Bag Rescue: From Older to Newer Sometimes I come across bags that immediately steal my heart. It's just like the social media videos about seriously neglected animals that, with lots of love, attention and good care, grow into a beautiful animal and loyal friend. My heart melts at such success stories and, to be honest, I often shed a tear.
But old bags have the same effect on me - and no, I don't have to cry about that, it's not that bad now - but sometimes I do cry about how they are left behind. This bag from the Dutch brand RUFO is a good example of this. I discovered it at a church bazaar and immediately fell in love with the beautiful green color that could still be seen here and there. It was mine for €2 (!).
As mentioned, the original green color was only visible in some parts. The leather was dirty and stained, the lining downright grubby and the closure damaged. But what a great bag! With no fewer than seven compartments, this bag is a real asset if you want to lose something. A bag in which you can transport an entire first aid kit, a toiletry bag and three packed lunches without you seeing it from the outside.
Anyway, to start with the outside: I cleaned it thoroughly and made it free of grease. Then I treated it with Saphir Canadiana restorative cream that cleans, nourishes and colors and also makes the leather water-repellent
I had already taken care of the lining in advance. Soap with ox gall soap really works wonders. The closure was a lot more difficult. I eventually colored it in with a chrome pen, but the result was honestly not great. But yes, things don't always turn out well for those pathetic, neglected animals, and yet (at least in those videos) they are always lovingly adopted into a new family. Who knows, that might also work with Little Green Bag.
The bag was taken to the Textile Market of the Dutch Costume Association. This market is held every year and is highly recommended for lovers of beautiful cloth, vintage clothing, regional costumes and much more. Together with my friend Kathleen, I rented a table where we displayed our merchandise on and around. Little Green Bag hung a little shyly among the other bags, seriously aware of its ugly duckling status.
It was quiet on the market for the first few hours. Like every year, the morning is reserved for members of the Costume Association and then the General Assembly also takes place. And yet, to my surprise, Little Green Bag was pulled from between its brothers and sisters no fewer than three times. And hung back again.
But the unthinkable happened. The lady who had first spotted Little Green Bag returned to the table! And just like in the sad animal videos, Little Green Bag also found a new owner. Madam happy, Little Green Bag happy and I am the happiest of all becauseBut the unthinkable happened. The lady who had first spotted Green Bag came back! And just like in the sad animal videos, Green Bag also found a new owner. Madam happy, Green Bag happy and I am the happiest of all because what could be better than giving an ugly duckling a brand new life?!
Curious about other success stories, like the one of Little Green Bag? Just take a look at the online shop..
