Caring for your new Handywoman weaving tool.

...Most importantly keep your tools in a climate controlled space. Never leave your tools outside , in a car or an environment that is not climate controlled for extended periods of time. Tools that have been glued can become unglued due to humidity and heat and end up needing repair.

Caring for wooden weaving tools (like shuttles, heddles, and swords) involves preventing them from drying out and protecting them from everyday wear. Clean them regularly with a damp rag and oil-based soap, condition the wood with waxes or oils, and store them in a climate-controlled space away from moisture and direct sunlight. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Daily Maintenance and Cleaning

Keeping your tools free of debris prevents snags and structural damage.

Dust and Debris: Frequently remove yarn fuzz and dust using a soft microfiber cloth or a soft-bristled brush. [1]
Remove Gunk: If you accumulate gummy residue (from tape or sticker labels), gently rub the spot with fine-grade steel wool or a soft rag. [1, 2]
Cleaning: Wash with warm water and an oil-based soap (like Murphy Oil Soap). Never use harsh detergents that can strip the natural wood. [1]
Drying: Always allow wooden tools to air-dry completely. [1]

Conditioning and Protecting

Unfinished or oiled wood needs regular "feeding" to stay smooth and prevent cracking, whereas varnished wood requires different care. [1]

Unfinished or Oiled Wood: Rub a high-quality wood wax or oil (such as Howard Feed-N-Wax or natural beeswax) onto the wood with a soft cloth. Allow the conditioner to absorb for 10-15 minutes, then vigorously buff out any excess with a clean cloth. [1, 2]
Varnished Wood: If your tools are sealed with polyurethane or varnish, do not apply oils or waxes. Oils will just sit on the surface, attracting dirt. Clean these using a damp rag and buff them dry. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Proper Storage and Handling

Proper storage is the best way to ensure your tools survive for generations.

Climate Control: Store tools in a stable environment. Extreme shifts between dry air and high humidity cause wood to warp or crack.
Direct Sunlight: Keep tools out of direct sun, which can dry out and fade the wood.
Smoothening Snags: If a shuttle or heddle gets nicked and begins to snag your delicate warp yarns, use a fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 400 to 600-grit) to lightly sand the splintered area back to a smooth, snag-free finish. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]