Repairs - Leather Jackets

[HorseHide]

I'm curious if there are any "go-to" shops to repair/update leather jackets here in the US. I've got an old Schott that could probably use a new liner some day. I also have an old Aero HH that will probably need a replacement zipper.

I'm sure that there are local craftspeople here in Chicago to make these repairs but if there is an acknowledged "go-to" repair shop I'd like to know about it.

Thanks

 

[glynb]

I would think that in Chicago there would be several good leather shops there. Here where I live there is only one business in town that specializes in any type of leather repair. Any good leather shop should be able to do it, or maybe since your not too far from NYC, you could send it to Schott and they could do the job.

 

[HorseHide]

There are numerous places in Chicago that can do the work - as a neebie I'm just hoping to pick people's brains to see about their experiences. Schott recommends this place in Kansas City: http://www.arrow-care.com/

There's no urgency, neither coat is in bad shape (and anyways Chicago is so friggin' cold right now that I can't wear them anyway!) - these will be summer projects.

 

[captaincaveman1]

Just replacing liner? Send it back to the manufacturer. Only use Arrow if you also want some custom work done. Schott will only do repairs.

If you're jacket is still in production, Schott can probably pull a liner from their production line. This pretty much ensures it will fit just like the orginal did. With Arrow, they'll need to build one to measure.

I had them do this to one of my Schotts and regret it... the sleeves are a bit too long and I have to occasionally tuck them back in. Could have just send the garment to Schott and it would have cost the same $$.

I suggest you email Gail... unless of course you want more done than just the lining. In that case, still give Schott a try. I would only use Arrow if the OEM refuses to do the work requested. In my experience, they charged me more than expected and I'm not 100% satisfied.

There are numerous places in Chicago that can do the work - as a neebie I'm just hoping to pick people's brains to see about their experiences. Schott recommends this place in Kansas City: http://www.arrow-care.com/

There's no urgency, neither coat is in bad shape (and anyways Chicago is so friggin' cold right now that I can't wear them anyway!) - these will be summer projects.

 

[HorseHide]

thanks Captain - I'll give Gail a call

 

[Fletch]

It's tough getting good repairs done. Leather garment work is such a complex skill set, and requires so much specialized gear, that it only makes sense financially if you build garments full time. A shop that concentrates on repairs typically has to charge top dollar to keep going.