FAQs

Where do ROK products come from?

ROK products come from the outer bark of the evergreen oak known by the Latin name Quercus (oak) Suber (cork), which grows in Southern Europe, 300,000 pounds are harvested annually, with Portugal having the highest harvest percentage of 61.3%.

Does harvesting cause damage to the cork trees?

Not at all. When the cork reaches maturity, it begins to separate naturally from the tree. This process occurs during the spring/summer months when the weather is very dry in the Montado of Portugal. Then using a process refined over centuries, workers assist in the release by harvesting the cork with a special technique and machete, leaving behind a healthy tree. As soon as the tree is harvested, it begins the process all over again. In order to ensure that the trees are healthy, the first, initial harvesting of the cork does not occur until the tree reaches 80 cms in circumference and a maturity of 25 years of age.

What happens to the trees after they are harvested?

Once the harvest takes place the last digit of the corresponding year in which the tree is stripped is painted, this will ensure that the next harvest will be in due time. The trees are left for nine years, the necessary time frame to reproduce new bark. Cork trees can live anywhere from 200-300 years, making them a one of a kind sustainable product.

How does the bark of an Oak-cork tree become cork fabric?

Once harvested the bark is stacked and dried for six months in the open air, the selected planks are stacked in piles to be exposed to sun, wind and rain. During this period, the cork texture stabilizes then it is sorted by thickness and quality.
The planks of bark are then boiled and steamed. This process will ensure that it rids the material of insects, parasites and dirt. The procedure also removes the tanning agent, which increases the flexibility of the material.
Once the planks are dry again heat and high pressure are used to press the cork into thick blocks that are later sliced to thin sheets. The sheets are cut into panels, sanded and glued onto cotton-based core material. No dye or chemicals are involved. The long process brings to life Cork fabric: A durable, natural, fashionable material that reflects an aspiration for a world more in tune with nature.

What is so special about CorkAccessories products?

Cork Accessories Accessories products are manufactured from the bark of Oak trees. The sustainability of its production and the easy recycling of cork's products and by-products are two of its most distinctive aspects. What makes Cork a unique product is its properties: Lightness, Elasticity, Impermeability, Insulation, and Resistance to wear and tear, Hypoallergenic and Fire resistant. In buying and using cork products, you are contributing to the preservation of a natural, renewable resource and ecological environment in western Mediterranean countries.

How do I care for my ROK product?

Unlike its cousin, leather, cork does not need to be conditioned. It is easily cleaned, simply wipe the stain with a soft damp cloth and a little gentle liquid soap and water. Remove any excess soap with a damp cloth and allow the item to dry naturally. Natural baby wipes can also be used.

Are ROK products waterproof?

Yes, cork products are impermeable.

Are ROK products environmentally friendly?

Yes, there is no damage to the trees harvested. Cork is environmentally friendly; In the production process there is no waste (the waste is used for stoppers). No dyeing is involved in the process .Cork offers an alternative for people who would like to stay away from leather. It reflects the new global commitment to the environment.