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!
. I've rehabbed a few dozen bags and for my after shots/posts I usually include my process. There is a wealth of info posted here. You could do a search here of the different products here. It takes time but as you read different posts you get a feel for what works for members here. If you search katev's posts, she is very generous with taking the time to detail her outcomes with what products she uses. And mpd got an amazing result for her black Stewie on the page before this so I am ordering Chamberlains!
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