Repair your backpack - Fixing a 1980's Berghaus backpack

Backpack restoration, stabilise peeling PU linings.
00:00 Intro
00:35 Initial Weight
01:25 Fixing PU backing
04:32 Reducing Straps and Buckles
05:50 New Drawstring top
07:05 Final Weight and Fit

[ashersaxton]

Thank you for this! I have 3 backpacks that were my dad’s back in the late 80’s when he was on a hotshot forest fire fighting crew before he passed away, and they have all developed this exact same issue. I’m hoping to restore them to their former glory, and take them back out on the trails that he loved so much.

[Kat-zlrc]

Great video. I have a backpack with the flaky material and it's got this sticky residue inside. After scraping and heating, it still feels sticky. What is the next step? Do I wash the backpack in soapy water, sprinkle baby powder, or spray rubbing alcohol? Thanks

[KevKovac]

Nice video. This is exactly what I was looking for.
I have the same issue with a couple of old backpacks, they are all still very usable, but all my stuff is covered in white flakes.
Doesn't the steel brush damage the fabric? I got a feeling a brush with stiff plastic hairs might be safer for the fabric. What are your ideas on it?

[ahermens]

That was awesome! One question for everyone. I have a late 90s North Face Terra 35 Litre. the fabric protecting the zip is wearing away and I am loathed to throw it away. It needs some fabric sewed around it. Has anyone done this before? My local taylor says it can't be done. I'm going to keep the bag until I can find someone who can repair it! I'm located in London, UK

[bowieknife]

I didn't know you could "melt" the flaking layer back into the fabric. Is that for all waterproof linings? I have an old Gregory backpack that has a bit of the same issue. Thanks for your cool tutorial on restoring a nice bag!

[johnmutter]

That’s not a steel brush. It’s a brass bristle brush. If you used a steel brush it would rip your pack to smithereens.