I have asked this question before with lukewoarm response, butI'll try again. Anyone have any ideas for cleaning reayskin? My Cashen Anduril has/had white rayskin on the grip. It's now turning to a darker ivory color.The ivory is not a bad color, but the rayskin is different colors on different parts inf the grip so it looks splochy at the moment. Should I try and clean it or wait until the entore handle settles to the same color? Love to hear what experiences you guys have had, especially you baskethilt people :-)


Joel Whitmore

Believe ti or not Jason, Kevin told me that'swhat he used to clen some dirt spots out befoer he shipped me teh sword. Actually a toothpaste/peroxide mix. I have tried this but I find that it doesn't really change the color of the rayskin. The more I think about it, the more I think that exposure to air is what si causing the change in color and not dirt, grime or skin oils. I cna either put some crest tooth brightener on it at night (LOL) or just let nature take it's course. Am I right in assuming that the color change is a natural occurance?


Joel

I can tell you that on antique nihonto (Japanese swords) I have seen, even the best preserved samé (rayskin) is not a pure white but rather an ivory color. Not even certain if this is due to age or if the samples were always that color, but In fact, I consider it a positive, not a negative, as premium-level rayskin takes on an almost pearlescent effect (coupled with the naturally nodular surface, this makes for a striking handle material).

Not certain what causes it or how to encourage the best possible coloration. It may be a factor of use or the quality of the skin itself, or perhaps trace elements in the air (or air pollutants?). Sorry I can't be much help.