Help! Patent Valentino clutch deteriorating - advice how to repair

[stacy_natalie]

I recently came across an old Valentino lacca bow clutch in fuschia patent i forgot i had. The problem is the leather is cracking and breaking off on the bottom part of the bow (attaching photos). I originally thought maybe the leather could be cut or folded underneath the top/undamaged part of the bow but I took to a local shoe repair and he wouldn't even touch it. The back of bag looks decent - there are some parts where the leather appears dull which doesn't bother me that much although any advice on how/ what to use to try to recondition is welcome too. Interior of bag fine and forgot it even had a chain until I opened it only to discover one portion of the chain appears extremely discolored/ much darker than the rest. Appreciate all suggestions you may have on what can be done to repair this bag so it's usable again.

 

[lill_canele]

I'm sorry about your bag and I don't think I'll be of much help.
I have heard that once patent leather is damaged it is very difficult or almost impossible to repair unless it's a full replacement of damaged parts.
Hope someone can help you! I am looking forward to other's responses. I have avoided patent bags for many reasons related to damage, color transfer, stickiness, etc.

 

[MiniMabel]

Unfortunately, I think it will be impossible to repair.

Has the chain gone rusty?

 

[S0nia]

That's the problem with "plasticized" leather a.k.a. patent. You typically cannot fix damages.
Are you in a humid environment?

 

[LacedUpLj]

I've been refurbishing bags for years and unfortunately that is one of the only materials that is extremely difficult to repair. One tip (especially for future bags) that many people often don't know is that PL and Vinyl both need to be conditioned just like leather does. Be sure to use one made for PL, because it is not the same as one you would use for leather. Conditioning may prevent further damage but unless you have experience or are a professional, I wouldn't recommend attempting to repair what damage has already occurred. Avoid using any cleaner that is not made specifically for PL because this material is really temperamental and easily spots or can even break down. As for the chain, do you by chance know what it is made of? Depending on the type of metal, it might be salvageable.

 

[stacy_natalie]

That's the problem with "plasticized" leather a.k.a. patent. You typically cannot fix damages.
Are you in a humid environment?

Yes, south Florida. Miserably humid.

I've been refurbishing bags for years and unfortunately that is one of the only materials that is extremely difficult to repair. One tip (especially for future bags) that many people often don't know is that PL and Vinyl both need to be conditioned just like leather does. Be sure to use one made for PL, because it is not the same as one you would use for leather. Conditioning may prevent further damage but unless you have experience or are a professional, I wouldn't recommend attempting to repair what damage has already occurred. Avoid using any cleaner that is not made specifically for PL because this material is really temperamental and easily spots or can even break down. As for the chain, do you by chance know what it is made of? Depending on the type of metal, it might be salvageable.

Thank you very much for your expert opinion.

 

[880]

I would email the pics to a professional leather repair place and ask, but I fear it will be extremely expensive and may not produce results that you are happy with. Pls keep the thread updated. Fingers crossed you can find someone to work on this. I believe TPF members have recommended these companies. Perhaps you can also ask @docride for her opinion on whether this can be restored on her Lazarus thread (mainly for Hermes though) https://forum.purseblog.com/threads...read-can-this-hermes-be-saved.972522/page-102

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ETA: I had a favorite Valentino patent bag myself once. Dark purple rosettes. It could not be saved.
When I tried to condition it, it just started to flake apart in sad little bits.
So, I do understand a bit of what you are going through.

 

[stacy_natalie]

I would email the pics to a professional leather repair place and ask, but I fear it will be extremely expensive and may not produce results that you are happy with. Pls keep the thread updated. Fingers crossed you can find someone to work on this. I believe TPF members have recommended these companies. Perhaps you can also ask @docride for her opinion on whether this can be restored on her Lazarus thread (mainly for Hermes though) https://forum.purseblog.com/threads...read-can-this-hermes-be-saved.972522/page-102

LEATHER SPA - The Art of Leather Care

Leather Spa is the go-to resource for discerning clients seeking the finest repair and care needs for their shoes and other leather accessories for more than 30 years. Be inspired by the array of customized services we offer for all your leather care needs.

leatherspa.com

Home

Mail-in and in-shop repairs. Our leather masters fix and refinish purses, handbags, shoes, boots, designer sneakers and more. Satisfaction guaranteed.

www.ragobrothers.com

Modern Leather Goods – Leather Repair.

www.modernleathergoods.com

ETA: I had a favorite Valentino patent bag myself once. Dark purple rosettes. It could not be saved.
When I tried to condition it, it just started to flake apart in sad little bits.
So, I do understand a bit of what you are going through.

Thanks so much for your advice. I will look into when I have time. Not a priority, I don't care that much about the bag just upsetting to find in that condition after barely using (and could in large part be due to my own neglect). If there was a quick fix then great but don't want to spend a ton of money on it - would rather put that towards something new! Lol. But it's pretty and barely used so if I can salvage I will. Will keep you posted.