Carradice Saddlebags

Trying to go only through the top is possible but tricky - expect it to be a long job, and to have to unpick some stitches. On the bags that have the waterproof lining to the flap I tried to just sew through the cotton, on the grounds that it might be marginally more waterproof, but on the vintage bags with two layers of cotton I just went through both, which is much quicker and easier. You'll want to use a thimble and a fairly chunky needle - I've broken smaller ones in the past.

(I'm not sure I've ever ridden for any prolonged period of time in heavy enough rain to test whether the waterproofing would make a difference...)

Sewing patches onto a Carradice

I just went all the way through; a sturdy needle and a thimble are helpful. I haven’t noticed any wicking through the threads, but I’ve always used a plastic bag for dry clothes and zip-lock bags for electronics anyway—even without sewing patches on it can get a bit moist in there after a couple of hours in the rain.

I went through both layers. This is what I did to make sure to keep water out

1. Re-proof the saddle bag before starting. I rubbed in new wax then used a heat gun to melt it into the canvas. I did this twice.
   
2. Scotchgard the patches - use two coats
   
3. Use waxed thread
   
   

No water ingress for me.