I am often asked the question “Is there anything I can do to re-stuff my deflated quilts?”. The short answer is no. The long answer comes buried within the defining of the actual manufacturing technique that was used to create your vintage bag- Chanel Matelassé Vs. Quilted Manufacturing Techniques
Here we have two beautiful Chanel vintage double classic flaps. Both size small, but one has been manufactured using the matelassé technique and the other, quilted. Matelassé refers to a manufacturing technique using one single piece of material that has been woven or stitched to create a pattern that only looks as though it has been filled or padded, but has not been stuffed with any material between each quilt. Quilted is a technique that refers to using several layers of material, such as padding and batting, then proceeding to stitch through those several layers to create a cushioned quilted pattern.
Matelasse will look more structured, stiff, and flat. Whereas quilted looks deeper and has more overall dimension. So, before you assume your dislike for deflated quilts, ask yourself if you own a matelassé or quilted classic flap. Was your bag manufactured as such or is it in fact deflated? Both are equally beautiful, and owning a piece of rare Chanel history such as the vintage matelassé or vintage quilted classic flap is an accomplishment in and of itself.