How to Replace a Leather Shoulder Strap

Leather straps of nearly any kind can be replaced.

A dinged and torn leather shoulder strap doesn't look appealing, even on an expensive bag. A damaged leather strap can end the usefulness of a favorite bag, if the damage is severe enough. Although leather seems like a difficult fabric to fix, you can replace a leather strap with minimal knowledge of the material or sewing.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• 2 D- or O-rings
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Measuring tape
• Leather
• Pins (optional)

Instructions

1. Cut off the damaged shoulder strap. Leave about 2 to 3 inches of strap on each side.

2. Slide the D- or O-rings down the remaining strips of leather.

3. Fold the leather in half toward the inside of the bag and sew a seam along the bottom to create a loop to hold the ring in place. Repeat on the opposite side.

4. Measure the length of your old strap. Cut two strips of leather equal in length to your broken strap but one-half wider than your previous strap.

5. Fold a 1/4-inch hem on both sides of the both lengths of leather to create a finished edge. Pin and sew a seam down both sides.

6. Wrap an end of the new strap through the D- or O-ring. Fold 1 inch of strap. Sew a seam to hold it in place. Repeat on the opposite side.

Tips & Warnings

• After you add the D- or O-ring, you can use a snap-on replacement strap instead of making your own strap.

References

• Observer: Repair a Bag Strap

Resources

• Good Housekeeping: Leather Care Tips
• Bike Week Leather: Top Ten Care Tips