Convert a purse into a backpack?

[LaVisioneer]

Hello TPFers!

I need some advice. I have an I expensive satchel from Target that I no longer use.

I would like to donate it or find a way to use it - but due to the poor design I will need to add d- rings somewhere on the bag. The strap attaches to the handle currentlywhich when the bag is fullcauses it to come open.

I would like to try to add 4 d-ring attachments (to the back?)so that I can convert it into a backpack/purse, like the Zac Posen Eartha.

Who has suggestions of how I might do this? Here are some photos:





I am also ok parting with it - but I do not want it filling up the landfill as I suspect future users will have the same issue as me and toss the bag.

Note that the magnetic clasp can easily be removed (but replaced with what?).

Any advice welcome!

 

[BigPurseSue]

Do you really want a backpack with a flap that could be so easily opened?

An alternative--and this is something I've done to bags--is to put a zipper inside the bag under the flap. Depending upon how the bag is constructed I'll pull up the lining a bit and hand-stitch a zipper to lining. No one can see it. The bag will then stay securely closed no matter how it's pulled or tossed around.

To attach D rings to the bag to restyle it into a backpack you might be able to repurpose the leather from the handle to fashion tabs for the D rings that you'd then sew to the back of the bag. Unless you want to sacrifice some of the leather from the strap.

 

[Roie55]

You can do this - not too hard. get some of these, i think you need 4 "Ball Post with D Ring Rivet Stud Round Head Screw Back" wierd ebay listing name i found)


Mark the back of the bag with a marker, in a thick part of the leather that can bear the load. 2 on the top row closer together than the bottom 2. Get a hand drill and a small drill bit, 2-3 mm. Drill at the marks on the bag. Screw in these ring rivets. You can now clip the straps to these rivets. You can do the same to a large wallet or pouch that you want to carry with a strap.

 

[LaVisioneer]

Good points - I’ll have to find a way to make the flap closure more secure!

I actually purchased some of these and seems straight forward but I’m wondering how much weight they can hold or if the pleather will tear over time. I’m thinking I might want to reinforce the area somehow.

 

[Roie55]

Good points - I’ll have to find a way to make the flap closure more secure!

I actually purchased some of these and seems straight forward but I’m wondering how much weight they can hold or if the pleather will tear over time. I’m thinking I might want to reinforce the area somehow.

i was thinking the same - maybe a square patch of leather added to inside when you screw the rivets closed?

 

[Fimpagebag]

Hello TPFers!

I need some advice. I have an I expensive satchel from Target that I no longer use.

I would like to donate it or find a way to use it - but due to the poor design I will need to add d- rings somewhere on the bag. The strap attaches to the handle currentlywhich when the bag is fullcauses it to come open.

I would like to try to add 4 d-ring attachments (to the back?)so that I can convert it into a backpack/purse, like the Zac Posen Eartha.

Who has suggestions of how I might do this? Here are some photos:

View attachment 5296010
View attachment 5296012
View attachment 5296013

I am also ok parting with it - but I do not want it filling up the landfill as I suspect future users will have the same issue as me and toss the bag.

Note that the magnetic clasp can easily be removed (but replaced with what?).

Any advice welcome!

Speaking from experience, I think both you and the bag would be best served if you donate it rather than attempt to make it into something it was never intended to be.

Who knows? Though you have had your travails with this particular bag, it might turn out to be a bag someone else will love.

 

[indiaink]

As soon as you mentioned pleather, I wouldn't try to remake it into something else. Over a very short time, no matter how you reinforce it, the holes will tear. Best leaving it be and donating it.

 

[LaVisioneer]

It’s been many years but FYI I did end up donating it in the condition above to a women’s shelter in the hope it would bring someone there some much needed joy!