Leather handbag repair / restoration

[ChiaraMontague]

Has anyone had a leather bag repaired / restored? I have a few bags that could use some TLC and repair / restoration work - replacing the lining, lengthening handles, replacing a shoulder strap and possibly dyeing the leather a different colour.
I’ve found a lot of places online but wondered if anyone had personal experience.

I had a leather tote with split straps which I took to a cobbler but I was not happy with result.

I've actually now picked up leather craft as a new hobby so I'm relining and repairing my own things, example in my blog here.

thescentfulapprentice.co.uk/smell-the-glove/
I'm a beginner but I like having more control over the repairs.

You can do a lot more than you'd think yourself with just leather glue and a few stitches. But appreciate not for everyone as you have to buy some tools and be handy with a needle.

Where do you live? I'm in Facebook group called Leather Workers Uk. If you ask to join and post pics in there and ask advice they may be able to direct you somewhere or advise how much to pay. You might even find a crafter who does good repairs near you.

I'd look for a cobbler with really good local reviews or take into a leather goods shop and ask their recommendations.

Really great advice, thank you so much!
(Love your blog too!)

There’s a fab lady called Claire who runs the Handbag Restoration Company. She has a website and fb page. I’ve used her a couple of times & would recommend her.

I used the Restory in selfridges in London and they did an excellent job. My mulberry looks brand new again.

Thank you @Daisy829 - I’ve had a good look at Claire’s website. Do you mind me asking what her prices were like? I had one quote from another handbag restoration specialist that was around £700 which seems on the high side!

Thank you @Twilightstarbright I will check to see if they have a remote service (bit difficult for me to get to Selfridges at the moment)

They should do. I think they have a courier.

I've just had a Chanel boy bag back from Claire and can recommend her.

I also use the leather surgeons in the states as they are not only extremely cheap but they are highly talented.

You can insure through them and send via Royal Mail ( it took a week or so to get there ) they are super quick and I had my bag back within 6 weeks.

Claire at the handbag restoration company on the other hand took at least 3 months so it's worth exploring both options.

Claire did corner piping on a Mulberry for me. Took 2 weeks or so and £75. She was great!

@ChiaraMontague I’ve never had a bag dyed but I’ve had one cleaned which I think was about £80 & ive had a strap made which was about £65. It was a while ago to be honest so I can’t quite remember.
She did a repair on one of my mulberry bags much cheaper than mulberry quoted me. She’s quite busy but her work is excellent.

Thanks so much everyone, Claire sounds fantastic and prices more in line with what I was expecting - I will get in touch with her to arrange a quote.