トラブルシューティング2They lose their shape and look tired.
From "Leather in Japan No. 4" published in 2011
Imaging the original shape
Restoring distortion and shrinkage by hand
In addition to carrying heavy loads, bags have been deformed by the effects of climate, such as dryness and humidity. Just by pulling it by hand and adjusting the outline appearance, the overall impression will change considerably. After that, it is more effective to put stuffing and leave it for ~day.
The trick to smooth the process of pulling the leather is to do it in a warm place, such as in front of a heater," says Ozeki. He says this is because the leather stretches more easily, and leather craftsmen practice this even in the middle of summer. Also, leather becomes hard when it dries, so oiling it beforehand makes the work easier.
After the bag is repaired, stuff a towel or something inside and hang it in a well-ventilated place for storage. This is recommended as it will prevent the bag from losing its shape anew.
A bag that has become distorted after years of use. Unnatural dents, wrinkles, and misaligned lines can be seen everywhere, giving the bag a tired look.
Step 1: Soften the leather with oil
First, remove dirt and dust with a brush, and then apply oil (Lanapar) with a sponge. The oil softens the leather and makes it easier to stretch the leather after Step 2.
Step 2: Correct the distortion of the outline
Pull the distortion of both sides, the bottom line, and the gusset that has been crushed by hand to restore the original shape. If the leather is hard, you can use a lot of force!
Step 3: Push back the corners from the inside
Push out the dents at the corners from the inside with your fingers. Instead of using your fingers, you can use a stick with a rounded tip, such as the handle of a toothbrush. Push the corners back carefully so that the corners are firmly formed.
Step 4: Rub and loosen the hard parts.
If the leather is hard and difficult to pull, rub it with your fingers to soften it by frictional heat. Do not try to stretch the leather all at once.
Step 5: Repairing fine deformations
Areas that are consistently subjected to similar loads, such as near the handles, are prone to deformation. If there are any distorted lines or wrinkles that are bothering you, pull them with your fingers and stretch them out to correct them.
Step 6. make stuffing with newspaper
Fold newspaper to make several pieces of stuffing, being careful to make them slightly larger than the outline of the bag. It is recommended to wrap the bag with white paper at the end to prevent the color from transferring to the bag.
Step 7: Stuffing and keeping the shape
Fill the bag with stuffing to keep the restored shape. The key is to push out any wrinkles or distortions by stuffing the bag with the stuffing.
Step 8: Hang it for 1 to 2 days
Once the stuffing is in place, hang the bag in a shady, well-ventilated place for 1~2 days. Hanging the stuffing will prevent it from losing its shape, and the newspaper inside will absorb moisture, making it easier to return to its original shape.
Step 9: Finish!
The corners that were dented on the inside have been plumped up, and the distortion of the line near the handle has been straightened. The glossy finish gives it a more luxurious appearance!
Care goods to correct the loss of shape
1. Sponge for applying oil.
2. Lanaper (250g/3,150Yen) recommended by Mr. Ozeki. It is an excellent leather treatment, mainly composed of beeswax and jojoba oil, and is effective in moisturizing, repelling water, and preventing mold and mildew.
3. Before starting work, brush off any dirt or dust to make the work smoother.
4. Newspaper used as stuffing. It is also expected to absorb moisture.
5. Before stuffing the bag with newspaper, cover it with such white paper to prevent color migration.
Iron any stubborn distortions!
Ironing is effective for distortions and deep wrinkles that cannot be brought back by pulling by hand. Set the iron to a low temperature and iron over a cloth. Be careful, however, as some leather may be damaged.
