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General Knot & Co. — Made in Bedford, NY

Care & Keeping

Everything we make is built to last. A little care goes a long way — here's how to keep your General Knot pieces looking their best for years to come.

Neckwear

Cotton Neckties, Bow Ties & Pocket Squares

100% cotton · hand-rolled edges on pocket squares · limited-edition prints
Applies to: all cotton neckties, self-tie bow ties, pocket squares, and bandanas

Add necktie outline here

Source: any cotton necktie or bow tie product photo
Sketch in Canva → export PNG

Cotton neckties, bow ties & pocket squares

Step-by-step care

  1. 1
    Spot-clean firstDab — don't rub — with a clean damp cloth and a drop of mild dish soap. Blot dry immediately with a clean towel.
  2. 2
    Hand-wash when neededCool water + gentle detergent (Woolite or similar). Swish gently 1–2 minutes. Rinse thoroughly. Never machine-wash.
  3. 3
    Dry flatPress out excess water gently — never wring. Lay flat on a clean towel, reshape, and air-dry completely.
  4. 4
    Steam or press carefullyUse a garment steamer held 2–3 inches away, or a cool-to-medium iron with a pressing cloth. Never iron directly on a printed surface.

Do

  • Untie and hang loosely after wearing
  • Use a pressing cloth when ironing
  • Air out before storing
  • Roll loosely for travel — never knot and pack

Don't

  • Machine wash or tumble dry
  • Wring or twist wet fabric
  • Iron directly on a print
  • Use bleach or harsh stain removers
Pocket squares: Hand-rolled edges are delicate. Wash separately and avoid rubbing the edge against anything abrasive. Press lightly while still slightly damp for a crisp finish.

Formal Neckwear

Silk / Cotton Blend Ties & Pocket Squares

Silk/cotton blend · fine weave with sheen
Applies to: Formal Classic Necktie (Black & Navy), Formal White Pocket Square

Add formal tie outline here

Source: Formal Classic Necktie Black or Navy
Sketch in Canva → export PNG

Silk/cotton formal neckties & pocket squares

Step-by-step care

  1. 1
    Spot-clean onlyBlot immediately with a clean dry cloth. For stains, use a tiny amount of cool water and dab gently. Never rub — it damages the weave.
  2. 2
    Dry-clean recommendedFor a thorough clean, take to a trusted dry cleaner and specify the silk/cotton blend. Dry-cleaning preserves the drape and sheen better than any home method.
  3. 3
    Steam — don't ironA garment steamer is ideal. If you must iron, use the lowest silk setting with a pressing cloth and test a hidden corner first.
  4. 4
    Store hanging or rolledHang on a smooth hanger or roll loosely. Avoid hard folds that crease the weave permanently.

Do

  • Act quickly on spills — blot immediately
  • Trust a dry cleaner for set stains
  • Steam lightly to remove travel wrinkles
  • Store in a fabric bag away from light

Don't

  • Machine wash or tumble dry
  • Rub stains — it damages the weave permanently
  • Iron on the face of the fabric
  • Use spot-remover sprays without testing first

Bags & Totes

Printed Cotton Tote Bags

Printed cotton exterior · water-repellant canvas lining · leather handles · brass hardware
Applies to: Printed Mini Totes, Printed All Day Totes (Japanese indigo, block print, and novelty print styles)

Printed Mini Tote care illustration

Printed Mini Tote & Printed All Day Tote

Step-by-step care

  1. 1
    Empty & shake out Remove all contents and turn upside down to shake out debris. Use a lint roller on the interior lining.
  2. 2
    Spot-clean the exterior gently Mix a few drops of mild dish soap in cool water. Apply with a soft cloth using light dabbing motions — never scrub directly on the print. Work around the design, not across it.
  3. 3
    Rinse and blot Wipe away soap with a clean damp cloth. Blot — don't rub — and work section by section.
  4. 4
    Wipe the lining The water-repellant canvas lining wipes clean easily with a damp cloth. Leave the bag open to air-dry completely.
  5. 5
    Air-dry upright Stuff loosely with tissue paper to hold shape. Stand in a well-ventilated spot away from direct sun — prolonged sun exposure can fade prints over time.

