How to Fix Torn Vinyl for a Purse

Vinyl is a less-expensive substitute for leather.

Vinyl accessories are made from a polymer plastic made to resemble leather. Vinyl is more delicate than leather and can scuff and tear more easily. Made into an accessory that is used often and thrown around a bit, like a purse, a tear can easily appear. The material can be fixed using the same tools used to repair leather. Depending on the size of the tear and the finish on the vinyl, a tear can be restored to look brand new and can definitely be restored to be at least functional again.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Tape
• Fabric glue
• Woven cotton fabric
• Leather or vinyl repair kit

Instructions

1. Cut away any frayed edges or loose strings on both sides of the tear.

2. Line up and close the two sides of the tear, and put a small piece of tape across the tear to hold it together. Use two or three pieces along the length of the tear if needed.

3. On the inside of the purse, glue a piece of woven cotton fabric, preferably a very durable fabric like muslin, at the site of the tear. The backing will help anchor the repair materials and keep the tear closed. If the purse has a lining, cut a hole in the lining to reach the back of the vinyl and apply the fabric backing, and then sew or glue the lining together.

4. Apply the leather or vinyl repair kit glue on the tear. Fill in the crevasse created by closing the tear, and level off the repair glue to match the surface of the purse.

5. Level the surface using the tools in the kit. Sandpaper or a spatula may be required to blend the glue in to match the surface of the vinyl purse.

6. Apply the matching color from the kit over the repaired tear. Some kits have self-drying adhesive, while others may require the application of heat to set.

References

• Komo 4 News: Do It Yourself Leather Repair Kit: Does It Really Work?
• Leather Help: Leather Repairs ... How To Quickly & Easily Make Minor Leather Damage Disappear!