I Tried Making a $25,000 Hermès Kelly Bag… Here’s What Happened, by Katia Olivera on YouTube. 15 min 9 s.
- Video length
- 15 min 9 s
- Time to do it
- 3 to 4 hours
- Difficulty
- Takes practice
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Open the kit and lay out every panel, strap, clasp and piece of hardware. Check each part against the kit list so nothing is missing before you start.
Sort the pre-cut leather panels by shape and note which edges will be stitched together. Keep the front, back, gussets and flap separate.
Thread a needle with waxed thread about three times the length of the seam. Wax the thread to stop tangles and knots.
Line up the first two panels with the edges flush. Push the awl through both layers to open the stitch holes along the seam line.
Sew a saddle stitch by passing one needle through each side of the same hole and pulling both ends tight. Work hole by hole along the seam.
Attach the gussets to the front and back panels, then stitch the flap and top handle mounts in place. Keep your tension even so the leather does not pucker.
Burnish or paint the raw edges and let them dry. Buff with a cloth for a smooth finish.
Cut two narrow strips of silk, fold and press them, then wrap and tie them around the handle as mini twillies.
Shape the bag, close the clasp and check all seams. Style the finished bag and store it stuffed with paper to hold its shape.
Tips and common mistakes
Pull each saddle stitch firmly and evenly, since loose stitches are the most visible flaw on a finished leather bag.
Use an awl to widen holes slightly if the needle sticks, but do not stretch the leather.
Keep your thread length manageable and re-thread rather than working with a very long strand that tangles.
Test edge paint on a scrap piece first so the color matches the leather.
Questions
Do I need a sewing machine for this project?
No. The kit is designed for hand sewing with a saddle stitch, which is how luxury leather bags are traditionally made.
How long does a kit bag take to finish?
Plan for several hours, often spread over a few sessions. The stitching is the slowest part and cannot be rushed.
Will the finished bag look like a real Kelly?
It will have the same silhouette and details, but it is a handmade inspired piece, not an authentic Hermès bag.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