Do

  • Spot-clean promptly — don't let stains set into the print
  • Dab gently around printed areas
  • Store away from prolonged direct sunlight
  • Store upright, lightly stuffed when not in use

Don't

  • Machine wash — it fades and cracks the print
  • Scrub directly on the printed surface
  • Tumble dry or expose to direct heat
  • Use bleach or abrasive cleaners near the print
Japanese indigo & block prints: These specialty prints can bleed slightly when first wet. Always test in a hidden area before spot-cleaning, and use as little water as possible on the printed surface.

Bags & Totes

Solid Canvas Tote Bags

100% cotton canvas body · water-resistant canvas lining · leather handles · brass hardware · bound seams
Applies to: All Day Totes, Mini Totes, Portfolio Totes (all non-waxed canvas colors)

All Day Tote care illustration

All Day Tote, Mini Tote & Portfolio Tote

Step-by-step care

  1. 1
    Empty & brush outTurn upside down and shake out debris. Use a lint roller or soft brush on the interior lining and pocket.
  2. 2
    Spot-clean the canvasMix a few drops of mild dish soap in cool water. Apply with a soft cloth or brush in gentle circular motions. Don't saturate the canvas.
  3. 3
    Rinse and blot dryWipe away soap with a clean damp cloth, then blot dry with a towel. Work section by section.
  4. 4
    Wipe the liningThe water-resistant canvas lining wipes clean easily with a damp cloth. Leave the bag open to air-dry completely.
  5. 5
    Air-dry uprightStuff loosely with tissue paper to hold shape. Stand in a well-ventilated spot away from direct sun or heat.

Do

  • Spot-clean promptly — don't let stains set
  • Store upright, lightly stuffed when not in use
  • Air out after heavy or rainy-day use
  • Use a soft brush on textured prints

Don't

  • Machine wash — it stresses seams and hardware
  • Tumble dry or dry near direct heat
  • Use bleach or abrasive cleaners on prints
  • Store flat under heavy objects
Japanese indigo & block prints: These specialty fabrics can bleed slightly when first wet. Test in a hidden area before spot-cleaning, and avoid rubbing the print directly.

Bags & Totes

Waxed Canvas Bags

100% cotton (waxed) · water-repellent surface · develops patina with use
Applies to: Waxed Canvas All Day Totes (Black, Tennis Green, True Navy), Waxed Canvas Mini Tote (Black), Waxed Canvas Portfolio Tote (Black)

Waxed Canvas Portfolio Tote care illustration

Waxed canvas totes — scratch-resistant & water-repellent

Step-by-step care

  1. 1
    Brush off dry dirtUse a soft-bristled brush or dry cloth first. Most light soiling comes right off without any liquid.
  2. 2
    Damp cloth for deeper soilingIf brushing isn't enough, use a clean damp cloth — no soap. Wipe gently and allow to dry completely.
  3. 3
    Remove scratches with heatUse a hairdryer on low, held 3–4 inches from the surface. Move slowly — the wax softens and scratches blend in as the surface warms.
  4. 4
    Re-wax once a yearWhen water stops beading, apply a thin coat of Otter Wax with a cloth in circular motions. Use a hairdryer to melt it in, then buff with a clean cloth.

Do

  • Embrace the patina — it's meant to develop
  • Use Otter Wax for re-waxing (we use it ourselves)
  • Store in a breathable bag, not plastic
  • Let it dry fully before re-waxing

Don't

  • Machine wash or submerge in water
  • Use soap — it strips the wax coating
  • Dry in a dryer or near direct heat
  • Use silicone sprays — they seal the canvas
New bag: A fresh waxed canvas bag may leave slight wax marks on light clothing until broken in. This is normal and fades with use. Full waxed canvas care guide: read here →

Small Goods

Travel Kits, Clutches, Laptop Sleeves & Zip Pouches

Cotton exterior · water-resistant canvas lining · leather zipper pulls · brass YKK zippers · taped seams
Applies to: all cotton travel kits, cotton travel clutches, laptop sleeves, and zipper pouches

Add travel kit or clutch outline here

Source: any travel kit or cotton travel clutch product photo
Sketch in Canva → export PNG

