if used too aggressively.

 

Bronze and Brass

Bronze and Brass are copper alloys that through surface oxidation develop a patina, gradually becoming darker over time. Signature Pick’s Bronze and Brass products are sealed with oil and wax finishes. Oil and wax slow down the surface oxidation but are “living” finishes that allow the metals to age naturally through time and use. There is no harm to the metal if you allow the patina to form and many people enjoy the character of patinaed brass and bronze. Exposure to moisture can affect the patina of Bronze and Brass. Condensation from hot and cold drinks, and liquid spills can alter the patina, thus we recommend protecting the finish by using coasters or placemats.

For light cleaning, Bronze and Brass items can be wiped with a slightly damp rag, then dried immediately with a dry cloth. If you wish to maintain the patina, a mild cleanser such as Windex can be used, but never use aggressive household cleaners including bleach or as they may dramatically affect or remove patina. If you prefer a bright appearance, use a brass cleaner such as Brasso occasionally, following instructions on the package. To refresh the original luster, a light application of a carnauba paste wax such as Trewax can be applied approximately every six months, frequency depending on environment and level of use.

To repair minor scratches on a matte or satin surface, we recommend rubbing the affected area lightly with very fine Scotch Brite, and resealing with a lightly buffed coating of carnauba paste wax. The patina in the area may be removed by this process but may develop again over time.

 

Powder Coated

Powder coat finishes are hand applied with care taken to ensure even application and consistency. Variations in color, texture and appearance, although rare, may occur. Powder Coating a durable, high-quality finish, but does require maintenance to extend its lifespan and is detrimentally affected by exposure to factors such as UV light, moisture, salt water and freezing temperatures.

For light cleaning, Powder Coated items can be wiped with a damp rag, then buffed dry with a cloth. A gentle cleanser and water may can be used, but never use solvents or petroleum-based cleaning products as they may remove layers of the finish which over time degrades the surface integrity. In high touch environments, powder coated surfaces will benefit from a wax protectant, such as a high-grade non-abrasive car wax. Make sure to use a brand that has a UV blocker. Apply the wax and wipe off any remaining once you are finished to avoid permanent staining.