Although probably the most time consuming project I have ever completed, it was definitely the most fun. It all started when I was scrounging the Vancouver listings on craigslist.com when I came across a post titled "USED Balenciaga Work - $150". The price was definitely what drew me in, so when I clicked the post to view more details, I was disappointed to find no pictures. The post simply said:
"Up for sale is a seriously used Work. Minor defects/damages. Still interested? E-mail me."
I was obviously still intrigued so I e-mailed the seller. If it ended up being a junker, then that was fine with me. No loss, right? But when I got her reply avec photos, that was really not the case. What I saw was a fixer-upper that just needed a little TLC (see below).
Ok, maybe a LOT of TLC! It turns out that this bag was originally an '07 Natural, of which the previous owner (attempted) to dye black). While the hardware is in great condition, the old dye is peeling and cracking in areas of wear. That didn't stop me anyway from buying it. To complete my restoration project I had to:
- Strip off the old dye using acetone (I was hesitant to do this, as I was scared the leather may not be able to hold up).
- Moisturize the leather before applying any coats of dye.
- Apply 2 coats of 'penetrating' dye by Fiebings (the old dye that appears on the bag was probably a self-shine dye that only held to the surface of the leather).
- Finish with 2 coats of Tarrago self-shine dye (the Fiebings dye left a bronze tone, and I used the Tarrago dye to get a true black and seal the penetrating dye).
- Lastly, moisturize again using products from Lovin' My Bags (I have not done this yet, as I've yet to receive the stuff I ordered!).
Part II is on the way!
jacket: ONLY, top: Brandy, pants: thrift, shoes: Converse, bag: Balenciaga
