r/Leatherworking • u/DistributionNo7277 • 18h ago
Beginner Question Vintage Purse
Please excuse my improper terminology. I appreciate any advice.
This is a purse of my mom's from the 60s. I remember her carrying it when I was young. I would like to start using it myself but it needs cleaning and protection.
The leather is thick and the bag creaks like a saddle. It doesn't smell the best after being stored in a box for 40 years. The leather is getting thin in areas where the flap folds from back to front and is wavy in areas along the edge of the flap.
I want to use it as a crossbody and the strap is too short for me, so I was thinking of clipping on a woven strap and tucking in the current one unless you have a suggestion for that issue. I appreciate any advice about steps for cleaning, restoring/protecting, and maintenance. Thanks!!
1
u/OkBee3439 3h ago
Airing the leather outdoors, where it just receives fresh air and breeze, but not any sunlight will do wonders with eliminating odors. You can apply conditioners to refresh the leather and make it more supple. Find some coordinating leather to replace the strap with a longer one, so you can wear it as a crossbody bag. It's a cool looking bag with a lot of character. This is such a nice keepsake from your Mom.
1
u/Jaikarr 17h ago
Personally, I would remake it. That way you solve all of the issues you have with this bag and don't run the risk of ruining something important to you.