Even though I don’t carry a clutch very often, I was drawn to this one I found at Goodwill. The interior was clean, the magnetic clasp worked, and the price was definitely right. BUT, I wasn’t thrilled about the color (off white). That’s when I did a little research and discovered Angelus leather paint.
Painting leather shoes and purses was definitely a thing. And even though my clutch wasn’t real leather, I decided to try painting it with acrylic leather paint nonetheless.
This post contains affiliate links for your crafting convenience. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. All blue, bold, and underlined text is a clickable link, either to a product or to a related post.
Angelus Leather Paint for a Thrift Store Handbag
First, I purchased the following items for my handbag refresh project:
Then, I wiped down the exterior of the clutch to remove any dust or dirt. After that, I brushed on the leather preparer.
This was supposed to break down the original sealant to help the acrylic leather paint adhere better.
I purchased the Angelus leather paint in “Blue Turquoise” to really give my clutch a new identity. I wear a lot of black when I go out on the town, but I love to carry a brightly colored purse to offset my outfit.
Using a regular craft brush (about ½” wide) and long strokes, I began painting the purse.
And let me tell you, the coverage of the Angelus leather paint was amazing!
Painting a Purse with Acrylic Leather Paint
Seriously, though, this was just a single coat of Angelus leather paint. It’s completely opaque!
I finished the first coat of acrylic leather paint and allowed it to dry overnight.
Unrecognizable, right??
I did the same thing the next day- added a full second coat and left it to dry overnight.
Lastly, I used the acrylic finisher in satin and that was it! My thrift store clutch looked ENTIRELY DIFFERENT!
This time, I used a craft sponge brush to apply a really thin coat of the finisher- a cloth would have probably worked, too. And again…I let it dry overnight.
How to Paint a Purse with Angelus Leather Paint
To jazz it up even further, I attached a vintage enamel pin over the magnetic clasp. I found it on Etsy!
Since this was a faux leather, $0.79 clutch, I didn’t mind making holes for the brooch.
Can you even handle how amazing it looks?
How cool is that? I’m so bewitched by this makeover that I definitely want to try another project. Maybe I’ll do another purse, or I could try it on leather shoes, too.
Also – in the time since I published this post abut painting a purse, other brands have come out with acrylic leather paint. I haven’t tried any of them (such as Stylin Paint by Decoart), but would love to hear from you if you have!
If you enjoyed this upcycling idea for second hand bags, then you may also be interested in this hip bag from a thrift store purse, too!
And here’s a fun upcycling idea for a thrift store tote bag, as well!
I’m also very excited to announce that my first book is now available! If you love working with flannel or fabric crafts in general (sewing and non-sewing), then you will LOVE “Crafting with Flannel”!
Craft on!
S
Want to be notified when I publish my next upcycling project tutorial?
Join me on Social Media:
PIN ME! 
Sarah Ramberg is the owner of Sadie Seasongoods, a website that celebrates all things secondhand. From upcycling ideas and thrifted decor to vintage-centric travel itineraries, Sadie Seasongoods is a one-stop shop for anyone who loves thrifting and approachable repurposing ideas. Sarah is also the author of “Crafting with Flannel” and has been featured in numerous media outlets and magazines.
It looks nicer than the original color! Good Job!
Wow! That is so awesome! I looked for a purse in a particular color for my daughters formal, but couldn’t find one. This would have been perfect! I am pinning for future use. Thanks for trying it out and sharing it!
What a great makeover! I didn’t know they made leather paint, and good to know it will work on fake leather too. Pinned in case I ever run into a thrift store purse with potential and need to remember this project 🙂
Yes- I was so excited to discover leather paint!!! 🙂
I had no idea there was such a thing as leather paint…you are very creative! Hopped over from the Vintage Inspiration Party…
Thanks, Linda- it was a fun discovery, that’s for sure!!
The change is incredible! The best $.79 clutch ever. The color is amazing. Hopefully you carry it now. I guess that perhaps you put it on the table or in your lap? I have the same reasoning for not carrying the one I have.
This is so darn cute. Love the color! I would never have thought to paint it. The added flower is the icing on the cake! Thanks for sharing with Share Your Cup.
hugs,
Jann
Hello there! Stopping by from the Thursday Favorite Things blog hop. It looks better than before! I love the color you chose.
I love these lively colors!
Thanks for linking up this week:)
xx
Mila (Idea Box)
Adding clutches to my thrift store list for next week! I love what you did with plain clutch. So much fun!
Pinning and sharing! Thanks so much for sharing on Show Me Saturday!
Thanks, Ashley!!
WOW! I had no idea you could paint something like this! Amazing!!! Thanks so much for taking the time to link up with us over at the #HomeMattersParty – we hope to see you again this Friday! Feel free to bring a friend 🙂
Gorgeous!
N-I-I-C-E!!! Love this! I’m like Ashley- I’m going to start looking for clutches now (just as soon as I research what you do with them at a restaurant- I don’t know, either!). Thanks for introducing us to leather paint, and for sharing it with us at Treasure Box Tuesday! Pinned! 🙂
Thank you, Joy! And thank you again for featuring me last month. 🙂
This is awesome! I LOVE LOVE LOVE a good deal, and this just beats it all! I didn’t even know there was such a thing as leather paint. You did an excellent job!
I’m stopping by from the Friday Favorites linkup. I’d also like to invite you to join the High Five for Friday linkup I co-host every week. It goes live at 7 am eastern time on Friday mornings:)
Tif
http://www.brightonabudget.com
LOVE LOVE this! I have some purses that need a lift! I am so doing this, Sarah you are so creative! Thank you so much for sharing this on Making Memories Mondays! Hope to see you back Sun night 9PM EST! 🙂
Cathy
I didn’t know you could paint leather! Your clutch turned out beautiful. I’m going to keep my eyes open the next time I go to the thrift store to see if I can find a clutch in good shape and then give painting it a whirl. Thanks for sharing at my Grandma Ideas Sharing Time link party. I really appreciate your participation!
Thank you so much, Nina!
Such a cute idea!
I would love for you to share this on my FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pluckyrecipescraftstips
Thanks for joining Cooking and Crafting with J & J!
Pretty awesome indeed! I never knew there was such a thing as leather paint but glad to know now. Visiting from Inspiration Galore party.
Isn’t it so cool?? Endless possibilities!
Years ago I tried using leather paint but it didn’t work out very well. It cracked and peeled a bit here and there. I love to know if yours lasts better than mine did. I love the way your clutch turned out. Beautiful color.
I keep painting my Prada bag with acrylic paints and for the third time it started peeling and cracking how could I make the color stick? Why won’t it stick I tried cleaning it drying it painting in layers nothing it ends up peeling off
Are you using basic acrylic paint? Or the paint that is especially made for leather (and remains flexible after drying)?