If you are a traveler's notebook aficionado, you know how important it is to take care of your beloved item. From breaking it in to keeping it clean, a few simple steps can help ensure that your notebook lasts for many years to come. Here are some tips for the care and feeding of your traveler's notebook.
This article refers to leather covers make by Altguild only, and may not be the appropriate way to care for covers made by other brands.
Breaking in Leather:
Breaking in the leather on your notebook by rolling it has already been done. You can continue this if you wish, but be careful as it can introduce unwanted marks or wrinkles. The leather will soften and age with use over time, so the rest of the breaking in happens as you grow with your item. In other words, the more you use it, the better it will feel.
Leather Care:
When you first get your traveler's notebook, it's important to keep it dry. While it does have a finish on it to help protect it, it's meant more to lock in the dye and give it color fast. The dye is fresh, and over time it will bind more with the leather. Your item is just days old, so it's still going through changes as it cures more fully. Your cover has already been thoroughly oiled, so there is no need to do this again for years, if ever. You can, however, use Carnauba cream to freshen it up. Carnauba cream is a light wax conditioner and finish that is both natural and safe on your skin. Carnauba wax is a wax from the leaves of the palm Copernicia prunifera. It has a light, sweet smell that blends well with the leather smell and dissipates over time. You can make your own blend, or find Carnauba Cream premade from places like Tandy Leather or Fiebing's. Keep in mind that Carnauba Cream is not water-resistant and offers only light color fastness, so don't go swimming with your item or try to wash it. Let it age with you.
Storing Your Notebook:
When you're not using your traveler's notebook, it's important to store it properly. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and avoid storing it in a tightly sealed container or plastic bag, as leather needs to breathe to prevent mildew or mold from forming.
In conclusion, taking care of your traveler's notebook is easy with a few simple steps. Remember, keep it dry, use a gentle conditioning cream, and store it properly when not in use. With a little care and feeding, your traveler's notebook will be your trusty companion for many years to come.