Anyone distress a new Magnoli bag?

[Busterjones]

Just received my new Magnoli bag today and wondering if anyone has any experience in distressing one.
I was thinking maybe try to fade the color a bit?
Will it shrink if I wash it?
Rub it with fine sandpaper?

Any info is appreciated!

[Indy Magnoli]

If you go the sandpaper route, avoid the seams/threads!

[adiemilio]

I have no experience on Magnoli bags, but you could try to use OxiClean versatile stain remover, I used it to remove some stains on my W&G bag, after an hour the water turned khaki/olive from all the color that faded, it's supposed to help remove stains without affecting the color, but I guess in part is because those bags don't stand a lot; also the instructions say if you use more OxiClean to Water ratio than what's recommended it can fade the colors. Could be a good option.

[davidd]

Fill it up with stuff... cameras, water bottles, beer cans... and go on a hike or three. That'll give it some natural weathering really quickly. Don't be afraid to drag it in the dirt while scrambling up steep hillsides. Or if you can't go hiking, toss it on the floor in your car. I have two Magnoli bags, love 'em beyond measure, and they're looking pretty beat up (and awesome) from hiking and from traveling. A week or so of regular use will skim the "newness" off fairly quickly, without risk of damage to the fabric.

{EDIT} Ooops... sorry! Didn't realize this topic was nearly a year old!

[Michaelson]

Doesn't matter, that's ALWAYS good advice!

Regards! Michaelson

[Leigh]

Yes! I 'distressed' mine by simply using it solidly as a work bag for about five years straight. I don't even work outside much, mostly in offices doing IT, but all that carrying it around, throwing it around, having it overstuffed with bits, it's ended up so battered I actually had an old vet excitedly mistake it for a vintage one once. I felt awful when I told him it was a replica!

[Photoss]

I've had two (an '07 and an '15), and they seem to distress/break in pretty nicely after two or three rough hikes.

[Michaelson]

It's sort of like the question occasionally asked, 'what's the best way to break in a pair of leather work gloves?'

Normal 'wear and tear' aces 'faux' distressing any day.

Go out and use it, and it will show perfect aging.....EVERY time.

Regards! Michaelson