New Life For An Old Leather Coat...

A while back someone asked me if I wanted this long old leather coat...

Not one to turn down something for free...  I of course took it gladly.  Warning that I was probably going to cut it up... and cut it up I did... quickly deconstructing all of the pieces that caught my eye...

As I was laying out the useable pieces I stumbled across this old writing on the inside...  1920... my favorite era.  I love that it has a story...and now this leather will have a new chapter... as a purse...

The shape of the purse was truly influenced by the shape of the jacket...

Flipping the back piece upside down... the shoulder darts and side seaming formed the perfect shape.  Then I added a couple side pieces to match the front.  As the purse started coming together, I realized that there wasn't enough usable leather(i.e. not stained, scratched, or worn)... so I had to get creative...

 

Using coffee and vinegar I dyed the big pocket for the front and part of the shoulder strap... Then with black food coloring and vinegar... I also dyed the pocket flaps and buttons...

 I love the results!

 I finished off with printed lining and a magnetic snap... this old leather purse is ready to start a new chapter!

And I'm ready to go on some new adventures with my new purse!
Happy Sewing!
***Jennifer