Travel kits, clutches, laptop sleeves & zip pouches

Step-by-step care

  1. 1
    Empty completelyRemove all contents. Open the zipper fully and shake out any debris.
  2. 2
    Wipe the liningDampen a cloth with cool water and a drop of mild soap. Wipe the interior canvas lining thoroughly — it's water-resistant and wipes clean easily. Rinse with a damp cloth.
  3. 3
    Spot-clean the exteriorUse the same mild soap solution on a soft cloth or brush. Work gently on the exterior fabric, focusing on soiled areas.
  4. 4
    Air-dry openLeave the zipper open and stand or hang to dry fully in a ventilated spot before storing.

Do

  • Wipe the lining regularly — don't let spills sit
  • Air out after travel before storing closed
  • Leave zipper open while drying
  • Use a soft brush on Japanese indigo and print fabrics

Don't

  • Machine wash — it stresses the taped seams
  • Zip closed while still damp
  • Use bleach or abrasive cleaners
  • Scrub indigo or block prints aggressively
Laptop sleeves & zip pouches: Same care — spot-clean exterior, wipe interior, air-dry open. The leather pull tab can be conditioned lightly if it looks dry.

Small Goods

Velvet Travel Clutches

Panne velvet exterior · water-resistant canvas lining · brass YKK zipper · embossed leather zipper pull
Applies to: Velvet Travel Clutches in Olive, Navy, Sapphire, and Carrot

Add velvet clutch outline here

Source: Velvet Clutch (Carrot or Olive) product photo
Sketch in Canva → export PNG

Velvet travel clutches — Olive, Navy, Sapphire, Carrot

Step-by-step care

  1. 1
    Brush the pile gentlyUse a clean soft-bristled clothes brush and brush lightly in the direction of the pile. This lifts crushed fibers and removes surface lint.
  2. 2
    Revive crushed pile with steamHold a garment steamer 2–3 inches from the surface — never touch the nozzle to the velvet. Steam lifts the pile immediately. Brush gently while still warm.
  3. 3
    Blot stains — never rubBlot fresh spills immediately with a clean dry cloth. For set stains, lightly dampen a cloth with cold water only and blot. Rubbing permanently damages pile direction.
  4. 4
    Wipe the liningThe interior lining wipes clean with a damp cloth. Leave open to air-dry fully.

Do

  • Store flat or stuffed — velvet creases under pressure
  • Use steam to restore crushed areas
  • Brush regularly in the direction of the pile
  • Keep away from sticky or rough surfaces

Don't

  • Rub stains — this permanently damages the pile
  • Machine wash or dry-clean without contacting us first
  • Iron — heat will crush the pile flat
  • Press or fold tightly for storage

All Bags

Leather Handles, Straps & Pulls

Mahogany leather and blonde veg-tan leather · hand-cut handles · copper and brass rivets
Applies to: leather handles, center straps, shoulder straps, and zipper pulls on all bags and totes

Add leather handle detail here

Source: GKAD-006-E or GKAD-004-B (handle close-up)
Photo crop or sketch → export PNG

Hand-cut mahogany & veg-tan leather handles

Step-by-step care

  1. 1
    Wipe cleanFor light soiling, wipe with a barely-damp cloth. Dry immediately — don't let water sit on the surface.
  2. 2
    Condition periodicallyEvery few months, apply a small amount of Leather Honey with a soft cloth in circular motions. Let absorb 20 minutes, then buff off excess.
  3. 3
    If leather gets wetBlot dry immediately and let air-dry at room temperature. Once fully dry, condition. Never use a hairdryer — it cracks the leather.
  4. 4
    Let veg-tan darken naturallyBlonde veg-tan handles deepen to a warm honey with use. This patina is intentional — it's the mark of a well-loved bag.

Do

  • Condition once or twice a year
  • Let veg-tan darken naturally with use
  • Store away from direct heat and sunlight
  • Allow wet leather to dry at room temperature

Don't

  • Submerge in water or machine wash
  • Use silicone sprays — they block future conditioning
  • Dry with a hairdryer or near a radiator
  • Store in plastic — leather needs to breathe
Mahogany handles: A small amount of matching dark leather cream (Saphir or Lincoln Stain Wax) renews color and adds protection. Apply sparingly, buff to a soft sheen. Tape off surrounding canvas before applying.

