Care & Legacy Guide
Special Circumstances
Custom Orders
Custom and commissioned pieces are final sale due to the bespoke nature and artisan time invested. However, if a custom piece arrives significantly different from agreed specifications or is defective, contact us immediately—we'll make it right.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HEIRLOOM BEAUTIFUL FOR GENERATIONS
Your Taru Studios piece was crafted to last lifetimes. With basic care, it will remain beautiful through decades of use and can be passed down as a family heirloom. Here's how to protect your investment.
BONE INLAY & MOTHER-OF-PEARL
Daily Care
• Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth
• For spills, wipe immediately with a barely damp cloth, then dry thoroughly
• Never use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or soaking water
What to Avoid
• Prolonged direct sunlight (can fade resin colors over time)
• Excessive moisture or humid environments
• Sharp objects or rough handling (bone fragments can chip if struck)
• Heat sources (don't place hot items directly on surface)
Deep Cleaning
• Mix mild soap with water (very diluted)
• Dampen a soft cloth—wring it nearly dry
• Wipe gently, following the pattern lines
• Dry immediately with a clean cloth—never let water sit
CARVED WOOD FRAMES & FURNITURE
Daily Care
• Dust with a soft, dry cloth or feather duster
• Use a soft brush to gently clean intricate carved details
• Wipe with slightly damp cloth if needed, dry immediately
Preservation
• Keep away from direct heat sources and prolonged sunlight
• Maintain moderate humidity (wood can crack in very dry conditions)
• Apply natural wood polish or wax once or twice a year to maintain luster
Natural Aging
Wood develops a beautiful patina over time—this is normal and desirable. Slight color deepening, natural grain enhancement, and character development are signs of authentic wood aging gracefully.
BRASS PIECES
Maintaining Shine
• Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth
• For polishing, use commercial brass cleaner or homemade paste (lemon juice + baking soda)
• Apply gently with soft cloth, rinse with water, dry thoroughly
• Buff with clean, dry cloth for shine
Natural Patina
Brass naturally develops a darker patina over time—this is normal and many people prefer the aged look. If you want to embrace the patina rather than fight it, simply dust regularly and enjoy the character development. The choice between high-shine and aged patina is yours.
What to Avoid
• Abrasive scrubbing pads or harsh chemicals
• Prolonged moisture or humid storage
PAINTED BONE & BLUE POTTERY
Gentle Handling
• These pieces feature delicate hand-painted surfaces—handle with care
• Dust with extremely soft, dry cloth
• For blue pottery tiles, you can wipe gently with damp cloth if needed
• Painted bone: avoid water contact on painted surfaces when possible
Color Preservation
• Keep away from prolonged direct sunlight (pigments can fade)
• Display in areas with moderate, indirect lighting
BATIK BLOCKS
Maintenance
• Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth
• Clean carved details with a soft brush
• Avoid moisture—these are not meant for actual printing unless you choose to use them
• Display away from humidity to preserve the wood
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR ALL PIECES
Placement
• Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods
• Keep away from heat sources (radiators, fireplaces, heating vents)
• Display in climate-controlled environments when possible
• Avoid extremely humid or dry conditions
Usage
• These pieces are designed for regular use—don't save them only for special occasions
• Use coasters under glasses on bone inlay surfaces
• Don't drag heavy objects across surfaces—lift and place
• Treat with respect, but enjoy them daily
Storage
• If storing long-term, wrap in soft cloth (not plastic, which can trap moisture)
• Store in temperature-controlled, dry location
• Check periodically for any signs of moisture or damage
REPAIR & RESTORATION
If your piece is damaged or shows wear after years of use:
• Contact us at hello@tarustudios.com with photos
• We can connect you with restoration specialists
• Many repairs can be done by skilled artisans using traditional techniques
• Handcrafted pieces are designed to be repairable, not disposable
PASSING IT DOWN: LEGACY CARE
When you pass your Taru piece to the next generation:
Share the story: Tell them about the artisans who made it, the region it comes from, and the techniques used
Document its journey: Write a note about when you acquired it, where it's been displayed, memories associated with it
Pass along care instructions: Include this guide so future owners know how to maintain it
Share photographs: If you've sent us photos over the years showing the piece in your home, save those as part of its provenance
The story behind an heirloom is as valuable as the object itself. Your care today ensures it remains beautiful for generations to come.