Awww! LLANeedle, you shouldn't have to feel that way! $1300 is nothing to sneeze at! If you don't mind, please put up a ruckus and call the NYC offices and ask for the CEO or manager that you can vent to. I always do well when I send a written letter. The truth is while bad publicity is still publicity, even a reputable company cannot afford bad publicity in this economy! You shouldn't have to settle for a peeled bag. It's not like I've read any complaints about any other bags you have. This really shouldn't happen. I wish you all the luck in the world!!!!