A natural cowhide rug may arrive with light folds, curled edges, or creases from being rolled or packed during shipping. This is normal and usually improves once the hide has time to relax.
The most important thing is to unroll your cowhide soon after delivery and give it room to settle.
Unroll the Hide as Soon as Possible
Once your cowhide arrives, remove it from the packaging and unroll it promptly.
Lay the hide flat on a clean, dry floor with the hair side facing up. Smooth it gently by hand, following the natural shape of the hide.
Avoid pulling hard on the edges or trying to force the hide into a perfectly flat position immediately.
Give It Time to Relax
Most cowhides will begin to relax within 24 to 48 hours after being laid flat.
Light folds, minor waves, and curled edges are common after shipping and often improve naturally as the hide settles into the room.
Try not to judge the final shape immediately after opening the package. A little time usually makes a noticeable difference.
Weigh Down Curled Edges
If an edge or corner stays curled, place a clean towel over the affected area and add a flat, heavy object on top.
A few books or another broad, stable weight can work well.
Leave the area weighted for a day or two, then remove the weight and check the shape. Avoid placing anything sharp, dirty, or damp directly against the hide.
Gently Reverse-Roll Stubborn Corners
For a stubborn curled edge, you can gently roll the affected area in the opposite direction for a short period of time.
The key is to be gentle. Do not sharply fold or crease the hide.
A gradual reverse roll can help encourage the edge to relax without placing unnecessary stress on the natural material.
Avoid Water and High Heat
Do not soak the hide, spray it heavily with water, or use high heat to force it flat.
Avoid:
- Hair dryers
- Steam cleaners
- Irons
- Excessive moisture
- Sharp folding or creasing
High heat and heavy moisture can damage a natural cowhide and create problems that are much harder to correct than a temporary shipping crease.
Expect Natural Variation
A cowhide is a natural product, so every piece will relax a little differently.
Minor waves, curves, and natural movement are part of what give each hide its character. The goal is not to make a natural hide behave like a perfectly manufactured rectangular rug.
With a little time and patience, most shipping-related folds and curled edges will improve significantly.
Let the Hide Settle Into Your Space
Once the hide has had time to relax, adjust its placement gradually.
Move furniture back into position, make small changes to orientation, and allow the natural outline of the hide to work with the room.
With proper handling and a little patience, your cowhide should settle beautifully into your space.