Bag repair in Amsterdam: zip, handle and lining

Replacing the zip on your bag

On almost every bag the zip is the first thing to break. The teeth come apart, the slider comes off or the fabric around the zip tears. Repairing a bag zip usually means replacing the whole zip: the old one out, the new one cut exactly to length and neatly topstitched.

That applies to backpacks as well as large bags such as a sports bag, weekend bag or suitcase. On a laptop bag the amount of work depends on how many compartments need to be opened.

We use sturdy zips that can take some punishment, in the same colour as the old one or a colour of your choice. Want a coil zip replaced with a metal zip? That is often possible too.

Replacing just the zip slider

If the zip still runs smoothly but no longer closes, often only the slider is worn. We replace that without taking the zip out. Your bag is then usually ready within a few days.

We also neatly refit a broken pull tab or a slider that has come off the track. Send a close up photo of the zip and we can see straight away whether a new slider is enough or whether the whole zip needs replacing.

Repairing or replacing a handle or shoulder strap

A handle that has pulled loose or a shoulder strap that tears at the attachment we repair. We restitch the strap, reinforce the spot on the inside and repair loose stitching.

If the handle is really worn, we replace it with a new handle or a new shoulder strap. That can be in webbing, faux leather or leather, as close to the original as possible. An adjustable strap or an extra long shoulder strap is possible too.

We also replace a broken press stud or magnetic clasp. Small parts, but they decide whether you still enjoy using your bag.

Stitching up or replacing the lining

A torn lining is a nuisance: your keys disappear between the lining and the outer layer and you only find them after a long search. Stitching up a tear in the lining is usually done quickly.

If the lining is thin, torn or stained all over, we replace it completely, including an inside pocket if there was one. We choose a sturdy lining fabric that suits the bag and stands up to daily use.

Tip: take a photo before you bring the bag in, so you can see exactly how good it looks when it comes back repaired.

Leather bags and wallets

We also repair simple leather bags and wallets: restitching a loose seam, replacing a zip or reattaching a handle. Leather needs a different needle, thicker thread and often handwork in places the machine cannot reach.

Everything about leather, from closing a small hole to a new lining in a leather jacket, is on the page Leather repair.

Which bags we repair and which we do not

Fabric bags, backpacks, sports bags, laptop bags, shoulder bags and simple leather bags we are happy to repair. Zips, handles, straps, linings, clasps and stitching are work that belongs in our workshop.

What we do not do: colour restoration, redyeing or replacing the metal hardware on designer bags. That is a job for a specialist bag restorer, and we will honestly refer you to one. A zip or lining in a designer bag we can often replace, but we tell you in advance what we can and cannot guarantee.

Not sure? Send a photo. You always get an honest answer, even if that means you are better off somewhere else.

How it works

Take a photo of your bag and of the broken spot, and send it via WhatsApp to 020 668 5404. We take a look and tell you quickly what is possible and how long it will take. Then you bring the bag to the workshop at Wagenaarstraat 209 in Amsterdam East, a 4 minute walk from the Dapperstraat stop (tram 1 and 3, bus 37 and 41), and you hear the price there, before we start.

Your bag is usually ready within 3 to 5 working days. A rush job within 48 hours is usually possible. Parking is available on the street or at Q-Park Oostpoort, a 5 minute walk away.