HOW TO CARE
A handcrafted piece deserves time
Each Vilca García piece is made from natural fibres and through a craft process that requires care.
Proper care helps preserve its texture, shape and beauty for a long time. Natural fibres may change slightly with use, so we recommend following these guidelines to extend the life of each piece.
Natural fibres such as alpaca and sheep’s wool are naturally resistant and do not need to be washed after every use. Whenever possible, air your garment between wears and wash it only when necessary. This helps preserve the natural qualities of the fibre and extend the life of your piece.
Our main care and washing recommendations can also be found on the hangtag accompanying each piece. If a particular garment has specific care instructions, we always recommend following the instructions on its label.
Washing
We recommend washing our pieces by hand, as follows:
- Use cold or low-temperature water.
- Fully dissolve a mild detergent in the water before placing the garment in it. Preferably, use a detergent designed for delicate or natural fibres.
- Soak the piece for a maximum of 15 minutes.
- Avoid rubbing, scrubbing or wringing the piece, as these actions may alter the structure of the knit.
- If you need to remove any dirt, gently press the piece with your hands rather than rubbing it.
- Gently remove excess water and detergent by pressing the garment with your hands, without wringing it.
- Add clean water and repeat the rinsing process until the piece is completely free of detergent.
- Once rinsed, gently remove any remaining excess water with your hands.
Rinsing and Drying
After washing:
- Lay out a clean towel and place the garment on top.
- Roll the piece inside the towel and gently press to absorb excess water.
- Unroll the towel and lay the piece flat on a horizontal surface, preferably on a clean, dry towel.
- Leave it to dry in a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight.
- While the piece is still damp, gently reshape the knit to its original form and dimensions.
Avoid hanging knitted garments, especially when wet, as the weight of the water can stretch the knit and significantly alter its shape and size.
Ironing and Steaming
To preserve the structure and texture of the fibres, we recommend using a garment steamer.
Apply steam to the piece without allowing the nozzle to come into direct contact with the knit. Allow the steam to gently relax the fibres and, if necessary, reshape the piece by hand.
Storage
We recommend storing garments clean, dry and folded.
Avoid storing them hanging for extended periods, as the weight of the piece itself may stretch the knit and cause it to lose some of its original shape and size.
If you are not going to use the piece for an extended period, we recommend storing it folded inside a clean, completely dry, airtight bag, to protect the natural fibres and reduce the risk of moth damage.
Also protect natural fibres from excessive moisture and prolonged, direct exposure to sunlight.
Care is also part of our philosophy
As our pieces are handcrafted, they may show small differences from one another, both before and after washing.
Texture, knitting tension, colour or shape may vary slightly. These characteristics are part of the nature of the fibre and the handcrafted process, and contribute to giving each piece its own identity.
For this reason, avoiding excessive and unnecessary washing will help keep your piece in its best condition, allowing you to enjoy its quality and natural properties for many years to come.
If Your Piece Needs Repair
If your piece is ever damaged through use or for any other reason, please do not hesitate to contact us.
We want our pieces to continue accompanying you for a long time. Tell us what has happened and we will be happy to talk with you and, wherever possible, find the best solution to repair it so that you can continue to wear and enjoy it.
Caring for a piece, repairing it whenever possible and giving it a long life is a simple way of honouring nature and valuing the work behind it.
Vilca García
Handcrafted in Peru.