Care Guide

The guidance provided on this page is intended to help you care for your handcrafted Maresa piece. As every item is individually handmade using traditional techniques and materials, slight variations may exist between products.

Caring for Your Maresa Piece

Every Maresa piece is handcrafted by skilled Colombian artisans using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Because each item is individually made rather than mass-produced, slight variations in weave, texture, pattern, and colour are part of its unique character and authenticity.

With thoughtful care, your Maresa piece will remain a timeless companion for years to come.

General Care Recommendations

To help preserve the beauty and craftsmanship of your Maresa piece, we recommend:

• Store your bag or accessory in the dust bag provided when not in use.
• Keep away from prolonged direct sunlight to help preserve colour.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to rain or excessive moisture.
• Avoid contact with perfumes, cosmetics, oils and harsh chemicals.
• Do not overload your bag, as excessive weight may affect its shape over time.
• Avoid rough or abrasive surfaces that may damage fibres, fabrics or embellishments.
• Handle your handcrafted piece with care, particularly during travel and storage.

Wayuu Crochet Collections

Applies to:

• Classic Mochilas
• Mini Mochilas
• Handwoven Drawstring Backpacks
• Flap Backpacks
• Flap Bucket Bags
• Mini Round Bags
• Wayuu Mini Crossbody Bags

These collections are handcrafted using traditional Wayuu crochet techniques, celebrating the artistry and heritage of Colombian craftsmanship. While the Flap Backpacks incorporate a synthetic flap panel for added structure, every design features a handcrafted crocheted body that should be treated with care to preserve its beauty and longevity.

Routine Cleaning

For everyday care:

• Remove dust with a soft, dry cloth.
• If necessary, gently wipe the affected area using a soft cloth lightly dampened with clean water.
• Allow the bag to air dry naturally.

Deeper Cleaning

If a more thorough clean is required:

• Gently hand wash the crocheted body in cold water using a mild detergent.
• Avoid soaking synthetic panels, hardware, or decorative details.
• Never twist or wring the bag.
• Reshape the bag while damp.
• Allow it to dry naturally away from direct heat and prolonged sunlight.

We Do Not Recommend

• Machine washing.
• Tumble drying.
• Bleach.
• Harsh detergents.
• Dry cleaning.

Although some handcrafted crochet bags may tolerate a gentle machine wash, we do not recommend this for Maresa pieces. Washing machines may place unnecessary stress on handcrafted fibres, tassels, synthetic components, hardware and the overall structure of the bag.

Storage

• Store upright whenever possible.
• Lightly fill the interior with acid-free tissue paper to help maintain its shape.
• Keep inside the dust bag provided.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from humidity.

Embellished Collections

Applies to:

• Occasion Bags
• Embellished Bags

Every embellishment is individually applied by hand, making each piece unique. These delicate details deserve additional care to preserve their beauty.

Cleaning

• Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth.
• Remove dust carefully using a soft brush if required.
• Avoid soaking or immersing the bag in water.

Avoid

• Pulling or catching embellishments.
• Excessive rubbing or friction.
• Heavy impacts.
• Cleaning products, solvents or chemical cleaners.

Store each bag individually inside its dust bag to protect the embellishments from scratching or snagging.

Textile Collections

Applies to:

• Textile Mini Crossbody Bags
• Clutches
• Mini Pouches

These collections combine handcrafted textiles with structured finishes and protective linings.

Cleaning

• Spot clean only using a soft cloth.
• If necessary, use a mild soap diluted in cold water.
• Always test any cleaning method on a discreet area first.
• Allow to dry naturally away from direct heat or sunlight.

We Do Not Recommend

• Machine washing.
• Tumble drying.
• Bleach.
• Dry cleaning.

Woven Bracelets

To help preserve your bracelet:

• Remove before swimming, bathing, or exercising.
• Avoid contact with perfumes, lotions, and cosmetics.
• Store flat in a cool, dry place.
• Avoid excessive pulling or twisting.

Shape & Storage

Proper storage helps preserve the beauty and longevity of your handcrafted piece.

When not in use:

• Empty the contents of your bag.
• Lightly fill the interior with acid-free tissue paper to help maintain its shape.
• Store inside the dust bag provided.
• Keep in a cool, dry environment away from humidity and prolonged sunlight.

Avoid hanging heavier bags for extended periods, as this may place unnecessary tension on the straps and handles.

Natural Characteristics

Every Maresa piece is handcrafted individually.

As a result, you may notice:

• Slight variations in size.
• Small differences in weave tension.
• Minor variations in pattern placement.
• Natural differences in colour between production batches.
• Slight colour variations between digital screens and the finished product.

These characteristics are not imperfections but a reflection of genuine handcrafted craftsmanship and make every Maresa piece truly one of a kind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I machine wash my Maresa bag?

We do not recommend machine washing any Maresa bag. While some handcrafted crochet bags may tolerate a gentle machine wash, hand washing remains the safest method for preserving handcrafted fibres, embellishments, hardware, and the overall shape of your bag.

Can I hand wash my Wayuu crochet bag?

Yes. If a deeper clean is required, gently hand wash the crocheted body in cold water using a mild detergent. If your bag includes synthetic flap panels or metal hardware, avoid soaking these components. Reshape the bag while damp and allow it to air dry naturally.

Can I use bleach or stain removers?

No. Harsh chemicals may damage fibres, fabrics, colours, embellishments and other handcrafted components.

Can my bag get wet?

Occasional light exposure to moisture is unlikely to cause damage if the bag is dried naturally. However, prolonged exposure to rain or water should always be avoided.

How should I store my bag?

Store it clean, lightly filled with acid-free tissue paper and inside its dust bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Will every bag look the same?

No. Every Maresa piece is handcrafted individually, making each one unique. Slight variations are part of the beauty and authenticity of artisan craftsmanship.

Before You Receive Your Order

Every Maresa piece is handcrafted individually by Colombian artisans. As a result, slight variations from the photographs shown on our website are to be expected. These natural differences reflect the individuality of each artisan's work and are an integral part of the authenticity and character of handmade craftsmanship.

A Lifetime of Craftsmanship

Every Maresa piece is created to be treasured, carried, and enjoyed for years to come. With thoughtful care, your handcrafted bag or accessory will continue to tell its story through every journey, every occasion, and every memory it becomes part of.

Handcrafted to be Timeless.