How to Repair a Leather Purse Handle With Glue

Gluing a ripped handle can make your leather bag look like new again.

While leather is extremely strong and durable, when it comes to leather bags there are two areas that often start to fall apart first: the bottom of the bag, an area that often gets smacked against the ground, and the handles. Many people overload their leather bags, putting enormous weight and tension on the handles. While some people think that sewing is the best option for repairing leather handles, it's often not. Sewing creates more tiny holes in the leather, which can lead to more rips. Glue is often the preferred substance for leather purse handle repairs.

Things You'll Need

• Small, sharp scissors
• Quick-bonding glue
• Phone book or comparable item

Instructions

1. Trim any hanging threads that might be dangling from your leather handle. Position your handle back in place where it should be. Hold a ruler underneath it and the other handle (if there's another handle) to make sure they are level. Adjust if necessary.

2. Add four drops of glue to the top-right, top-left, bottom-right and bottom-left corners of the bag where the handle will press into. Add four drops of glue to the inner part of the handle that will press into the bag. Press this inner part of the handle onto the exterior of the bag. Some glue might seep out ever so slightly, so quickly wipe it away with a cotton swab.

3. Keep the handle pressed against the exterior of the bag with your hands. Exert a firm pressure on the bag and handle so that pressure is firm. Place a phone book on top of the handle and bag, being careful not to move the handle from where it has bonded. Leave the phone book on top of the handle for a few hours until you are absolutely certain that it has completely bonded.

References

• "How to Fix (Just About) Everything"; Bill Marken; 2002