Swedish style rucksack, total renovation!

[R.Lewis]

Swedish style backpack restoration. Got this pack from a car boot sale for three quid a few years ago. Was very tired looking, faded canvas and all the leather was totally dried out and of no use. Most of the leather ripped if you tried to use it! However I saw the potential as its a really nice design with the pockets and the canvas is lined with a lightweight cotton liner which is nice.

Redone all straps and the frame mount with veg tan leather and proper copper rivets. Decided to keep the original buckles. Quick release left strap was already on pack (simple hook and a loop! But works well) so I modded the right with a D ring to match. Canvas cleaned up and waxed heavily with my own mix of wax. Did the lid straps extra long to allow for a blanket strapped under the flap. Leather is kept undyed, just oiled then waxed to let it age gracefully.

Pretty pleased with the result, will hopefully try it out later this week..

 

[ScottE]

Lovely job

 

[Macaroon]

That's a pretty comprehensive re-build, a lot of work gone into the pack; I'm sure it'll be a pleasure to use

 

[scottisha5]

Nice one Sir, these are great packs to start with and youve just made sure this one will go on for another hundred years. Love it mate.

 

[crosslandkelly]

Good job.

 

[Dreadhead]

nice work mate you have really brought that back to life

 

[Hunkyfunkster]

Great job there. You'll get many miles out of that

 

[boubindica]

nice bit of creative recycling there

 

[TinkyPete]

nice work there and now you can get a lot more years out of it

 

[Tengu]

Very posh and professional.

 

[Zingmo]

Lovely job.

Z

 

[Birch Axe]

Fantastic work, will no doubt last another lifetime!

 

[VaughnT]

Very impressive bit of work! Looks better than new!!

 

[Wander]

I'm not a fan of the practicalities of using such packs, but I must confess to loving the look and appeal of them.
Yeah, you've done a smashing job on that. Love it.

I must confess to a wry smile and raised eyebrow when I see such renovations and the 'last a lifetime' comments.
Reminds me of that Only Fools And Horses scene where Trigger still has the broom he was first given. 'Don't make them like they used to. I've had this since I started and it's still going. I've only had to change the handle twice and the brush three times...'

Anyway, it is a lovely looking pack and you truly have done a splendid job on it.