It's simple — here's what you need to know
Every piece we make at Atelier Article is finished with powder coating. It's a dry finish baked onto the steel at high heat, and it's tougher than regular paint — more resistant to chipping, scratching, and rust. That said, a little care goes a long way toward keeping your pieces looking the way they did when they arrived.
Day to day
Dust with a soft cloth. That's it for most weeks. If something spills or the surface picks up fingerprints, wipe it down with warm water and a drop of dish soap, then dry it right away with a clean towel. Don't let water sit on the surface — it won't cause immediate damage, but over time it can leave marks.
What to avoid
No bleach, no ammonia, no abrasive sponges. These can dull or discolor the finish. Steel wool and scouring pads will scratch it. If you're cleaning near your furniture with strong household cleaners, wipe off any overspray quickly.
Prevent scratches before they happen
If your bookends or furniture sit on wood or tile, add small felt pads to the bottom. This protects both the piece and the surface underneath. Most hardware stores sell adhesive felt pads for a few dollars — it takes thirty seconds and saves you from scuff marks.
If you do get a scratch
Small surface scratches are cosmetic and won't affect the steel underneath. For deeper chips that expose bare metal, cover the spot with a dab of touch-up paint to prevent rust from starting. If you're not sure what color to use or how to handle it, reach out to us and we'll help.
Humidity and outdoor use
Powder coating resists rust well, but it's not weatherproof forever. If you're using a piece near a fireplace, in a bathroom, or outdoors, wipe it down more often and keep it dry when possible. In coastal or very humid climates, bring pieces inside during wet seasons or cover them.
That's really all there is to it
Powder-coated steel is one of the most low-maintenance finishes you can have in your home. Dust it, wipe it when needed, keep it dry, and it'll hold up for years. We build everything in our workshop in Ukraine to last — the finish is designed to match.
