FAQs

Given today's variety of furs, everyone wants to make an informed purchase. We've selected some of the most common questions about buying a fur and provided clear answers to help guide you through through the process of buying a fur. If you have a question that isn't answered here, don't hesitate to contact us. We are experts and will gladly answer you.

1) What does 'sheared' mean?

Shearing is the process of cutting the longer guard hairs on the pelts to a uniform length. The resulting fur is soft and velvelty. Sheared furs are very often dyed in fashionable colours or else carved with interesting textures and patterns. Sheared furs are popular because of their light weight.

2) How do I look after my fur?

Fur is naturally long-lasting and durable. To keep your fur looking like new, we recommend professional storage in the summer months. Many large department stores have fur vaults, a temperature- and humidity-controlled room designed specifically to protect your fur. Storing your fur preserves the natural oils in the leather and prevents it from drying out. If the leather dries, rips may begin to appear and these cannot be properly repaired.

3) Do I need to put my fur in storage?

Fur storage is an inexpensive way to preserve your investment. Fur vaults are controlled environments that are different from your cedar closet. We believe that storage is an excellent way to maximize the life of your fur.

4) How do I clean my fur?

Never try and clean your fur yourself and never leave it with the dry-cleaner. Fur cleaning is a complex process that is best left to professionals. When a fur is cleaned and conditioned by a specialist, it enhances its lustre and durability. Many furriers offer cleaning services. Call your local furrier and ask about cleaning. You can also contact us. We will be happy to recommend fur cleaners in the Montreal area.

5) Can my old fur be remodelled?

If your fur has been well looked-after, then it may be possible to have your fur remodelled. We can change the style and shape of your coat. But there are many possibilities. You might choose to have your old coat made into a headband, hat or even into pillows and other home accessories. Only we can judge if your fur is in a condition suitable for remodelling. We will be happy to arrange an appointment to examine your fur.

6) Why are some furs more expensive than others?

The fur market is much like the stock market-- the prices of pelts vary according to their demand. There are some pelts that are considered more luxurious and sleek and so consistently demand higher prices. Dying, carving and other processes also affect the price of a fur. Finally, the quality of the pelts varies tremendously. At Heritage we carry only top lot pelts. These represent the best offering available.

7) Why is a coat made of 'pieces' less expensive?

Pieces are the parts of a pelt that were not used in particular style of coat. At Heritage, we use these pieces to make new coats. The quality is by no means different. These coats are less expensive simply because we cannot achieve the same uniform texture as with a full pelt. But this is often what makes coats made of pieces so stylish!

8) Is a sheared coat less warm?

No. Shearing removes only the top layer of hairs, called guard-hairs. Guard-hairs do not contribute to the warmth of a garment. Rather, it is the dense underfur that makes fur so warm.

9) Does dying affect the quality of the pelts?

Yes, but only very slightly. The chemicals used to dye today's coats are effective and less aggressive than then those used previously. The leather is not affected by the dying process. At Heritage we send our coats to be dyed by only the most reputable companies. The fur itself may not be just as soft as it was in its natural form, though it is almost impossible to discern the difference.

10) What is knit fur?

Knit fur is an exciting new fashion statement. Pelts are cut into thin strips and woven through a grid. The result is an exteremly light coat, with fur on both the inside and the outside. Knit fur is vibrant and heavily textured and a favourite among many of today's leading designers.

11) Will rain or snow ruin my fur?

No. If your fur becomes wet, hang the garment and leave it to dry. Do not attempt dry it with a hair-dryer or any heat source. After it is dry, shake it well to return the suppleness to the fur. You should avoid wearing your fur in heavy rain if you wish to preserve its longevity.

 12) How long will my fur last?

How long your fur lasts depends directly on how well you look after it. However we've known some furs to last upwards of twenty-five years.