Textiles

Materials

For our clothing and fabric accessories, we use a variety of materials: absorbent cotton in three different weaves, as well as warming wool.

Cotton:

We use cotton in several different weaves. Lightweight cotton is used for blouses, shirts, and undergarments. It feels comfortable against skin, absorbs moisture, and is therefore ideal as a base layer. The more durable weave, known as canvas, is used for items that are subject to greater wear and tear. Outer garments such as trousers, tunics, and coats, as well as bags, quivers, and gambesons, are made from this versatile material. The third weave is standard cotton. It is similar to canvas, but finer cotton fibers are used. The fabric is woven more densely, making it softer while remaining highly durable. Some of our premium outer garments are made from this fine fabric.

Wool:

The wool we use consists of 50% wool, 30% polyester, and 20% viscose. Blends of wool and synthetic fibers are a proven combination, as they reduce wool’s natural tendency to felt. They also improve care and maintenance properties. The addition of synthetic fibers results in lower abrasion, reduced pilling (the formation of small fiber balls), and increased durability of costume pieces. Viscose in particular, a so-called “natural synthetic fiber” made from cellulose, softens the wool and significantly improves wearing comfort. The well-known scratchiness of wool against the skin is reduced. Our outer garments and coats are made from this fabric. It is water-repellent and retains its warming properties even when damp.

Important Information Before Purchase:

Combining Materials:

Combining different textiles is often about more than just costume design. Each of our fabrics has properties that make it particularly suitable for certain types of clothing. By combining them, you can create garments that, much like modern functional outdoor clothing, are well suited for use in nature. The first layer against the skin should be made of lightweight cotton or linen. It helps wick away sweat while retaining body heat. A layer of canvas or premium cotton should be worn over this. These materials are durable yet breathable. A wool layer, such as a coat, provides the necessary warmth and protects against wind and light rain. Depending on the character’s social status, garments made from damask can also create an impressive appearance. This layered approach allows you to enjoy events even in poor weather without feeling cold or longing for the comfort of your sofa at home.

Processing:

Particularly with our canvas outer garments, we aim for an authentic, rugged appearance and pleasant texture. Therefore, the fabric is processed somewhat more coarsely than is common in the textile industry. As a result, woven-in fibers or slight weaving irregularities may occur. In this case, such characteristics are intentional and contribute to the desired authentic look.

Textile Care Insturctions:

As a general rule, we recommend cold hand washing for all our textiles. Under no circumstances should they be tumble dried. Damask fabrics, multicolored costume pieces, or garments with decorative trim should be professionally dry-cleaned when necessary, as there is a risk of color transfer between fabrics. We do not recommend bleaching any of our textiles. Ironing is possible, but only at a low temperature. Our dyes are not UV-resistant and will fade over time. Prolonged exposure to strong sunlight can accelerate this process. Uneven or prolonged sun exposure (for example, drying garments on a clothesline in direct summer sunlight among other clothing) may result in spots or streaks in the coloration.

Leather

Materials

Our leather accessories, garments, and armor are made from different types of leather:

Top-Grain Leather:

We use this leather for most of our armor, many accessories, shoes, and bags. It is soft, supple, and yet sturdy enough for high-quality armor. The leather used in Fucina Del Drago products is additionally hardened. We place great importance on the quality of this raw material. However, as with any natural product, variations in surface texture and coloration may occur. These imperfections contribute to the natural and authentic character we desire for our products. Top-grain leather is dyed all the way through, meaning scratches on the surface will not reveal a different underlying color.

Split Leather:

Split leather is tanned leather made from the middle layer of cattle hide. The surface is sealed using mechanical pressure and a special finish. Split leather is a cost-effective option for armor and leather goods that need to be sturdy while remaining affordable. We offer several product lines made entirely from this material. This allows us to offer armor, sword frogs, belts, belt holders, and certain arm and leg guards at particularly attractive prices.

Suede:

Strictly speaking, our suede is actually velour leather, as it comes from domesticated cattle rather than wild animals. It is made from the lower layer of the hide. This material is primarily used for clothing and accessories. Some special armor pieces and gambesons are also made from suede.

Important Information Before Purchase:

Combining Equipment:

Leather armor can be combined very effectively with chainmail. Depending on the model, individual pieces may be worn with or without sleeves or a skirt section. Certain torso armors can easily be fitted with plate pauldrons. For detailed information, please refer to the individual product descriptions or contact our support team.

Processing:

Armor pieces made from split leather have their edges sanded and sealed. Otherwise, hard and sharp leather edges could easily irritate the skin. Many of our armor pieces are fully edged with suede. This not only improves appearance but also protects the leather edges from fraying and helps prevent scratches on the wearer’s skin.

Colors:

Since leather is a natural product, variations in color are always possible. As a result, the same product may be available in slightly different shades. This is particularly important to consider when purchasing additional armor pieces later. We also recommend rubbing newly purchased leather products with a paper towel before first use. This helps remove excess oils and dye, reducing the risk of color transfer onto clothing.

Leather Care Instructions:

Care Products:

Leather grease is suitable for regular maintenance. For hard-to-reach areas and buckles, spray-on Ballistol is also recommended. Suede can be brushed while dry and treated with a commercially available waterproofing spray to improve weather resistance.

Care Techniques:

For heavy soiling, remove dried dirt with a damp cloth. Allow the leather to dry completely, then apply leather grease. If stored for extended periods in humid conditions, leather may develop mold. This can be removed using a sponge and soap. After cleaning, allow the leather to dry thoroughly and then reapply leather grease. For severe mold contamination, we recommend saddle soap. It penetrates deeply into the leather and cleans it effectively. Saddle soap is available from equestrian supply retailers. Well-maintained leather goods will last for many years. We recommend cleaning them after every use and applying a light coating of leather grease. Excessive use of leather grease can clog the leather’s pores and permanently reduce its breathability.