Chapman Care

Caring for Your Chapman Bag
A Chapman is built to go the distance - whether through rain-soaked city streets or years of everyday use. But like all finely crafted pieces, it deserves care and attention along the way. With the right care, your bag will not only maintain its beauty but also become more personal, growing richer and more distinctive with every use.

General Care
Store with care – When not in use, store your bag in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight and damp environments. For structured bags, stuff them with paper or cloth to maintain their shape.
Avoid overloading – Our bags are built tough, but consistent overloading can cause unnecessary strain on straps and seams.
Let it breathe – Air out your bag after use, especially if exposed to moisture or heavy wear.

Canvas Care
To keep your cotton canvas looking its best, simply clean it with soap and water and allow it to air dry naturally. Avoid machine washing, as this can damage the material and compromise the structure of the bag.

Brass Fittings
Our solid brass buckles, zips, and fittings are chosen for their strength and timeless look. Like all fine materials, your brass fittings will naturally mellow over time, developing a beautiful patina that tells the story of your journeys.
Polishing – Brass may naturally darken over time. You can gently polish it with a soft cloth, or you can use a high-quality brass cleaner to restore their shine.
Zips – Keep free of grit or dirt to avoid wear. A light application of wax can help stiff zips glide smoothly.

Leather Care
Wipe down gently with a soft cloth to remove dust or marks.
Conditioning - To preserve the rich character of the leather and keep it supple, we recommend conditioning it regularly with a good-quality leather cream. This not only nourishes the material but also protects it from drying and cracking.
Avoid prolonged moisture – If wet, pat dry and allow the leather to dry naturally. Never use direct heat.

Weatherproofing
Living in Carlisle, where we see nearly 40 inches of rain each year, we understand the value of durability in all conditions. That’s why we craft our bags using British weatherproof bonded cotton - made to withstand the elements, rain or shine.
With a little care, your Chapman will journey with you for years to come, growing more characterful with every mile. And if you ever have questions about how best to look after your bag, we're always here to help.

Repairs & Lifetime Support
We stand by every product we make. If your Chapman bag ever needs repair - whether it’s years or decades from now - our Carlisle workshop is here to help.
From strap replacements to complete restorations, we can breathe new life into well-travelled favourites.

To enquire about a repair, email us at retail@chapmanmade.uk or contact us here