In this step-by-step tutorial, I’ll show you how to shorten the tab on your Pochette Metis. I purchased mine from the Buy & Sell forum and was impressed with its quality, but like most replicas, the tab was too long. So, I decided to fix it myself! This process only took about 20 minutes and was much easier than I had anticipated.
Before and After #
- Before: Tab length was approximately 17-18 mm.
View Image - Authentic Reference: Tab length is approximately 15 mm.
View Image - Example of Proper Length on Black Empreinte:
Fashionphile Reference
As you can see, I needed to trim a couple of millimeters to achieve a more authentic look. Let’s get started!
Materials Needed #
- Scissors
- Hair straightener
- Loctite glue
- 80-grit sandpaper
- Measuring tape or ruler (with mm and cm markings)
- Precision screwdriver kit
- Small piece of a dryer sheet
Step-by-Step Instructions #
- Remove Hardware
- Using your precision screwdriver, carefully remove the hardware.
- Use a small piece of dryer sheet to protect the screws from scratches.
- Measure the Tab
- Lay out all your materials and measure the tab length again to confirm where adjustments are needed.
- Separate the Tab (If Glued)
- If the bottom of the tab is glued, gently pull it apart.
- Cut the Tab
- Identify the line where the indentation from the hardware ends.
- Cut straight along this line. (This is the scariest part, so take your time!)
- Check the Length
- Reattach the hardware and check the length to ensure accuracy.
- Sand the Edges
- Use 80-grit sandpaper to smooth the inside edge of the cut piece.
- Flatten the Tab
- Use a hair straightener set to high heat to flatten the newly cut edge.
- Adjust and Glue
- Reattach the hardware and determine the correct placement.
- Apply a small line of glue to the edge where the hardware will sit, and press the cut edge into place until it dries.
- Final Assembly
- Glue the second piece back on, ensuring it overlaps the cut edge.
- Reattach the tab to the bag, ensuring the cut edge is hidden inside.
Final Thoughts #
The process may feel intimidating, but it’s straightforward and achieves great results. If the glue doesn’t hold, you can add a couple of stitches for reinforcement.
Good luck, and enjoy your newly adjusted Pochette Metis!
How to Fix Minor Alignment Issues on the LV Pochette Metis #
Materials #
- Thin paintbrush
- 100% acetone
- Q-tips
- Cup of water
Steps #
- Dip a thin paintbrush into 100% acetone.
- Apply the acetone to the Monogram area you want to remove.
- Repeat until the design fades.
- Use a water-dipped Q-tip to remove excess acetone.
How to Fix the Heat Stamp on the LV Pochette Metis #
Background #
Authentic tabs often feature soft, pliable leather and barely visible heat stamps. Many replicas have overly deep or inaccurate heat stamps. This guide will help you achieve a more authentic look.
Materials #
- Q-tips
- Hot (almost boiling) water
- Paper towels
Steps #
- Heat water in a bowl or Tupperware until steaming (but not scalding).
- Dip a Q-tip into the hot water and apply it to the heat stamp, focusing on the center.
- Repeat until the stamp fades.
- Massage the tab between your fingers to create a soft, pliable leather effect.
- Repeat as needed, reheating the water if it cools.
- Dry the tab with paper towels, pressing gently to absorb excess water.
