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How to Repair Brass Feet on a Handbag

Brass feet are the small pieces of hardware attached to the bottom of a handbag. They function to hold the handbag above the surface on which it's set to prevent damage from moisture and dirt. Brass feet are also aesthetically pleasing and add to the beauty of the handbag. On a vintage or older handbag, the brass feet can become loose or tarnished. You can repair these problems easily to ensure the brass feet continue protecting your handbag.

Things You'll Need

  • Flat head screwdriver
  • Craft adhesive
  • Plastic wrap
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Bowl
  • Spoon
  • Clean cloths
  • Car wax
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the handbag and peel back the layer of leather that's glued inside the bottom to expose the brass feet fasteners.

    • 2

      Use a screwdriver to tighten the fasteners into the brass feet so they're not loose.

    • 3

      Apply craft adhesive to the underside of the leather piece. Lay it in the bottom of the handbag and smooth it out while pressing it down. Allow the adhesive to dry for five to six hours to ensure the leather is securely attached.

    • 4

      Wrap plastic wrap around the handbag to cover the leather. Leave only the brass feet exposed.

    • 5
      Lemon juice is a common, inexpensive tarnish remover.

      Place 1 teaspoon cream of tartar and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir the two ingredients together to make a thick paste.

    • 6

      Apply the paste to the brass feet with a dry cloth to coat them. Allow the paste to sit on the surface for 30 minutes.

    • 7

      Buff the lemon juice paste off the brass feet to remove tarnish. Wipe the brass with car wax to add shine. Rub the feet to remove excess wax then remove the plastic wrap from the purse.