Things You'll Need
Scissors
Thread
Needle
Straight pins
Broken purse straps are common occurrences that are usually due to normal wear and tear and the age of the purse, but can also be contributed to how well made the purse is to begin with. Too much weight in the purse can also cause stress on the stitches and straps. Fixing the broken strap yourself is fairly easy to do and is also more economical than purchasing a brand new purse.
Step 1
Cut the end off the strap to even up any torn or frayed edges. Avoid cutting too much fabric off of the end; otherwise, you will end up with a strap that is too short. For purses with two straps, remove the threads from one end of the unbroken strap and cut it the same length you cut the broken one to ensure both straps are the same length when you are finished.
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Step 2
Fold the end of both purse straps around the metal rings that connect the purse to the straps and pin them in place. Don't fold the purse straps too tightly. The straps should move freely on the metal rings. For purses that do not have metal rings, pin the straps onto the purse in their proper positions.
Step 3
Sew the straps in place. If you are sewing by hand, use two to three strands of thread for a more secure stitch. If you are machine sewing, reinforce the stitch by backstitching a couple of times. Leather purse straps will require the use of a leather point needle. The tips of leather point needles are shaped like triangles to allow the needle to push through the leather without tearing it.
Tip
Check yard sales and thrift stores for an inexpensive purse and use the strap from that purse to replace the strap on yours if the broken strap is too damaged to be fixed.
Warning
Leather point needles are extremely sharp and can cause injuries if not used with caution.
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