This is the basic process I use for rehabbing an unlined vintage, glove-tanned cowhide Coach bag (not suede or pebbled or other special, exotic, or delicate leather*):
- If the hangtag is missing, call Coach Coach Customer Service to request a free replacement. It the bag has a non-functioning turnlock, also call Customer Service for a free turnlock replacement kit.
- If the hardware and/or the leather touching the hardware has turned green, search this thread for information on removing verdigris.
- Make sure the bag is clean inside, vacuum it out if it needs it.
- Give it a sudsy bath in Dawn dish soap and water.
- Rinse well and let it drain in the sink for a bit.
- Stuff it with old towels or clean rags, shape it properly and set it on a towel to dry (turning occasionally).
- Wait 24 hours and then remove the towels and let it continue drying.
- While it is still damp apply a moisturizer like Leather CPR.
- Over the next few days, if the leather feels dry or rough or it seems to dry out quickly, give it a few more applications of moisturizer. Thin areas like straps may dry more quickly than the bag. Don't let the moisturizer build-up in the seams and crevices.
- When it is dry apply Black Rocks Leather N Rich: use very sparingly, work on small sections at a time, wipe off the excess and then buff with a clean, horse hair brush.
- Give the bag a day "to let the leather rest" and give it a second application of Black Rocks if it still looks faded and scuffed.
- Polish the hardware with an appropriate metal polish (e.g., Wenol).
- If there has been edging loss from the sides of the straps, touch them up with matching acrylic paint, let the paint dry for 24 hours.
- Wear and enjoy a beautifully rehabbed bag!
Note: This is just the process that I have used successfully with many bags - that doesn't mean it is a universal method that will work well on every bag. If you are a new rehabber or if it is an unusual bag and/or has a special problem, it is a good idea to post detailed pictures here to ask for advice from multiple rehabbers. It is also wise to spot-check products in an obscure area before applying it widely to the bag. Good luck, rehabbing is fun but addictive!
*This doesn't mean that delicate, exotic, pebbled, suede or lined bags can't be rehabbed, but they may need special treatment - ask rehabbers here for advice before you begin!
? Does the rehab process change much for really old bags like this? Thank you in advance for any advice! I want to be ready when she arrives.