All Bags

Brass Hardware

Solid brass D-rings · copper rivets · brass YKK zippers
Applies to: all hardware on totes, bags, and small goods

Add hardware detail here

Source: GKAD-004-C (rivet) or GKAD-006-C (D-ring)
Photo crop or sketch → export PNG

Brass D-rings, copper rivets & YKK zippers

Step-by-step care

  1. 1
    Keep zippers movingIf a zipper feels stiff, run a pencil tip along the teeth — graphite is a natural dry lubricant. A small amount of beeswax works too. Never use oil-based lubricants — they stain fabric.
  2. 2
    Polish for shine (optional)Brass darkens over time. If you prefer bright brass, apply a small amount of Brasso or a lemon juice + salt paste, rinse with a damp cloth, and dry completely. Tape off surrounding fabric first.
  3. 3
    Or embrace the patinaAged brass looks intentional on a well-used bag. The hardware is solid — either approach is fine and won't affect function.
Quick Reference

Key techniques at a glance

Spot-clean photo

Spot-clean Damp cloth + mild soap, gentle circular motion, rinse clean.

Steam photo

Steam Hold 2–3 inches away. Ideal for neckwear and velvet.

Air-dry photo

Air-dry upright Stuff with tissue paper, leave open, away from heat.

Condition photo

Condition leather Small amount of Leather Honey, circular motion, buff dry.

Beyond Home Care

Need a repair?

If a handle needs re-stitching, a seam has given way, a zipper needs replacing, or something just isn't right — we want to know. We stand behind everything we make.

Contact Us About a Repair →

Use coupon code WELCOME10 for 10% off your first order.

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WEDDINGS
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Japanese Raging Waves Travel Kit

$82.00 USD
Color Navy
Description

Our Limited Edition travel kits (dopp kits or toiletry bags) will keep you organized and stylish whether you are taking the trip of a lifetime or just heading out for a long weekend. The Japanese Raging Waves Travel Kit features a series of rolling waves intermixed with whales, schools of fish and any number of sea creatures. This fabric is in limited edition so pick this one up sooner than later.Aside from the outer fabric, taped seams and a water-resistant cotton canvas lining help to protect all of your valuables from the occasional leaky bottle. Sturdy mahogany leather handles and pulls add to the look and durability of the kit.

This pattern is also available in our All Day Tote while supplies last.

Travel stylishly.  Made in the USA- Limited Edition.                                 

Cotton/Leather Trim
*Brass YKK Zipper 
* Leather Handle (fits perfectly over a bathroom doorknob). 
*Logo Leather tab and zipper pull 
* US Sourced Heavy grade water-resistant cotton canvas 
*Taped seams 
*Size- 10 1/2” Length 
           5” Width 
           5” Height

Free shipping on orders over $100

Complete the look:

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Raging Waves All Day Tote

$188.00 USD

Japanese Raging Waves Travel Kit

$82.00 USD

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Free shipping on orders over $100
Shipping & Returns

Order tracking

You will receive a confirmation email shortly after placing an order and a tracking number as soon as your order has shipped.

Returns & Exchanges

If you are not 100% satisfied with your order, we will happily issue you a refund. Please email us at info@generalknot.com with your intention to return within seven days of receiving your order. See full return policy here.

Get in touch

If you have any questions about your order, please email us at info@generalknot.com . Our customer service team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Sourcing & Materials
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Sustainable sourcing

We are committed to producing quality products that are manufactured ethically and sustainably. We strive to ensure our products contribute to the well-being of people and the planet, and our efforts put us on track towards a brighter future.

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Ethical labor

Our founders, Ann and Andrew Payne, founded General Knot with a love for design and an appreciation for quality American manufacturing. We personally know every individual involved in the production of our products and ensure that they are well-compensated and work in a safe environment. A rising tide should lift all boats!

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Close To Home

There's nothing quite like working with your hands. We make every one of our products by hand here in the U.S., either in our own studio or another small U.S.-based manufacturing facility. It's the only way to ensure that every piece is made to our high standards. Mass production is not for us!

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