Painting a Tattered Handbag

Painting a Tattered Handbag - The Beginning


Painting a tattered handbag.


I was doing a little cleaning, and came across a handbag I had not used in years.


It is faux leather, and it was peeling in many areas.


I had tested turquoise fabric paint on one side of the bag a while ago.


I didn't like the way it looked, so I abandoned the project.


Dare I try it again?


graypursefrontsbi.jpgFront of the 'before" purse.

Painting a Tattered Handbag - Leather Paint on Faux Leather?


Initially, I thought that fabric paint should be used on faux leather, but I have since learned that leather paint can indeed be painted on faux leather.


I am so happy to know this. 


Leather paint is much more flattering on faux leather than fabric paint.


And, I believe that leather paint enhances the quality of the bag.


I chose hot pink as the new color.


Nothing says a girly handbag more than hot pink.


And so the painting began.


graypurseblacksbi.jpgBack of the 'before" purse.

Painting a Tattered Bag - The Process


I didn't realize that the bag was in as bad of shape as it was until I started painting it.


During the painting process, it was literally crumbling.


I kept painting anyway.


I was determined to see this project to completion.


When I finished, it looked good, but was it sturdy?

 

pinkpursesbi.jpgThe front of the "after" purse.

Painting a Tattered Handbag - The Days Following


Quite honestly, the bag continued to crumble and tear, as I used it in the days following the paint job.


I believe it is because I did not seal the paint with the finisher when I was done.


It has been my intent to do this, but I have not had the time.


As the bag has torn, I have re-painted these parts, and added finisher to these sections.


The finisher seemed to add stability, so I look forward to sealing the entire handbag.


I'm sure it will make a noticeable difference.


pinkpursewowsbi.jpgPainted purse "after."

Painting a Tattered Handbag - Lessons Learned


I have learned that if an item is a little tattered, it is okay to paint it, but I should not seek to restore items that are extremely tattered, and falling apart.


I put a lot of time, and effort into these projects, and I don't know if it's cost effective.


There may just be a time to let some things go.



Painting a Tattered Handbag - Etsy and Instagram


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